Puerto Vallarta
Adventure

Aventura extrema en Puerto Vallarta: Adrenalina pura

Vive la aventura en Puerto Vallarta con actividades que desafiarán tus límites.

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Vallarta Botanical Gardens

City
5 days
Mexico
City: Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, nestled between the lush Sierra Madre and the sparkling Bahía de Banderas, is a city that captivates with its duality. It combines the charm of a traditional Mexican town, with its cobblestone streets and iconic church, with the sophistication of a world-class tourist destination, a vibrant arts scene, award-winning cuisine and one of the most welcoming LGTBQ+ communities in the world.

Recommended stay: 5 days
Puerto Vallarta
Aventura

Nature & Adventure

Explore stunning landscapes and outdoor activities in Puerto Vallarta

100/100Extreme

Spectacular natural beauty where jungle-covered mountains meet the blue waters of one of the largest bays in the world.

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Vallarta Botanical GardensLos Arcos National Marine Park

Natural Wonders

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Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Award-winning botanical gardens on the outskirts of the city, with an impressive collection of orchids, a restaurant with views and a swimming river.

Featured

Los Arcos National Marine Park

Some iconic granite rock formations that emerge from the sea south of the city. It is a popular spot for snorkeling, diving and paddleboarding.

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Excursiones

Day Trips

Yelapa & Majahuitas

Two coastal towns accessible only by boat. Yelapa is famous for its waterfall and bohemian atmosphere, while Majahuitas is ideal for snorkeling.

Sayulita

A vibrant and popular surf town in the state of Nayarit, known for its hipster-chic vibe, colorful streets, and beginner-friendly waves.

Marietas Islands

A protected national park, famous for its 'Hidden Beach' inside a crater. Access is limited and requires a tour with an authorized operator.

San Sebastian del Oeste

An old mining town nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains. A 'Magical Town' with colonial charm, fresh air and coffee plantations.

Bucerias

A quieter coastal town north of Vallarta, with a long sandy beach, a craft market, and a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Ratings

Scores by category

Nature

100

Spectacular natural beauty where jungle-covered mountains meet the blue waters of one of the largest bays in the world.

The stunning backdrop of the Sierra Madre.The vast and beautiful Bay of Banderas.Hidden beaches and rock formations like Los Arcos.
The city beaches can be busy; the most pristine ones require a boat trip.

Safety

70

For such a large tourist destination, Puerto Vallarta is generally very safe, especially in the tourist areas.

Tourist areas are safe to walk around, even at night.Low rate of serious crimes against tourists.Strong tourist police presence.
Standard precautions should be taken against petty theft.As with any place, avoid isolated and poorly lit areas at night.

Transport

90

The city bus system is extensive, frequent, and very cheap, making it easy to explore the city and nearby beaches.

Local buses are the cheapest and most authentic way to get around.The routes are logical and easy to understand once you get used to it.Taxis and ridesharing services (Uber, InDriver) are widely available.
Buses can be very full at peak times.The route names on buses can be confusing at first.
Guía completa

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Consejos

Tips for Adventure

Explore the Southern Beaches

Take a bus to Boca de Tomatlán and from there, walk or take a water taxi to more secluded and beautiful beaches like Colomitos, Las Ánimas or Quimixto.

The 'Art Walk' is a Must-See Event

If you're in town between October and May, don't miss the Wednesday night Art Walk, when El Centro's main galleries open their doors and often serve cocktails.

Tips are the norm

A tip of 10-15% is expected in restaurants. It is also customary to tip buskers, supermarket baggers, and wait staff.

Try to Speak a Little Spanish

Although English is widely spoken, an effort to use basic Spanish phrases like 'Hello' and 'Thank you' is greatly appreciated and will open doors for you.

Bottled water

Don't drink tap water. All restaurants and hotels use purified water and ice, so they are safe.

Sun Protection and Repellent

The Pacific sun is strong. Use high factor sunscreen. At night, especially in the rainy season, use mosquito repellent.

Beware of Marine Currents

Some beaches can have strong rip currents. Pay attention to warning flags and do not swim alone.

Confirm the Taxi Rate

Although Uber and other apps are available, if you take a local taxi, always agree on the fare with the driver before starting the trip, as they do not use a meter.

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Country
Mexico
Region
Jalisco

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