Puerto Vallarta’s 15 Best Tours & Things To Do (With Prices & Reviews)

Puerto Vallarta isn’t just a beautiful beach town; it’s a place where every day can feature a new adventure or a delicious taste of local life. Whether you’re soaring above the rainforest canopy, exploring hidden beaches, or indulging in mouthwatering street tacos, this city offers a variety of exciting and authentic experiences.

We love how many options there are for all kinds of travelers—families, thrill-seekers, food lovers, or nature enthusiasts.

For example, the Canopy River Zipline Tour and Mule Ride combines adventure with a tequila tasting, making it perfect for those who want a little thrill and a lot of local flavor.

If you’re just here for a quick taste of Puerto Vallarta’s lively food scene, the Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour is a fantastic way to sample the best tacos from local stands and learn about neighborhood history. With so many options, you’ll find something that fits your style and schedule perfectly.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a wide range of tours—from adrenaline-pumping ziplining and ATV rides to whale watching with biologists, and immersive culinary experiences. For a day full of adventure, try the Sierra Madre ATV Adventure, which offers river splashes and mountain views.

Foodies will enjoy the Signature Taco Tour, exploring local eateries, while nature lovers can opt for the Whale and Dolphin Watching with a marine biologist.

For those seeking relaxation, the Hot Springs and Massage provides a soothing mountain escape. Continue reading for detailed insights into each experience.

1. Canopy River Zipline Tour and Mule Ride

At number 1, the Canopy River Zipline Tour and Mule Ride offers a perfect blend of adrenaline and local flavor. This tour takes you to the Sierra Madre Mountains for a thrilling zipline experience over lush rainforest canopies.

The zipline has been praised for its safety and breathtaking views, with many reviewers calling it “exhilarating” yet feeling “very safe.” After soaring through the treetops, you’ll ride a donkey to a tequila tasting station, where you can sample some of Mexico’s finest spirits.

The small-group format (with excellent reviews for personal attention) makes this a great choice for those wanting a high-energy adventure with a touch of culture.

The tour lasts around 5 hours and earns a perfect 5.0 rating from 884 reviews. For roughly $120 per person, you get a comprehensive experience that’s ideal for adventure lovers who want a full day of fun. Be prepared for some rocky steps during the hike, but the stunning scenery more than compensates.

Bottom Line: If you crave a heart-pumping zipline combined with authentic tequila tasting, this tour is tough to beat. It’s especially popular for its friendly guides and safety standards.

2. Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours

Number 2 on our list is the Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour, a must for foodies eager to taste authentic Mexican street fare. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll stroll through Emiliano Zapata and 5 de Deciembre neighborhoods, stopping at four taco stands and carts to sample full-sized portions of al pastor, seafood, quesadillas, and more.

Your guide shares fascinating insights into the history of each neighborhood and the origins of the dishes, making it both a culinary and cultural experience.

Guests rave about the quality of the food and the friendly guides, with some mentioning margaritas and churros as highlights.

The tour costs about $44 per person and is praised for its small group size, ensuring personalized attention. Visitors often find themselves full and satisfied, with many returning to their favorite spots afterward.

Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want to explore Puerto Vallarta’s authentic flavors without the fuss of restaurant dining. It’s a flavorful, fun, and informative walk through the city’s culinary scene.

3. Sierra Madre ATV Adventure from Puerto Vallarta

At number 3, the Sierra Madre ATV Adventure invites you to drive your own ATV through mountain trails, rivers, and quaint village roads. This tour offers a great mix of off-road action and scenic beauty, with guides sharing insights on the local landscape and culture.

Many reviewers praise the variety of stops, including a waterfall at Rancho Las Pilas where you can cool off in crystal-clear waters, and a stop at Rancho Mi Abuelo for a delicious meal and organic margaritas.

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours and includes souvenir photos, making it a good choice for active travelers. For around $81, you get an immersive experience that showcases rural Jalisco away from busy resorts. Drivers must have a valid license, which is a minor consideration for most.

Bottom Line: If you want a lively ride through the mountains with options for swimming and local food, this ATV tour offers excellent value and a memorable day in nature.

