A Day Trip to San Sebastián del Oeste – Adventure, Coffee & Colonial Charm

drakarlafigueroa
Apr 17
3 min read

One of the things I love most about living and working in Puerto Vallarta is that there’s always something new to discover—whether it’s a hidden beach, a fresh seafood spot, or in this case, a colonial mountain town with a rich history and beautiful natural surroundings.

Recently, I took a day trip with my friend Antonio from Vallarta, Vámonos!, a local guide and transportation expert I always recommend to my patients who are visiting for dental tourism. He’s fun, incredibly knowledgeable, and knows all the secret corners of the region that most visitors miss. We explored San Sebastián del Oeste, a magical town just about 1.5 to 2 hours from downtown Puerto Vallarta—perfect for a one-day getaway or even an overnight adventure.

The Road to San Sebastián del Oeste

On the way there, we stopped for a hearty Mexican breakfast at Las Cazuelas, a traditional spot along the road. Their handmade tortillas and authentic dishes make it the perfect stop to fuel up before reaching the mountains.

Why Go with a Local Guide

San Sebastián is surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls, and hidden hiking trails, but they’re not always easy to find. That’s why I strongly suggest booking a guided tour with someone like Antonio. He not only knows the safest and most scenic routes, but he also has access to paths that cross through private land—something that’s important to respect. If you’re into hiking, waterfalls, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, you’re in for a treat.

Plus, having a local guide means not only you will have a private car and driver but also, you’re better prepared in case of any minor injury (like a twisted ankle!) and you won’t waste time trying to find the best trails. Trust me—some of these hidden spots are worth the hike.

A Taste of San Sebastián: Coffee & History

Once we arrived in town, our first stop was the Café de Altura finca, right at the entrance of San Sebastián. This coffee farm has been run by the same family for generations, and it’s a must-visit if you love fresh, locally grown coffee. You can take a short tour, walk among the coffee trees, and taste different varieties—don’t forget to bring a bag home with you!

ATV Fun & The Old Mines

Later, we rented ATVs (around $80 USD per vehicle) and took off on a thrilling ride through the cobbled streets and up into the hills. We passed the old silver mines that once brought prosperity to this area and even stopped at the historic cemetery for a moment of quiet reflection. If you like a bit of adrenaline mixed with culture, this part of the tour is unforgettable.

Why Dental Travelers Should Explore Beyond the Beach

Many of my dental patients at Dentalfigs come to Puerto Vallarta for treatment and end up discovering so much more. Combining your health journey with experiences like these gives you a richer connection to the area—and a chance to rest, recharge, and explore.

San Sebastián del Oeste is perfect if you want to experience another side of Jalisco: cooler weather, colonial architecture, mountain views, great food, and warm people. Whether you’re here for a few days or a longer dental treatment plan, I always encourage making time for a getaway like this.

Quick Info:

Travel Time: ~1.5 to 2 hours from downtown Puerto Vallarta
Recommended Tour: Vallarta, Vámonos! with Antonio
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, jacket, water, sunscreen, DEET, snacks, and cash for small purchases.
Estimated Costs:
- Breakfast: $10–15 USD
- Coffee tour: ~$5 USD
- ATV rental: ~$80 USD
- Guided hiking tour: ~$40–60 USD depending on the group size
Time Needed: Full day (8–10 hours) or overnight stay.
You can also check some accommodations in advance.