Back to Top

Wild Rides on Sunset Highways: The Road Trip Around Urban Jungles in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a famed tourist destination in Mexico. It attracts visitors from far-flung corners with one-of-a-kind culture, the Pacific Ocean allure, and tasty treats. If you are going to visit it and want to find the secrets Puerto Vallarta is concealing from passers-by, come up with a detailed plan for your trip.
With this article, developing such a plan will be a no-brainer task. Below is a detailed lowdown on the best Puerto Vallarta hotels, tips on how to choose suitable transport, as well as a list of must-visit spots. Take your time to read it and good luck with your journey!

Transport & Housings 

When visiting a new city, travelers often decide to rent a car. This is an extremely convenient method of navigating the location without depending on local transport. The best thing about Puerto Vallarta is the possibility of choosing a suitable vehicle right at the airport. The number of car rental at Puerto Vallarta airport providers is huge. Keep in mind that car rental prices fluctuate. They depend on the type of vehicle you choose. On average, you should be ready to shell out $30/day.
If you are a proponent of planning in advance, it is a good idea to book a car online. For instance, visit Rental24h.com and pick a suitable model. This is extremely helpful if you need to stick to a specific budget since the site automatically categorizes cars into different groups based on the cost.
Another consideration is a hotel. There are lots of cool options to select from, but the most feted accommodations are:

  • Plaza Mar & Vista del Sol
  • Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa
  • Hotel Mousai
  • Casa Velas
  • Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
  • Velas Vallarta Suite Resort

Getting to any of the listed hotels from the airport will be easier, especially if you rent a car. 

Weather-dependent Preparations 

The weather in Puerto Vallarta is no less important aspect to consider when arranging a trip. Typically, it is warm there throughout the year due to a tropical climate. However, the city has 2 major seasons – dry (from late October to May > 24-30°C) and rainy (from June to early October > 29-35°C).
If you happen to come here during a dry period, make sure to pack:

  • Clothes for swimming
  • Short-sleeved shirts and T-shirts
  • Flip-flops and sandals
  • Breathable clothes and light jackets for evening
  • Sunscreen with a high SPF
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap for shade

 When are going to explore the best jungles in Mexico in the rainy season, prepare:

  • Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
  • Quick-drying clothing
  • Water-resistant shoes
  • Small, portable umbrella
  • Reliable mosquito repellent
  • Sun protection means

As for universal stuff to have at hand regardless of the season, you should bring medications, a Spanish phrasebook unless you know the language and a camera with a charger for capturing memories non-stop.

Hidden Gems List

Now you know the basics of preparation when heading to Puerto Vallarta. The next step is to embark on a trip across this picture-perfect city. There are lots of interesting places to drop by. However, don’t pass up a chance to see such attractions.

Malecón 

This lively boardwalk stretches along the Banderas Bay coastline. When walking there, you can see mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean and nature. Another highlight is a unique collection of public art and sculptures. The most popular examples are “The Seahorse” and “The Rotunda of the Sea.” Besides, the Malecón houses lots of cafes and restaurants with delicious local food. 

Zona Romántica (Old Town) 

This is a charming area in the region. Visitors particularly like the Old Town due to its recognizable charm of past days’ Puerto Vallarta. Spend time, ambling along old streets, looking at ancient architecture, and simply relaxing. In addition, the magnificent Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe is also located there. 

Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Want to recharge the inner battery? Get closer to nature in the botanical gardens of Puerto Vallarta. Each of them offers collections of native Mexican plants: orchids, palms, agaves, cacti, and tropical flowers. They are situated near the beautiful Sierra Madre Mountains, so visitors can not only see rare species but also snap many vivid images.

El Edén

Avid movie lovers will definitely recognize this spot at first glance. The famous movie “Predator” with Arnold Schwarzenegger was filmed here. When planning your trip to this place, grab your chance to go on canopy tours or swim in natural pools. If you feel like spending more time outdoors, hike in the mountain terrain and watch endemic birds. There are many cozy bars and cafes with a variety of local cuisine and beverages.