4. Puerto Vallarta’s Best Canopy Zipline + Jorullo Bridge walk!

Number 4 is the Canopy Zipline + Jorullo Bridge walk, designed for thrill-seekers wanting a comprehensive jungle adventure. This tour features 11 different ziplines of varying lengths and speeds, providing plenty of opportunity to feel the wind and enjoy sweeping views. The highlight is crossing the Jorullo Bridge, a suspension bridge that adds an extra dash of excitement.

The tour lasts about 5 hours and has earned a perfect 5.0 from hundreds of happy reviews, emphasizing the competence and friendliness of the guides.

The price is $58, which offers excellent value given the number of lines and activities involved. The tour is suitable for beginners and experienced zipliners alike, with no previous experience required.

Bottom Line: For those seeking the ultimate canopy experience—long lines, breathtaking views, and a bridge crossing—this offers the most bang for your buck.

5. Signature Taco Tour in PV with Vallarta Eats

Number 5, the Signature Taco Tour, is perfect for those wanting a deep dive into Puerto Vallarta’s street food scene. Over three and a half hours, you’ll visit family-owned eateries and taco stands to enjoy regional specialties like birria, fish tacos, and more.

The tour focuses on authentic, full-portion dishes, and your guide shares local stories that bring the flavors to life. Rated 5 stars from 720 reviews, it’s praised for its knowledgeable guide and generous tastings.

The tour costs just under $50 and is an affordable way to see the city through its most beloved dish. Many guests note that they leave stuffed and eager to return to their favorite taco spots.

Bottom Line: Ideal for taco lovers wanting a casual, immersive experience with a local expert’s insights.

6. Puerto Vallarta- Market tour and Cooking Experience

Number 6 offers a full 4.5-hour market-to-table cooking class in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll visit local markets and a tortilla factory before learning how to prepare traditional Mexican dishes like ceviche, guacamole, or mole under the guidance of a master chef.

The class is small—up to 10 people—and the menu can be adjusted for dietary restrictions. After cooking, everyone sits down to enjoy their creations, paired with tequila.

Guests consistently praise the personalized instruction and the opportunity to learn authentic culinary techniques. The tour costs about $134, but the hands-on nature and the chance to cook with a local chef make it a valuable experience.

Bottom Line: For home-cooked Mexican cuisine and culture, this class offers a memorable, tasty, and educational outing.

7. Private ATV tour with waterfall and Tequila tasting

The Private ATV tour is tailored for those who want a personalized adventure. This 3-hour tour takes you through mountain trails, with stops at scenic viewpoints, a waterfall at Rancho Las Pilas, and a local restaurant at Rancho Mí Abuelo where you can enjoy a meal and organic margaritas. The small group size (often just you or your party) makes for a highly customized experience.

Rated 5.0 from 621 reviews, guests highlight the beautiful scenery, fun ride, and the tequila tasting as key highlights. The tour costs around $89, providing a flexible and intimate way to explore rural Jalisco.

Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a private, active day with scenic views and delicious local flavors.

8. Whale and Dolphin Watching with a Biologist in Puerto Vallarta

Number 8 takes you on a whale-watching tour led by a biologist, blending wildlife observation with citizen science. The 4.5-hour trip offers opportunities to see humpbacks, dolphins, turtles, and mantas in their natural habitat. Many reviews mention seeing breaching whales and dolphins swimming close. The biologist guide shares insightful commentary, making it both educational and fun.

Rated 5.0 from 545 reviews, guests appreciate the small boat experience and the chance to ask questions directly. The tour is priced at $100, and the focus on wildlife and conservation adds an extra layer of meaning to the trip.

Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers or families who want a close-up wildlife encounter with expert insights.

9. Shaded Hot Spring, Massage and Mex Grill in Puerto Vallarta

Number 9 is a relaxing 8-hour excursion to Nuevo Ixtlán Hot Springs, featuring a soak in soothing waters, a traditional Mexican BBQ, and a massage overlooking the mountains. Rated 5.0 from over 500 reviews, many find it a rejuvenating break from sightseeing. A stop at Bucerias for a beachside massage is included on the way back.

Priced at about $159, the tour offers a luxurious yet authentic mountain experience, perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and scenic beauty in equal measure.

Bottom Line: For a peaceful day of soaking, eating, and unwinding amid stunning mountain scenery, this tour delivers excellent value.

