Puerto Vallarta in 1 Day for Friends - Historic Emiliano Zapata neighborhood
In Collaboration with Spicy Vallarta. Updated on February 11, 2026.
Embark on a flavorful journey through Puerto Vallarta's historic Emiliano Zapata neighborhood with Spicy Vallarta's 3-hour guided food tour. Explore the vibrant Mercado Emiliano Zapata, learn about how chiles are used in Mexican gastronomy, and sample multiple savory stops plus dessert.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Spicy Vallarta, inspired by the tour 3-Hour Guided Food Tour in Puerto Vallarta. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Historic Emiliano Zapata neighborhood
- Mercado Emiliano Zapata (local market)
- Guided chile and taco tastings (4–5 savory stops + dessert)
Itinerary
Day 1
Meeting point on the Malecón, then guided walk into Emiliano Zapata market area for tastings and a market lesson on chiles. The full experience lasts 2 hours 30 minutes.
Meeting point — 700 Malecón
Meet your guide at the designated meeting point on the Malecón (700 Malecón). Guides check in the group, give a short safety and allergens briefing, and outline the route for the walk to Mercado Emiliano Zapata.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early at 700 Malecón to check in with the guide and avoid delaying the group.
- Bring small denominations of Mexican pesos for quick purchases at market stalls; some vendors may accept cards but cash is faster.
- Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection (hat/sunscreen); parts of the route are open-air.
Guided market walk: Mercado Emiliano Zapata & tastings
Guided visit to Mercado Emiliano Zapata and nearby street-stand/restaurante stops. Learn about various chiles used in Mexican gastronomy, visit 4 savory stops (primarily tacos) with a couple of side stops, and finish with a dessert sample. The guide explains chile varieties, preparation methods, and how heat and flavor are balanced in local dishes.
Tips from local experts:
- Mercado Emiliano Zapata typically closes by 15:00 — the tour schedules market sections early so you see fresh produce and chiles.
- Tell the guide about any food allergies or dietary restrictions at the start so tastings can be adjusted where possible.
- Sample small portions across the 4–5 savory stops to leave room for dessert and to try a wider variety of flavors.
Wrap-up & return to meeting point
Short closing at or near the Malecón to answer final questions, confirm any directions back to hotels, and end the tour. Guests are free to remain in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood or return to the Malecón area.
Tips from local experts:
- The tour is wheelchair accessible; if you require assistance, make arrangements at booking or mention it to the guide on arrival.
- Infants must not sit on laps and infant seats are unavailable — plan childcare or seating accordingly.
- Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour; bring cash or card if you plan to purchase drinks afterward.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Experience, Break |
