Camping mammas need a little break, too! For the past year and a half, I have been doing a ton of RV traveling with my family. It has been fabulous, but after our recent 17-day U.S. midwest road trip, mamma was needing a little time to herself. I love being a mom and have had the most unforgettable summer traveling with my family. However, when co-workers asked me to attend a girl’s trip in Mexico, I could not refuse! The thought of five days with no one “needing” me seemed like the perfect way to end the perfect summer. Since Mexico is such an easy, direct flight from Dallas-Fort Worth, I felt many of you would appreciate the post. So, enjoy this Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary and start planning your own amazing jungle adventure trip!

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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary Trip Planning

If you follow my blog, you know that I rarely fly. My family normally road trips with a 29 ft. RV and uses the Roadtrippers app to plan our adventures along the way. However, on the rare occasion I fly overseas, I prefer to use a travel agent to plan for me.

Before I get into the Mexico itinerary, I wanted to give a shout out to my travel agent. Maci at Passport for Adventure makes overseas trip planning easy. She has inside information on locations and keeps me updated with important travel policies such as COVID restrictions. Maci provides an easy to use app with details of all my trips. When in a foreign country, I feel more comfortable knowing I have someone back home with direct resort contact. Consider reaching out to her for assistance in planning your next Mexico itinerary.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary Day 1

Beach Fun

On the first day (travel day), we arrive at the resort early. Taking an early flight feels like a bonus day at the resort. We grabbed a quick bite to eat from the buffet and then headed straight to the beach. A great thing about all-inclusive resorts is that even before your room is ready, you can start enjoying the amenities.

Beach chairs were plentiful and we never had a problem finding one in the shade. The beaches were not white sand beaches, but they were very smooth and seaweed free. We spent the day getting familiar with the resort and everything it had to offer. I was happy to see that there were many things to do for the outdoor lover right on the property. I immediately noticed:

• kayaking in the ocean
• playing sand volleyball
• plenty of places to relax on the beach

Diverse Landscape

At 3:00 pm. our room was ready. The entire ocean front room wall was a window overlooking the beach. We had an amazing view! Mexico has such a diverse country landscape. One of the best things about this part of Mexico is the unique scenery. From my window, I could see the ocean and the sierra. The most surprising was the view from the other side of our resort, the bright green lush jungle view! It just looked so beautifully mysterious. I could tell that the resort was proud of their jungle location. They were out there cleaning the trees! I started to get excited about what adventures awaited us out there.

Dinner and a Show

That evening we were entertained by a traditional Mexican dance show followed by dinner at the Italian restaurant on site. The pizza is to die for! I always try to eat at every restaurant at least once when staying at an all-inclusive. The limited wine options included in our all-inclusive package was a bit disappointing. That being said, they did have additional wines available for purchase by the bottle.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary Day 2

Resort Activities and ATV Tour

After a room service breakfast, I simply enjoyed the beach and had fun playing water games organized by the resort. I made new friends (and a few enemies 😂) in some very competitive pool games. Best of all, it gave me some much needed exercise after my previous lazy day. Other resort exercise opportunities include:

• a fitness center with an exercise instructor
• water aerobics
• pool Zumba
• Zumba on the beach
• morning Yoga on the beach

Every all-inclusive I have visited offered these types of activities. So, no excuses friends. I’m kidding your on vacation! Although, you may find yourself wanting to burn off some of that always available resort food.

Meanwhile, some of my girl friends headed out on an ATV/ Zip Line combo tour. They booked the four-hour tour through Estigo tours. Their favorite part was the ATV time. Off roading through the Sierra Madre Mountains is the best way to see the jungle. Based on their experience and my thrilling Moab, UT ATV trip, I will definitely have to add this to my own next Mexico Itinerary.

Testimonial

Read below how one of my travel partners described the experience.

Our excursion from Estigo Tours was hands down the highlight of my trip to Puerto Vallarta. We signed up for the ATV + Zip Line excursion. While the Zip Line was amazing, the ATV portion was absolutely one of the best experiences I’ve had. The guides took us through the city and up into the mountains. We were able to pass a few larger ATV groups that seamed to be struggling a bit.

They dropped us at the Zip Line and were waiting for us when we finished. I was very appreciative when they gave us the option to have a lengthy meal or more ATV time with a stop off at a local jungle bar. Our group opted for the jungle bar. It was a great experience in itself. I had one of the best mango margaritas I’ve ever had, delicious nachos, and sampled very smooth tequila (included in the tour).

The jungle bar was called “El Rancho de mis Abuelos” which means ‘My Grandparent’s Ranch’. Talking to the people who worked their a bit, it turned out that they source all of their produce. They have a full restaurant, keep their own livestock, and even have a pool area. We didn’t have enough time to check it all out. I will definitely be heading back next time I’m in Puerto Vallarta.

