Hiking through the mountains of Puerto Vallarta and glass viewpoint

Planning a nature-filled adventure in Puerto Vallarta? This tour offers a mix of scenic hiking, breathtaking views from a glass viewpoint, and some authentic local flavors. While it’s not a rigorous trek for seasoned hikers, it’s a great way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s mountainous terrain with a knowledgeable guide and a small group, making for an intimate experience.

What we like about this experience? First, the expert guidance and the chance to spot local flora and fauna, from orchids to parrots. Second, the spectacular 360-degree views from the glass viewpoint are truly eye-catching. However, a potential drawback is the shorter-than-expected hike — some reviews mention that the trail might be less than the advertised length. This tour is ideal for anyone wanting a manageable outdoor experience with a taste of adventure and spectacular scenery.

If you’re seeking a laid-back, nature-oriented outing that combines light hiking, wildlife viewing, and impressive views, this tour could fit well into your Puerto Vallarta itinerary. But if you’re a serious hiker looking for a long trek, you might want to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Accessible for moderate fitness levels, suitable for most travelers wanting a relaxed outdoor experience.
• Includes transportation, making logistics easy and hassle-free.
• Highlights the local flora and fauna, including orchids, coapinoles, and colorful birds.
• Features a new glass viewpoint with panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta’s mountains.
• Tequila tasting at the end offers a fun, authentic local flavor.
• Small group size (maximum 10 travelers) ensures a personalized experience.

Exploring the Itinerary

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup in an open vehicle from a central meeting point in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Hotelera. This is a big plus, saving you the hassle of organizing your own transport and giving you a chance to chat with fellow travelers. Once on the way to the park, the scenic drive heightens anticipation for the natural treasures ahead.

The Hiking Circuit

The hike itself is described as about 2 hours in some reviews, covering a trail that winds through the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains. While one reviewer noted it was less than 3.22 km (about 2 miles), the key here is the quality rather than the length. We loved the way the guide shares insights about the local flora, mentioning orchids, coapinoles, and parrots, which helps make the walk more engaging.

Expect to encounter various birds, including macaws and parakeets, along with other wildlife like coatis, deer, and even cows — adding to the sense of immersion in nature. The trail is manageable, with moderate physical demands, so travelers with decent fitness should be comfortable.

Suspension Bridge and Glass Viewpoint

The highlight for many is reaching the suspension bridge, which adds a dash of adventure and a different perspective on the landscape. From there, you’ll cross to the glass viewpoint, a recent addition that offers 360-degree panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta’s mountain range.

One reviewer noted, “The bridge and glass point of view are really beautiful,” highlighting this as a memorable part of the tour. The transparent floor and the sweeping vistas make it a worthwhile stop, especially for those who appreciate a little thrill and a unique photo opportunity.

Waterfall and Local Flavors

After the viewpoint, the tour includes a visit to a waterfall — a classic feature in mountain landscapes that adds a refreshing element to the hike. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of season’s fruits and tequila, which caps the experience on a flavorful note. This small tasting session gives you a taste of local culture and adds a fun, social aspect to the outing.

Tour End and Return

The tour wraps up back at the original meeting point. The overall duration is approximately five hours, a good length for a full but not exhausting outdoor adventure.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers have mixed feelings about the hike’s length, with some expecting a longer trek. As one reviewer pointed out, “If you’re booking this tour for the 12 km/7.45 mile hike, don’t go,” because the actual hike is shorter. But many appreciate the quality of the experience — especially the guides’ knowledge, the scenic views, and the wildlife sightings.

Sophie G. mentioned, “The guide Chris is really nice and sociable, and knows well about the trees,” which is a big plus for those who value expert commentary. She also praised the beautiful scenery and the bridge and glass viewpoint as highlights.

However, some travelers were a bit disappointed by the hike’s brevity, so manage your expectations accordingly. The key takeaway here is that this tour prioritizes views, wildlife, and cultural experience over a lengthy trek.

Value and Practicalities

At $100 per person, this tour offers a lot of value — including transportation, guided nature walks, the suspension bridge experience, a scenic viewpoint, and tequila tasting. It’s a comprehensive package for those wanting a balanced outdoor experience without the physical intensity of a full-day hike.

The tour’s small size (max 10 people) helps ensure personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere. The included bottled water helps keep you hydrated, especially on warm days. Keep in mind that food and additional drinks are not included, so plan ahead if you’re hungry or want more beverages.

Weather can influence the experience, as with any outdoor activity, but the tour offers a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers looking for a manageable outdoor adventure that combines nature, scenic views, and cultural flavor. It’s perfect for those with moderate physical fitness who want to see Puerto Vallarta’s mountains from a different perspective. Nature lovers eager to spot local wildlife and enjoy the flora will find plenty to love. The tequila tasting and the views make it a fun, well-rounded outing.

However, if you’re a hardcore hiker seeking lengthy trails or intense physical challenge, this might feel a bit light. Also, those expecting a detailed botanical or wildlife exploration might be slightly disappointed — but the guide’s commentary does help enhance the experience.

The Sum Up

This hiking tour in Puerto Vallarta provides an accessible way to enjoy the city’s mountainous landscape, with the bonus of a stunning glass viewpoint and wildlife encounters. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a relaxed, immersive outing, perfect for travelers who want a taste of nature without a strenuous trek. The highlight — the panoramic views from the glass viewpoint — makes it a memorable part of your Puerto Vallarta adventure.

While some might wish for a longer hike, the combination of wildlife, scenery, and cultural touches like tequila tasting offers genuine value. It’s best suited for those who want an authentic, small-group experience that balances nature, sightseeing, and local flavor.

FAQ

How long is the hike?
The hike is about 2 hours, which is less than some expect, and covers a trail likely less than 3.22 km (2 miles). It’s designed to be manageable for most.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes transport, bottled water, guided walk, suspension bridge visit, a trip to the waterfall, a glass viewpoint, season’s fruits, and tequila tasting.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, bring sunscreen and a hat, and consider a camera for the views. Since food isn’t included, bring snacks if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Given the moderate physical effort and the nature of the stops, it could be suitable for children, but the small group size and some walking may require supervision.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is provided from a designated meeting point in Puerto Vallarta, and the return is to the same location.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, good weather is essential, so consider doing it during the dry season for a more comfortable experience.

Does the tour focus on wildlife?
Yes, you can expect to see macaws, parakeets, coatis, and possibly deer along the trail, with guides sharing insights about the flora and fauna.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic peek into Puerto Vallarta’s mountain scenery, wildlife, and local culture. It’s perfect for those wanting a gentle adventure with memorable views and a touch of local flavor — all within a manageable half-day outing.