Nuevo Nayarit, Mexico — Feb. 5, 2026 — Sustainability has been one of the most important topics in recent years, and sustainability in travel is no exception. Sustainable tourism is defined by the UN Environment Program and UN World Tourism Organization as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities.” When it comes to destinations in Mexico, the state of Nayarit is a global leader in sustainable tourism practices.

Most recently, Nayarit has joined the World Travel and Tourism Council Hotel Basics initiative. This alliance seeks to establish criteria for global sustainability standards in the hotel industry.

The Hotel Basics initiative, led by Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the WTTC, emerged in response to the growing demand from global hotel brands to develop fundamental criteria of sustainability, designed by and for the industry. These criteria will be mandatory for all accommodation providers, including hotels, guest houses, and tourist residences.

Hotels, guest houses, and tourist residences may adopt the 12 criteria of the initiative, focused on the following lines of action:

• Measure and reduce energy and water consumption, as well as reduce waste and carbon emissions.
• Fundamental actions to protect the environment.
• Fundamental actions towards a positive contribution to the communities in which they operate.

Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC commented: “Hotel Basics is a crucial initiative for us so the industry continues to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of both travelers and the planet.”

“Nayarit, known for its natural beauty and focus on sustainability, becomes an invaluable strategy partner on this path towards more responsible tourism,” she added.

The natural beauty is part of what contributes to Nayarit’s passion for sustainability. Protecting its valuable natural resources and pristine environment will help to draw tourists to Nayarit for years to come. Nayarit is one of the best ecotourism destinations for conscientious travelers thanks to several initiatives:

1. Turtle Conservation: Visitors to Nayarit can participate in hands-on turtle conservation programs at the many Riviera Nayarit resorts or nearby beaches.

2. Whale watching and Marine Conservation: The Bahía de Banderas is one of the prime destinations for the annual humpback whale migration. Visitors can embark on boat tours with marine biologists to learn all about these gentle giants and their conservation efforts.

3. Crocodile Conservation: Numerous organizations in Nayarit have set up a mission to protect the crocodile population. Crocodile sanctuaries can be found in Bucerias and San Blas. Here, visitors can see crocodiles in their natural habitat, as well as support the conservation initiatives.

4. Environmental Certifications: Nayarit holds several certifications with organizations like Blue Flag, EarthCheck, and Playas Limpias.

5. Beach Cleanup Network: This is a unique network, coordinated by the CVB in conjunction with the Banderas Bay Hotel and Motel Association. Various groups of volunteers from different sectors participate in the Beach Cleanup Network along the coastal towns of Riviera Nayarit.

6. Reducing Plastics: Efforts to raise awareness among tourism sector workers and tourists about plastic reduction, energy consumption reduction, fuel savings that have a direct impact on greenhouse gas generation, and reduction in water consumption. Islas Marietas National Park has banned the use of single-use plastics by tourism providers, so no boat should use this type of plastic while visiting the park.

In addition to environmental and wildlife conservation initiatives, Nayarit emphasizes the importance of social and cultural preservation. Visitors to Nayarit can follow one of the many tourist routes to discover cultural connections with the native residents of Nayarit.

One of the most important indigenous communities in Nayarit is the Huichol community. The Huicholes, who predate the Spanish conquistadors, are known for their brilliant beadwork and deeply rooted spirituality. They still adhere to their customs and language in the remote villages throughout the state of Nayarit.

Visitors to Nayarit can have important cultural connections with the Huicholes through programs that also help to support their community. Various Huichol art galleries can be found all along the coast of Nayarit, particularly in towns like Sayulita and San Pancho. Travelers can also visit Huichol mountain villages in Nayarit to explore the temples, see the costumes and dances, hear the music, and try the local food.

Another way travelers can support the local community of Nayarit is to visit the lush, tropical coffee plantations up in the mountains. Coffee production in Nayarit is some of the best in Mexico, and visitors can sample the coffee firsthand while supporting the local farmers along Nayarit’s mountainous Coffee Route.

With so many destinations to choose from in Mexico, travelers can always feel good about visiting destinations that are committed to bettering the environment and the local residents. Nayarit is one of the leading destinations in Mexico that has made sustainable tourism a priority, which is just one of the many reasons why travelers can count on a fabulous vacation in Nayarit.