Flycatcher perched among branches at the Vallarta Botanical Garden

El Puente de los Suenos (Bridge of Dreams) stone walkway through the garden

Stone fountain surrounded by lush garden greenery

West Mexican chachalaca with its bright red throat patch

Cobblestone path lined with palm trees under a blue sky

Red chapel at the top of a garden staircase

Garden pavilion decorated with Mexican flags

Hummingbird approaching a pink flower in flight

Greenhouse interior packed with tropical plants

Birds of Paradise: Mismaloya & Vallarta Botanical Garden Experience

Duration

7 hours

Season

All year

Groups

Up to 8

Offered

Eng / Spa

A birdwatching journey from the marine sanctuary of Los Arcos de Mismaloya to the Vallarta Botanical Garden.

Begin your birdwatching adventure along the spectacular coast of Puerto Vallarta at Los Arcos de Mismaloya, an iconic marine sanctuary surrounded by impressive granite formations. Keep your binoculars ready as brown pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds, gulls, and herons soar above the Pacific. Continue into the lush Mismaloya area, where tropical jungle meets the coast, creating an ideal habitat for a variety of resident and migratory birds. Look for colorful species such as the San Blas Jay, Golden-cheeked Woodpecker, Citreoline Trogon, and several species of hummingbirds. Your journey concludes at the Vallarta Botanical Garden, nestled approximately 1,300 feet above sea level along the Horcones River. Its carefully designed habitats, native plants, flowers, fruiting trees, and bird feeders attract an impressive diversity of tropical birds year-round. Among the species you may encounter are Yellow-winged Caciques, San Blas Jays, Orioles, Woodpeckers, Cinnamon Hummingbirds, Squirrel Cuckoos, Elegant Trogons, and a remarkable variety of hummingbirds. A unique opportunity to discover the extraordinary birdlife of Puerto Vallarta—from the Pacific coast to the tropical mountain forest.

Highlights

Bird-specialized guide
Binoculars and telescope available
Personal bird checklist
Identification materials
Small groups (max 8 guests)

Includes

A/C ground transportation
Guided visit inside the Botanical Garden
Continental breakfast
Refreshments at the Garden restaurant

Not Included

Admission to Vallarta Botanical Garden ($300 MXN per person, paid at entrance as a conservation donation)
Gratuities
Lunch

Itinerary

6:30 a.m.: meet your guide at Marina Vallarta, depart for the south coast
Light continental breakfast while observing seabirds over the rock formations at Mismaloya
Explore the Vanilla Path at the Vallarta Botanical Garden, refreshments at the restaurant
2:00 p.m.: return to Marina Vallarta

Know Before You Book

Moderately flexible fitness level; walking on natural trails and unpaved paths required
Children under 8 and pregnant women not allowed
Not recommended for guests with back, neck, heart, or knee problems
Children 8-11 must be accompanied by a paying adult
Not wheelchair accessible

What to Bring

Refillable water bottle (eco-friendly options available in our store with 10% discount)
Binoculars, comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, insect repellent, sun protection, camera

Cancellation Policies

Cancellations 36+ hours in advance, 100% refund
Cancellations 24 hours in advance, 50% refund
Same day / no-show / late arrival, no refund
Activities may change due to weather conditions
Liability waiver required

Gallery

Reviews

Philip MaarlowVerified

“We arrived in Puerto Vallarta not knowing what to expect on the birding front as it is not a destination anyone in Europe talks about. We have been very pleased with what we found. We had four tours with Ecotours, two with Cynthia and two with Michael and both were excellent bird guides. They were both very knowledgeable, friendly and good communicators. They were able to explain all aspects of the habitats, together with the field marks and the life styles of the birds. Our four trips covered Ameca River, San Sebastian, Botanical Gardens and Macaw Reserve. Each trip was worthwhile in their own right but also complemented the others. As a result, we feel we have a good understanding of the range of birds in the area, thanks to their excellent instruction and their patience with two English birdwatchers out of their comfort zone. This has been borne out by our walks around the area where we have been able to consolidate our knowledge base. PV is a great birding area and Ecotours provided the perfect introduction. We are already thinking about a return trip. Many thanks Cynthia and Michael and the efficient staff in the office. We have thoroughly enjoyed our trips.”

45 months ago

heidiwC5167SAVerified

“Michael, our tour guide, was absolutely wonderful! He was knowledgeable about all kinds of things and was patient with us on the uphill parts of our climb.”

11 months ago

Pam PVerified

Seattle

“We were so lucky to get referred to Ecotours for a bird watching tour. I have been coming to PV for several years, but have never seen so many beautiful native birds. Fernando was so good at finding specific birds by their songs and then finding them for us. He is an expert and could identify every bird we saw. This tour is definitely the one to take if you are a birder, easy walking. Be sure to wear long sleeves and pants so the bugs can't get in. They loved our gringo legs and left their scars and itches for weeks.”

167 months ago

tcG4718MBVerified

“I have been birdwatching before, but this was the best experience I've ever had! This was my second tour with EV and they once again took care of me from sign up to drop off. Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable about birds and their habitat, as well as the local history and geography in the region. We made multiple stops in different areas to see a wide variety of birds, butterflies, and plant life. It felt as if we were with good friends the entire trip! I am already planning another birdwatching tour with EV!”

15 months ago

X8177ZOjamescVerified

Hamilton, Canada

“Went on this excursion today with two other people. Our guide Michael was knowledgeable about all the flora and fauna, he made us feel welcome and allowed us to all go at our own pace. You go on a rigorous hike to a beautiful beach where you snorkel. I personally found the current to be a bit intense so I sat that out and enjoyed the beautiful beach. The other folks loved the snorkeling. You had an option of taking a water taxi back (100 pesos) or hike back. Michael had a well stocked cooler with trail mix, granola bars, sandwiches, fruit, juice, pop and soda. Some advice to any guests: 1. Dress in light comfortable clothing 2. Wear heavy duty shoes (no flip flops) 3. Take water (Michael provided) 4. Make it your own! If you want to go slow please do! If the snorkeling is too intense, enjoy the beach and scenery! No pressure at all! 5. You do carry the snorkeling gear so I would suggest a very small bag with sunscreen, bug spray, towel and charger that you can put in the bag with gear. Thank you for a wonderful day!”

43 months ago

ZoeBanyaiVerified

Pease, Minmesota

“Went on Thursday, March 5th. Michael was our guide. Folks, he's absolutely wonderful and amazing!!! He is so knowledgeable abour his country and loved sharing all of it with us! The scenery is stunning, the hike was a great workout, and the Colomitos Beach is so beautiful!! As our way of thanking Michael, we took him out for lunch at one of his favorite restaurants on the beach. Oh my God, the food was AMAZING! No Americanized Mexican food here. The ceviche and the guacamole was amazing as well as the whole red snapper. I wish I could tell you the name of the place...I only have pictures. Do yourself a favor and ask for Michael to take you on this fantastic adventure! He's truly trying to save the Earth, one grain of sand at a time!!”

19 months ago

tcG4718Verified

15 months ago

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