Nayarit: Archaeology, Nature and Traditions

Nayarit can be explored through a wide range of themes: pre-Columbian history, striking waterscapes, an active volcano and regional culture. When planning your trip, it helps to first decide what interests you most. Ixtlán del Río (Los Toriles), the mangroves of La Tovara and the traditions of Jala each represent a different side of the destination. The craft of chocolate making also offers a unique way to experience the region.

Archaeology and culture

The archaeological site of Ixtlán del Río, also known as Los Toriles, is the only archaeological site in Nayarit and covers more than 80 hectares. Its distinctive features include palaces and one of the few circular temples in the Mesoamerican region. The rare temple shape gives the site a striking architectural feature; the palaces add further structures to the picture.

The Museo Regional de Nayarit provides a broad archaeological overview of the pre-Hispanic peoples who lived in what is now Nayarit. The museum is housed in a building designated as a historic monument. Together, these offer two different perspectives: Los Toriles draws attention to an archaeological site with a temple and palaces, while the museum offers a broader overview of the peoples of present-day Nayarit.

Jala was the first Pueblo Mágico in Nayarit. In August, it hosts the Feria del Elote, which includes a contest to find the world's largest ear of corn, as well as other artistic and cultural events. If you are planning your trip specifically around the festival, check the event dates in advance. The active El Ceboruco volcano also adds a natural dimension to the cultural focus: it lies at the foot of Jala and is a destination for hikers and explorers.

Water, mangroves and landscapes

El Manto in Amatlán de Cañas is a natural swimming spot surrounded by nature, with crystal-clear water, waterfalls and towering rock walls. The Santa María del Oro Lagoon offers a different natural setting. It is surrounded by wooded landscapes, and camping and restaurants are also part of what it offers visitors. Here, waterfalls and rock walls contrast with a wooded lagoon landscape.

At Parque Nacional La Tovara, you can explore the mangroves by boat. La Tovara is in San Blas, in a transition zone between fresh and salt water. The mangroves form tunnels along the route, and La Tovara is also home to crocodiles, birds and turtles. The combination of a water transition zone and mangroves sets this nature experience apart from the wooded surroundings of Santa María del Oro Lagoon.

The nearby Islas Marietas

The Islas Marietas, a volcanic archipelago comprising two islands, islets and rocks, lie near Nayarit. They are located 9.5 kilometers southwest of the Nayarit coast. The archipelago includes the attraction known as Playa del Amor or Playa Escondida. Certified guides offer excursions, snorkeling and diving on the islands with professional ecotourism providers. Visitors must follow environmental protocols.

Chocolate and choosing a hotel

In Amatlán de Cañas, you can visit artisan chocolate-making workshops. Alongside archaeological and landscape experiences, this offers a glimpse into chocolate making as a craft. Afterwards, you can choose hotels according to your own needs.

Discover more destinations: San Blas, Sayulita, Agua Escondida, Monteón, Punta Mita, La Cruz De Huanacaxtle, La Peñita De Jaltemba, Santa María Del Oro, Cuastecomate, Lo De Marcos, Las Varas, Higuera Blanca, San Francisco, Estancia Del López, Valle Dorado, Ruiz, Ixtlán Del Río, Jala, Compostela, Ahuacatlán, Bahía de Banderas, Bucerias, San Pedro Lagunillas, Tepic.

For the broader travel overview: Mexico.