Barra de Potosi lagoon is a birdwatcher's paradise

Ecological and Adventure Kayak Tours

Destination: Laguna Valentín

Located 22 miles south of Zihuatanejo on the coastline west of Petatlan, this scenic fresh water lagoon offers striking vistas of the Sierra Madre, quiet bays and channels bounded by many types of aquatic flowering plants, soft and hard wood forests and grassy islands.

The lagoon is approximately 2.5 miles long and is fed by a river which runs through nearby areas of archaeological importance. Its clear and deep water holds large snook, pargo, perch and an occasional crocodile.

Along the route we pass through several small villages, pastoral and wilderness areas that give insight to rural life outside the influence of the resort community.

Laguna Valentin is separated from the Pacific Ocean by a large sandbar that is part of the beautiful Playa de las Tortugas to which paddlers have direct access. This beach is a vital nursery area for spawning sea turtles where shells and bones can be found.

This area is one of the most remote and exclusive natural attractions along the Guerrero coastline.

Click here to visit the Laguna Valentín Photo Gallery.


Cost: $100 USD (lunch included) or peso equivalent, or Traveler's Checks. Credit Cards are not accepted at this time.

What is included: Experienced, bilingual professional guide, bird identification books and local bird life lists, round-trip transportation, coffee and sweet rolls, fresh fruit, supply of purified drinking water, lunch, kayaks, paddles and lifejackets. Toilet facilities and additional beverages available en route and at the Tortugas sandbar.

Lunch: The early afternoon lunch is prepared on the sandbar by a resident family while we are paddling and served under their palapa when we return; grilled fresh fish of the day, salad, rice, tortillas and beverages are included. After lunch you are invited to enjoy a beach walk, paddle off to explore the lower lagoon or just relax in a hammock.

Reservations: Minimum 2 days in advance. Minimum party of 4. Call Brian at 553-0496 (Ixtapa) for mandatory confirmation. 50% deposit required. Trips leave at 8:00 AM and return at around 6:00 PM October through April.

What you might like to bring: Hat, sunblock, river sandals, an extra top and shorts, camera, binoculars, towel, fishing equipment and a sense of keen adventure! This is a physical activity in a remote area and is best enjoyed by those with prior kayak and wilderness experience. Minimum age: 16


For 24-hour advance reservations, call Brian at 553-0496 (Ixtapa) or

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