Walks and Wildlife in Mazunte

Don’t leave Mazunte without following the trail next to the Balamjuyuc, which runs past the remains of some unmarked ruins to Punto Cometa (a 30min walk) – an entrancing park on top of the rocky headland next to Mazunte beach and the southernmost point in Oaxaca, where you get mesmerizing views at sunset. The “jacuzzi”, a rocky pool that fills with foamy surf as the waves rush in, can be accessed by scrambling down the rocks at the south end of the headland – it makes a good photo but it’s not safe to go in. Another nearby treat is the crocodile lagoon at Playa Ventanilla, about 2km to the west, where you can test your heart rate by going out on the water in a shallow boat to navigate among the scaly inhabitants. There are around four hundred in the lagoon, as well as a rich profusion of birdlife. It can be reached by colectivo, or by taxi (about M$40); the boat trips (M$50/person; lanchas accommodate 10) are arranged by the village cooperative, Servicios Ecoturísticas (t958/589-9277) which can also organize horseriding tours in the area (around M$250).