- Mon – Fri : 07.00 – 21.00
- +1.987.333.289
- hi@caldwell.domain
The ultimate guide for those who want to hike through the jungle, swim under a waterfall, and make it back with sand only in their shoes, not everywhere else.
Just an hour’s boat ride from Puerto Vallarta lies Yelapa, a fishing village where the only “traffic” comes from ATVs. No cars. No honking. Just hammocks, palm trees, and tourists who suddenly forget how to use an air conditioner without a remote.
Yelapa has that unpolished authenticity — small local shops, intimate beaches, and a bohemian vibe that tastes like slow mornings and sea breeze. It’s the kind of place where “disconnecting” doesn’t feel like a chore.
The Village Waterfall.
Barely a walk from the beach, this waterfall is the casual option if you want a really small “hike” perfect for cooling off without testing your patience.
Sure, you’ll share it with a few strangers, but it’s still a lush, photo worthy spot framed by tropical greenery and pleasantly slippery rocks.
The Jungle Waterfall. This is the hidden gem
For those craving a bit more adventure: a 45-minute to one-hour hike through dense jungle, across rivers, and around roots that seem to have been placed there just to test your balance.
Your reward? A powerful cascade pouring into crystalline pools so secluded you’ll half expect to see your own name carved into the rocks.
3. Getting There Without Losing Your Stride
Boat from Playa Los Muertos – About 380 pesos round trip, with morning departures and afternoon returns.
Walk from the pier. After docking, follow the main street and watch for signs pointing to the jungle waterfall trail. Pro tip: there are two waterfalls; make sure your sign is the right one.
4. What to Expect Along the Way
First river crossing: via a charming (and slightly wobbly) hanging bridge.
Second & third crossings: no bridge, just shallow, sandy, bottomed water. Watch out during rainy season when the current can get feisty.
Final stretch: mild rock scrambling. Warning: those who stop to Instagram every flower take twice as long to arrive.
5. Enjoying the Falls Without Looking Like a Soggy Tourist
Swim in turquoise pools, refreshingly chlorine free and crowd light.
Sit on a rock, breathe in the mist, and pretend you’re not sweating in the humid jungle air.
Protect your camera, jungle humidity is nature’s original “soft focus” filter. Keep it wrapped in a towel or shirt.
6. What to Pack to Keep It Chic (and Practical)
Reusable water bottle. cold water tastes better when it’s not in single-use plastic.
Water-friendly footwear, trekking sandals or sturdy huaraches; leave the slippery flip-flops at home.
Biodegradable sunscreen, because coral and your skin deserve equal kindness.
Dry change of clothes, because nothing ruins the “wild jungle adventurer” vibe like riding back in damp shorts.
7. Is It Worth It? Spoiler: Absolutely
by Deverust Studio
Experience Vallarta & Nayarit the insider way, with private offers you wont find online.
From your first dinner to your next adventure, your membership pays for itself.
Sign up and access to our exclusive travel deals and discounts zone.