Nayarit, Mexico, and its capìtal, Tepic

Nayarit, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, is bordered by the states Sinaloa to the north, Durango to the north-east and Jalisco to the south and east. Its largely undeveloped coastline is fabulous for surf and holds natural treasures of lagoons and mangroves teeming with wildlife, making it a prime spot for birdwatching expeditions..

Tepic, Capital of Nayarit

Tepic is the capital of the state and is situated inland on the Tepic River, with the extinct Sanganguey volcano and crater lake nearby. Located approximately 225 kilometers north-west of Guadalajara, Tepic is the primary urban center of this rich agricultural region; major crops include tobacco and citrus.

Sights of Interest in the City of Tepic:

The 19th Century Palacio de Gobierno - Government Palace - with a neo-classical portal

Cathedral of the Purisima Concepcion de Maria - this structure was built in the 18th C.

The 16th C. Temple of the Cruz de Zacate was originally a Franciscan convent; today it houses the State Ministry of Tourism.

The Amado Nervo Museum displays photos and texts of poet Amado Nervo, who was born in this house in 1870.

The Regional Museum of Anthropology and History offers archaeological exhibits and the ethnography of the Cora and Huichol indians

In the Casa de la Cultura (House of the Culture) one can view murals by Mexican artist Jose Meza as well as other periodic cultural and artistic exhibits

Hotels in Tepic, Nayarit

Other Areas of Interest in the State:

Santiago Ixcuintla and Mexcaltitan Island - Mexcaltitan is a small island with a circumference of less than a mile, floating in the swampy lowlands and mangroves of the state of Nayarit. It has been thought that it is the Aztlan of the Aztecs, their home city and birthplace from whence they set out to on their pilgrimage that led them to the founding of Tenochtitlan. This island is accessible by boat from Batanga, which is the dock area located near Santiago Ixcuintla. Buses are available from Santiago.

MEXCALTITAN, NAYARIT: ISLAND CITY IN THE SWAMP
By Sophie Annan Jensen

Laguna de Santa Maria del Oro - Near the town of Santa María del Oro, 50 km S.E of Tepic, is a crater lake of the same name surrounded by pine trees and subtropical vegetation, which is a birdwatching haven as well as a spot enjoyed by locals and visitors for swimming, fishing and a variety of water sports. The lake is said to be one of the deepest in Mexico. Small lakeside restaurants serve fish and seafood including the regional specialty, chicarron de pescado.

Bird List for Santa Maria del Oro Lagoon