Quimixto Waterfall Hike from Puerto Vallarta: swim at the falls

The waterfall sits inside a river canyon, not at the end of a paved path.

A guided hiking tour from Puerto Vallarta to a waterfall in Quimixto takes five hours, including a city bus ride to the trailhead, a 3km walk along the river, swimming at the falls, and the return journey. The guide speaks English or Spanish and leads groups of mixed ages; children are welcome from age 6. The hike is rated easy, and the bus ride and photos are included.

The Experience

The day starts at 9:30 am in Puerto Vallarta's romantic zone, where you board a city bus heading toward the river. By 10 am you arrive at the trailhead, and the guide gives a few pointers before the group sets out. The trail runs alongside the river for about 35 minutes—3 kilometers total—and the walk is easy enough for children and moderate fitness levels. Trees and plants line the path, and the guide points out species of birds, butterflies, and fish as you go; the river itself is always in earshot.

By 11 am you reach the waterfall. The freshwater pools below it are cold and clear, and this is where the hike becomes a swim. You can spend time in the water, take photos, and rest before heading back along the same trail. The return walk takes about an hour, and by 1 pm the group is back on the city bus. You arrive in the romantic zone around 2 pm, where the tour ends.

A live guide in English or Spanish leads the group throughout, explaining the local environment and culture of Quimixto, a town of fewer than 600 people. The bus fare and photos are included; bring water, wear shoes with grip, and plan for a moderate day of walking and swimming in a river canyon rather than a manicured waterfall park.

What’s included

• City bus ride to the trailhead and back to Puerto Vallarta.
• a live guide in English or Spanish throughout the hike.
• photos taken during the tour.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Discovering Puerto Vallarta

Is this one for you?Pick this if you want a guide handling logistics and navigation while you focus on the scenery; choose a private option if you'd rather explore at your own pace.

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Top questions

How long is the actual hike on the trail?

The trail is 3 kilometers total and takes about 35 minutes to reach the waterfall, then the same route back. The full tour, including the bus rides and time at the waterfall, runs five hours from start to finish.

Can I bring my six-year-old on this hike?

Children are welcome from age 6. The hike is rated easy and follows a river trail, though it does require moderate physical fitness and the ability to walk on an uneven path for about 35 minutes each way.

What's the water like at the waterfall?

The waterfall pools are freshwater from the river, cold and clear. You'll swim in the pools below the falls, so bring a swimsuit and a towel; the water is deep enough for swimming.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to the trailhead?

No. The tour includes a city bus ride from Puerto Vallarta's romantic zone to the river trailhead at 9:30 am, and the return bus ride back to the same spot by 2 pm.

What wildlife might I see on the trail?

The guide points out birds, butterflies, and fish at the waterfall as you walk. The river canyon is surrounded by plants and trees; what you spot depends on the time of day and the season, but the guide shares knowledge of the local species and environment.

Is this hike suitable if I have knee or back problems?

The tour is not recommended for travelers with knee, back, or hip problems. The trail is easy-rated but does involve walking on uneven ground alongside a river for 35 minutes each way, and swimming requires getting in and out of the water.