Mazunte-Ventanilla and Zipolite Ecotour

Discover Oaxaca’s Coasts with the Mazunte-Ventanilla and Zipolite Ecotour

If you’re looking to experience Oaxaca beyond its famous ruins and bustling markets, this Mazunte-Ventanilla and Zipolite Ecotour offers a refreshing blend of wildlife, beaches, and local traditions. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about wildlife conservation efforts, and enjoy some of Oaxaca’s most stunning coastal scenery—all in one day.

What we love most about this tour are the guided visits to wildlife protection programs—especially the crocodile and sea turtle conservations—alongside the chance to relax at Zipolite’s famous nudist beach. These intimate encounters with Oaxaca’s natural environment really set this experience apart. One possible consideration is that the cost doesn’t include entrance fees (up to 250 pesos), so travelers should budget extra for that. This tour is ideal for those interested in ecotourism, wildlife, and authentic local towns, especially if you want a smooth, organized day with knowledgeable bilingual guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife and Conservation Focus: Learn about crocodile and sea turtle protection programs.
• Authentic Coastal Towns: Visit Mazunte, Zipolite, and Puerto Angel, enjoying their unique charm.
• Flexible, Inclusive Tour: Bilingual guides, private group options, with pickup from multiple locations.
• Nature & Scenic Views: Unbeatable coastal scenery, sunset at Punta Cometa, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Value for Price: $71 offers transportation, guided commentary, and authentic experiences; additional fees for park entries.
• Time & Comfort: Well-paced 7-hour itinerary with convenient stops and scenic routes.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This 7-hour ecotour functions as a well-structured introduction to Oaxaca’s coastal ecosystem, combining wildlife education with leisure. The tour is operated by Experiencias Nativas Puerto Escondido, a company rated 3.9 out of 5, which suggests a decent level of service with some room for improvement. They cater to both Spanish and English speakers, making this accessible for international travelers.

Pickup & Transportation

Starting around 9 a.m., the tour offers multiple pickup points in Puerto Escondido, including well-known hostels, cafes, and hotels like El Cafecito, Casa Frutas y Verduras, and Casona Sforza. If your accommodation isn’t listed, you can provide your details later.

The transportation is by van, with a comfortable 50-minute ride to La Ventanilla, with most of the day spent on the road to maximize time at each site. The schedule is flexible enough to allow for scenic drives and quick stops, but be prepared for a full day of exploration.

La Ventanilla Wildlife Reserve

The first significant stop is La Ventanilla, a community-run reserve. Here, you’ll join a guided walk to learn about efforts to protect crocodiles, sea turtles, and other coastal wildlife. The reserve is a key example of how local communities are working to preserve their natural environment.

One review mentions that the guided tour lasts about 2 hours, providing plenty of time to observe wildlife and understand conservation efforts firsthand. The reserve features a small island, which is particularly interesting because it showcases how local communities collaborate to protect biodiversity. Expect to see crocodiles and possibly other native species, with your guide explaining their ecological importance.

More Great Tours Nearby

Mazunte and the Sea Turtle Center

Next, the tour takes you to Mazunte, a beloved town known for its bohemian vibe and dedication to sea turtle conservation. It’s here that you’ll visit the Mexican Sea Turtle Center, where local efforts to protect and nurture sea turtles are on display. This visit provides a meaningful insight into the challenges and successes of wildlife conservation in Mexico.

Traveling just a short 30-minute walk or drive from Mazunte’s center, you’ll have some time for photos and to soak in the town’s atmosphere. The guide typically discusses the work locals do to safeguard these endangered animals, making the visit both educational and inspiring. Several reviewers highlight the importance of such initiatives, noting that seeing conservation in action adds depth to the experience.

Zipolite’s Famous Beach

The next stop is Playa Zipolite, known worldwide as Oaxaca’s nudist-friendly beach. It’s a striking stretch of sand that invites travelers to relax, take photos, and enjoy the natural beauty. The tour allows about 45 minutes here—more than enough time for a quick stroll, some beach photography, or a dip in the Pacific.

While food isn’t included for lunch, you’ll find plenty of local eateries where you can enjoy regional dishes after the stop. Travelers often comment on the scenic drives to Zipolite, with views of rugged cliffs and rolling waves.

Puerto Angel and Regional Delights

After Zipolite, the route continues to Puerto Angel, a charming fishing village where you’ll have about 2.5 hours to relax. This is a highlight for many—swimming, exploring the local market, or simply enjoying regional cuisine. The guide often recommends trying fresh seafood and regional specialties. The reviews praise the laid-back atmosphere, noting that it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a busy morning.

Punta Cometa Sunset

The last major site is Punta Cometa, a popular spot to catch the sunset. It’s a gentle walk from Puerto Angel, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Visitors love the chance to snap photos of the changing sky and to experience the peacefulness of this natural viewpoint. The guide typically spends about an hour here, giving travelers ample time to appreciate the scenic backdrop.

Return & Drop-off

After sunset, the group heads back to Puerto Escondido, arriving roughly around 6 p.m. The tour’s total duration is about seven hours, which balances sightseeing, wildlife education, and leisure.

Value and Practicalities

The price of $71 per person covers transportation, a bilingual guide, and all the stops—making it a good value considering the variety of experiences packed into one day. Entrance fees to reserves are extra (up to 250 pesos), so budget accordingly. We appreciate that the tour offers flexibility with bookings—you can reserve now and pay later, which is helpful when planning travel.

What to Bring & Considerations

Travelers should bring a hat, cash, and outdoor clothing, as sunny weather and walking are expected. The tour explicitly disallows pets (except assistance dogs), alcohol, drugs, and baby carriages, ensuring the group remains manageable and comfortable. Meeting points are within Puerto Escondido, and the team confirms details via text after booking.

Reviews & Feedback

While the overall rating is 3.9, reviews suggest that many travelers appreciate the personalized guided experience and the opportunity to see wildlife up close. Some comments point out the importance of preparing for extra costs (entrance fees) and the need for good sunscreen and water during the day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ecotour is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in coastal culture. It’s suitable for travelers who want a well-organized, bilingual experience, and who enjoy a combination of education and relaxation. If you’re curious about conservation projects or want to see authentic Maya-style towns, this tour provides meaningful insights without a heavy itinerary.

FAQs

What are the pickup locations?
The tour offers multiple pickup points in Puerto Escondido, including popular hostels and cafes. If your accommodation isn’t listed, you can provide your details after booking.

How long is the total tour?
It’s a full 7-hour experience, starting around 9 a.m. and returning in the early evening, allowing a relaxed pace with plenty of time at key stops.

Are transportation and guides included?
Yes, your fee covers transportation by van and bilingual guides in Spanish and English, ensuring you won’t miss the details.

Do I need to pay for park entrance fees separately?
Yes, entrance fees to reserves are not included and typically cost no more than 250 pesos per person.

Can this tour be private?
Yes, it’s offered as a private group, which can provide a more personalized experience if preferred.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, cash, outdoor clothing, and sunscreen. Be prepared for walking and outdoor weather.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of local options in Puerto Angel after the last stop.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour, except for assistance animals.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

This ecotour offers a genuine glimpse into Oaxaca’s coast—combining wildlife, culture, and scenery—making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans if you’re after meaningful, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Whether you’re a dedicated nature lover or simply looking to enjoy Oaxaca’s natural beauty, this tour provides a balanced, engaging day that respects the environment and local communities.

You can check availability for your dates here: