A short boardwalk and packed-dirt path through the mangrove fringe of Laguna de Potosi, a roughly 800-hectare coastal lagoon south of Zihuatanejo known for herons, egrets and other resident wading birds.
The trail starts in Barra de Potosi village, reached by private vehicle or taxi from Zihuatanejo in about 35 to 40 minutes; there is informal parking near the village and no permit is required to walk the boardwalk. The 2.5-kilometre round trip stays essentially flat, with under 10 metres of cumulative elevation change, following a mix of raised wooden boardwalk over the wettest mangrove sections and packed-dirt path where the ground is firmer. Shade comes from the mangrove canopy itself, keeping much of the walk cooler than the open beach nearby, though the surface can be slick after rain. Landmarks include several viewing points over Laguna de Potosi's open water, where herons, egrets, and other resident wading birds are commonly seen, with the boardwalk's far end serving as a natural turn-around before looping back toward the village. There are no water sources or refuge huts along the path, so visitors carry their own water for the roughly hour-long walk. The lagoon covers about 800 hectares and stays calmer and easier to view birdlife on during the dry season, when water levels are lower and the mangrove fringe is more accessible on foot.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Laguna de Potosi, Barra de Potosi village, Petatlan Municipality
- Best season
- November to April, dry season with easier footing and calmer lagoon water
What to bring
- Walking shoes
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars for the mangrove birdlife
- 1 litre of water
Location
Barra de Potosi village, Carretera Zihuatanejo-Petatlan, 40941 Petatlan, Guerrero, Mexico
17.5165, -101.5225 View on map
Highlights
- Raised boardwalk through the Laguna de Potosi mangrove fringe
- Viewing points for herons, egrets, and other resident wading birds
- Roughly 800-hectare coastal lagoon south of Zihuatanejo
- Short, flat walk suitable for a quick add-on to a Barra de Potosi visit
Tips for visiting
- Bring binoculars for the best views of herons and egrets on the open lagoon water
- Apply insect repellent before starting, as mosquitoes are common in the mangrove shade
- Visit in the early morning for the most active birdlife
- Wear closed shoes, since the boardwalk sections can be slick with dew or after rain
When to visit
Early morning gives the most active birdwatching, and the November-to-April dry season keeps the boardwalk and lagoon shoreline easiest to access.
Accessibility
The boardwalk sections are flat and could accommodate a wheelchair with assistance, though the packed-dirt stretches become uneven and muddy after rain.
Frequently asked questions
Is the boardwalk trail suitable for young children?
Yes, the short, flat distance and boardwalk sections make it manageable for families.
What birds can be seen along the trail?
Herons, egrets, and other wading birds are commonly seen along the lagoon's open water sections.
Is a guide needed to visit the mangrove boardwalk?
A guide is not required, though local boat operators in Barra de Potosi can add a guided lagoon paddle to the visit.