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.
1. Yelapa: Paradise on a No-Wheel Policy
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.
2. Two Waterfalls, Two Personalities
▶ The Village Waterfall (quick dip, zero commitment)
Barely a 15-minute walk from the beach, this waterfall is the casual option — 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 (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
| Reason | Why You’ll Love It |
| Untamed Nature | Jungle without city noise or hotel chains. |
| Two Unique Falls | One easy & social, one private & a bit rebellious. |
| Adventure Without Ego | River crossings & rock climbs for a dash of adrenaline. |
| Photos Beyond Selfies | Because water, rock, and jungle green beat your 8 AM face. |
🧭 In Short
Yelapa and its waterfalls are the kind of escape where you can let the jungle slow you down, let the river cool you off, and let the sound of falling water clear your head. Whether you go solo, with friends, or as a couple, one thing’s certain: it’s hard not to smile when you’re standing under a cascade, phone forgotten, wondering why you don’t do this more often.
