Puerto Vallarta: SouthBay beach & waterfall safari w/Lunch

Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and considering a day exploring the more remote, natural side of Banderas Bay? This “SouthBay beach & waterfall safari” promises a full day of adventures—hiking, boat rides, waterfalls, and quiet beaches—offering a glimpse of authentic rural Mexico. It sounds like a perfect way to escape the crowds and connect with nature, but it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for before you go.

What we like about this tour is how it combines adventure with authenticity. You’ll get to hike through lush jungle, visit a beautiful waterfall, and relax on a lonely beach where hardly any travelers venture. Plus, the inclusion of local cuisine and traditional spirits adds a cultural flavor that’s often missing from more commercialized excursions.

On the flip side, one important consideration is the logistics—the tour’s reliability has been called into question by some, with reports of missed pickups and poor communication. So, if punctuality and clear communication are vital for your peace of mind, this may not be the best fit.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are flexible with timing, and want an authentic, nature-centered experience outside the usual tourist spots. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers craving a mix of scenic beauty and cultural insights.

Key Points

• Authentic Nature Experience: Combines hiking, boat rides, waterfalls, and untouched beaches.
• Cultural Touch: Includes local cuisine and traditional spirits, providing context about local traditions.
• Remote Beaches: Discover secluded coves only accessible by sea, perfect for relaxation.
• Variable Reliability: Some reviews highlight issues with pickup times and communication.
• Active Day: Expect physical activity—walking, paddling, and boat rides—so comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential.
• Experience Value: Offers a well-rounded look at Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A practical, detailed review of the SouthBay Beach & Waterfall Safari

Overview and Setting

This full-day tour promises a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation deep in the natural landscapes of Jalisco. Starting from Puerto Vallarta, you’ll head south, passing through scenic National Parks and lush mountains that paint a vivid picture of rural Mexico. The tour spans about 8 hours, fitting a lot into a single day, and is designed for small, private groups, which usually means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

What immediately stands out is the variety of experiences—from boat rides to hikes, waterfalls, and quiet beaches—that foster a sense of discovery and escape from the busy city. You’ll get a taste of the local flora and fauna, along with stories about regional traditions, which adds depth to the adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a pickup near your hotel or a designated point. The tour provider mentions that pickups are generally close to bus stops and include a guide with a name tag and credentials. However, a review from a traveler in Estonia reports a less positive experience: “I was waiting at the meeting point but no one showed up. I neither received any confirmation of the pickup time. I waited 45 minutes and sent emails but got no reply.” This highlights the importance of confirming pickup details beforehand and having a backup plan.

Once onboard, the journey south offers a scenic drive through Puerto Vallarta’s outskirts, with a chance to spot the protected natural areas and local landscape.

The Boat Ride and Remote Beaches

One of the tour’s highlights is the “panga boat” ride from Boca de Tomatlan. Traveling by sea, you’ll visit pristine coves like Colomitos, El Caballito, Madagascar, and Las Animas Beach—each offering a different flavor of remote beauty. These beaches are only accessible by boat, which makes the ride a memorable part of the experience.

Expect to see unspoiled shoreline with clear waters and lush surroundings. This is the kind of spot where you can genuinely relax away from crowds, perhaps paddleboard or kayak if you’re feeling adventurous. The tour mentions the availability of these water sports, but keep in mind, equipment availability might vary day to day.

Jungle Hike and Waterfall Exploration

After the boat trip, you’ll hike through the jungle along coastal paths. The trail takes you to places like Colomitos and the “El Caballito,” which are praised for their beautiful scenery. The hike offers a close-up view of the flora and fauna native to the Sierra Madre mountains, with some reviews emphasizing how lush and vibrant the environment is.

The most anticipated stop is the Quimixto waterfall, hidden in the mountains. Access to the waterfall involves a bit of walking and possibly some light climbing, so good footwear is a must. The waterfall is a refreshing reward, perfect for splashing around and cooling off after the hike.

Lunch and Local Spirit Tasting

Midday, the tour visits “Los Cocos” restaurant, a casual spot where you can sample local cuisine and the famous Raicilla Spirit—a traditional Mexican distilled beverage similar to tequila but with its own unique flavor. The experience provides a taste of regional gastronomy and traditions, making the tour more than just a sightseeing trip.

Relaxation and Optional Activities

The afternoon is spent at Las Animas Beach or nearby quiet spots, where you can unwind, try paddleboarding or kayaking, or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. The tour mentions that more activities and exploration at this stage are available with your guide, adding flexibility to the itinerary.

Practical Details

Duration and group size: Lasting around 8 hours, the tour is designed for private groups, which can be a plus for personalized service but might also be more costly than larger group tours. The tour offers skip-the-line advantages, and pickup is included, which simplifies logistics. However, some reviews underline the importance of confirming pickup times and being punctual.

What to bring: Pack comfortable shoes for walking, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Remember, no smoking, no plastic bags, and respect for local environment and customs are enforced rules.

Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those weighing over 275 lbs, so plan accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic experiences and honest reviews

While many travelers might be drawn to the promise of adventure, some reviews raise red flags. One verified traveler from Estonia shared, “I waited 45 minutes at the meeting point but no one showed up, and I received no replies to emails.” Such experiences underscore the importance of verifying logistics beforehand and perhaps even having a backup plan.

On the positive side, those who enjoyed the trip loved the stunning views, the remote beaches, and the opportunity to connect with nature. The inclusion of local cuisine and spirits is often praised for adding cultural depth, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

The price point is generally seen as fair given the scope of activities, especially compared to similar experiences. The boat rides, hikes, and access to waterfalls, all bundled with lunch, provide good value—if the logistics hold up.

Who will love this tour?

This safari-style adventure is best suited for outdoor lovers who enjoy a mix of hiking, boating, and relaxing on quiet beaches. It’s perfect for travelers eager for an authentic look at Puerto Vallarta’s natural landscapes beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in local culture and cuisine, with a willingness to embrace some unpredictability in logistics.

However, this experience may not suit those seeking a luxurious or highly structured tour. If punctuality and clear communication are your priorities, it’s worth considering other options or confirming details well in advance.

The Sum Up

This SouthBay beach & waterfall safari offers a genuine chance to escape the crowds, explore remote beaches, and enjoy the lush scenery of Puerto Vallarta’s surrounding mountains. It combines adventure, cultural insights, and relaxation, making it a well-rounded day for active travelers.

While a few reviews point to logistical hiccups, many feel the natural beauty and authentic experiences outweigh those inconveniences. It’s a good fit for those who love outdoor activities, want a meaningful connection with the landscape, and are flexible with timing.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, nature-focused outing that delivers scenic vistas, quiet beaches, and local flavor, this tour will likely meet your expectations—just be sure to confirm your pickup details ahead of time.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup from designated points in Puerto Vallarta is included, and transport is by private guide and boat.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and a camera are recommended for this outdoor tour.

How long is the tour? Expect approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Are water activities available? Yes, paddleboarding and kayaking are available at the beaches, though equipment availability can vary.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 6 years or for those with mobility issues or certain weight restrictions.

What local experiences are included? You’ll taste local cuisine at Los Cocos and try the traditional Raicilla spirit, gaining insight into regional customs.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

This tour offers a vivid taste of Puerto Vallarta’s less traveled paths, perfect for those craving a day of natural beauty and cultural flavor. Just remember to stay flexible and confirm your logistics in advance!

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby