Puerto Vallarta will host the 2nd Annual Carrera por la Casquito de Vallarta on Sunday, May 17, 2026, a 5K community race and environmental fair dedicated to protecting the Casquito de Vallarta, a mud turtle found nowhere else on Earth.
The species, Kinosternon vogti, was discovered in 2018 and typically grows to just 10–15 centimeters. Its natural habitat in Puerto Vallarta’s freshwater lagoons and floodplains has shrunk from 300 square kilometers to roughly 20, putting the turtle at high risk of extinction. The race aims to raise awareness and direct funds toward monitoring programs, habitat cleaning, and restoration at Laguna Tomasa in the Villas Universidad neighborhood.
The event begins at 7:00 AM at the Agustín Flores Contreras Stadium. Runners can register online for 450 pesos, with every entry fee supporting conservation work at the lagoon.
Organizers have formed alliances with environmental groups and the municipal government to strengthen local ecosystems. Last year’s race drew more than 200 runners, and organizers expect a larger turnout this year.
For visitors already planning a May trip, the race pairs well with a stop at the Vallarta Botanical Garden.
Source: BanderasNews
