Top 10 Hiking Trails in Puerto Vallarta: Your Ultimate Guide

1. Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas Trail

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

• Why Go: A scenic coastal hike ending at a beach paradise.

• What to Expect: A mix of jungle and ocean views leading to Las Animas Beach, where you can relax and swim.

• Best For: Hikers wanting nature and beach access in one trip.

2. El Salto Waterfall Trail

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)

• Why Go: A short trek leading to a refreshing waterfall.

• What to Expect: A mostly flat trail through the forest, ending at a waterfall with a natural pool.

• 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 Go: Stunning panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay.

• What to Expect: A steep staircase climb leading to an unbeatable sunrise or sunset view.

• Best For: Those looking for a short but rewarding workout with a scenic payoff.

4. Monkey Mountain (Cerro del Mono)

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Distance: 4.3 miles (7 km)

• Why Go: A tough climb with epic views.

• What to Expect: Steep and rocky terrain, leading to a breathtaking 360° view of the coastline and surrounding towns.

• Best For: Experienced hikers seeking a challenge.

5. Palo Maria Waterfalls Trail

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 3.2 miles (5 km)

• Why Go: A jungle escape with multiple waterfalls.

• What to Expect: Rocky and uneven terrain leading to secluded waterfalls—perfect for cooling off.

• Best For: Hikers looking for a quiet, nature-filled adventure.

6. Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: 1.2 miles (1.9 km)

• Why Go: A peaceful, flat walk through a thriving mangrove ecosystem.

• What to Expect: Shaded paths with opportunities to see birds, crabs, and other wildlife.

• Best For: Nature lovers and birdwatchers.

7. Cerro de la Bufa

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

• Distance: 4.1 miles (6.6 km)

• Why Go: A high-altitude hike with cool mountain air and stunning vistas.

• What to Expect: Steep, rocky terrain leading to a panoramic view of Puerto Vallarta, the ocean, and the mountains.

• Best For: Hikers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

8. Yelapa Waterfalls Hike

• Difficulty: Easy

• Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km)

• Why Go: A laid-back walk to two scenic waterfalls in the quiet fishing village of Yelapa.

• What to Expect: A mostly flat trail leading to waterfalls, with time to explore Yelapa’s relaxed atmosphere.

• Best For: Travelers looking for a mix of hiking and local culture.

9. Los Arcos Trail

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)

• Why Go: A short hike with a rewarding view of the famous Los Arcos rock formations.

• What to Expect: A moderately steep path leading to a scenic viewpoint, with an option to take a boat tour afterward.

• Best For: Those who want a mix of hiking and ocean sightseeing.

10. Mismaloya to Eden Trail

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)

• Why Go: A jungle trek leading to a natural pool, made famous by the movie Predator.

• What to Expect: A rocky, uneven path through the jungle, ending at a cool, refreshing pool.

• Best For: Movie buffs and hikers who love combining adventure with history.

How to Choose the Best Trail for You

Not sure which hike to pick? Here’s a quick breakdown:

For Easy, Family-Friendly Walks: Marina Vallarta Mangrove Trail, El Salto Waterfall Trail
For Moderate Hikes with Great Views: Mirador de la Cruz, Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas
For Challenging, Rugged Adventures: Monkey Mountain, Palo Maria Waterfalls, Mismaloya to Eden
For a Relaxing, Scenic Experience: Yelapa Waterfalls Hike, Los Arcos Trail