The Sierra Madre mountains rise directly behind Puerto Vallarta's coastline — and within thirty minutes of your villa you can be hiking through dense tropical jungle along rivers, past waterfalls, and to hidden beaches accessible only on foot. These trails reveal a side of Banderas Bay that the beach never shows: toucans overhead, river crossings underfoot, and swimming holes where the only sound is falling water.
Jungle Waterfall Hike
The most popular hike in Puerto Vallarta is a four-hour guided trek through tropical forest south of the city, following a river upstream to a series of waterfalls and natural swimming pools. The trail passes through dense canopy where guides identify birds — parrots, trogons, and occasionally toucans — along with orchids, tropical fruit trees, and medicinal plants.
After approximately an hour of hiking, you reach the first waterfall, where the trail opens to a natural pool deep enough for swimming and cliff jumping. The hike continues to a second, larger waterfall with caves behind the falling water. Guides meet you in the old center of Puerto Vallarta, and you travel to the trailhead by local bus — the same way residents do.
Boca to Colomitos
Playa Colomitos — officially the smallest beach in Mexico — is a tiny turquoise cove wedged between jungle-covered cliffs, accessible only by hiking or water taxi. The trail starts in the fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán, thirty minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, and follows the coastline through tropical forest with ocean views breaking through the canopy.
The beach itself is small enough that on a quiet morning you might have it to yourself. From Colomitos, you can continue along the coastal trail to Playa Las Animas (an additional hour), combining hiking, swimming, and hidden beach discovery in one half-day experience.
Jorullo Bridge & River Oasis
Jorullo Point sits deep in the Sierra Madre foothills on land owned by Canopy River adventure park. The centerpiece is a glass-bottom suspension bridge — 470 meters long, suspended 150 meters above the jungle floor — that ranks among the longest in Latin America. The views span the full Sierra Madre range in one direction and Banderas Bay in the other.
Access is only by guided tour, typically combined with an ATV or RZR ride, a mule ride, and a tequila tasting. The trail leads to an oasis along the Cuale River for swimming. For guests who have already done the zip line and ATV tours, Jorullo offers walking rather than flying — time to absorb the landscape.
Which Hike Should You Choose
| Hike | Duration | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jungle Waterfall | 4 hours | Easy–Moderate | First-time jungle hikers, families 8+, waterfall swimmers |
| Boca to Colomitos | 2–3 hours | Moderate | Beach lovers, photographers, half-day adventure |
| Hidden Beaches Full Day | 6–7 hours | Moderate | Serious hikers, full-day explorers, snorkelers |
| Jorullo Bridge + RZR | 4 hours | Easy (guided) | Mountain views, glass bridge, ATV fans |
| Horseback to Waterfall | 5 hours | Easy | Non-hikers who want jungle + waterfall |
For Punta Mita villa guests: All hikes depart from the Puerto Vallarta area, approximately forty minutes south. Your concierge arranges transport and coordinates timing so you can combine a morning hike with an afternoon in the Zona Romantica or a food tour.
What to Bring
Footwear: Closed-toe shoes with grip — hiking shoes or trail runners. Several trails involve river crossings and rocky terrain. Sandals are not suitable.
Water & snacks: At least one liter per person. Dehydration in the jungle happens faster than you expect — humidity is high even under canopy.
Swim gear: Every hike includes a swimming opportunity. Wear your swimsuit under hiking clothes and bring a small towel.
Sun & bugs: Reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Mosquitoes are present in jungle areas, particularly June through October.
Season: Hiking is available year-round. Rainy season (June–October) brings afternoon showers, but morning hikes are almost always dry. The jungle is dramatically more lush after rain, waterfalls are fuller, and wildlife is more active. Many experienced hikers consider rainy season the best time to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beach Days. Jungle Days. Your Concierge Plans Both.
Villa Experience villas include a dedicated concierge who books guided hikes, arranges transport to trailheads, and builds your week around the right mix of ocean, mountain, and cultural experiences.