Ecotourism in Mexico
Mexican ecotourism is regarded as one of the finest approaches to experiencing the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage – a conscientious mode of travel that fosters sustainable development and preservation while enabling tourists to admire and discover the natural surroundings.
Mexico is a country famous for its remarkable biodiversity, magnificent scenery, and dynamic culture. Its ecotourism industry offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s diverse ecosystems, such as its rainforests, beaches, mountains, and deserts.
Whether you’re interested in adventure activities, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying the stunning landscapes and wildlife, ecotourism in Mexico has something to offer for everyone.
The best places in Mexico for ecotourism
Baja California Sur
Baja California boasts four biosphere reserves, with two standing out as prime tourist destinations.
The first destination is the Sierra de la Laguna in the southern part of the peninsula which features an incredible contrast of woodland and scrub ecosystems that are home to various endemic vegetation species. Visitors can embark on eco-friendly hikes organized with respect for the environment.
Meanwhile, the Gulf of California’s hundreds of islands, islets, and coastal areas offer a wealth of marine biodiversity, earning it the nickname “Aquarium of the World.” Along with hiking, numerous eco-friendly tour companies operate throughout Baja California in places like Loreto, La Paz, Todos Santos, and Cabo on the Pacific Coast.
Campeche
The Mexican state of Campeche may be underrated, but it is home to many breathtaking natural wonders including the awe-inspiring Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. This is one of Mexico’s largest forest reserves and, if you include the neighbouring countries of Guatemala and Belize, it becomes the second-largest forest in Latin America after the Amazon.
Calakmul also houses one of the most significant and largest Mayan ruins, with majestic temples peeking out from the dense tropical jungle.
It would be highly advised to hire a car to fully explore the biosphere and its surrounding areas.
Quintana Roo
Quintana Roo in South-eastern Mexico is undoubtedly the most frequently visited state in the country, making it more susceptible to significant impacts on its delicate ecosystems.
This state is home to several natural wonders, including the world-renowned Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which stretches from the northeastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula down to Honduras. The reef system is a crucial habitat for numerous marine species such as sea turtles, sharks, and dolphins, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts.
Additionally, Quintana Roo is home to a multitude of natural areas, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Here, you’ll discover a diverse range of flora and fauna, including jaguars, pumas, and over 350 species of birds.
Tourists can also visit the beautiful Mayan ruins of Tulum, which overlooks the Caribbean Sea and accommodates iguanas and a host of other reptiles.
Queretaro
Queretaro – a state in central Mexico is a great destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and sustainable tourism experiences in Mexico.
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve is a stunning natural area that is home to various ecosystems, including cloud forests, rivers, and canyons. Visitors can go hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching while supporting the local communities through eco-tourism programmes.
The Pinal de Amoles region within the reserve is also an excellent spot for stargazing. Additionally, the Peña de Bernal, a massive monolith and one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos, offers stunning views and rock-climbing opportunities
San Marcelino Mayan Village
San Marcelino is a small Mayan village located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. The community has embraced ecotourism to preserve their culture and environment while also generating income. Visitors can participate in various ecotourism activities such as hiking through the jungle, birdwatching, and visiting traditional Mayan homes to learn about their way of life and customs.
One of the main attractions in San Marcelino is the Huitepec Ecological Reserve, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, jaguars, and over 300 species of birds. The reserve offers guided hikes through the forest and educational tours that highlight the importance of conservation and sustainable development.
Additionally, visitors can support the local economy by purchasing traditional handicrafts made by the Mayan women in the village. The women create beautiful textiles using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.
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Victoria O.
September, 2022
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April, 2022
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Adventures in the Yucatán!
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April, 2022
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June, 2022
Mayan Site Tour in Yucatan Penninsula Mexico
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April, 2022
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July, 2022
Journey to Mexico City, Cholula and Cuetzalan
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DaniEla
March, 2022
Just wonderful!
We had an amazing trip excellent organized by Jorge and supervised by Melina from Rutopia. We spent 10 days in Mexico, starting in Ciudad de Mexico where we visited the amazing Teotihuacan and then we flew to Yucatan for the amazing sites of Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Ek Balam, Tulum, Merida, Valladolid and the great Island Holbox. The trip was perfectly organized, the hotels were very good, and the guides were carefully chosen. We highly recommend Rutopia and especially Jorge!
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November, 2021
Chiapas, Neri and her family
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March, 2021
Super local agency
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April, 2021
The best moment lived in Mexico
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September, 2020
Super organization, great accommodations and nice team
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March, 2020
Circuit in Yucatan
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March, 2020
Perfect
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Top eco-friendly tours in Mexico
Mexico offers various ecotourism activities and tours in various regions throughout the country.
Here are five eco tours in Mexico and some recommended activities to add to your travel list:
1. Chiapas adventure
Looking for an adventure that will immerse you in the allure of ancient Mexico? A trip to Chiapas is just the ticket.
Chiapas, located in southern Mexico, is a destination that offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. From the lush jungles to the towering mountains, this region has something to offer for everyone who loves adventure and the great outdoors.
You can start by exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque which offers a glimpse into the fascinating Mayan civilisation, which once thrived in this region.
After soaking up the history, head to the stunning Sumidero Canyon. This natural wonder that offers a host of adrenaline-pumping activities such as kayaking and rafting. You can also take a boat tour through the canyon where you can spot exotic wildlife along the way.
