Experience An Eco-Adventure From Puerto Vallarta In Mexico

Many travelers visit Puerto Vallarta for its beaches, restaurants and exciting nightlife, but there is more to this amazing place. The city nestles on the Bay of Banderas, backed by the Sierra Madra Mountains and beautiful landscapes. This makes the city the ideal base to experience eco-adventure in Mexico. Read on to find out some of the best places for hiking the jungle watching humpback whales and diving into the magical marine environment.

Take a boat trip to the Marietas Islands

One essential eco-adventure in Puerto Vallarta is to take a two-hour boat trip to the Islas Marietas. The remote islands host one of the best eco-preserves in Mexico. Meanwhile, you won’t get bored on the journey as you are likely to spot humpback whales and dolphins along the way. This is especially so in the season from December to March.

Once at the islands, scuba diving or snorkeling in the crystal-clear water, viewing the amazing marine life, or enjoy stand up paddle boarding. It is also possible to take a boat tour of the islands to spot the more than 90 bird species, including the cute blue-footed boobies. Should you feel like relaxing, the beaches are truly idyllic.

Visit the Los Arcos Marine Park near Puerto Vallarta

Los Arcos Marine Park is named for the stunning natural rock arch in the national park. However, besides the arch, this national park is best seen on a kayak or boat tour. Meanwhile, Los Arcos is a protected area for many marine birds, including pelicans, blue-footed boobies and pelicans. As you approach by boat, you’ll see flocks of various species flying over the water.

Moreover, the arch is a natural habitat for marine life, making it one of the best spots for snorkeling or scuba diving. Here, you can spot sea turtles, clownfish, manta rays, pufferfish, octopuses, stingrays and more.

Explore Vallarta Botanical Garden

Located a short drive from downtown Puerto Vallarta, the botanical garden is an ideal place for walking and hiking in nature. The gardens were created for the conservation of exotic plants from Mexico and around the world, with many species represented.

Covering 46 acres, the gardens are home to agave plants, orchids, bromeliads, oak and wild palms, as well as many bird species. Should you feel hot after exploring the gardens, there is a natural crystal-clear water pool to take a dip to cool down.

Explore the Parque Estatal Estero El Salado in Puerto Vallarta

If you are not in the mood for traveling further afield, right in the heart of the city’s hotel zone, El Salado Estuary is one of the best nature reserves in Mexico. Meanwhile, it consists of mangroves and wetlands, hosting more than 100 species of birds, as well as 29 species of amphibians and reptiles.

You can especially enjoy a tour on a small boat with a biologist. Along the way, they provide information about the various flora and fauna. Moreover, you are likely to spot crocodiles, crabs, iguanas and many colorful birds. As you explore, it is truly hard to imagine that you are in the heart of the city.

Enjoy an eco-adventure in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico this year, experiencing everything nature has to offer.