Designated a world heritage site in 2004, the Islas Marietas National Park tour is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta. These islands are also known as the “Mexican Galapagos”. Below we’ll cover some important information about this national park, some great Marietas Islands tours, vacation packages, & pricing.
About Islas Marietas National Park
If you have the opportunity to visit the Marietas Islands in Bahía de Banderas, you’ll get to experience one of the most beautiful natural conservation parks in the world. Its beautiful hidden beach, Playa del Amor, is incredibly unique, and the surrounding area is magnificent.
Other than Playa del Amor, there are tons of other hidden beaches, ocean caves, rock formations, and tunnels. The Marietas Islands got their shape and impressive geography due to volcanic activity many centuries ago. To add to that, it was a bomb test site for the Mexican military back in the 1900s. The large explosions caused many of the caves and rock formations to be created. In the 1960s, the government decided to declare the islands a national park.
Best Islas Marietas Tours
To get to the Marietas Islands it is a 1-hour long boat ride from Puerto Vallarta or a 20-minute boat ride from Punta Mita. On the way, you’ll be able to see dolphins, the famous blue-footed booby bird, and probably some humpback whales (early December to the end of March). If you plan on going on a Martietas Islands tour, we recommend the following:
- Plan in advance as tickets can sell out fast and access is not permitted on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- If you’re prone to seasickness, you may wish to take a dramamine before heading out.
- Remember to take towels, your swimsuit, and reef-friendly sunblock.
- Some companies charge a conservation fee of $50 pesos for the to CNANP (National Committee of Protected Natural Areas) and $50 pesos to Bahia Unida.
Below are the Islas Marietas National Park tours that we most recommend (in order):
Islas Marietas Snorkeling Cruise
Explore the magnificent marine life around the Islas Marietas National Park on an exciting full-day tour. Once you arrive at the national park, select from kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. Keep a lookout for dolphins, humpback whales, giant manta rays, and sea turtles on this eco-adventure. This tour includes:
- 7 hour snorkel cruise from Puerto Vallarta
- Use of snorkel and kayak equipment
- Stand-up Paddle Boarding
- Lunch and open bar are INCLUDED
At $89 USD per person, everything is included except for the natural reserve federal tax of $100 pesos, the port fee of $28 pesos, and any tips you would like to leave the crew.
Islas Marietas Hidden Beach Tour
Playa Escondida, or the Marietas Island Hidden Beach tour, is only open from Wednesday to Sunday and has very limited access. The government only allows up to 115 people each day. Approximately 2000 people visit the islands every day, so you can imagine how coveted these Islas Marietas Hidden Beach tours are. You should also do this well ahead of time to ensure there are available tickets.
In order to reach Islas Marietas Hidden Beach, you’ll have to swim about 200 ft (~ 60 m). You will be provided with life vests and snorkel maks to enjoy the underwater view along the way. Groups are also kept small to maximize your experience. Discover great beaches and beautiful scenery amongst blue-footed boobies, dolphins, and other wildlife.
What’s included:
- Approximately 5 hour tour inside a marine wildlife sanctuary
- A boxed lunch & drinking water
- A professional biologist as your guide
- Snorkeling gear & lifejackets
Marietas Islands Private Tour
On a private Isla Marietas tour, you will be able to explore the hidden beach, coral reefs, and other nearby islands such as Isla Nopalera which is great to hang out and relax on. With a private tour vacation package, not only are you avoiding the large crowds, but you can schedule your tour to leave slightly earlier than all the other big tour companies to arrive to the islands before everyone else!
Most of these private tours go out on traditional panga boats, which adds even more to the experience. The great thing about pangas is that they have hop-on & hop-off beach capability and they are faster than the larger boats. They also have retractable rooftops, which makes them perfect for exploring Banderas Bay.
Marietas Islands Packages
Most Isla Marietas tours start from Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita, or Sayulita. They always start bright & early so that you can take advantage of your vacation package at the National Park
Once you arrive, you can choose what activity you’d like to do first: snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or tubing. I’d highly snorkeling through the magnificent waters to discover some of the colorful sea life and tropical fish.
What’s Included
Make sure to read the specifics for each package, but most Islas Marietas tours include:
- Boat ride to the Marietas Islands
- Food & snacks
- Continental breakfast
- Snacks such as guacamole, fruit, & veggies.
- Lunch (Vegetarian options are usually available)
- Complimentary open bar with water, coffee, sodas, juices, and cocktails such as piña coladas, margaritas, & beer.
- Ocean activities such as snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and sometimes even fishing!
Prices & Reviews
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