A Walk through Puerto Vallarta & Elizabeth Taylor's Gringo Gulch

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:

Downtown Puerto Vallarta (90-minute pedestrian tour)
The downtown core of Puerto Vallarta, known as "El Centro," charms with a classic atmosphere, an iconic church tower, old-world cobblestone streets, and a pretty town plaza. A guided stroll introduces the cultural and historical highlights of this lively area. Take in the Malecon boardwalk and see the glamorous residential area with its stately colonial homes set into the hillside. The neighborhood was made famous by Hollywood actress and resident Elizabeth Taylor, who affectionately referred to the enclave as "Gringo Gulch." Walk down a spacious staircase, and you're suddenly in the tropical paradise of Cuale Island, a shady oasis surrounded by the Rio Cuale.

What you will see along the way:
Puerto Vallarta blooms with artistic color and Mexico's warm charm. Known for its varied architecture, sparkling beaches and festive atmosphere, it welcomes you with an easy mix of man-made sights and natural beauty. A walking tour of the downtown area introduces the highlights. The beginning part of the walk is uphill and moderately strenuous; the route includes stairs but becomes more relaxed as the tour progresses.

Photo Opportunity:

The area known affectionately as "Gringo Gulch" became noteworthy in 1963 when Richard Burton bought "Casa Kimberly" as a gift for Elizabeth Taylor during his filming of Night of Iguana. Paparazzi often photographed the area, and it became known as one of the most beautiful and romantic in the world.

Shopping:
A quick shopping stop is included at the conclusion of the day.

Special Notes:

Tour includes approximately 90 minutes of walking, with uphill portion at the beginning. The stroll becomes easier as we go. The route consists of various types of terrain and levels of difficulty. The first portion is along concrete sidewalks and then becomes an uphill walk, also on concrete sidewalks. The upward walk is approx. 3 blocks long, followed by flat concrete. with cobblestone street crossings. Near the end, the walk is down a newly constructed set of stairs that are approximately 7 feet wide all the way to the island. Water is provided as well as rest stops.