
Estero del Yugo Nature Reserve
A natural estuary teeming with birdlife and offering a secluded beach, Estero del Yugo is a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for birdwatching

Estero del Yugo Nature Reserve
Best Time
Best light for birdwatching

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural estuary teeming with birdlife and offering a secluded beach, Estero del Yugo is a hidden gem for nature lovers.
"Wow, what a beautiful place, full of nature!!"

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be unmaintained and uneven. Protect your feet and navigate with ease.
🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep this natural gem clean by taking all your trash with you.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Paradise
Spot ibis, egrets, cormorants, and pelicans in their natural habitat. A haven for avian enthusiasts.

Coastal Wildlife
Keep an eye out for potential sightings of turtles and crocodiles in this unique estuarine environment.

Secluded Beach Access
Discover a private beach area, offering a tranquil escape with beautiful natural surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Protecting a Fragile Ecosystem
Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be unmaintained and uneven. Protect your feet and navigate with ease.
🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep this natural gem clean by taking all your trash with you.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience and spot wildlife from a distance.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially important during warmer months. Carry plenty of water.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be unmaintained and uneven. Protect your feet and navigate with ease.
🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep this natural gem clean by taking all your trash with you.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience and spot wildlife from a distance.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially important during warmer months. Carry plenty of water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Estero del Yugo is a natural gem with potential for birdwatching and enjoying a secluded beach. Visitors appreciate the wildlife sightings and the tranquil atmosphere. However, many note the lack of maintenance, litter issues, and informal access points, which detract from the experience.
"Estero El Yugo is a nature gem right across from Playa Bruja and Riu Emerald Bay resort in North Cerritos, Mazatlan, Mexico.
On my recent first visit to Mazatlan. As an avid bird watcher I was excited to learn it was on my way to a coffee house.
Whilst walking past it, I espied some ibis, snowy Egret, neotropic cormorants, pelicans and other shore birds through the fence. My first impression was it is fenced to keep intruders away. As I walked further on I saw several holes along the fence. There was a lot of garbage everywhere. I ventured in through the hole to see a lot more garbage on trails that are not maintained. I suspect a lot of drivers parked outside the resorts go through the holes and use it as a bathroom. It was very disappointing to see that the sanctuary is not being kept protected.
I was told by a tour guide that turtles and crocodiles have been sighted in the past.
I hope that they revive this ecological forest despite multiple high rises being built around it. It is supposed to be a heaven for bird watchers."
Ela Thakore
"A place to live with nature"
Luna Flores
"I had an incredible time, very nice"
Ximena Castillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Estero del Yugo is located across from Playa Bruja and the Riu Emerald Bay resort in North Cerritos, Mazatlan. Access might involve navigating through gaps in the fence, as trails are not always maintained.
Parking is available along the road, particularly near the resorts. Be aware that some areas might be used by visitors who enter the reserve.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber can take you to the vicinity of Estero del Yugo. Just provide the general location near Playa Bruja or Riu Emerald Bay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there is no formal ticketing system for Estero del Yugo. Entry is generally free, though access might be through unofficial openings in the fence.
There are no official opening hours. Visitors typically access the reserve during daylight hours, with early mornings and late afternoons being popular for wildlife viewing.
While intended as a nature sanctuary, reports indicate it's not always well-maintained or protected, with issues of litter and unmanaged access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a haven for birdwatchers, with sightings of ibis, snowy egrets, neotropic cormorants, and pelicans. Turtles and crocodiles have also been reported in the past.
The trails are generally not maintained, and visitors may need to navigate through gaps in the fencing. Wear appropriate footwear.
There are very limited facilities. Visitors should come prepared with their own water and snacks, and be ready to pack out all trash.
While generally safe during daylight, be aware of your surroundings, especially if entering through unofficial openings. Stick to visible paths and avoid venturing too deep if unsure.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photography opportunities are along the water's edge for bird and wildlife shots, and the secluded beach for scenic coastal views. Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the estuary and beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Wear sturdy shoes: Essential for navigating potentially uneven terrain.
* Pack plenty of snacks and water: Amenities are scarce.
* Emphasize 'leave no trace': Teach children the importance of not littering.
* Bring binoculars: Makes wildlife spotting more engaging for kids.
🐦 Birdwatchers
Tips for birdwatchers:
* Visit during early mornings or late afternoons: These are prime times for bird activity and offer the best light for observation and photography.
* Bring high-quality binoculars and a spotting scope: Essential for identifying and observing birds from a distance.
* Consult local birding guides or apps: To help identify species you encounter.
* Be patient and observant: Wildlife sightings are often a matter of timing and quiet observation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife and Conservation Concerns
Despite these concerns, the potential for Estero del Yugo to be a thriving ecological forest remains. Efforts to revive and protect this natural gem are crucial, especially as development occurs in the surrounding areas. Visitors play a vital role by practicing responsible tourism, ensuring they do not contribute to the litter problem and respecting the natural habitat.
Navigating Access and Amenities
Amenities within Estero del Yugo are minimal to non-existent. There are no restrooms, designated picnic areas, or visitor centers. Therefore, it's essential for visitors to come prepared. This includes bringing ample water, any snacks you might need, and importantly, taking all your trash with you to help maintain the cleanliness of the reserve. The experience is about immersing yourself in nature, so a self-sufficient approach is key.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit