Top 10 Hiking Trails in Puerto Vallarta: A Practical Guide

1. Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

Why Go: This scenic trail connects Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Beach, offering a blend of lush jungle and ocean views.

What to Expect: The trail weaves through dense jungle and along the coastline, providing beautiful views of the ocean along the way. At the end, you can relax on Las Animas Beach and take a refreshing swim.

Best For: Hikers who enjoy a mix of nature and beach access.

2. El Salto Waterfall Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)

Why Go: A quick and rewarding trail leading to a picturesque waterfall, ideal for those with limited time or experience.

What to Expect: This simple, mostly flat trail guides you through a small forest area, leading to a waterfall and a natural pool.

Best For: Families, beginners, or anyone looking for a scenic, short hike.

3. Mirador de la Cruz (The Cross Lookout)

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)

Why Go: The hike to Mirador de la Cruz rewards you with stunning views of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay from the top of a hill.

What to Expect: The trail consists of steep stairs, making it a bit of a workout. However, the panoramic view at the top, especially at sunrise or sunset, is worth the effort.

Best For: Those who want a short but challenging hike with incredible views.

4. Monkey Mountain (Cerro del Mono)

Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Length: 4.3 miles (7 km)

Why Go: Monkey Mountain is the perfect option for experienced hikers seeking a challenging climb with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

What to Expect: The steep, rocky trail requires a good amount of effort, but the summit offers expansive views of the coast and nearby towns.

Best For: Seasoned hikers looking for a rewarding challenge.

5. Palo Maria Waterfalls Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.2 miles (5 km)

Why Go: This trail takes you through dense jungle to multiple waterfalls, providing a quiet retreat from the more crowded areas.

What to Expect: The path is rocky and uneven in parts, but it leads to several beautiful waterfalls where you can take a break and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Best For: Those who appreciate nature and enjoy hiking in a tranquil environment.

6. Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.2 miles (1.9 km)

Why Go: A short, flat trail perfect for a relaxing walk through the mangrove ecosystem, ideal for birdwatching and wildlife observation.

What to Expect: This easy, shaded trail offers a glimpse into the mangrove habitat. You’ll likely see various birds, crabs, and other wildlife along the way.

Best For: Anyone seeking a peaceful, low-effort hike through a unique ecosystem.

7. Cerro de la Bufa

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Length: 4.1 miles (6.6 km)

Why Go: Cerro de la Bufa offers a challenging hike with cooler mountain air and stunning views of Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding mountains.

What to Expect: The trail is rocky and steep in places, leading you up the mountainside where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline and mountains.

Best For: Hikers looking for a physical challenge and scenic variety.

8. Yelapa Waterfalls Hike

Difficulty: Easy
Trail Length: 1.7 miles (2.7 km)

Why Go: This easy trail leads to two beautiful waterfalls in the peaceful village of Yelapa, offering a relaxing hike and a chance to explore a charming village.

What to Expect: A mostly flat trail that ends at a serene waterfall. Afterward, you can explore Yelapa, known for its quiet, laid-back atmosphere.

Best For: Those looking for an easy hike with a chance to experience a tranquil village.

9. Los Arcos Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 2 miles (3.2 km)

Why Go: The Los Arcos Trail is a short hike offering beautiful views of the famous rock formations and the coastline, with the option to take a boat tour afterward.

What to Expect: The trail is moderately steep but short, leading to a viewpoint where you can see the Los Arcos rock formations in the distance.

Best For: Hikers who enjoy a combination of walking and taking a boat trip, with ocean views.

10. Mismaloya to Eden Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Length: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

Why Go: This trail takes you through a jungle setting to a natural pool, famous for its role in the movie Predator.

What to Expect: The trail is rocky and uneven, but it leads to a natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim. The hike offers both jungle and river views.

Best For: Hikers interested in movie history and a chance to swim in a natural pool.

Choosing the Right Trail for You

Not sure which trail suits your adventure? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• For Easy, Family-Friendly Hikes: Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail or El Salto Waterfall Trail are great options for short, relaxing walks.

• For Scenic Views with Moderate Difficulty: Mirador de la Cruz or Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas offer beautiful coastal and jungle vistas.

• For Rugged, Challenging Hikes: Try Monkey Mountain, Palo Maria Waterfalls, or Mismaloya to Eden Trail for demanding terrain and rewarding views.

• For a Peaceful, Scenic Experience: Yelapa Waterfalls and Los Arcos Trail offer easy hikes in unique, quiet settings.

Conclusion

Puerto Vallarta’s hiking trails cater to all types of adventurers, from beginners to seasoned hikers. Whether you want a peaceful walk through the mangroves or a challenging climb to a mountain peak, these top 10 trails will immerse you in the region's natural beauty. Pick the trail that best matches your fitness level and interests, and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

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