Mexico’s Pacific treasure is a haven for travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience to connect with nature
Every year, hundreds of whales migrate in search of the warmer Pacific Ocean waters of the Banderas Bay, on the shores of Riviera Nayarit, to feed, mate or give birth. This whale watching season (December 2020 – March 2021) promises to be one of the best and below outlines the five top reasons travelers should visit Riviera Nayarit before mid-spring to catch a glimpse of the gentle giants of the ocean.
Whale in Banderas Bay 
Whale Watching
- Nurture by nature: As stress levels are on the rise, many have turned to nature to boost their mood and cope with uncertain times. In fact, research shows that exposure to nature lowers blood pressure and heart rate, relieves muscle tension, and decreases the production of stress hormones. Insider tip: For a full-on natural experience, combine a whale watching tour with another activity; Riviera Nayarit has plenty of options. Nayarit Adventures offers an hour-long whale sighting trip followed by two hours of snorkelling at Isla Coral.
- Silence is golden: As the world came to a halt in 2020 the oceans went quiet. With virtually no cruise ships and drastically reduced trans-Pacific cargo operations, scientists agree that whales have been thriving without human interference and are more likely to travel in bigger groups and be more social. Insider tip: When choosing a whale watching tour, opt for the ones with smaller vessels as they produce less noise and minimum disruption to whales. Bahia Sailing Tours is a great alternative, as they use a large sailboat that can accommodate bigger groups but is still quiet enough to not disturb whales.
- More splash for your cash: While the most popular whale watching sightings are humpback whales, Banderas Bay will offer plenty of opportunities to spot blue whales, sperm whales California grey whales, orcas, and many species of dolphins. Insider tip: Go for a tour that has a marine biologist or other scientists as guides. Punta Mita Adventures, for example, has Whale Watching Photo Safaris led by marine mammal experts who can provide knowledge and insight, and answer any questions travellers may have.
- Support whale conservation: Riviera Nayarit’s whale watching providers play an important role in conservation and awareness efforts. Their teams take part in yearly education programs with the local community, help monitor migration patterns and many companies donate part of their earnings to research and conservation efforts. Insider tip: ECOBAC is the main non-profit operating in Banderas Bay, devoted mainly to research and conservation of whales. Ask the tour operator if they contribute to ECOBAC to learn more.
- Safety First: Riviera Nayarit’s tourism industry is operating under very strict safety measures to ensure the health and wellbeing of travellers and the local community. Visitors can expect temperature checks, limited capacity at hotels, restaurants, and excursions, sanitizing stations or gel provided at tourist activities, mandatory masks for all staff, enhanced cleaning, and disinfection of high-contact surfaces (and in the case of whale watching tours, disinfection of the boat and life vests in between groups), among other measures. Insider tip: To stay up to date on all Coronavirus related regulations and recommendations, visit Riviera Nayarit’s Travel and Health Advisory here.
To learn more about other unforgettable experiences offered at Riviera Nayarit, please visithttps://www.rivieranayarit.com/.
About Riviera Nayarit
Renowned for its eclectic charm, luxurious hospitality and authentic appeal, Riviera Nayarit has earned global recognition as the Pacific Coast’s treasure destination. Situated within Mexican state Nayarit, the region offers 192 miles of pristine Pacific coastline, the wondrous Sierra Madre Mountains, the spectacular Banderas Bay and endless protected natural marvels. Riviera Nayarit is home to resort town Nuevo Vallarta, historic village, San Blas, exclusive celebrity haven Punta de Mita, “boho-chic” surf mecca Sayulita and a variety of picturesque fishing villages. Activities abound from world-class golf courses, zip-lining, diving, and surfing to bird watching, whale watching and turtle release programs. Accommodations range from luxury branded resort destinations and family-friendly all-Inclusives to intimate boutique properties and everything in between. Testament to the destination’s safety and sanitation standards, Riviera Nayarit received the Safe Travel Stamp developed by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) for adhering to all hygiene protocols in establishments to protect the health of visitors. A further testament to the destination’s hospitality offerings, Riviera Nayarit boasts four AAA Five Diamond hotels, 12 AAA Four-Diamond hotels and 10 AAA Three Diamond hotels. Rounding out the destination’s allure, superior quality international gastronomy awaits including a AAA Five Diamond restaurant, seven AAA Four Diamond restaurants and 21 AAA Three Diamond restaurants. Riviera Nayarit is conveniently 10 minutes north of Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). To discover the Pacific Coast’s treasure destination, visit www.RivieraNayarit.com or follow Riviera Nayarit on Facebook, Twitter @RivieraNayarit and Instagram @riviera_nayarit.
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media