Hiking in and around Chacala Mexico
Susana now has all maps in GPS, available at her rooftop cafe.
Petroglyphs at Alta Vista, Near Chacala Mexico
Very close to the beach at Playa Chacala Nayarit you can visit the ruins of Alta Vista which show some of the oldest artistic manifestations in the state of Nayarit. These are petroglyphs dating from 300 BC carved into the river shore which are still visited by the Huichol (indigenous Mexicans) during religious ceremonies. The images are of Mother Earth, pregnant with her hands raised up beside her, signifying fertility, with rain falling down and wheat rising.
Hikers need to park a mile away from the start of the walk up a canyon, through the dry river bed (winter months) to the grotto above that has a waterfall cascading down in the rainy season (summer months) and pools of wading water all year round.
For an in depth guided tour, meet with Alvaro, a local specialist, who will take you on a personal tour lasting approximately 2 hours.
Petroglyphs map (Ask Susana for Full Size!)
Las Cuevas Beach Near Chacala Mexico
This secret cove can be reached by four wheel drive, boat or by hiking in.
The boat trip can be booked from Casa Pacifica and takes about 20 minutes from Playa Chacala marina, while the hike in takes one hour and 15 minutes from Chacala Nayarit. Maps are available.
See the beach via this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ad1ldr4G_x4
map for Las Cuevas/volcanic crater
Volcanic Crater Near Chacala Mexico
On the way to Las Cuevas you will pass the volcanic crater on your right hand side.
This makes a great hike from Playa Chacala, taking about an hour from Casa Pacifica, giving you a fantastic panoramic view over Chacala and its bay. If you would like to hike up there with some local residents, the meeting point is outside the gates of the gated community Marina Chacala, very close to Casa Pacifica, at 6.20 am Monday through Saturday during the winter season.
View over Chacala from the hike to the volcanic crater
Morning hikers
Las Caletas
If you love to surf then head to this surfers paradise only a 20 minute boat ride away from Chacala and you can take your surfboard on the boat. If you’re really feeling fit you can hike there in an hour and 15 minutes (see map).
Check out the surf via this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eP0NYKRh8k
Las Caletas map
El Copomo Falls
The trailhead begins at the dry river bed. The trail crosses the stream about ten times. Wear good water/walking shoes or sandals. There are three large pools at the end of the hike, under the waterfall. Follow the map through the town of El Capomo and the orchard.
El Copomo Falls map
