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Take a half-day journey from Las Ánimas by water taxi, follow a coastal jungle trail to the fishing village of Quimixto, then hike a short climb to a cool waterfall and swimming pools. Expect mixed dirt-and-rock terrain, local culture, and a refreshing swim.
Take a half-day journey from Las Ánimas by water taxi, follow a coastal jungle trail to the fishing village of Quimixto, then hike a short climb to a cool waterfall and swimming pools. Expect mixed dirt-and-rock terrain, local culture, and a refreshing swim.
You step off the water taxi onto a narrow sand spit at Las Ánimas, salt on your lips and the jungle immediately pressing uphill. The trail threads between coastal scrub and tall palms; surf thunders on one side while a stream carves a green throat toward the Sierra Madre on the other. Small fishing boats bob in the bay as your guide points out the line where ocean meets mountain.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Curiel Xperience · Quimixto, Jalisco
You step off the water taxi onto a narrow sand spit at Las Ánimas, salt on your lips and the jungle immediately pressing uphill. The trail threads between coastal scrub and tall palms; surf thunders on one side while a stream carves a green throat toward the Sierra Madre on the other. Small fishing boats bob in the bay as your guide points out the line where ocean meets mountain.
This stretch of Bahía de Banderas has long supported fishing villages; trails like this were the working paths between coves before roads. Geologically the route runs along volcanic-derived bedrock and alluvial fans—rain channels form the seasonal streams that feed Cascada de Quimixto. Culturally the hike finishes in a tiny village where locals maintain traditional livelihoods and serve simple lunches—fresh fish, tortillas and tropical fruit.
Expect a half-day rhythm: private transfer from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán, a short water-taxi ride to Las Ánimas, then 1–2 hours of coastal jungle trail to Quimixto village and a 20–30 minute steeper walk to the waterfall. Terrain alternates packed dirt, rocky steps and exposed roots; elevation gain to the falls is moderate and can be slippery after rain.
Practical notes: bring 1–2 liters of water, sturdy closed-toe shoes, swimwear for the plunge pools and reef-safe sunscreen. The route is best in the dry season for firmer footing; during summer the falls are fuller but trails can be soft. Respect village life—pack out trash and tip guides who ferry you by boat.
moderate.
6 hours.
Moderate fitness—comfortable with uneven terrain and short, steeper sections; able to hike 3–5 km with breaks.
The route is moderate: coastal singletrack with a short, steeper climb to the falls—expect uneven footing and a few switchbacks, but no technical climbing.
Yes—private transport from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán and a water taxi to Las Ánimas are included in the itinerary.
Yes—there are natural pools at the base of the waterfall suitable for swimming; water temperature varies by season and can be cooler than the ocean.
Not ideal for strollers or limited mobility; children used to hiking can join but supervision is required on steeper, slippery sections.
The trail links small fishing settlements that long depended on marine and river resources; the village of Quimixto remains largely traditional and locally operated.
The area benefits from low-impact tourism—avoid single-use plastics, use reef-safe sunscreen and follow local guidance to protect freshwater springs and village waste systems.
Curiel Xperience operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step off the water taxi onto a narrow sand spit at Las Ánimas, salt on your lips and the jungle immediately pressing uphill. The trail threads between coastal scrub and tall palms; surf thunders on one side while a stream carves a green throat toward the Sierra Madre on the other. Small fishing boats bob in the bay as your guide points out the line where ocean meets mountain.
You step off the water taxi onto a narrow sand spit at Las Ánimas, salt on your lips and the jungle immediately pressing uphill. The trail threads between coastal scrub and tall palms; surf thunders on one side while a stream carves a green throat toward the Sierra Madre on the other. Small fishing boats bob in the bay as your guide points out the line where ocean meets mountain.
This stretch of Bahía de Banderas has long supported fishing villages; trails like this were the working paths between coves before roads. Geologically the route runs along volcanic-derived bedrock and alluvial fans—rain channels form the seasonal streams that feed Cascada de Quimixto. Culturally the hike finishes in a tiny village where locals maintain traditional livelihoods and serve simple lunches—fresh fish, tortillas and tropical fruit.
Expect a half-day rhythm: private transfer from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán, a short water-taxi ride to Las Ánimas, then 1–2 hours of coastal jungle trail to Quimixto village and a 20–30 minute steeper walk to the waterfall. Terrain alternates packed dirt, rocky steps and exposed roots; elevation gain to the falls is moderate and can be slippery after rain.
Practical notes: bring 1–2 liters of water, sturdy closed-toe shoes, swimwear for the plunge pools and reef-safe sunscreen. The route is best in the dry season for firmer footing; during summer the falls are fuller but trails can be soft. Respect village life—pack out trash and tip guides who ferry you by boat.