Spending hours lounging on a hotel bed sounds like a good plan; but when you add breathtaking landscapes and mystical places to the mix, your vacation itinerary takes a captivating turn. This time, the compass points to Santa María del Oro, in Nayarit—the municipality home to the iconic lagoon that changes color.
Just over 40 kilometers from Tepic, this destination is surrounded by waterfalls, historic haciendas, and rocky areas. In fact, the Santa María del Oro lagoon is located in the crater of a volcano bearing the same name. According to data from the Autonomous University of Nayarit, it is 55 meters deep.
As we mentioned, one of its main features is that the water changes color—shifting from green to turquoise, brown, and various shades of gray. In “Why Does the Water at Santa María del Oro Change Color?”, studies conducted by the UAN confirm that this is due to the mixing of surface water with deeper water, a phenomenon caused by environmental changes and the wind.
Make the most of your visit!
There are several options for taking in this beautiful landscape, ranging from overlooks to accommodations in hotels and cabins surrounding the lagoon that offer breathtaking views.
There are also other options , such as kayaking, boat rides, or fishing.
And get ready for some delicious food! The signature dish is fish chicharrón.
What’s the best time of year to visit the Santa María del Oro lagoon?
According to data from Visit Nayarit, in April you might find the lagoon painted turquoise. The rainy season runs from June to October, so the water may turn darker colors.
It’s not every day you get to appreciate the wonders of a crater! If you’re really eager to visit the Santa María del Oro lagoon, start planning your next vacation—it’s well worth the adventure to discover it.
