A circular temple is among Nayarit’s rare archaeological discoveries. The Ixtlán del Río (Los Toriles) site is the state’s only archaeological site; it is also home to one of the few circular temples in Mesoamerica, as well as palaces. Archaeology is therefore a distinctive way to explore the region, alongside its cultural traditions and highly varied landscapes.
Archaeological Sites and Regional Culture
The archaeological zone of Ixtlán del Río covers more than 80 hectares. The temple is not the only reason to visit Los Toriles: the site also includes palaces. Both the temple’s rare circular form and the archaeological zone’s larger scale are noteworthy.
The Museo Regional de Nayarit offers a broad archaeological overview of the pre-Hispanic peoples who lived in what is now Nayarit. The museum is housed in a building designated a historic monument. This adds a special architectural dimension to the archaeological overview.
Jala: Feria del Elote and Volcanic Landscapes
Jala was the first Pueblo Mágico in Nayarit. The Feria del Elote takes place here in August. It includes a competition to find the world’s largest ear of corn, as well as artistic and cultural events. If you’re planning your trip around the festival, check the event dates in advance.
El Ceboruco, an active volcano, is also located in Jala, at the foot of the town, and is a destination for hikers and explorers. Here, a named cultural tradition sits alongside a nature experience shaped by volcanic landscapes. The Feria takes place during part of August, while the volcano offers a separate reason to explore.
Mangroves and Wildlife in San Blas
La Tovara in San Blas is a transitional zone between fresh and salt water. Mangroves surround the route and form tunnels along the way. You can explore Parque Nacional La Tovara on a boat trip through the mangroves. La Tovara is also home to crocodiles, birds and turtles.
Nature and Crafts in Amatlán de Cañas
El Manto in Amatlán de Cañas is a natural swimming area with crystal-clear waterfalls and large rock walls, surrounded by nature. Alongside this landscape experience, you can visit artisan workshops in Amatlán de Cañas where chocolate is made. Nature and crafts therefore offer different ways to explore the area.
Lagoon and Coastal Archipelago
The lagoon of Santa María del Oro is surrounded by wooded landscapes and combines natural scenery with camping and restaurants. This offers a different setting from the mangroves of La Tovara: here, the lagoon and its wooded surroundings define the landscape.
The volcanic archipelago of the Islas Marietas lies near the Nayarit coast, 9.5 kilometers southwest of the state’s shores. It consists of two islands, islets and rocks. The archipelago is home to the attraction known as Playa del Amor or Playa Escondida. Certified guides offer excursions, snorkeling and diving with professional ecotourism providers. Environmental protocols apply to visits; check the latest guidance in advance.
Discover more destinations: Bucerias, San Pedro Lagunillas, Tepic, San Blas, Sayulita, Agua Escondida, Monteón, Punta Mita, La Cruz De Huanacaxtle, La Peñita De Jaltemba, Santa María Del Oro, Cuastecomate, Lo De Marcos, Las Varas, Higuera Blanca, San Francisco, Estancia Del López, Valle Dorado, Ruiz, Ixtlán Del Río, Jala, Compostela, Ahuacatlán, Bahía de Banderas.
For the broader travel overview: Mexico.