We hit the rode again down the mountain and through the city. We returned to their shop front where there were cool damp towels were waiting to give us a little break from the afternoon heat. I highly recommend this excursion, you will not be disappointed!

–Catherine Schaefer

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary Day 3

Jungle Tour

The Hyatt Ziva offers a free hike through the jungle. It ends with a swim at the bottom of a water fall. This guided tour is listed simply as “Jungle Hike” on the daily resort activities itinerary. Word of warning, the terrain is extremely difficult. It starts around 9:00 am. The tour lasts only about an hour, so it won’t take too much time out of your day.

I was anticipating a leisurely walking tour along a carved path through the jungle. You can imagine my surprise when the guide pulled out hard hats and waivers. After a moment of second guessing, we grabbed our helmets, signed the waiver, and prepared for wet tennis shoes. This hike was far from leisurely. In fact, I would call it more of rock climbing than hiking. The rocks were extremely slippery. I moved slowly behind the group of young bachelorette party girls on the tour with us. I did love the challenge and the beautiful waterfall at the end.

Even though I was a little nervous about this one, it ended up being a really unique resort activity. I was surprised to see something like this offered for free to all guests. Oh, and I can not forget to mention our guide. She was spunky, careful, attentive, and really strong. She was pulling girls three times her size up steep hills!

Souvenir Shopping

After the jungle tour, we spent the day lounging on the beach and buying souvenirs from the beach vendors. I always buy a little something from the beach vendors. This time I went a little crazy on silver, hand made bracelets for the kids, and colorful cover-ups. It made up for the fact that I did not do the traditional in town souvenir shopping. If that is what you are looking for, check out the Malecon Boardwalk. It is a staple of the area filled with shops, street food, restaurants, galleries, and sculptures. I hear they have great night life, too. My overall favorite souvenir purchase was this fish hook necklace!

Resort Evening Entertainment

That evening we had dinner at the Asian restaurant on the resort. The sushi and salmon were divine. Afterwards, we enjoyed live music at the resorts Tequila bar. The band, Refill Rock Band, was outstanding! They covered songs from several decades and nailed every one. We danced the night away to their grooves twice during our trip.

For the ultimate romantic experience, I also highly suggest checking out this cruise tour. 

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary Day 4

Zip Lining

While ATV’a may have been the highlight of my friends’ trip. Zip Lining was the highlight of mine! On Day 4, I booked a day trip Zip Line tour through Los Veranos Canopy Tours. To avoid the afternoon heat, we thought a morning slot would be a better time to book. Los Veranos is one of the best places to book your excursions through. They were so easy to work with. We were picked up just a short distance from our resort around 9:15 am. They drove us out to the location on the beautiful, pristine Los Horcones River. There is also a speed boat trip transportation option!

Once we arrived, things moved very quickly. Having been my first time to zip line, the adrenaline was rushing. There was not time to think about how scared I might have been. Immediately, they began quickly giving instructions and fitting us for gear. The quick orientation was just as entertaining as it was informative. The main guide, Benji, has a special talent for keeping things light and serious at the same time. All of the guides where energetic and friendly. Even through their jokes, all of the guide were very focused. It was easy to tell that safety was top priority.

Overall, we did 15 zip lines with a short walk between most of them. The first couple of zip lines are pretty tame but get higher, faster, and longer as the tour progresses. Ultimately, we reached the Black Diamond. Here, flyers soar 500 ft. above the tree tops at 30 mph for 1/4 mile. At one point, my friend and I zip lined together. One the final run, we race each other on a pair of side by side zip lines.

I can’t say enough about the guides. They worked together like a well oiled machine. They would catch on one line and turn right around and launch someone on another line behind them. All within a matter of seconds. The camera men had to be in the best shape of anyone there. They would jump on the zip line with the riders to get aerial action shots. At one point, a camera man even convinced me to let go and hang upside down! Immediately after a line, they would hop off and hurry to the next line. The raced passed the rest of us to jump on with another rider. It was thrilling just watching their fine tuned routine.

Other Los Veranos Activities

After the Zip line tour ends, guest still have extra time to enjoy the property. Amenities include:

• a restaurant over looking the river
• water slides into the river
• animal encounters (monkeys and birds)
• handmade souvenirs
• hammocks
• a tequila tasting
• massage booking options

We ate ceviche and guacamole at the restaurant. It was delicious and a great price. The videos and pictures taken during zip lining are available for purchase at an extra cost after the excursion. I mean, you will need proof for everyone back home of your daring adventure.

