Mexico Adventure

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Ecotourism in Mexico

Mexico is not a beach-only tourist destination, although that is why the majority of visitors come here.  More and more travelers are now seeking something other than pre-planned, man-made fun, and Mexico offers more than 18 million acres in ecological preserves, including 111 protected areas, 24 biological reserves, 45 national parks and several national marine parks.  The country is also home to some of the most biologically diverse regions in the world, with more than 1500 species of mammals and reptiles, 1000 species of birds and 30,000 species of flowering plants.  Mexico spans more than 1,223,600 sq kilometers, encompassing nearly every type of geological formation found in the Western Hemisphere.  There are tropical forests in the south and desert beaches to the north, 3 mountain peaks higher than 17,000 feet, active volcanoes, the Hemisphere's largest series of canyons and two jutting peninsulas.

Visitors should keep in mind that many ecotourism sites are culturally sensitive and that local indigenous people are not just part of the scenic backdrop.  Keep curiosity in check, don't be rude or intrusive and respect restrictions on access and photography.

Generally, there are 5 regions in Mexico for ecotourism:

• Sea of Cortez Biosphere 
• Baja California Peninsula
• Copper Canyon
• Sian Ka'an Bisophere
• State of Chiapas (6 national parks)