Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour along 6 Beaches of Puerto Vallarta

This full-day hiking tour follows the coast south of Puerto Vallarta and links a string of beaches that are best reached on foot, through jungle paths and along rocky shoreline. The route starts in the fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán and ends at Playa Las Ánimas. A qualified guide leads the way, so you do not have to worry about navigation, and the operator lists a total duration of 6 to 8 hours, with about 330 minutes of scheduled activity.

You meet at the bus stop in the Romantic Zone, and the operator asks you to wait there for your guide instead of taking the bus on your own. From there the group follows the coastline to Boca de Tomatlán, where the hike begins. If you prefer, car pickup and drop-off at your chosen location is available for an additional fee, and the operator mentions two price options, so check which one applies when you book.

The first stretch takes you along the coast to Colomitos, described as the smallest beach in the bay, with clear water and white sand. You can snorkel (snorkel gear and a life jacket are provided), relax, have a beer, or take the optional detour to see a hidden waterfall. The trail then continues to the white sands of Playa Madagascar and on to Playa Los Caballos, where a beachfront food stand sells fresh fruit, coconut treats and cold beer. Anything you buy there is an optional personal expense. This part of the itinerary is listed at about 120 minutes, and along the way you may spot reptiles, birds, other animals and native plants.

The hike ends at a seafood restaurant on Las Ánimas Beach, where you can order a seafood meal or a margarita. Lunch and drinks are not part of the tour price, so plan to pay for them yourself. The area is popular with families and groups of friends, with parasailing, banana boat rides and snorkeling on offer, or you can simply sunbathe. This stop is listed at around 120 minutes. Afterwards a boat ride, included in the price, takes you back to Boca de Tomatlán (about 60 minutes), and from there you return to Puerto Vallarta.

This is a challenging hike. Expect steep, rocky terrain, dense jungle, narrow trails, uneven surfaces and demanding inclines, with more than 4 miles of walking and full sun exposure, which the operator notes can be hot in summer. A high level of physical fitness is required. It is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, joint or mobility issues, poor cardiovascular health or heart conditions, or for people recovering from recent surgery or who are pregnant. Children under 10 and adults over 70 are not accepted.

Bring water, swimwear, a hat and sunblock. The price includes the guide, the public bus ride and phone photos, while lunch and drinks are extra. The operator also notes that part of the total time is set aside for travel. The car pickup option is the only case in which you are collected at your own location.