10. Sunsets and Whales Mega Yachts ALL INCLUSIVE: Puerto Vallarta

Number 10 features a luxurious sunset whale-watching cruise aboard a mega yacht with an open bar and live music. Over three hours, you’ll sail along the coast, watching for whales and enjoying drinks, snacks, and the sunset’s glow. Many reviews mention seeing multiple whales and dolphins, with some describing the experience as “beautiful” and “relaxing.”

The tour costs $120 per person, and the all-inclusive drinks and scenic setting make it a splurge worthy of special occasions.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those celebrating a romantic trip or simply wanting to enjoy Puerto Vallarta from the water in style.

11. Tacos after Dark Tour with Vallarta Eats

Number 11 offers an evening stroll through Old Town PV, sampling 6-8 tacos and street foods. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll experience the city’s lively culinary culture firsthand. The 3.5-hour tour costs about $59 and includes photos, making it great value. Reviewers love the diversity of tacos and the friendly atmosphere.

This tour is ideal for night owls and food explorers wanting to see Puerto Vallarta come alive after sunset with authentic flavors.

Bottom Line: A lively, flavorful way to experience PV’s nightlife and street food scene.

12. Full-Day Trail to 6 Hidden Beaches, Colomitos and Snorkel

Number 12 is a full-day hike guiding you to remote beaches and snorkeling spots like Colomitos Beach. The 6.5-hour tour covers jungle trails and coastal paths, with stops for swimming and cliff jumping. Reviewers highlight the beautiful beaches and the chance to explore less-visited spots. The tour includes snorkeling gear and costs around $37 per person.

It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a physical hike, offering an authentic way to see Puerto Vallarta’s wild side.

Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want to find secluded beaches and snorkel in pristine waters.

13. Combo ATV + Zipline R.R

Number 13 combines multiple adventures into a half-day tour: ATV riding, ziplining, swimming, mule rides, and tequila tasting. This all-in-one experience is praised for its variety and good value at $190 per group. Reviewers mention the friendly staff, scenic routes, and fun-filled day.

Suitable for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy multiple activities in one seamless trip, this combo is perfect for thrill-seekers.

Bottom Line: For a high-energy, multi-activity adventure, this tour packs a punch.

14. Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour in Puerto Vallarta

Number 14 offers a peaceful, family-friendly guided visit to the Butterfly Sanctuary. Over one hour, you’ll see native butterfly species, learn about their life cycles, and even release some butterflies. The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures an intimate experience praised for its educational value. The tour costs about $27 and is a wonderful, scenic way to connect with nature.

Guests love the opportunity to see butterflies up close and appreciate the detailed explanations from passionate guides.

Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and families, this is a gentle, beautiful experience.

15. Mega Yacht ALL INCLUSIVE Remote Paradise Beach Adventure

Finally, the Mega Yacht to Quimixto offers a full-day, all-inclusive cruise to a remote fishing village. The trip includes breakfast and lunch, free water sports gear, and optional hikes to waterfalls. Reviewers describe it as “luxurious” and highlight the chance to snorkel, paddleboard, or relax on the beach. The tour costs $114.75 per person, providing a seamless blend of adventure and comfort.

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a luxurious day on the water, exploring a secluded paradise.

Bottom Line: For a full-day, all-inclusive escape with water activities and scenic views, this yacht trip provides a memorable, worry-free day.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

When selecting from these options, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For adrenaline, the Canopy Zipline or ATV adventures deliver excitement, while the whale-watching tours are best for wildlife lovers. If you prefer culinary exploration, the taco tours or market-to-table cooking classes are top picks. For a relaxing day, the hot springs and massage tour offers a restful escape.

Planning ahead and booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Sunsets and Whales Mega Yacht or Full-Day Hidden Beaches Hike. Read reviews, and match your activity level and interests to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Final Thoughts

Puerto Vallarta offers diverse experiences that can turn an ordinary trip into something truly special. Whether you want to soar through the treetops, explore secret beaches, or eat your way through town, there’s a tour that fits your style.

For adrenaline junkies, the Canopy River Zipline and combo ATV + zipline tours are fantastic. For those seeking serenity, the hot springs and massage provides pure relaxation.

Food lovers will appreciate the taco and cooking tours, while wildlife enthusiasts should not miss the whale watching with a biologist.

If you’re planning a trip, consider booking your preferred experiences early. Many tours sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. With such a rich array of options, Puerto Vallarta is truly a place where adventure, culture, and relaxation all come together.