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By Griffin Page Naturalist ~ Eco-guide When I started writing under the “Natural treasures” theme, it didn’t occur to me that people wouldn’t know exactly what my intentions were. So let me explain and allow me to give you the yearly schedules of available tours in our beautiful Bay. First and foremost, Natural Treasures is dedicated to
offering free quality information on the diverse species encountered
in this area. This free information is given with the intention of raising
awareness and thus, helping conserve the beauty that surrounds us. It
is well known and evident to most that, without maintaining the biodiversity
of our ecosystems, we are putting ourselves, us humans, in peril also.
When one species disappears, many follow suit because that particular
species was essential to those many others. This said, it figures that
the more people know about these creatures, the less they fear them
and the better equipped they are in helping conservation and in living
more harmoniously with their natural surroundings. Education and widespread
information is key in effectively protecting and conserving habitats.
Each and every one of us plays a role, Most likely, I will, in a future article, write about ecosystems and the relations between them. For now, let me give you a list of many different low impact activities available in our beautiful Bahía de Banderas: |
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 Bottlenose dolphin Photo courtesy of Monachí |
Dolphins: Tours for dolphin experiences in the wild
are available throughout the year. These tours take you out to the ocean
in search of this beloved creature in its natural habitat. Also available
are dolphin experiences such as swim with the dolphins where the dolphins
are trained Bottlenose dolphin and kept inside a large holding tank. Photo courtesy of Monachí |
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Hiking: Hikes in the exceptional mountains of the Sierra Madre are available throughout the year. Some will take you to water falls, others will follow the coast and offer snorkeling opportunities once you arrive at the destination beach. Others will take you high up and inside the majestic mountains to offer you a bird’s eye view of the bay. |
 Canopy experience Photo by Canopy los Veranos |
Canopy: This activity available throughout the year involves zipping from tree to tree, harnessed to cables. It is pretty wild and popular as well. You fly over rivers and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings from a quite different perspective. Me Tarzan you Jane? Well, it’s something like that. |
 Sailing experience Photo by Vallarta Adventures |
Sailing: What better way to enjoy the beauty of the ocean in all its glory but to do so on a sail boat. Of course, this is available throughout the year since our Bay isn’t going anywhere just yet. You can sail daytime or enjoy one of the many sunset sailing experiences available. Many daytime sailing trips will also take you to specific locations such as the Marietas Islands to enjoy snorkeling or to a beach to relax. |
 Heermann's gull Photo courtesy of Monachí |
Bird watching: Available throughout the year since this area is home to about 117 different species of spectacular birds. During the migratory season, between December and April, this region hosts over 360 species and is now getting worldwide attention from avid birdwatchers. |
 Scuba divers Photo by Vallarta Adventures |
Diving and Snorkeling: Our bay is a splendid huge living aquarium containing a multitude of colorful tropical reef fish and coral growths. Of course, these activities are available throughout the year. Depending on the season, it is sometimes preferable to go out to some islands because of the murkiness of the shores due to heavy rain being channeled down by rivers. |
 Humpback whale Photo courtesy of Monachí |
Humpback whales: These tours are available by law only between the 15th of December and the 31st of March. There are companies that have the proper permits for this activity and some that don’t. It is strongly recommended to use the ones which have permits. These follow guidelines related to whale watching and to the protection of these endangered species. They will also give you very informational tours which will enhance your experience. Before the season begins, I will provide you with a list of such companies. |
 Huichol women Photo by Vallarta Adventures |
Cultural encounters and special trips: Many different expeditions to nearby areas offer an opportunity to experience first hand, the different Mexican traditions. From San Sebastian to Talpa, passing by San Blas, Guadalajara and many more. Make your stay in Mexico a special one. Visit places that will leave you mesmerized and will make you want to come back again and again. |
ìNature could be such a wonderful teacher if only we saw it for what it really isî ~ Monachí |