Culture and Traditions
Destinations
Beaches
Adventure and Nature
Magical Towns
Information
MICE tourism
Beaches
Handicrafts
Adventure
Culture and Traditions
Destinations
Adventure and Nature
Magical Towns
Beaches
Information
MICE tourism
WONDERFUL PORT WITHIN A BIOSPHERE RESERVE
According to historical data, this archipelago covering 641,285 hectares was discovered in 1526 by Spanish military men Diego García Colio and Juan de Villagómez, to whom the Spanish monarchy granted possession rights.
Over the years, in 1905, Porfirio Díaz ordered the construction of the Islas Marías Penal Colony for dangerous criminals, a condition that lasted until 2019.
It is known as the "Alcatraz of Mexico," and it is precisely because of this that it is a place full of legends and myths, which have now become one of the reasons visitors wish to explore Puerto Balleto. es un lugar lleno de leyendas y mitos que actualmente se han convertido en uno de los motivos por los que los visitantes desean conocer Puerto Balleto.
This village is located on Isla Madre, the largest island of the archipelago, and is a very peculiar destination due to its history and geological features.
Puerto Balleto has become one of the most peculiar and astonishing destinations in Nayarit, forming part of a Biosphere Reserve that offers the best views of the Pacific, which is why it has now become a Center for Learning and Environmental Education.
The islands are home to several endemic species, such as the yellow-headed parrot, raccoon, and rabbit, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Many parts that formerly served as a prison have been adapted to create an attractive tourist infrastructure. Trails have also been created to enjoy the natural surroundings.
It is located 128 km from San Blas. To reach this destination, you have three options: you can embark in Mazatlán, with a journey taking five hours; from San Blas, it takes four hours; and from Boca de Chila, it also takes four hours.
Puerto Balleto (Islas Marías)
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What to See in Puerto Balleto
Tourist Attractions of Puerto Balleto
Juárez Plaza
A small plaza with a kiosk at its heart, it is the perfect place to enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Templo de Guadalupe (Temple)
One of the most beautiful and emblematic buildings of this Magical Town, located in front of Juárez Plaza. It has an interesting history as it provided religious services to hundreds of prisoners for over 30 years.
House of the Nun (Casa de la Monja)
One of the places visited on the Balleto Tour, it tells the story of Mother Mariquita and her contribution to the island.
Walls of Water José Revueltas Auditorium (Auditorio Muros de Agua José Revueltas)
During the time the penitentiary complex was in operation, this place was used as a cultural center for inmates. It is named in honor of one of the most famous inmates who lived on the island, the Mexican writer José Revueltas. It is distinguished by its colorful and attractive murals created by former inmates.
Site Museum
This early 20th-century building resembles a colonial-era fort and has several rooms. They narrate the history of the place from the sightings made by Hernán Cortés on his way to Baja California, to the expeditions of naturalists studying the flora and fauna, and the penal colony and its complex, while another room tells the life story of José Revueltas.
Islas Marías Saltworks
During its days as a penal colony, inmates used to perform forced labor in the Islas Marías saltworks. It is no longer operational, and only the abandoned structure remains, but visitors can still admire the ruins and salt mounds left in the area. The shrimp farm, another of the island's former commercial activities, is also located here. It is approximately 6 kilometers from the Magical Town.
What to Do in Puerto Balleto
UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES IN PUERTO BALLETO
Climb to the Cristo Lookout
The structure was built by former colonists and is located at the top of a hill. This hike is one of the most recommended activities as the 2.5-kilometer trail offers stunning landscapes along the way. From here, you can enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Isla María Madre.
Enjoy a Day at the Beach
Visit Playa Chapingo, the only beach on the island where you can swim and snorkel. Since it is an Ecological Reserve, you can only visit the beach with island guides. Along the way, you can see the Government House, one of the island's emblematic sites. It is located two kilometers from Puerto Balleto.
Must visit destinations in Nayarit
Riviera Nayarit
Santa María del Oro
Tepic
San Blas
Mexcaltitán
Sayulita
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