One of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico is Puerto Vallarta, which is located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Situated in Banderas Bay, the area enjoys perfect weather, has miles of beautiful beaches, and there are plenty of exciting things to see and do. If you enjoy seeing the natural beauty in Puerto Vallarta, then you should visit the El Salado Estuary. The El Salado Estuary is a protected area that has many mangroves, marshes and wildlife. When you visit Puerto Vallarta, you should book a tour to El Salado. Do you own property at Villa La Estancia in neighboring Riviera Nayarit? If you do, the estuary is just a short drive from the Villa La Estancia in Nuevo Vallarta making it ideal for a day trip. Read below to learn more about El Salado Estuary in Puero Vallarta.
El Salado Estuary
The El Salado Estuary is located across the main road through town near the Puerto Vallarta marina. “El Estero Salado” is considered an urban estuary, and was declared an ecological conservation zone on July 27th, 2000 to protect the local flora and fauna. The estuary is linked directly to the Pacific Ocean and is two kilometers in length, twenty meters in width, and three meters deep. Many different migratory birds, reptiles, and mammals live in the area. In fact, there are more than 99 bird species, 46 plant species, 10 mammal species, and 29 reptile species. Some of the most common inhabitants of the estuary include racoons, iguanas, crocodiles, crabs, garrobos, and more.
Mangroves and Marshes
Would you like to get to know more about the El Salado Estuary? If so, they provide tours for a reasonable cost. Make sure you make reservations in advance as space is limited. The guide will take guests on a tour via boat through the luscious and tropical canals. The estuary is almost 135 hectares, and there are three different types of mangrove and marshes. The estuary assists in regulating the temperature and the balance of the climate in the area. The nutrients found there are the food base for so many different species that live in Banderas Bay. Plus, El Salado Estuary is essential in keeping the city from flooding after heavy rains, too.
Flora & Fauna
Did you know that El Salado Estuary is home to more than 100 bird species? Likewise, more than 29 amphibians and reptiles species and 10 mammal species also live in the estuary. The iguana, the spiny tailed iguana, and the American crocodile also live in the mangroves as well. Racoons and opossums have been seen living in the mangrove, too. There are abundant fiddler crabs and mouthless crabs that live in the marshes and mangroves.
Book a Tour
Are you ready to visit the “Estero el Salado”? If you are, then you need to book your tour in advance. Tours are available Monday through Friday, and last a couple hours. The tours generally begin at 9am, 11am, 1pm, and at 3pm. However, space is very limited, so make sure you book ahead in advance by calling 322-201-7361 or you can email them at reservas@esterosalado.org. Visiting the El Salado Estuary is one of Puerto Vallarta’s top activities that is interesting and affordable, too.
Are you interested in buying a vacation home in Banderas Bay? If you are, then you should contact us at Villa La Estancia. We have beautiful and spacious beachfront residences for sale in the tranquil and secure neighborhood of Nuevo Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit. Our hotel-condo concept property has solidly constructed residences, world class amenities and onsite services, too. Plus, we offer full and fractional ownership options for qualified homebuyers. Give us a call today to learn more. If you own a home with us, don’t forget to visit the El Salado Estuary in Puerto Vallarta as well. It’s one of our natural landmarks that deserves to be protected for future generations to enjoy as well.