Ecotourism and Ecological Reserves in Mexico

There are spaces where the environment is so beautiful and authentic that it creates inner calm. These spaces are becoming a trend in people’s travel habits. Their full contact with our own nature paves the way for the expansion of ecotourism.

A number of reefs, forests, wetlands, rivers, islands, and seas have been denominated as “Natural Protected Areas in Mexico.” A way to reflect the essence of our country is through them.  They express how we worry about preserving the natural resources that make us privileged.

Ecotourism is a way to live tourism in a complementary, balanced way in the ecological reserves of a site. At the same time, it supports the well-being of local population by bringing about a financial spread.

Related: Travelers and tourists… one and the same?

Ecotourism has had a boom in the last few years. However, there are no clear bylaws which validate whether or not the activities people practice in these settings damage the environment. We must consider that NOT all the activities suggesting some kind of contact with nature are truly “eco-touristic.” Many of these activities bring as a result a severe affectation to ecosystems.

The National Commission for Natural Protected Areas in Mexico currently manages 176 natural areas of federal character. They are are part of nine regions of the country. The state of Jalisco features four municipal protected areas, and other four state areas. Specifcally, one of the latter is in Puerto Vallarta, the El Salado Estuary. El Salado falls under the category of Ecological Preservation Zone by a decree issued on July 27, 2000. Remember that if you want to visit it, they offer guided tours for you to tour it safely for you and the environment.