The Macaw Sanctuary in Puerto Vallarta–A Refuge of Wildlife, Color, and Hope

In the mountains that surround Banderas Bay, a short distance from Puerto Vallarta, stands a remarkable conservation initiative: the Macaw Sanctuary.  This reserve is devoted to the preservation and release of the Mexican green macaw (Ara militaris), a species that is facing challenges to its survival. 

A Story of Commitment and Passion for Nature

The sanctuary was founded in 2006 by Mr. Francisco Espino Ibarra, a biologist and defender of local wildlife who was passionate about the cause.  Mr. Espino started a small project to rescue and breed macaws on his own land in the Las Juntas y Los Veranos ejido, south of Puerto Vallarta, more than a decade ago. 

Over time, his initiative grew into a nationally recognized conservation center that is known for its ecological and educational approach. Mr. Espino and his sons, Jesús Adrián and Jorge Yamil, have dedicated their lives to this noble work since then.  

To help the species reproduce, they climb to the tops of trees and place wooden nests they have made themselves. To protect the nests from large cats in the area, such as ocelots and pumas, they also place metal sheets around the tree trunks to prevent the cats from climbing up and preying on the nests.

The Macaw Sanctuary's mission is twofold: to conserve the species and to foster a reconnection between local communities and their natural heritage. The sanctuary aims to instill a sense of responsibility and the value of biodiversity in these communities. 

The Green Macaw: A Rare and Endangered Species

The Mexican green macaw (Ara militaris) is a species that is particularly emblematic of Mexico.  This bird is renowned for its brightly colored feathers and its highly developed social intelligence.  However, it is under serious threat.  Deforestation, poaching, and illegal wildlife trafficking have drastically reduced its wild populations.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified this species as endangered.  In this context, the work of the Puerto Vallarta sanctuary is vital.  It does two main things: it rescues injured or confiscated specimens, and it promotes their reproduction and release into safe habitats. 

The Macaw Sanctuary in Puerto Vallarta, along with the efforts of Mr. Espino and his sons, Jesús Adrián and Jorge Yamil, and a large team of volunteers, is starting to see results.  In the wild, the survival rate of green macaw chicks is only 16% on average.

In 2024, the percentage within the sanctuary rose to almost 50% when fourteen chicks managed to fly from the nest.  This year, 29 chicks have been recorded in 19 nests, suggesting a higher survival rate compared to last year.

Tourism and Conservation Done Responsibly

Paying a visit to the Macaw Sanctuary is an adventure for sightseers.  It also offers an educational and emotional immersion into the heart of the rainforest south of Puerto Vallarta.  The tour provides visitors with the opportunity to observe these majestic birds in close proximity, gain insight into their behavior, and comprehend the fragile ecological balance that enables their survival.

Visitors can participate in a variety of activities designed to promote conservation, including environmental education workshops, guided tours led by experts, and interactive activities.  Collaborations have also been formed with schools, universities, and environmental organizations so that the sanctuary's impact can be expanded.

Excursions to the Macaw Sanctuary

This experience is available to travelers through responsible tours offered by several local agencies. 

One of the best ways to get to know it is with Authentik Tours, one of the tour companies that operates in support of the sanctuary.  This agency is committed to promoting positive impact tourism.  They observe the macaws from a distance, respecting their space and acting with the utmost discretion to avoid disturbing them.  In addition to providing valuable information that raises awareness during the tour, they ensure that visitors have a respectful and educational experience.

Another highly recommended option for visiting the Macaw Sanctuary is CurielXperience, a 100% Vallarta-based agency committed to responsible tourism.  Their excursion offers transportation, expert ecological guides, and the opportunity to learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts, all in an environment that respects nature and local communities.  This is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about the area and have an authentic experience.

How to get there and when to visit?

The Macaw Sanctuary is in the mountainous area south of Puerto Vallarta, close to the community of El Tuito, which is in the municipality of Cabo Corrientes.  Access is by road, and it is recommended to hire private transportation or a certified tour.

The optimal time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is drier and the macaws are more active.  The landscape is at its most vibrant during the rainy season, which lasts from June to October.  This makes it an ideal time for photography and wildlife viewing.

Beyond its visual beauty, the Macaw Sanctuary is a symbol of a collective effort to reverse human impact on nature.  This serves as a reminder that conservation is not the responsibility of a select group, but rather a shared cause that we all contribute to.

Visit Puerto Vallarta and lend your support to responsible tourism.  Connect with the most authentic side of this vibrant city, where the colors, sounds, and life of the tropical forest come alive among its branches.