About the Costalegre

The Costalegre is a region rich with tropical forests, beaches, capes, and bays and is considered to be one of the most intact ecological zones along Mexico’s western central pacific. The area boasts incredible wildlife diversity, with some 270 species of birds of which 22 are endemic to the area. The boat-billed heron, common potoo, orange-fronted parakeet and the yellow-headed parrot are commonly found throughout the region. There are also 70 species of mammals, 69 species of reptiles, and 19 species of amphibians. The ocelot, the jaguar, the greater fishing bat and pygmy skunk are just a few of the many mammals found in the tropical deciduous forest that spans the mountainous upland territory. Other species, such as the boa constrictor, the nine-banded armadillo and the green tree-frog also add to the diversity of reptiles and amphibians found along the Costalegre.

Within the marine environment, rocky coral reefs span much of the coast. At nearby Tenacatita Bay, elegant coral and green coral grow on igneous rock that provide reef structure for abundant tropical fish, including moorish idols, guineafowl puffers, king angelfish, yellowtail surgeonfish and three-banded butterfly fish. Other marine organisms call these reefs home as well, such as the tiger snake eel, spotted eagle ray and the Olive Ridley sea turtle, a prominent species of our wildlife recovery program. Local mangroves and estuaries provide essential habitat for many commercial fish that support communities and fishing cooperatives in the region.

With stunning vistas and abundant wildlife, the Costalgre is indeed a rare stretch of central pacific paradise. The beaches, mangroves and rocky reefs provide diverse sites for biological research and monitoring, many of which include activities that allow for hiking, birding, sea kayaking and snorkeling while supporting inventory and restoration programs. For guest and volunteers who choose to stay at the Capacha Center, equipment rentals and guided ecotourism can be arranged to offer other outdoor activities, including ebiking, diving, surfing, sailing and fishing. Nearby upland excursions for further nature discovery include protected areas at the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve and the Sierra Manantlán Biosphere Reserve.

The cultural climate of this region is typical of emergent Mexican coastal towns. As tourism supports local economies, the people of this region are welcoming and supportive of foreign visitors. Some local merchants speak English, but many do not. Strong family connections characterize the many small towns along the coast where communities are predominately conservative in their politics and are devoutly Catholic. However, local populations are more than willing to engage foreigners in cultural and political discussion, and visitors will find their community interactions warm, colorful and satisfying.