HAVE A QUESTION?
Location?
We are located on the coast just north of San Pancho (official name San Francisco), Nayarit, Mexico, approximately 30 miles north of the city of Puerto Vallarta.
Which airport do I fly into?
We recommend flying into the Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which is in the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
Where is the Tailwind Jungle Lodge in relation to the airport?
The charming town of San Pancho, is about a 1 hour drive north of the Puerto Vallarta airport on highway 200.
We are located approximately 3 miles north of San Pancho on a lovely jungle road that parallels the coastline.
a) Rent a vehicle.
Renting a car is a great option if you want freedom to explore the region beyond San Pancho (and nearby communities of Lo De Marcos, Sayulita and Punta de Mita). Taxi is an option but rental car will allow you to access beautiful beaches, surf breaks, etc. There are many rental car agencies online and at the Puerto Vallarta airport; U-save, National, Budget, etc. Our favorite local company is www.geckorentcars.com. It’s best to reserve a car in advance. It is an easy drive on the only highway heading north along the coastline (HWY 20).
b) Taxi Service.
If you prefer to keep it simple, small taxis and large/van taxis (for groups and retreats) can be very easily arranged anytime. We recommend booking with Giovanni (he has a network of trusted drivers/vehicles in San Pancho). You can reach him on whatsapp at +52 322 139 0950. Tell them that you’re headed to the Tailwind Jungle Lodge. They know where we are! Taxi service is available from the airport, to/from San Pancho and all other destinations in the area. Please inquire for current rates sheet.
c) Uber.
Uber has recently become an option from the airport to San Pancho. This can be a more affordable option than taxi but maybe slightly more unpredictable as Uber drivers don't realize that we're located on a jungle road outside of town. Be sure to make it clear to your Uber driver that you are 10 minutes outside of San Pancho and use the directions that we provide you (not google maps as it will give you incorrect directions).
d) Public Bus.
If you’re feeling adventurous, another way to get to Tailwind is to take the public bus north on Hwy 200, from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho. (approx. 50 pesos/person). Once in San Pancho you will then need to take a taxi to the Tailwind Lodge. Note that taking the bus is the longest option and requires some patience!
If I rent a car, does it need to be 4wheel drive?
In the dry season (October to May), 4x4 is not necessary. The road may be a bit bumpy, but a regular car is fine. From June – Oct. the road may be impassible without a 4 wheel drive vehicle.
What to eat?
All of our units have their own kitchens (includes fridge, stove, pots, pans, everything you need to cook). Making taco feasts can be fun! There is a fish market, fruit stands and many groceries store in San Pancho. If you prefer to eat out there are also many wonderful restaurants in San Pancho, from basic taco stands to 4 stars. The Tailwind Lodge does not provide food and we do not have a restaurant on site.
Chef services.
We have excellent chef available for groups of 6+ people (great for retreats and special events), please inquire. Yum!
What is a kitchenette and what does it include?
Each unit (casita, bungalow or palapa), with the exception of Palapa Gecko, has its own kitchenette. The kitchenettes are basic kitchens, which include a fridge, stove, pots, pans, plates, glasses, cutlery, etc. The main kitchens are in Palapa Tigre and Casita Pumita. These kitchens are larger and have more appliances (blender for margaritas!) and ovens.
Restaurants in San Pancho?
San Pancho has a lovely range of restaurants, from tasty taco stands to fine dining. We highly recommend eating out in San Pancho at least once during your stay! Enjoy a sunset cocktail on the beach and then decide what kind of food you fancy! Definitely ask us about our favorite San Pancho restaurants, we're happy to point you in the right direction.
What is there to do at the Tailwind Jungle Lodge?
A joke around the Tailwind headquarters is that “there is so much not to do!”. Whether you’re looking to lounge in the hammock or hit the waves, there’s something for everyone!
To do in the jungle:
• Take a dip in the pool and sunbathe
• Hike (range from 20 min. to 2 hours)
• Explore wild beaches (there's therapeutic mud/natural spa!)
• Yoga class* (feel free to stretch and do your own yoga on the platform anytime!)
• Massage*
• Bird watching tour*
• Watch the wildlife, there’s a lot to look at!
• Hike to San Pancho (3 miles into town)
• Relax in the hammock
You can also check out the Ocean & Jungle activities to see more about sailing, surfing, and more.
* Please request in advance, reservation required.
What else is there to do in the San Pancho area?
Whale watching, sea turtle non-profit, deep sea fishing, surfing lessons, snorkeling around the Marietta Islands, zip-lining, mountain biking, and more!
Cultural excursions:
San Pancho & Sayulita Farmer’s market, tour around EntreAmigos (local community center/non-profit for kids), explore the petroglyphs by Alta Vista, watch sea turtles being released by the San Pancho Tortuga protection organization.
Dinning in San Pancho:
San Pancho has a lovely range of restaurants, from breakfast to dinner, taco stand to 4 star restaurants. Enjoy a sunset cocktail on the beach and then decide what kind of food you fancy! Ask the Tailwind family for recommendations!
Popular Towns near San Pancho:
Sayulita (nightlife, surf break, trendy/ hippy style town), Lo de Marcos (more tranquilo with a lovely beach that is more protected for swimming), Puerto Vallarta (restaurants, boardwalk, shopping), Yelapa (town accessed only by boat), San Blas (crocodiles, bird watching, culture).
Biodegradable soap (Dr. Bronner’s type recommended) Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash . . . Anything that goes down the drain waters the plants so make it biodegradable!!!
Insect repellent (insects are not a problem unless you go hiking through narrow jungle trails, always good to have repellent just in case)
Flashlight/headlamp (for additional light on trails at night)
Sturdy walking shoes for walking and hiking around the area
Sunscreen, the sun is strong here and sunscreen is very expensive in San Pancho
Warm clothing for cool nights (pants and sweater in Dec./Jan/Feb)
Ear plugs (if the birds are too loud for you!)
Binoculars (if you’re into that kind of thing)
Tevas or chaco sandals
A rash guard (if you have one and want to surf)
Don’t forget your camera!