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