River Crocodile Estero El Salado Puerto Vallarta
Watching the daily news and seeing how we are damaging the world, global warming, plastics flooding the oceans, it is clear that the coexistence between human beings and nature is not an easy matter and almost always results in a confrontation that puts the environmental balance in check, usually ending with the disappearance of many species, the deterioration of the local flora and fauna and our own future in jeopardy.
However, there are also heroes that intervene to protect these victims without a voice and work to create protected areas, seeking a healthy coexistence and educating the general public regarding the importance of the many local species and how to protect them.
Puerto Vallarta is a great tropical paradise, but it’s a city in constant growth and expansion, so cases of destructive and dangerous encounters between humans and local fauna are increasingly common and there is no greater danger in the region than the river crocodile (Crocodylus acutus), a local specimen that is frequently found in recreational spaces in foreign areas such as clubs, golf courses, and spas.
Faced with this reality, Puerto Vallarta has created and maintains several environmental protection initiatives that rescue and relocate the river crocodile, also making them a potential tourist attraction and a tool that can be used to educate and raise awareness in favor of environmental protection and conscience.
Estero El Salado
Estero El Salado (The Salty Estuary), is an urban protection area of approx. 168 hectares of a natural reserve, consists mainly of mangrove vegetation and two remnants of medium forest bordered by aquatic and underwater vegetation and thorny forest. Despite these characteristics it is considered an urban estuary, considering that it is surrounded by the urban harbor area. It has a connection to the ocean through a small channel and is a favorable habitat for migratory birds, mammals, and reptiles, including the river crocodile.
Estero El Salado offers tours and guided tours through the area, without an age limit and even for school groups, in which visitors can safely learn about the local natural environment and its growing population of river crocodiles, most born in the estuary itself and some brought from other nearby areas.
These reptiles are one of the biggest attractions in the region and if you are a wildlife lover we can recommend visiting this refuge and getting to know the fascinating world of aquatic reptiles up close. These tours require a reservation so please contact the Estero by phone (322) 201-7361.
Santuario de Cocodrilos de El Cora
Another wildlife sanctuary and perhaps the most popular in the region is the El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary, located between the El Quelele, La Cortada and La Vejiga lagoons, next to the Flamingos Golf Club, a natural area that offers new experiences and attractions, where the main star is the river crocodile, with feeding routines and educational workshops to entertain and educate the visitor regarding these fascinating reptiles.
This refuge organizes tours through its facilities with prior reservation, offers food and refreshments along the regular tour and also offers the “Night of Legends” tour, where visitors can learn more about the nocturnal behavior of the animals and even camp there in the refuge, an experience that includes a buffet dinner, live music, this tour is only available the last Saturday of each month.
If you want an exciting experience, El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary is located near Bucerias, a small town just 30 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta and is open all week, except on Wednesdays, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. For more information or reservations, please call (322) 206-9314 or send an email to santuariodecocodriloselcora@gmail.com
Conclusion
In Puerto Vallarta, the struggle for a healthy integration of both human development and the environment gives way to all kinds of activities and initiatives in which local and tourist can be a part of, either as a volunteer or as a visitor, the door is open for those who want to participate, educate and help in the rescue of nature and the environment while living an unforgettable experience.
FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
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