Exploring the hidden gem, Altavista, Nayarit, Mexico

Nestled among fruit trees and flowering plants, Altavista is a small town in Nayarit, Mexico with approximately 1,000 residents. The town offers a quiet alternative to busy tourist destinations, where you'll wake up to birds singing and encounter friendly locals throughout your stay. This post covers Altavista's historical sites, natural surroundings, and local culture.

Explore the town of Altavista

Altavista has a small-town charm and residents who take pride in preserving their local traditions. Despite its size, the town has what you need for a comfortable stay.

At the local abarrotes (corner store), you'll find basic groceries, a small selection of fresh vegetables, drinks, and local pastries like conchas and picones—both worth trying.

The town doesn't have restaurants, but there are food options throughout the week. Monday through Saturday, the bread guy comes by with music announcing he has "pan"—the bolio is particularly good. On Saturdays, the abarotes next to the Cancha (basketball court) sells hot dogs and burgers. Some nights you may find people selling food, though it's not guaranteed. You can also arrange for the local taxi to bring back pollo asado (grilled chicken) and all the fixings from Las Varas, or even fresh ceviche. Fresh tortillas are available daily at the local tortilleria.

Food in Altavista

Altavista doesn't have restaurants, but there are several ways to eat well during your stay.

At the local abarrotes (corner store), you'll find basic groceries, a small selection of fresh vegetables, drinks, tortillas (all fresh), and local pastries like conchas and picones—both worth trying.

Regular food options:

• Monday-Saturday: The bread guy comes by with music announcing he has "pan." The bolio is delicious and highly recommended.
• Saturdays: The abarotes next to the Cancha (basketball court) sells hot dogs and burgers.
• Daily: Fresh tortillas at the local tortilleria.
• Random nights: Some people sell food, but it's not guaranteed.

Taxi delivery: You can pay the local taxi to bring back pollo asado with all the fixings from Las Varas, or even fresh ceviche.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty

Altavista's hillside location makes it ideal for hiking. Local guides can take you on trails through the area's vegetation, where you'll find views of the surrounding countryside and encounter local flora and fauna.

The town is a short drive from several beaches including Chacala, La Peñita de Jaltemba, Guayabitos, Los Ayalas, San Pancho, and Sayulita. Each has its own character—some are quiet with pristine sand, others have active beach communities. Activities include swimming, surfing, and relaxing.

For a different experience, visit Aguas Termales Nuevo Ixtlan, nearby hot springs with mineral-rich therapeutic waters. Another option is Cascada El Salto, a waterfall accessible by trail where you can swim in cool water or simply enjoy the natural setting.

Altavista Petroglyph Complex (La Pila Del Rey)

The Altavista Petroglyph Complex features ancient rock carvings created by indigenous people who lived in the area. The petroglyphs show symbols, animals, and human figures that offer insight into past cultural practices. The site's natural surroundings make it worth visiting for those interested in the region's history.

Where to Stay in Altavista

Cerrito Encantado is the only accommodation in Altavista. The property has two one-bedroom casitas with kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, plus additional bedrooms with shared bathrooms available for rent.

The property features a saltwater pool with views of the valley and ocean. The grounds have fruit trees that produce star fruit, soursop, avocados, mangos, and bananas when in season—guests are welcome to pick and eat the fruit. The area is good for birdwatching, with many species visible from the property.

The Annual Festival

The annual festival starting in late April runs for ten days and includes parades by each neighborhood depicting biblical scenes, traditional music, dance, and costumes. There's a bull riding event about a 20-minute walk from Cerrito Encantado. Daily fireworks go off at 6am, 12pm, and 7pm. On the final night, a man dressed as a bull covered in fireworks runs through the plaza, followed by dancing open to everyone.

Plan Your Visit

Altavista offers natural landscapes, historical sites, and a slower pace. From the petroglyphs to nearby beaches and the annual festival, there's enough to fill your days while maintaining the quiet atmosphere. If you're looking for a peaceful destination away from tourist crowds, Altavista is worth considering.