Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua (Lagunas de Chacahua National Park) is a secluded treasure of natural beauty and captivating cultural experiences. This immaculate national park features fresh and saltwater lagoons, beaches, forests and marshland. The park covers an area of 35,057 acres (14,187 hectares) on Mexico’s southwest coastline. Discover exotic birdlife, nesting turtles, surf breaks and indigenous villages.
Glimpse the life of the Mixtec-speaking Afro-Mexican people at the park’s five communities, called Chacahua, Charco Redondo, El Azufre, El Corral Island and Zapotalito. Learn about the customs of their daily activities and their origins as African slaves. Listen to African-influenced music. Sample traditional seafood dishes such as Pacific flagfin mojarra, snook and red snapper.
Chacahua is the largest village and most friendly to tourists. Join a boat cruise around the park’s five gorgeous mangrove-framed lagoons. Float along the mystical tunnel-like El Corral canal and enjoy panoramic views from the El Corral Viewpoint. Hear stories of the region’s past on a guided walk to Chacahua’s hilltop lighthouse.
See myriad birdlife, including herons, kingfishers, pelicans and roseate spoonbills, some of which migrate from Alaska and Canada. Spot wild crocodiles in the shallow waters of the lagoons and get close to them safely at a reserve in Chacahua. Between October and March watch newly hatched turtles take their first steps at a protected turtle sanctuary.
Spend a blissful day at Playa Chacahua and Playa Cerro Hermoso, two beaches with crystalline water and soft, golden sands. Rent a surfboard and ride the long waves at Playa Chacahua. Swim in the warm ocean, but be wary of strong currents. Playa Cerro Hermoso has a natural pool that is safe for swimming.
The park is about a 1-hour drive west of Puerto Escondido and about 6 hours southeast of Acapulco. Get here by taking a public bus or private taxi from Puerto Escondido to Zapotalito. Private and shared boats travel on to Chacahua.
Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua is open year-round. October to March present almost perfect temperatures while heavy rain and dramatic lightning storms are common from June to August.