Getting to Puerto Vallarta
Flights, airport info, and arrival tips
Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR)
Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) is the main gateway to Puerto Vallarta. Located just 7 km (4 miles) north of downtown, it's one of Mexico's busiest tourist airports with direct flights from major cities across North America.
Quick Airport Facts
- Airport Code: PVR
- Distance to Downtown: 7 km (4 miles), approximately 15-20 minutes
- Distance to Hotel Zone: 3-5 km, approximately 10-15 minutes
- Terminals: Single terminal with domestic and international sections
Major Airlines Serving Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta receives direct flights from numerous cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Major airlines include:
Immigration & Entry Requirements
Citizens of the United States, Canada, the UK, EU countries, and many other nations do not need a visa for tourist visits up to 180 days.
What You'll Need:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your stay
- Tourist Permit (FMM): Usually provided on the plane or at immigration
- Return Ticket: Proof of onward travel may be requested
- Customs Declaration: Completed form for customs inspection
Important: Keep your tourist permit (FMM) safe! You'll need to return it when departing Mexico. Losing it can result in fines.
What to Expect on Arrival
- Immigration: Present your passport and completed tourist permit (FMM). Lines can be long during peak season, so allow 30-60 minutes.
- Baggage Claim: Collect your luggage from the carousel.
- Customs: Press the button at the customs checkpoint. Green light means you can proceed; red light means your bags will be inspected.
- Exit Area: You'll enter the arrivals hall where you'll find transportation options, currency exchange, and tourism information.
Getting to Your Hotel
Authorized Airport Taxis
Purchase a ticket at the official taxi booth before exiting. Prices are fixed based on destination zone.
Approximate costs: $25-40 USD to most hotel zones
Private Transfers
Pre-book a private transfer for a hassle-free experience. Many hotels offer airport pickup services.
Approximate costs: $30-60 USD depending on vehicle type
Shared Shuttles
Economical option if you don't mind multiple stops. Book in advance or at the airport.
Approximate costs: $15-25 USD per person
Uber / Ride-sharing
Uber operates at PVR airport. Pick up is from designated areas outside the terminal.
Approximate costs: $10-25 USD depending on destination
Arrival Tips
- •Have some Mexican pesos or US dollars for tips and small purchases
- •Download offline maps before arrival in case of slow internet
- •Book transportation in advance during peak season (December-April)
- •Avoid timeshare salespeople in the arrivals hall - politely decline
- •The airport has free WiFi to contact your hotel or arrange transportation