Quick Facts
Accessibility: 6/10 (moderate)
Height: 15′ / 5 m
Length of Hike: 2 miles / 3.2 km round-trip
The Record
The hike to Cascada Nogalito is a somewhat hidden location near Puerto Vallarta that truly rewards those who venture off the beaten path (a getaway from the beaches), but having a guide is a necessary, in my opinion. We used CurielXperience, and I can’t recommend him enough! He was spectacular! Driving through Mexico’s busy, chaotic streets requires serious experience, so opting for a hired tour bus made the journey significantly more enjoyable and stress-free. Once you arrive, the hike itself feels a bit longer than the mileage suggests because the “trail” is actually the riverbed. You are almost constantly crossing the creek or walking upstream through a stunning canyon. While the trek isn’t terribly difficult, the rocks are notoriously slippery. (Wear appropriate hiking or water shoes.) Curiel was indispensable here! The route isn’t always obvious, and he knew exactly where to step to keep us on track.
Once you reach the falls, the view from the river’s rock bar is perfect (though you should always check the season, as the river can become dangerous during heavy rains). For the more adventurous, you can swim through a narrow set of rocks to get “up close and personal” with the cascade. The water is refreshingly cool, certainly not as cold as the mountain streams you’d find further in cooler or mountainous climates, but there are deep sections where having a group is vital for safety. It might not be the tallest waterfall I’ve ever seen, but it has immense charm. Exploring the pool is a blast, and as an added bonus, the fish darting around the water are absolutely fascinating to watch. It’s a serene, tropical escape that perfectly captures the wilder side of Puerto Vallarta and Jalisco.
Directions
I would suggest using a tour guide…If you decide to drive, set Google or Apple Maps to Nogalito Eco Adventure (as of February 2026). The roads are curvy, narrow, and partially dirt for a few kilometers.
Waterfall Record 
Leave a comment