While people in Scandinavia bike all the time and everywhere, as more of a routine than for fun, in Puerto Vallarta you enjoy mountain biking as an ecological sport that keeps you fit in colorful tropical surroundings and landscapes.
Mountain biking Puerto Vallarta – on hanging bridge
You’ll see the lazy ones jump into a yellow truck with huge wheels and bounce away into the jungle with a beer in a plastic cup in their hand, the road warriors prefer to sweat and peddle up the rugged paths into the jungle and hills around the city and into the Sierra for a real adventure.
The origin of this sport is attributed to either Joe Breeze or Gary Fisher from the U.S. in the early seventies, and already in 1996 it was included in the Atlanta Olympic Games, so mountain biking took under 20 years to become an official Olympic discipline, quite amazing, don’t you think?
Almost any kid in the world has had lots of experience on bikes and the normal lack of precaution makes many of them unwittingly practice their own style of mountain biking around the block, in the parks or hills of their hometowns.
When it comes to mountain biking riders need to feel the gear as an extension of their bodies. You need practice and a great bike too, well built, in good shape and very important, lots of good safety equipment, these include helmet, gloves and adequate clothing. Considering the irreplaceable nature of your health and body, spare no expenses when it comes to protecting it.
This sport is quite tough at times, going down hills is fun, but in the long run, you need to be in great shape, legs, arms, your back, all need to be healthy and fit. In any case, most tour providers offer various options for various levels of experience and resistance.
Puerto Vallarta is the ideal place to enjoy this sport because of its location and natural attractions, once you roll into the jungle you’ll enjoy the flora and fauna, beautiful views and paradise-style landscapes you can only find and enjoy on foot or on two wheels.
In any journey, you will encounter physical obstacles such as steep slopes, rocks, rain, mud, humidity, and heat characteristic of the area, but you will mainly confront the challenge of your own limitations, your fatigue, loneliness, and all kinds of surprises, but once you surmount them, they become the most rewarding of experiences, both purifying and relaxing and most important, unforgettable.
Take into account these simple tips so you can enjoy your mountain bike ride even more:
- constantly hydrate, do not wait until you are thirsty
- eat to diminish your hunger, try eating a fruit or a cereal/energy bar and a bottle of water every hour
- brake before taking a corner and choose well your line of attack and your route so you can avoid unexpected maneuvers
- distribute your weight in a well-balanced fashion on your bike
- bring comfortable and appropriate clothing
- helmet and eye protection
- use sunscreen
- take your camera, tennis shoes or specialized footwear, extra money and insect repellent
- don’t forget the tools, extra tires, repair equipment and pump.
If you travel to Puerto Vallarta we can honestly recommend a memorable mountain biking tour, you’ll soon forget the drone of the airplane engines and replace it with the air, sounds, smells, and views of the local jungle and its impressive sights and locations.
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
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