El Tuito Oak Pine Forest Getaway Tour

El Tuito is a pleasant Mexican town founded in the 16th Century. Surrounded by oak pine trees at about 2,000 ft. and only an hour away, el Tuito offers you a cool escape from the hot beaches of Puerto Vallarta.

Our first stop is to Los Arcos, a federal underwater park and eco-reserve. Los Arcos are the three huge rocks just off shore near Mismaloya. The name Los Arcos (The Arches) comes from the arching caves and grottoes that have been carved out by time and the pounding surf.

We next stop at Le Kilff a restaurant perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Bay of Banderas and the Tomatlan river and bay. This is a popular spot for sightseeing and dining. It’s most often used for wedding. It’s a perfect place to watch Humpback whales, giant manta rays, sea turtles and dolphins. We usually stop here for 15-20 minutes for visitors to take pictures, walk up and down the various paths and sight see.

Before starting our acend to el Tuito, we make a brief stop a Chico's Paradise to let you get a few shots of the wonderful waterfalls in this magnificent paradise.

On our way to El Tuito, we stop at "Patloli" Petroglyphs. These hieroglyphics represent one of the most ancient records of the local Indian culture. They are strange carvings on generally large rock faces, surely a form of writing or important communication of those ancient cultures that thrived in our bay.

Our next stop is the Botanical Gardens of Vallarta. Located on between Puerto Vallarta and El Tuito, the Botanical Gardens offer visitors a chance to enjoy a beautiful mountain setting filled with tropical foliage. The 8 hectares, about 20 acres, site along the pristine Rio Los Horcones was originally purchased with the vision of an orchid plantation.

Once in El Tuito, we will visit the town's plaza, local bakery and church. We will end our tour at Altamira Ranch. Where you can enjoy lunch is a typical Mexican Hacienda. You will also get to taste the local tequila known as Raicilla.

Duration: 5 Hours

Cost: $200 us for up to 8 passengers

Includes: Hotel Pickup, Bilingual Guide

You'll Need:

• Camera and/or Video Camera
• Comfortable Walking Shoes
• Sunscreen
• Insect Repellent