If hiking is more your thing, head to the towering El Chiflon waterfall, which offers a challenging yet rewarding hike up to the top, ending with a panoramic view of the stunning waterfall.
For the ultimate adventure experience, consider camping in the jungle. You can experience the region’s unique flora and fauna up close, and even go on a guided tour with a local expert who can show you the best spots and hidden gems in the jungle.
2. Hiking Oaxaca’s mountains
Hiking the Oaxaca mountains in Southern Mexico is an adventure that offers stunning views of the region’s rugged landscape, with its rolling hills and towering peaks.
One of the most popular hikes is the Sierra Norte Mountains. The trails take you through lush forests, rushing streams, and picturesque mountain villages, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. For a more challenging hike, consider trekking up to the Pico de Orizaba – Mexico’s highest peak.
One of the highlights is exploring the ancient ruins of Monte Alban, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
Along the way, you can spot exotic wildlife such as deer, foxes, and even the elusive jaguar, which makes its home in the mountains of Oaxaca. If you’re lucky, you may even glimpse the rare quetzal – a bird considered a sacred symbol in ancient Mesoamerican cultures.
It is recommended to hire a local guide who can help you navigate the terrain and show you the best spots for spectacular views. This hike is not just a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but you’ll also be contributing to the progress of the traditional Zapotec communities that populate the Sierra Norte.
3. Oaxaca cycling excursion
The Oaxaca Cycling Excursion is an exhilarating way to explore the beautiful region of Oaxaca, Mexico. This trip is designed for cycling enthusiasts who want to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine while enjoying the thrill of cycling through scenic routes.
The cycling excursion typically starts in the city of Oaxaca. From there, you will set off on a series of cycling routes that take you through the region’s stunning countryside, dotted with quaint villages, ancient ruins, and beautiful natural wonders.
One of the highlights of the trip is cycling through the beautiful valleys and hillsides of the Sierra Norte Mountain range. This area is home to several indigenous communities, who have preserved their traditional way of life and continue to produce handmade crafts and textiles using traditional techniques.
Throughout the cycling excursion, you will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides who can provide insights into the history, culture, and ecology of the region. They can also customise the cycling routes based on your preferences and abilities, ensuring that the trip is enjoyable and safe for everyone.
4. Migration of the monarch butterflies experience
The migration of the Monarch butterflies is one of nature’s most spectacular events. Every year, millions of Monarch butterflies travel from their breeding grounds in Canada and the United States to overwintering sites in Mexico, covering a distance of over 2,000 miles.
The migration typically occurs between late October and early November, with the butterflies arriving in Mexico’s central highlands to escape the cold weather up north. One of the best places to witness this incredible natural spectacle is the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in the state of Michoacán, Mexico.
The trip typically includes a guided tour of the reserve, where you can see the butterflies in their natural habitat and learn about their life cycle and behaviours. One of the key highlights is visiting the monarch butterfly sanctuaries, where you can see the butterflies clustering together on trees and bushes, forming a vibrant orange and black canopy that is truly a sight to behold.
In addition to witnessing the migration, a trip to Michoacán also offers the chance to immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture and traditions. You can visit local villages and towns, sample the delicious cuisine, and learn about the indigenous communities that have lived in the area for centuries.
5. Sea turtles and whale watching on the western coast
The Sea Turtles and Whale Watching excursion is a great way to experience the natural wonders of the western coast of Mexico. This trip is designed to help preserve the delicate ocean ecosystem by educating travellers about the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism practices.
The Baja California coast is home to several species of sea turtles, including the endangered loggerhead, hawksbill, and green turtles. You can witness these majestic creatures nesting on the beaches and learn about the efforts to protect their habitat and ensure their survival.
Whale watching is another highlight of the trip and you’ll discover several species including humpback, gray, blue, and fin whales. You can take a boat tour to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and come to know about the efforts to protect them from threats such as pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
You will be accompanied by knowledgeable guides throughout the excursion who are passionate about ocean conservation and sustainable tourism practices. They can answer any questions you may have and provide insights into the efforts being made to protect the delicate ocean ecosystem.
More than a travel platform
What is community eco-tourism?
Community-based ecotourism focuses on preserving natural and cultural resources while providing economic benefits to local communities through the principles of responsible travel, environmental conservation, and community development.
In community-based ecotourism, local communities are usually directly involved in the planning, development, and management of tourist activities. The goal is to empower local communities and promote their economic and social well-being, while also preserving the environment and cultural heritage of the region.
Ecotourism activities in local communities are typically small-scale and low-impact, designed to minimise the negative impacts of tourism on the environment and local communities. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the local environment, culture, and history, and to engage in responsible travel practices.
How Rutopia is promoting ecotourism in Mexico
Rutopía is promoting ecotourism in Mexico by offering sustainable and responsible travel experiences that support local communities and minimise negative environmental impacts.
We work with local communities to create authentic and immersive experiences that showcase the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Our ecotourism practices include:
- Minimising waste and reducing the use of single-use plastics
- Supporting local businesses
- Promoting conservation efforts
We also prioritise working with local guides and operators, which helps to ensure that the benefits of tourism go directly to the communities acting as hosts.
In addition, we are committed to education and awareness-raising around sustainable travel practices. We offer workshops and training programs for local communities to help them develop and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Create your Mexican adventure!
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