Costa de Oaxaca Pacific Turtle Conservation Circuit

This coastal route explores Oaxaca’s wild Pacific shoreline, following ancient turtle nesting beaches and lagoons between the conservation center at Mazunte and the pristine wetlands of Chacahua National Park. The track winds through coconut plantations, over sandy bluffs, and alongside mangrove-lined estuaries where all five species of Pacific sea turtles come to nest. Key stops include the turtle museum at Mazunte, the remote beaches of La Escobilla during arribada season, and the boat launch at Zapotalito for accessing Chacahua’s bird-filled lagoons.

Easy to moderate difficulty suits stock high-clearance vehicles, though sandy sections near beaches may challenge 2WD drivers during rainy season. Bring recovery boards for soft sand and plan for no cell service along remote coastal stretches. May through September offers the best turtle viewing but also brings afternoon thunderstorms and muddy conditions. The experience combines world-class wildlife viewing with camping on deserted Pacific beaches, making it essential for anyone serious about Mexico’s natural heritage.