South Shore and Vallarta Botanical Garden Private Tour

Overview

This private south-shore ride blends ocean and jungle scenery with relaxed hop-outs and time for photos. Begin with a smooth hotel pickup and head to Los Arcos Scenic Overlook, where dramatic cliffs and offshore rock formations rise from the Pacific. Continue to Playa Mismaloya, a peaceful cove framed by lush green hills—perfect for a short stroll or scenic photos. The final stop is Vallarta Botanical Garden (admission fee: MXN $300 per adult), a tropical paradise filled with orchids, shaded trails, and river viewpoints. Enjoy unhurried exploration before returning comfortably to Puerto Vallarta with your private English-speaking driver.

Itinerary

1. Los Arcos

   Los Arcos Scenic Overlook. This roadside viewpoint frames Puerto Vallarta’s most photographed natural landmark: the granite islets of Los Arcos Marine Park. Rising from turquoise waters, the rock arches attract seabirds and snorkelers, but even from the shore the sight is spectacular. The overlook offers a safe pull-off for quick photos with the jungle and sea meeting dramatically in the distance, a scene that defines the South Shore’s beauty.

   · 1 h

2. Just a short drive further is Playa Mismaloya, the jungle-backed cove that put Puerto Vallarta on the map when it was featured in the 1964 film The Night of the Iguana. The bay’s emerald water and dramatic cliffs make it one of the area’s most scenic beaches. A stroll along the sand or a quick pause for photos captures the blend of cinematic history and natural splendor, giving you a taste of the South Shore’s timeless charm.

   · 2 h

3. Set in the Sierra Madre foothills, this award-winning garden spreads across trails lined with orchids, vanilla vines, and towering palms. Visitors can wander shaded paths, explore themed gardens like the Cactus House and Orchid Conservatory, or dip their feet in the clear river that runs through the grounds. The on-site restaurant overlooks lush canopies and is perfect for a relaxed meal. It’s a true immersion into the biodiversity that thrives just beyond Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.

   · 2 h

Pickup

Pickup included.

The operators/drivers are not official tour guides but are professional drivers and Locals who have been provided with all the necessary historical information about the sights visited. They cannot accompany you to the sights, but will provide extended historical and local information to help you get the feeling of the city. Please know that we are unable to pick up, start or stop this sightseeing ride from or to the airport/port/train stations. Kindly share any special requirements, such as traveling with a service animal or needing extra assistance, when booking your ride. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for you. After booking, we share all driver and car info, and the driver will wait for you at the pickup location you have chosen.

How to use your ticket

Please show this to your driver.

What to know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• For 1–3 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.
• For 4–8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.
• Entrance fee to the Vallarta Botanical Garden is not included and has to be paid on spot with cash or card. It costs MXN $300 per person.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather.

Reviews

Product code: 117866P497

Activity offered by Welcome Pickups via Viator.