La Tovara: 7 Curious Facts About This Spring

Nestled in the lush tropical jungle of the municipality of San Blas, Nayarit, La Tovara is a natural paradise. This system of canals surrounded by mangroves is, without a doubt, a natural jewel of the Mexican Pacific.

If you are looking for a different, authentic experience full of wildlife, here are seven curious facts that will make you want to discover this unique corner.

1. Its Origin is Underground
La Tovara originates from a spring that bubbles up from the depths of the earth. As it flows, it mixes with the brackish water of the ocean, creating a hybrid ecosystem that gives life to an astonishing biodiversity.

2. Navigating Through Mangroves
The tour of La Tovara is done in small guided boats that move along natural channels. In some sections, the vegetation is so dense that the foliage barely lets the sunlight through, creating a magical atmosphere.

3. Natural Film Set
Thanks to its jungle-like appearance, La Tovara has been chosen as a location for movie productions. One of the most famous is Cabeza de Vaca (1991), which took advantage of the authenticity of the landscape to set historical scenes.

4. Home to Crocodiles
This natural reserve is also the territory of Crocodylus acutus, the American crocodile. Although they can be seen in their natural habitat, there is a special crocodile farm where they are bred and protected under supervision.

5. Paradise for Birds
With more than 250 registered species, La Tovara is one of the most important birding spots in the country. From herons and roseate spoonbills to peregrine falcons, the skies here are in constant motion.

6. Part of a National Park
This spring is part of the Marismas Nacionales National Park, an important wetland complex for the conservation of the flora and fauna of the Mexican Pacific coast.

7. A Dip in the Jungle
The tour culminates in a natural pool called “La Laguna de los Patos” (The Duck Lagoon), a safe area where visitors can swim surrounded by nature, in crystal clear and calm waters.

La Tovara is not just a boat ride; it’s a sensory immersion in Mexican biodiversity. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers and adventurers.

How to Get to La Tovara from Puerto Vallarta?
La Tovara is located in San Blas, Nayarit, about 3 and a half hours by car from Puerto Vallarta International Airport. It is recommended that you leave early in the morning to take advantage of the daylight boat tour and enjoy this natural sanctuary in peace and quiet.

Photo: https://visitnayarit.travel.