THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
A half-day to full-day guided hike along the Tomatlán River to El Polvorín offers clear pools, rock jumping, and a riverside meal at Chico’s Paradise—famed since the 1960s. Expect river crossings, wildlife sightings, and a mix of jungle trail and sandy beach time.
A half-day to full-day guided hike along the Tomatlán River to El Polvorín offers clear pools, rock jumping, and a riverside meal at Chico’s Paradise—famed since the 1960s. Expect river crossings, wildlife sightings, and a mix of jungle trail and sandy beach time.
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Operated by Vallarta surf lesson · Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
You step off the air-conditioned van into jungle that smells of wet stone and green leaves. The Tomatlán River, impatient and bright, pushes you toward El Polvorín—pools so clear they challenge your idea of freshwater. Over the next four to five hours you'll hike riverbanks, wade through shallow currents, and find a soft patch of sand that reads like a private river beach.
challenging.
4–5 hours.
You should have good cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable with sustained walking on uneven, wet terrain and short river wades.
Yes—most tours include air-conditioned round-trip transport from designated pickup points in Puerto Vallarta; confirm your pickup location when booking.
No—meals at Chico’s Paradise are not included, but the restaurant is a standard stop where you can buy local dishes.
Physically fit beginners who are comfortable in water can join, but the operator notes a high fitness requirement and the route involves uneven, slippery terrain.
No—the canopy zipline is an extra activity offered nearby and must be booked separately; availability varies by day.
Chico’s Paradise became notable in the 1960s as a riverside hangout for Hollywood stars; the restaurant remains a cultural waypoint on the Tomatlán River.
Stick to established paths, avoid using soap in the river, and choose reef-safe sunscreen to reduce impacts on aquatic life and downstream reefs.
Vallarta surf lesson operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Vallarta surf lesson
Book directly with Vallarta surf lesson for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now