Whether it’s speeding down a single track or climbing through a rocky path, the historic Monkey Mountain in Riviera Nayarit challenges its visitors with blood-pumping adventure. This under-the-radar geographical landmark welcomes adrenaline junkies as they try their hand at mountain biking, hiking and even ziplining. These special mountain adventures appeal to the trend of travelers seeking experiences led by local experts, passionate about connecting visitors to the destination.
Where is Riviera Nayarit?
Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit sits comfortable between the Pacific Ocean and the western edge of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. With 200 miles of pristine coastline, this tropical region is an adventure seekers playground. This ideal location with a sub-humid climate means that travelers enjoy an average temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit. And if constant sunshine wasn’t enough, the region is lush with tropical plants that make for some truly inspirational photography.
Getting to Riviera Nayarit
The southern border is located just 10 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta airport for easy transportation from the states.
The northern border is about a half hour west from Tepic International Airport.
Airlines to Use
Aeromar & Volaris
Best Adventure Activities in Nayarit
Whale Watching in Banderas Bay
Every year between the months of December and April, a natural phenomenon takes place in Banderas Bay. One of the largest bays on earth, this region is dense with many different species of whale, offering once in a lifetime photo and video opportunities. It’s this exact spot where pods of Humpback whales, Sperm whales, Blue whales, Orcas, and California Grey whales will congregate to nurse and raise their young. If documenting a whale breach is on your bucket list, this is the place to see it.
Hiking with Mexitreks
Join trained naturalist guide and Mexitreks founder, Stephen Pomeroy, on an energizing hike through dense jungle vegetation to the top of Monkey Mountain. This five hour experience begins with a quick car ride from the hippie chic beach town of Sayulita to the base of the mountain. Along the way, Stephen points out the local flora and fauna and shares the history of the area. A 30-minute summit to the top rewards hikers with sweeping views of Punta de Mita and the Banderas Bay.
Mountain Biking with Wildmex
Explore single tracks hidden deep within jungle brush with adventure guide, Wildmex, founded by mountain biking, surfing and all-around outdoor adventure enthusiast, Javier Chavez. Bikers will enjoy a combination of newly developed single tracks and modified horse trails on this one hour and thirty minute ride. A steep ride up to the top of Monkey Mountain is met by a fun and advanced downhill return. For a more technical ride, the experience can be increased to three hours by extending the route North of Sayulita.
Ziplining with Rancho Mi Chaparrita
Launched as a family business by the Verdin family, Rancho Mi Chaparrita, lets travelers fly above the treetops of Monkey Mountain on their zipline tour. Enjoyed by many celebrities, this one hour and 20 minute tour consists of 13 lines and three hanging bridges totaling a distance of more than 6,500 ft. and reaching heights of 410 ft. above sea level.
Adventure Extras in Town
Travelers who are looking for a change of scenery can exchange their mountain top views for those at sea level. Thrilling water sports including SUP, scuba diving, jet skiing and flyboarding can be found in towns and beaches near the mountain. Sayulita is home to the Lunazul Surf School and Sayulita Surf Camps, perfect for both novice and expert level surfers who want to hone in on their skills. The exclusive gated community of Punta Mita combines scuba diving and cooking for the ultimate culinary adventure, namely the Octopus Catch and Cook at the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita.
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