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Ecological Tours

by Vallarta Online Staff | published: 2/2/2006

askdjhasIDASWhether exploring the jungle by bike, on foot, swinging from trees, or sailing the seas in search of marine life, Puerto Vallarta's many ecological tours will allow you to leave the city behind and disappear into a paradise filled with tropical flowers, plants and trees, which are home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and mammals.

Lush orchids hidden in trees, vines that lead to a treetop canopy and a bird's eye view of the jungle are what you will experience in the Canopy Tours de Los Veranos. Gliding high above the ground, over the Río Horcones securely fastened in a comfortable harness, you float from treetop to treetop, and platform to platform, experiencing what can only be seen from the air.

Communing With Nature

While you may see one of the magnificent whales from your balcony, a trip on a licensed whale-watching boat might very well offer you the experience of a lifetime.

For people who like to keep their feet firmly planted on dry land, a large variety of nature hikes and ecological tours are available. Bird watchers can experience Songs of the Bay, with experienced guides, bird books, charts, and high quality viewing equipment.

Active bike enthusiasts who want to work off margaritas and chicken enchiladas may want to take a bike tour away from the city, along the river through the jungle, or to a tropical waterfall. With excellent guides, the Rio Cuale Bike Tour is perfect for beginner bikers or less active riders who want a slower paced ride. The Cascada Salto Tour is for more active riders who really want to feel the burn, then later cool off at the waterfall.

If you and your mates likes crocs, a trip to the crocodile refuge may be just the ticket. View these seldom seen creatures in their natural habitat; learn more about them and how they are protected from poachers and extinction. Not exactly for the faint of heart, as you see the mighty crocs up close and personal, although in a safe and natural setting.

Sea Turtles

A fresh release to the sea. If you are looking for an excursion without teeth,the sea turtle camp is an incredible experience. For many months throughout the year, these endangered creatures come to the shores of the Bay to lay their eggs. Prone to poaching, natural enemies and progress, the sea turtle needs man's helping hand to keep their numerous hatchlings alive. A large group of biologists and volunteers work diligently to increase the sea turtle population at the sanctuary. This is a highly informative and inspiring tour with the opportunity to help release the baby sea turtles back into the bay.

Whales, Tails, and Tales

One of the best reasons to visit Vallarta during the winter, besides sun, beautiful beaches, friendly people and incredible food, is the migration of the Humpback whales to the Bay. Every year from mid-December to mid-March, these majestic giants come to the Bay to breed and birth their calves. While you may see one of the magnificent whales from your balcony, a trip on a licensed whale boat might very well offer you the experience of a lifetime.

The Whale Watching in Banderas Bay, and Whale Photo Safari are all excellent choices since they all allow you to get close to the whales without disturbing them. You will also learn more about their migration and birth processes and how the Bay provides a safe haven for them.

A Good Mix

Dolphin patrol on the Geronimo sailboat on the way to Marieta's Islands.Or maybe you would enjoy a tour that combines marine life, sailing and music? The Geronimo, with its professional staff attending to your every need, will take you snorkelling at the Marietas Islands. This beautiful catamaran, with its variety of activities, is the perfect choice for anyone intending to pack a day full of fun and excitement into one excursion.

Buckle up for an adventure far away from the hotel zone.An old favorite is the Jeep Safari which combines culture, eco-tour and exploration all in one fun bundle. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see more of Mexico than just beaches and the tourist areas.

No matter which tour you chose, don't forget your camera, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses!




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