After all was said and done, we arrived back at our resort around 3:00 in the afternoon. It ended up being basically a full day excursion. By far, Los Veranos Canopy Tours was one of the top things we did this trip. They are a good option for any adrenaline junkie. Should you check them out, tell them Champagne On Deck.com sent you!

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary Day 5

Spa Recovery

By day five, I was ready for some serious recovery time. The Hyatt Ziva’s VitaMar Spa was a great place to do just that. The spa was beautiful and clean. Even though this is a popular spot, VitaMar Spa makes you feel like you have the place to yourself. Appointments are timed in a way that guests get private use of the facilities. Attendants escort guests to each station. For example, our attendant first took us to the sauna. She came back after about five minutes and escorted us to a shower station. It had several different types of shower sprayers to choose from. Next, she dropped us off at the steam room and then back to the showers again. I was not sure if this was a COVID precaution or their standard protocol.

My favorite part was relaxing in the hot tub over looking the ocean while the attendant massaged my scalp. However, the tranquil pool with a variety of powerful massage jets was a close second.

Things to Know About Returning to the United States

To enter back into the U.S. we had to have proof of a negative COVID test (Summer 2021). The resort took care of scheduling and administering our tests. It was super quick and we were able to pick up proof of our negative results that same evening.

For the return, my travel agent told me to download the VeriFly app. American Airlines uses the VeriFly app. With the app, you can upload your test results. This will allow you to check in for your flight home and expedite your check in at the airport. If you do not use the app, you will not be able to check in online for your flight home. You will have to have your negative covid tests verified at the airport. With this process, going through customs in the US was surprisingly quick. Well at least it was on that particular day and time.

What to Bring For This Mexico Itinerary

Below are some items I recommend packing when embarking on a Mexico itineraries:

☀️ $50-$100 in small bills tip money (the Mexican Peso is even better) – You will want to tip transportation drivers, resort staff, and excursion guides. It adds up.

☀️ Biker shorts for zip lining comfort – The zip lining straps go through your legs and loose shorts will bunch up. At one point, I thought I was going to lose my drawstring knit shorts. I was really wishing I had packed something like this:

BALEAF Women’s 8″/ 7″/ 5″ High Waist Biker Shorts Yoga Workout Running Compression Exercise Shorts Side Pockets

☀️ Fanny Pack for keeping up with belongings handsfree – I love how slim the one listed below is. I also use it at home for walking and gym workouts.

Slim Running Belt Fanny Pack,Waist Pack Bag for Hiking Fitness Cycling Workout Gym,Reflective Runners Belt Jogging Pocket Belt for iPhone XS,XR,7 8 Plus, Travelling Money Phone Holder for Running

☀️ Water proof phone case on a lanyard – This came in handy both on the jungle hike and on the zip line tour. I have had mine for two years and it is still reliable. I use it on all of my water adventures. Always remember to do the tissue test before trusting one of these in water with your phone.

Universal Waterproof Case,Waterproof Phone Pouch Compatible for iPhone 11 12 Pro Max XS XR Samsung Galaxy s10/s9 Beach Accessories for Vacation Up to 7.0″, IPX8 Waterproof Cellphone Dry Bag -2Pack

☀️ Water resistant sunscreen – It is HOT in Mexico in the summer. You don’t want to sweat off or swim odd your sun protection. Don’t forget to reapply often.

Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+ OilFree Facial Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum UVAUVB Sun Protection SweatResistant WaterResistant, 2.5 Fl Oz

☀️Aloe Vera Packets – I always have these handy on a beach trip. A bad burn can quickly put you out of commission for a day. Aloe will speed up the healing and provide some relief. These small packets are so much easier to travel with than the large bottle I keep in my medicine cabinet.

Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel Tube 0.75 Oz Travel Size (Pack of 3)

☀️ Bug Spray – This was recommended item by the Zip Lining tour company. They even have a designated place to apply the spray to protect the animals on site.

Coleman 100% Deet Insect Repellent, 100 Max Pump Spray 1oz (98.11%)

☀️ A secure swimsuit that you can be active in without worrying about something popping out. – Here are two of my favorite swimsuits for all occasions. I am picky about my swimsuit coverage and these do the job I need them to do without looking frumpy.

I2crazy Womens One Piece Swimsuits Mesh V Neck Monokini Bathing Suits Tummy Control Swimwear

Speedo Women’s Swimsuit One Piece Endurance+ Shirred Tank Moderate Cut

☀️ Long sleeve swim shirt – I recently fell in love with swim shirts. This style is so flattering and will keep you cooler in the summer and warmer in the cold:

AXESEA Women’s Rash Guard Tops Long Sleeve Bathing Suits Printed UV Sun Protection Swim Shirt

☀️ Swimsuit cover up – This one us super cute. I love the colors. You can also find these sold by beach vendors easily.

