Vallarta Botanical Garden

Cost

Below are the costs of visiting the Vallarta Botanical Garden:

General Admission: 300 pesos per person (ages 10 and older).

Child Admission: 150 pesos per child (ages 5-10).

Infants (ages four and under): Free.

Members: Unlimited access with an active membership.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for udpates.

About

Vallarta Botanical Garden is a 64-acre destination that is more than just a collection of blooms. It's a living, vibrant museum dedicated to preserving Mexico's diverse flowers, trees, and plants.

Initially founded in 2004 to promote environmental education, it has evolved into providing blooming beauty with conservation. You'll discover such intentions hiking the paths that wind through curated gardens, tropical forests, and a collection of over 3,000 plant species. The walkway offers an immersive experience that showcases the beauty of nature and highlights the importance of protecting these plants and flowers.

Another example of combining blooms with conservancy is the centerpiece of the garden, the Orchid Conservatory. This section celebrates Mexico's rich varieties, boasting nearly 1,400 species. Of equal importance is the structure that showcases these delicate flowers in a setting that promotes conservation and education.

Beyond the remarkable plant collections, Vallarta Botanical Garden is rooted in sustainability and education. Funds raised from members and admission support local conservation efforts, keeping this institution thriving.

The garden has received accolades, including the prestigious Garden of Excellence Award, and serves as a testament to the blending of tourism with environmental stewardship. With its history steeped in conservation and its mission dedicated to both education and appreciation, it's an ideal spot for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a meaningful escape from the ordinary.

Vallarta Botanical Garden: Fun Facts & Cool Features

A delightful feature of this destination is the walkways. These trails wind through curated gardens, ponds, and other features at the garden. One standout is the Orchid Conservatory, full of native Mexican orchids. You'll have the opportunity to view hundreds of species, each with unique colors and shapes.

A serene amenity at Vallarta Botanical Garden is the river that runs through the grounds. The gurgling water adds beauty and tranquility to the area, enhancing the allure of your visit. You can take a refreshing dip in it or choose to relax on the banks of the flowing stream. Additionally, the river is an ecosystem where plants and creatures thrive, making it yet another spot to appreciate the area's diversity.

For dining amid nature, the on-site restaurant, Hacienda de Oro, showcases regional flavors. A meal here is an opportunity to enjoy fresh, local ingredients while surrounded by vistas of tropical forest and gardens.

Educational opportunities abound, featuring guided tours, informative signage that provides details about plants, and demonstration areas. One example is learning about vanilla, the world's second most expensive spice. Another learning opportunity involves the preservation of butterfly and bird habitats. All in all, you will leave with newfound knowledge and an appreciation for conservation, which is at the heart of Vallarta Botanical Garden.

While not necessarily next door, there are other landmarks to consider when in the area. One such adventure is at Parque Nacional Marino Los Arcos de Mismaloya, where you can explore the clear waters around the islands. Afterward, grab a meal at Mismaloya Grill. Also of note are the Marietas Islands, considered the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the area.

Whether you visit to check out the amazing orchids or bring the family to stroll the vibrant paths, Vallarta Botanical offers lasting memories on your Puerto Vallarta getaway.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step directions to the gardens:

From Puerto Vallarta, head south on Highway 200 (Carretera a Barra de Navidad).
Continue for approximately 24 km or 15 miles.
Look for the destination sign on the right-hand side of the road.
Address: Carretera a Barra de Navidad Km. 24, Las Juntas y Los Veranos, 48447 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico.

Local Tips

Bus rides from Puerto Vallarta are an economical way to get to the gardens.
Bring a towel and swimsuit to enjoy the river.
With so much to see and do, plan a whole day to explore.
Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellant.
Bring pesos for tips and souvenirs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get to Puerto Vallarta?

The most popular way to reach Puerto Vallarta from abroad is by plane. The Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) receives direct flights from 50 different airports from across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, including 13 domestic flights. Officially known as the Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport, PVR is the 7th busiest airport in Mexico. It is centrally located with easy access to the city.

What is the weather like in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta’s warm, tropical climate provides ideal year-round temperatures, with dry winters and rainy summers. Average temps range from a high of mid-90s and high humidity in the summer rainy season (June - Oct) to evening lows of upper-60s in the mild winters. November through May tend to be drier months, with less humidity, offering 10 to 12 hours of sunshine.

What's the best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time to visit PV is from December to April, which is also considered the high season, driven largely by international visitors, retirees, and snowbirds seeking warmer climates. This is also when you’ll find humidity hasn’t kicked in yet, so walking along or spending the whole day at the beach is very enjoyable. While May - November is considered to be a lower season, there is consistent weekend activity coming from all parts of Mexico.

What are the biggest events in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta offers exciting local and international events throughout the entire year, with many of these revolving around culture, gastronomy, sports, and film.

Puerto Vallarta Carnaval (usually late February)
The Mexico Open at Vidanta (PGA tournament held in February)
International Film Festival (March) Festival Internacional de Cine en Puerto Vallarta (FICPV)
Festival Fiestas de Mayo: Month-long celebration in May encompassing Puerto Vallarta’s anniversary, featuring live music, carnival rides, culture, and tradition
Vallarta Pride held mid to late May, attracting over 17,000 attendees
Day of the Dead celebrations (Nov 1) and month-long International Gourmet Festival held in November

Are the beaches swimmable in Puerto Vallarta?

With plenty of spots to choose from, Puerto Vallarta’s beaches are pleasantly swimmable. Still, it is important to remain alert to tides, weather, and water conditions as the Pacific Ocean can present stronger waves at certain times of the year. Winter and Spring provide the calmest waters for swimming, while the warmest water temps are Summer and Fall.

How did Puerto Vallarta become a popular film destination?

Puerto Vallarta’s star quality was thrust onto the international stage in 1963 for the filming of “The Night of the Iguana.” At that time, Mismaloya Beach welcomed the likes of Richard Burton, Eva Gardner, and Elizabeth Taylor as the city further immersed as a quintessential sunkissed vacation destination.

What's the best thing about being in Puerto Vallarta?

The stunning beaches and warm climate create an inviting environment year round, while the local community offers rich traditions, excellent cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere. Living or visiting here means enjoying an active lifestyle outdoors and being part of a diverse and friendly community, which makes it truly special. For visitors traveling to Puerto Vallarta, taking part in vibrant community life and activities is a welcome addition to a beach getaway.