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If you look at Puerto Vallarta and see only beach, you’re seeing it wrong. The crown of Sierra Madre mountains that wreath the historic city and loom over the sweeping Bay of Banderas are just as important a part of the Puerto Vallarta package. In those mountains, from end to end of the bay, are dozens of hiking trails beckoning the intrepid to get away from the sand and cobblestones and deep into the verdant jungle.

Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding towns have many excellent hiking trails of varying levels, whether you’re looking for a leisurely beach stroll or a vertical ascent to pump your heart rate. Here are a few of the best hikes in Puerto Vallarta. Length: 4.



8 miles (out and back) Let’s start with a bang, shall we? If you’re looking for a perfect blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and beachside relaxation, the hike from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Animas in Puerto Vallarta is my favorite hike. As you set off from the trailhead at the back of the parking lot in Boca de Tomatlán, you’ll quickly immerse yourself in the jungle. The trail meanders along the stunning coastline, opening up to view after view of the Bay of Banderas.

One of the best parts of this hike is the series of pristine, undeveloped beaches you’ll encounter along the way. These hidden gems, like Playa Colomitos and Playa Caballos, offer the perfect spots for a refreshing dip or just to bask in the sun. The beaches are quiet and untouched and frequently empty of many other tourists, maki.

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