Top 10 Hiking Trails in Puerto Vallarta: A Practical Guide

1. Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

Why Hike It: A stunning coastal trail that winds through jungle and along the ocean, ending at Las Animas Beach.

What to Expect: A mix of shaded jungle paths and open coastal views, with opportunities to stop at small beaches along the way. The hike ends at Las Animas, where you can relax and swim.

Best For: Hikers who want a balance of nature, ocean views, and a beachside finish.

2. El Salto Waterfall Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)

Why Hike It: A short, accessible trail leading to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for a quick nature escape.

What to Expect: A mostly flat path through forested terrain, ending at a waterfall with a natural pool for cooling off.

Best For: Families, beginners, or those short on time.

3. Mirador de la Cruz (The Cross Lookout)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.8 miles (2.9 km)

Why Hike It: A steep climb with a rewarding panoramic view of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay.

What to Expect: A stair-heavy ascent that requires some effort, but the sweeping views from the top make it worthwhile. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for incredible photo opportunities.

Best For: Those looking for a short but challenging climb with a breathtaking cityscape view.

4. Monkey Mountain (Cerro del Mono)

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 4.3 miles (7 km)

Why Hike It: A tough climb with expansive views of the coastline and surrounding jungle.

What to Expect: A steep and rocky trail requiring good stamina. The summit rewards hikers with a 360-degree view of the region.

Best For: Experienced hikers seeking a challenge and a stunning vantage point.

5. Palo Maria Waterfalls Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.2 miles (5 km)

Why Hike It: A jungle trek leading to multiple waterfalls, offering a peaceful escape from crowded areas.

What to Expect: Rocky and uneven terrain with dense vegetation. The waterfalls provide a refreshing stop for swimming and relaxation.

Best For: Nature lovers looking for a quiet, scenic hike with water features.

6. Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.2 miles (1.9 km)

Why Hike It: A relaxed walk through a unique mangrove ecosystem, ideal for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

What to Expect: A shaded, flat path with chances to see birds, crabs, and other local wildlife.

Best For: Those wanting an easy, educational hike in a peaceful setting.

7. Cerro de la Bufa

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Distance: 4.1 miles (6.6 km)

Why Hike It: A rugged mountain trail with cooler temperatures and spectacular views.

What to Expect: Steep, rocky paths leading to a summit with panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding mountains.

Best For: Adventurous hikers seeking a rewarding physical challenge.

8. Yelapa Waterfalls Hike

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km)

Why Hike It: A simple hike leading to two beautiful waterfalls in the laid-back village of Yelapa.

What to Expect: A gentle, mostly flat path leading to waterfalls, with the opportunity to explore the quiet charm of Yelapa afterward.

Best For: Those looking for an easy hike combined with a visit to a scenic coastal village.

9. Los Arcos Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)

Why Hike It: Offers excellent views of the famous Los Arcos rock formations and stunning coastal landscapes.

What to Expect: A short but moderately steep hike leading to a viewpoint overlooking Los Arcos. Many hikers combine this with a boat tour for a closer look at the rock formations.

Best For: Hikers who want ocean views and the option to explore by boat afterward.

10. Mismaloya to Eden Trail

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

Why Hike It: A jungle trail leading to a scenic natural pool, made famous by the movie Predator.

What to Expect: Rocky and uneven terrain leading to a peaceful swimming spot surrounded by nature.

Best For: Hikers interested in film history and a refreshing swim after their trek.

Choosing the Right Trail

Not sure which trail to pick? Here’s a quick guide:

• For Easy, Family-Friendly Hikes: El Salto Waterfall Trail or Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail.

• For Scenic Views and Moderate Difficulty: Mirador de la Cruz or Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas.

• For a Challenging Adventure: Monkey Mountain, Palo Maria Waterfalls, or Mismaloya to Eden.

• For a Quiet, Scenic Escape: Yelapa Waterfalls or Los Arcos Trail.

Experience Puerto Vallarta’s Natural Beauty

Puerto Vallarta’s hiking trails offer something for everyone, from easy nature walks to demanding climbs. Whether you're looking for ocean views, jungle waterfalls, or panoramic mountain vistas, there's a trail that matches your adventure style.

Plan Your Next Hike

Looking for more outdoor adventures and travel tips? Check out our full guide to Puerto Vallarta’s best hiking spots and local recommendations.