Palo María Waterfall
Discover Palo María Waterfall, a hidden jungle gem near Puerto Vallarta offering a refreshing hike and a stunning cascade.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less heat, fewer crowds
Palo María Waterfall
Best Time
Less heat, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Palo María Waterfall, a hidden jungle gem near Puerto Vallarta offering a refreshing hike and a stunning cascade.
"It's a great idea to make it a full-day adventure. Bring some snacks and drinks with you."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky terrain and river crossings demand good hiking shoes. Leave the flip-flops at home!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
The jungle hike is warm and dense. Bring plenty of water to stay energized.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 370 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palo María Waterfall
Main waterfall pool
A stunning cascade offering a refreshing dip after a jungle hike. Perfect for a cool-down and epic photos.
Upper Palo María Falls
Further upstream
For the adventurous, climb the ropes to discover a less-visited, majestic upper waterfall.
Natural Swimming Pools
Along the river trail
Crystal-clear pools perfect for a quick, invigorating swim before reaching the main falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Trek to Palo María
Navigating to the Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky terrain and river crossings demand good hiking shoes. Leave the flip-flops at home!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
The jungle hike is warm and dense. Bring plenty of water to stay energized.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Follow the riverbed or the fence line. Guides aren't essential, but know your route.
🦟 Bug Spray Essential
Be prepared for spiders and ants in the dense jungle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky terrain and river crossings demand good hiking shoes. Leave the flip-flops at home!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
The jungle hike is warm and dense. Bring plenty of water to stay energized.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
Follow the riverbed or the fence line. Guides aren't essential, but know your route.
🦟 Bug Spray Essential
Be prepared for spiders and ants in the dense jungle.
📸 Capture the Views
This spot is an Instagrammer's dream! Get ready for epic photos.
💰 Free Adventure
You don't need to pay for a tour; the hike is accessible for free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Palo María Waterfall is a highly recommended natural escape, praised for its beautiful cascade and refreshing pools. While the hike is generally manageable, it requires good footwear and preparation for warm, humid conditions. Some find the trail challenging, especially with children, but the rewarding swim and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile adventure for most.
"What an amazing place to visit!
The hike is actually quite easy—especially if you start from the bridge. Overall, it’s definitely worth the effort. You’re going to break a sweat, but that’s part of the experience and the excitement—especially for first-timers who aren't familiar with the trail.
If you take it at a relaxed pace, the hike takes about an hour. But trust me—do it. You won’t regret it.
It’s a great idea to make it a full-day adventure. Bring some snacks and drinks with you. I didn’t know this at first, but I heard there’s a second and even a third waterfall deeper in if you keep going.
Finally, a tour is available for this site, don't pay it. Do it for free."
antonio balladares
"Grab those hiking shoes and get ready for a rocky climb! We made it there and back with our 3 kids(8,6&4) with some extra effort course! It was work BUT It was worth it, there is a cliff you can jump off that helps you cool off at the end. It’s a 30 minute hike to get there and 30 to get back. Take a lot of water the jungle gets dense and warm very fast. Be careful of bugs, there’s some big spiders and ants!"
Chris Sanchez
"An absolutely worthwhile hike! You don't need to hire a guide. We started in Garza Blanca Resort and although we did go with the group, the group leader had a key to get us through the gate in the fence period to avoid that you simply start at the road and hike up the stream bed which isn't really that much longer.
It is definitely worth the risk and effort to climb the crappy Mexican fixed ropes on the left side of the first waterfall to reach the base of the second waterfall. Just be careful and don't blow it.
My video is of the upper waterfall where most people don't go. The photograph is of the upper waterfall, and also looking down on the pool at the base of the lower waterfall"
Peter Zabrok
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus or taxi towards Garza Blanca Resort. From there, follow the riverbed trail. Some travelers mention taxis can drop you off near the trailhead, but confirm the exact spot.
The trail can be a bit tricky to find initially, but following the riverbed or the fence line from Garza Blanca Resort is a common method.
Taxis can get you close to the general area, often near Garza Blanca. It's best to ask your driver to drop you off at the start of the trail or a known landmark near the entrance.
Many visitors hike independently. Starting from Garza Blanca Resort and following the river is a popular free option.
Yes, local buses run towards the area, and you can then walk or take a short taxi ride to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Palo María Waterfall is generally accessible for free. You don't need to pay for a tour to enjoy the hike and the falls.
There are no official entrance fees for Palo María Waterfall. The adventure is free for all to enjoy.
Palo María Waterfall doesn't have set opening hours as it's a natural site. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Yes, many visitors hike to Palo María Waterfall without a guide. The trail is generally well-trodden, especially if you follow the river.
Yes, there are reports of a second and even a third waterfall deeper in if you continue hiking. This may involve more challenging terrain and climbing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour each way, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is also recommended due to the humidity and potential for getting wet.
Absolutely! The waterfall has a pool at its base perfect for swimming. There are also natural pools along the river for a refreshing dip.
Yes, families with children can do the hike, but it requires extra effort. Be prepared for rocky terrain and ensure kids have appropriate footwear and plenty of water.
You might encounter insects like spiders and ants in the dense jungle. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna.
📸 📸 Photography
The main waterfall, the surrounding jungle, and the natural pools offer stunning photo opportunities. The upper falls also provide unique perspectives. 
While not explicitly mentioned, the lush jungle and cascading water would likely make for dramatic drone shots. Always check local regulations before flying.
Morning light can be beautiful, filtering through the jungle canopy. Midday can be harsh, but the water spray might create interesting effects.
The area around the main waterfall and the pools offers excellent vantage points. For a different perspective, consider the climb to the upper falls.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and jungle. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable due to the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit