Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens

It’s just a 30-minute car or taxi trip from the Hacienda. The internationally renowned Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a world away—and a must-see in Puerto Vallarta.

Set on 20-acres of tropical forest in the Sierra Madre Mountains, the reserve is home to 3,000 different plant species! Many are rare and all native, as well as a prize-winning conservatory of Mexican orchids. Did you know that vanilla comes from an orchid indigenous to Mexico? Indeed.  You can catch a demo starring the ancient beauty in the conservatory, where it grows alongside cacao and coffee plants.

Visitors are welcome six days a week (the Gardens are closed on Mondays between April and December) and can join a tour or make their way along the well-marked trails. Either way, you’ll find remarkable mini-habitats of palms, roses, tree ferns, agaves, magnolias—even a collection of carnivorous plants! Tranquilo, it’s insects, not humans, they’re after. Winged escorts abound, from whirring hummingbirds to the elusive yellow-eyed trogon citrealus. Not to mention butterflies and praying mantises (who can make complete revolutions of their heads when searching for a snack, fyi). 

After your swim…

take a moment to relax on the sun-dappled banks. Here, you can bask in the serenity of this hidden gem. The Rio Los Horcones offers a rejuvenating experience, whether alone or with friends. It’s one you will cherish long after your visit. In this moment, you experience a deep sense of peace and tranquility.

After absorbing all that natural beauty, you may want to recap and unwind over lunch. Moreover, they have a patio with outstanding views at their highly-rated restaurant, Hacienda del Oro on the grounds at the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens.

Continue with more botanical exploring, or head back to the Hacienda for a sunset swim and cocktail. That, nos amigos, is one fine way to spend a day.