Puerto Vallarta Jalisco, Mexico Travel Guide
PVR serves Puerto Vallarta. It is the main airport for the whole Riviera Nayarit region.
Major airlines offer direct flights from the US and Canada. This covers American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing, and VivaAerobus.
High Season (Nov-Apr): The priciest, get reserved quickly. Shoulder Season (May-Jun, Nov): Moderate prices, more availability. Low Season (Jul-Oct): Best prices, more flexibility.
For high season travel, reserve several months ahead. Utilize flight comparison tools like Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for deals.
Options: Authorized airport taxis (pre-pay at kiosks), Ride-Sharing (Uber/DiDi pick up outside airport grounds), Hotel shuttles, Private transfers. Public bus for budget travel (across highway via walker bridge).
The Pearl of the pacific has a Central de Autobuses near the airport. Major companies include ETN, Primera Plus, Futura, and Vallarta Plus. Frequent services connect to Guadalajara, Mexico City, Sayulita, and Manzanillo. Buses are generally safe and comfortable.
A valid driver's license from home is accepted. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Mexican auto insurance (third-party liability) is legally required and must be purchased from a Mexican insurer. This insurance can significantly increase quoted online prices. DiscoverCars.com for rentals.
Main highways are well-maintained. Old Town roads can be cobblestoned. Driving at night outside urban areas is not recommended due to poor lighting, unmarked speed bumps (topes), and livestock. Tolled highways (cuotas) are safer and quicker.
Puerto Vallarta has a dedicated cruise terminal, Muelle de Cruceros, near Marina Vallarta. This terminal handles major international cruise lines. There are no major car or passenger ferries from other Mexican states or international destinations. Local water taxis, known as pangas, transport to southern beaches.
Water taxis are a common way to reach southern beaches and towns such as Yelapa, Las Ánimas, or Quimixto. These locations are not reachable overland. They depart from Los Muertos Pier in The Historic district or Boca de Tomatlán.
Prepare for your departure to make for a smooth exit. The Mexican government charges a departure tax, Derecho No Inmigrante (DNI). This fee is often included in airline ticket fares. Verify with your airline. If not included, pay it at the airport before check-in (approx. 1,150 MXN pesos as of 2024, subject to change).
After check-in, return the departure portion of your FMM card to immigration officials. Confirm they collect it. Proceed through security screening. Keeping copies of all documents is a good practice.
Buses are the main and most inexpensive public transportation network in The Pearl of the pacific. They cover most urban zones and apply to nearby towns. Buses have color codes or signs in their front windows indicating their destination (e.g., "Centro," "Marina," "Olas Altas").
Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer direct routes. Licensed taxis are typically white and have a taxi number. They should have a meter, though drivers often quote a fixed price, especially for tourists.
Requirements: Valid driver's license (home country), major credit card for deposit. IDP recommended. Mexican third-party liability insurance is mandatory. Major international companies available.
Motorcycles and scooters are available from local shops. Helmets usually required. Use caution in traffic. Bicycle rentals are available from local shops.
Malecón and Zona Romántica are pedestrian-friendly. Walking tours are available. Limited dedicated bike lanes; caution on busy roads. Wear a helmet for cycling.
Some local tour companies provide urban excursions by bus or open-air, trolley-style vehicles. These provide an overview of the city's sights. Local water taxis (pangas) are essential for accessing secluded beaches south of Puerto Vallarta (Yelapa, Las Ánimas, Quimixto) not reachable by road. They depart regularly from Los Muertos Pier or Boca de Tomatlán.
No specific cable cars or funiculars exist as part of Puerto Vallarta's public transportation system. The city is generally not highly accessible for travelers with significant mobility challenges due to cobblestone streets, uneven sidewalks, and a lack of accessible public transport. Some newer resorts and attractions may offer better accessibility features.
Drive on the right side. Speed limits posted in km/h. Seatbelts are mandatory. Drunk driving laws are strict.
Main roads generally good. Cobblestone streets in Old Town. Watch for potholes and unmarked speed bumps (topes).
Challenging in bustling locations (Downtown, Zona Romántica). Paid parking lots (estacionamientos) available. Street parking limited.
