Marismas Nacionales Biosphere Reserve: The Natural Heart of Nayarit

To the north of Riviera Nayarit lies one of the most precious ecosystems in all of Mexico: the Marismas Nacionales Biosphere Reserve, a wildlife sanctuary that has established itself as one of the country’s premier ecotourism jewels.

This natural reserve protects approximately 20 percent of Mexico’s total mangrove forests, spanning nearly 133,000 hectares. These mangroves do more than just create an imposing landscape teeming with life; they perform an essential role as a habitat and food source for hundreds of thousands of migratory birds, while also serving as a critical nursery for commercial fishing species, including Pacific shrimp.

Officially decreed on May 12th, 2010, the Marismas Nacionales Biosphere Reserve is part of the Mexican Pacific coastal plains and extends across the municipalities of Tecuala, Rosamorada, Tuxpan, Santiago Ixcuintla, and Acaponeta. Its ecological richness is fed by seven rivers that give rise to four clearly defined regions: Teacapan, Agua Brava, Marismas Nacionales, and Northern San Blas, each boasting unique natural characteristics.

The diversity of landscapes is one of its major draws. Here, low-growth jungle, mangroves, palm groves, grasslands, coastal dunes, and xerophilous scrub converge, creating a natural mosaic that houses an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna. Notable plant species include red, black, white, and buttonwood mangroves, while on dry land and within the water bodies, one can find crocodiles and felines such as the jaguar, jaguarundi, ocelot, and margay.

The skies and wetlands of Marismas Nacionales offer a permanent spectacle thanks to the presence of birds such as the reddish egret, great blue heron, crane hawk, Muscovy duck, laughing gull, wood stork, lilac-crowned parrot, and least tern. According to the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (CONANP), out of the 1,123 Anseriformes birds recorded in Mexico, 315 inhabit this reserve, making it the site with the highest number of these species in the country. Additionally, the area is home to sea turtles including the green, black, leatherback, hawksbill, and olive ridley.

Beyond its environmental value, Marismas Nacionales offers an immersive experience for those seeking an authentic connection with nature. Walking, hiking, nature photography, kayaking, bird and whale watching, sport fishing, camping, and sea turtle releases are among the available activities. The infrastructure includes viewpoints, restrooms, and areas where visitors can purchase local crafts and sustainable products.

While it is possible to visit year-round, the best season is from October to March, when the weather is most favorable. Light clothing, long sleeves, comfortable shoes, a hat, repellent, and constant hydration are basic recommendations to fully enjoy this environment.

Marismas Nacionales is a natural refuge that invites visitors to contemplate, learn, and reconnect with what truly matters.