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Adventures from I to Z

Ixtapa & Zihuatenejo

Bayside view of homes dotting the cliffs in Ixtapa

Photo: Ryan Takay

There are many places around the world in which nature lovers can revel, but it would be tough to beat the variety of ecological adventures found at Ixtapa-Zihuatenejo in the state of Guerrero.

FONATUR, the Mexican federal organization charged with developing new tourism destinations, began building Ixtapa in 1968. Zihuatenejo is a town of mostly local residents, who firmly retain its seaside character. The twin cities are found on the country's Pacific coast, 140 miles northwest of Acapulco. Part of the country's tierra templada, the sites' daily temperatures average 83 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

The usual water sports of surfing, boogie boarding and snorkeling are available and horseback riding on the beach is offered for those who like to feel the breeze in their hair.

Cyclists can embark on a 10-mile ride that skirts the Ixtapa Marina, passing through Aztlán Ecological Park with stops at the Observatory at Laguna del Negro and the crocodile reserve on Playa Linda. Turtles, iguanas and native birds populate the mangrove habitat.

Even the family attractions are steeped in nature. At Parque Aventura (www.parque-aventura-ixtapa.com.mx) visitors don safety equipment to hike through the trees, run across suspended bridges and climb rope ladders. Various zip-lines are rigged for short flights through the park's trees. With three programs tailored to various ages, the whole family can romp like Swiss Family Robinson.

Kayaking also is popular, especially to Ixtapa Island, which is a short trip away. One tour offers a 4.4-mile bicycle ride to the kayaking dock, a paddle to the island (15 minutes), a snorkel dive around the island's coral reef for an hour, a paddle back to Ixtapa by kayak, lunch, then a bike ride back to the starting point.

Tours are available for anyone who has dreamed of a walk in tropical forest. Troncones Jungle, about a half-hour's drive from Ixtapa-Zihuatenejo, offers a 30-minute walk that takes climbers through vibrant vegetation and wildlife to the top of a mountain. There guests explore the Majahua Cave and its geological formations and colors. The cave is equipped with stairs and railing, making an easy descent for the one-hour excursion. Once visitors leave Majahua Cave they have the choice of a guided walk back through forest or taking flight via zip-line.

The dolphinarium Delfiniti affords a special opportunity for visitors, who can get lessons in how to swim with bottle-nosed dolphins. Tailored programs offer a chance to get to know these marine mammals. Prices run from $50 (for parent and baby) and $75 (one adult) to $130 (for parent and child). Tip: book reservations early for best times. For more info, visit www.delfiniti.com.