Ventanilla Lagoon

La Ventanilla is a small community-run ecological reserve located about 12 kilometers west of Mazunte, approximately 80 kilometers from Puerto Escondido. This remarkable lagoon and mangrove ecosystem is home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife — crocodiles, iguanas, sea turtles, and over 200 species of birds. The main attraction is a guided boat tour through the lagoon's mangrove channels. As you glide silently through the water, your guide will point out wild crocodiles basking on the banks, iguanas in the tree canopy, and an incredible array of bird species — herons, egrets, pelicans, cormorants, hawks, and many more. The biodiversity here rivals any wildlife sanctuary in Mexico. What makes Ventanilla special is that it's entirely community-managed. The local indigenous community runs all tours, with proceeds going directly to conservation efforts and community development. The guides are local fishermen who have intimate knowledge of every animal, nest, and feeding ground in the lagoon. The reserve also includes a turtle conservation program. During nesting season (July to December), the community collects and protects turtle eggs, then releases the hatchlings into the ocean. Visitors can participate in releases during season. An iguana farm on-site breeds and releases green iguanas to support wild populations. Visitors can hold and photograph these gentle reptiles. The lagoon tour takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Combined with the turtle and iguana areas, plan for a 2 to 3 hour visit. Ventanilla is best visited as part of a day trip that includes Mazunte and Zipolite.