Day of the Dead inspired Cemetery Tour in Puerto Vallarta

The Day of the Dead inspired Cemetery Tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a compelling 3-hour journey into the city’s cultural and historical landscape. Priced at $49 per person, this tour provides an engaging exploration of the oldest existing cemetery in Puerto Vallarta, combined with visits to traditional markets and murals inspired by the Mexican holiday of Día de los Muertos. The tour, which is often booked 90 days in advance, suits those interested in cultural history, local traditions, and authentic storytelling.

Led by an experienced guide, this tour emphasizes educational insights about the holiday’s significance, the history of notable graves, and the symbolism behind murals and shrines. A notable feature is the visit to a shrine dedicated to a death cult, which highlights a religious movement that is currently among the fastest-growing in the Americas.

While the 3-hour duration keeps the pace manageable, travelers should be prepared for easy walking around the cemetery and markets. The tour is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of Mexican traditions, and it provides a good balance of cultural explanation, historical storytelling, and local flavor. However, the tour does not include gratuities, which are customary in Mexico, and travelers should plan to enjoy lunch afterward at the final stop.

Key Points

• Price and duration: The tour costs $49 per person and lasts approximately 3 hours.
• Main focus: It centers around Puerto Vallarta’s oldest cemetery and Day of the Dead traditions.
• Guides: Led by an expert guide who offers detailed explanations of graves, murals, and religious shrines.
• Stops include: Traditional market, Murals, and a shrine to a death cult.
• Group size: Small groups of up to 12 travelers ensure a personalized experience.
• Booking and availability: Most reservations are made 90 days in advance, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

History and Significance of Puerto Vallarta’s Oldest Cemetery

The tour begins with a visit to Pantheon Fifth Of December, recognized as the oldest cemetery in Puerto Vallarta. This site holds graves of many important families and individuals who shaped the city’s history. The guide sheds light on notable graves and shares stories about those buried there, providing context about the local community’s roots. Walking through the cemetery offers a tangible connection to Puerto Vallarta’s past, with tombstones and monuments reflecting a blend of traditional Mexican and local influences.

Because the cemetery is the oldest in the area, it features a mix of historic gravestones and newer memorials. Visitors can expect a respectful but lively discussion on the cultural importance of honoring ancestors, especially during the Day of the Dead period.

Exploring Día de los Muertos Murals in Puerto Vallarta

During the tour, travelers encounter around 20 murals inspired by the Día de los Muertos holiday. These murals vividly depict skeletons, marigolds, and other traditional symbols, illustrating how local artists interpret themes of remembrance and celebration of life and death. The guide explains the meaning behind each mural, enhancing appreciation for the local art that beautifies the neighborhood.

The murals serve as vibrant visual stories of Mexican culture, blending color, symbolism, and spirituality. They are not only artistic expressions but also communicative tools that honor the traditions and beliefs surrounding death and remembrance.

Visiting the Traditional Old Town Market and Tortilla Factory

A key part of the tour involves a visit to the Old Town Market Viejo Vallarta, where the guide takes guests through the fish, fruit, and vegetable stands. This market offers an authentic look at local life, with stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and traditional ingredients. The visit includes a stop at the Tortilla Factory, where guests can observe the process of making the traditional corn tortillas, a staple in Mexican cuisine.

This stop provides a sensory experience—smells of fresh spices, sights of colorful fruits, and the sounds of market activity. It also offers an opportunity to learn about local food traditions that are deeply connected to the culture celebrated during Day of the Dead.

The Shrine to a Death Cult and Its Cultural Context

One of the more unique aspects of this tour is the visit to a shrine dedicated to a death cult, which was once outlawed by the Catholic Church. Today, this shrine reflects a religious movement that is considered the fastest-growing in the Americas. The guide offers explanations about the beliefs and practices associated with this cult, providing insight into how diverse spiritual expressions coexist within Puerto Vallarta.

This stop gives travelers a chance to understand alternative perspectives on death and spirituality, contrasting with mainstream Catholic beliefs. The shrine’s presence highlights the complexity and richness of Mexican religious culture.

Walking Through the 5 December Neighborhood

The tour concludes with a stroll down the Main Street of the 5 Decembre neighborhood, which is known for its local charm and vibrant community life. Walking along this street, travelers get a glimpse of everyday life, with colorful storefronts and local scenes. Ending at a favorite restaurant, the tour offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy lunch after the cultural and historical exploration.

This final stop emphasizes the connection between tradition and daily life in Puerto Vallarta, giving a holistic view of the community beyond the cemetery and murals.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Booking

The tour departs from San Salvador & Belice, 5 de Diciembre, Puerto Vallarta. It is designed for small groups of up to 12 people, ensuring plenty of space for questions and interaction. The tour is accessible for most travelers, and service animals are allowed.

Reservations are highly recommended, with most bookings made 90 days in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing flexibility for changing plans.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This experience includes admissions and tips for the cemetery and the death cult shrine. However, guide gratuities are not included—a common custom in Mexico—and travelers should plan to tip generously if they enjoy the experience. The tour does not include lunch, but the final stop at the restaurant is suggested as a perfect way to relax and reflect after the tour.

The Guide and Overall Experience

The tour is led by Abraham, a guide praised for his knowledge, kindness, and humor. His storytelling enriches the experience, making complex cultural topics accessible and engaging. The tour’s balanced pace and educational focus make it suitable for a wide range of travelers, especially those interested in cultural traditions, history, and local art.

Puerto Vallarta’s Day of the Dead Cemetery Tour: Who Will Love It?

This tour appeals most to visitors eager to deepen their understanding of Mexican culture through historic sites, art, and local traditions. It is especially suitable for those interested in history, art, and spirituality. The small group size and personalized guide create an intimate, informative environment—perfect for curious travelers or culturally-minded explorers.

While the 3-hour duration keeps the pace comfortable, participants should be prepared for easy walking around outdoor sites. The inclusion of markets and a shrine ensures a well-rounded experience that touches on food, art, and religious practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the tour cost?
The tour is priced at $49 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at San Salvador & Belice, 5 de Diciembre, and ends back at the same location.

What is included in the price?
Admissions and tips to the cemetery and death cult shrine are included.

Are tips for the guide expected?
Yes, tips are customary but not included in the price.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the pace is easy, making it suitable for a wide age range.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and curiosity about local culture are recommended.

Is food included?
No, but the tour concludes at a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch afterward.

Is this tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

How large are the groups?
Group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.