Moss Rose Women’s Beach Cover up Swimsuit Kimono Cardigan with Bohemian Floral Print

☀️ Beach Hat – Provide your own portable shade wherever you go with a wide-brim hat and look stylish doing it.

Lanzom Women Wide Brim Straw Panama Roll up Hat Belt Buckle Fedora Beach Sun Hat UPF50+

☀️ Shoes that are good for all terrain hikes that you don’t mind getting wet – The jungle tour wreak havoc on my favorite tennis shoes. Something like this would have been nice to have:

L-RUN Athletic Hiking Water Shoes Mens Womens Barefoot Aqua Swim Walking Shoes

☀️ Sunglasses – I can’t seem to have enough sunglasses around. These are polarized and have great Amazon reviews:

JOJEN Polarized Sports Sunglasses for Men Women Baseball Running Cycling Fishing Golf Tr90 Ultralight Frame JE001

☀️ Sunglasses Strings – I like the adjustable straps on these. The cord style is pretty cool, too.

Eyeglasses String Holder Strap Cord – Eyeglass Chain for Men Women – Glasses Lanyard Holders Around Neck – Sports Eye Glass Straps Sunglass Retainer

☀️ Portable neck fan – Go for one with a 360 degree cooling range. I also love these for outdoor concerts and amusement parks.

Portable Neck Fan Hand Free Personal Mini Fans USB neck hang fan, 360 Degree Free Rotation personal cooling fan handheld portable fans,Wearable neck fan Suitable for Traveling ,Sports, Office(Black)

☀️ Snorkel Gear – Sometimes resorts and excursions provide them. However, I like to have my own snorkel gear for sanitary reasons.

WSTOO Snorkel Mask with Latest Dry Top Breathing System,Fold 180 Degree Panoramic View Full Face Snorkel Mask Anti-Fog Anti-Leak with Camera Mount,Snorkeling Gear for Adults

☀️ Water Floats – These are really great for travel. They pack up small and inflate easily. I bring one along on all my trips that involve water.

Water Hammock Pool Floats Adult Size – 4 in 1 Multi-Purpose Floats for Swimming Pool – 2 Pack Pool Floats for Adults Pool Lounger Chair,Lake Floats,Exercise Saddle, Hammock, Drifter with air Pump

☀️ Insect bite relief – Also recommended for the jungle tour. When traveling with kids, this is a staple in my first aid kit.

Amazon Basic Care Hydrocortisone 1% Anti-Itch Cream, White, 2 Ounce (Pack of 1)

OFF! FamilyCare Bite and Itch Relief Pen (1 ct)

☀️ Imodium – Should you find yourself battling Montezuma’s Revenge, you will be glad you packed this item.

Imodium Multi-Symptom Relief Anti-Diarrheal Caplets, Loperamide Hydrochloride & Simethicone, 24 ct.

☀️ Hair Ties – An obvious item, but also easily overlooked when packing.

GOODY Ouchless Womens Elastic Thick Hair Tie 4 mm for Medium to Thick Accessories Long Lasting Braids Ponytails and More Pain Free, Black, 27 Count

☀️ Sundresses for dinners and shows – We like to dress up each evening for dinner with staying at all all-inclusive resort. I bought this one new specifically for this trip.

ULTRANICE Womens Summer Floral Wrap V Neck Adjustable Spaghetti Casual Ruffle Dress

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Itinerary Conclusion

Since it isn’t a long flight from Dallas-Fort Worth, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place for a short summer or spring break getaway. The Hyatt Ziva provided a balanced atmosphere of relaxation and entertainment with daily activities, five restaurants, and live music/shows nightly. This five-day Mexico itinerary only scratched the surface of the things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Other ideas include horse back riding trials, parasailing, scuba diving, fishing tours, surf lessons, speed boat rides, jet skis, swimming with dolphins, snorkel adventures, and even whale encounters, if you go at the right time of year. For a more encompassing guide of popular places order yourself the Fodor’s Puerto Vallarta, Mexico travel guide.

If relaxing on beautiful beaches one day and zip lining through the jungle on the next sounds like your kind of vacation, consider this Puerto Vallarta, Mexico itinerary for your next trip. I had so much fun experiencing this girls trip Mexico Itinerary, I have already booked a Cancun all-inclusive resort stay for my family for next summer. Do you have some fun outdoor Mexico itinerary activities to share, I would love to hear all about it in the comments below.

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Travel Insurance

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Comments

Want to share some of your favorite Mexico Itinerary activities or have questions? If so, comment below! I would love to hear from you.