Puerto Escondido at 1 Carrizalillo, Zicatela and Release Turtles

This detailed review explores a popular private tour in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, that combines some of the area’s most iconic sights with a meaningful wildlife experience. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and photos suggest it’s an excellent way to see diverse facets of this lively coastal town without the hassle of planning each stop.

What really stands out are the chance to relax at a secluded beach and participate in releasing turtles back into the ocean, both of which promise memorable moments. The inclusion of panoramic viewpoints offers a break from the busy beaches, giving you a broader sense of the landscape. On the flip side, a consideration is that the tour involves descending a fairly steep set of 176 steps to reach Playa Carrizalillo—something to keep in mind if you have mobility concerns.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of natural beauty, local culture, and conservation. It suits those who prefer a relaxed pace, love photography, or have a particular interest in wildlife or coastal scenery. If you’re looking for a well-rounded day out that balances sightseeing with meaningful activities, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience with visits to three different beaches and a viewpoint.
• Conservation-focused activity with the turtle release, emphasizing local environmental efforts.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup included.
• Moderate physical activity involved, such as descending stairs and walking at viewpoints.
• Cost consideration: The tour includes the turtle release for an extra MX$250, but the overall value depends on your interest in wildlife and scenic views.
• Ideal for small groups or private experience offering a personalized touch.

In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Playa Carrizalillo

Our journey begins at Playa Carrizalillo, a spot locals and savvy travelers consider one of Puerto Escondido’s hidden gems. This beach is famous for its calm, clear waters—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lying on the sand with a good book. Getting there involves descending 176 steps, which offers a bit of a workout but rewards you with a slice of paradise far less crowded than Zicatela.

The reviews indicate people love how peaceful and beautiful Carrizalillo is, describing it as a “paradise of natural beauty.” However, some noted the steps can be challenging, especially for those with mobility issues or young children. It’s a perfect stop if you’re craving a tranquil setting to unwind.

Las Tortugas Viewpoint

Next, we visit Mirador Las Tortugas, a panoramic vantage point offering spectacular views of Puerto Escondido’s coastline. Here, we’re encouraged to take photos, but more importantly, to pause and appreciate the expansive landscape. The view is described as impressive, giving travelers a sense of the area’s size and natural beauty from above.

One reviewer appreciated this stop for the “marvelous landscape stretching before us,” suggesting it’s an excellent spot for photography or just soaking in the scenery. It’s a brief stop—about an hour—but one that adds depth to the experience, especially for those interested in photography or scenic vistas.

Zicatela Beach: Surf and Vibe

The third stop is Playa Zicatela, renowned internationally for its vibrant atmosphere and legendary surf breaks. Here, you’ll see the world-famous waves, and you can soak in the energetic vibe that defines Puerto Escondido. The beach has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel, with surf shops, beach bars, and plenty of people watching.

Reviewers highlight how Zicatela captures the essence of Puerto Escondido’s surf culture. You’ll have a couple of hours to walk along the beach, snap photos, or simply enjoy the lively scene. This stop is perfect for those wanting to experience the buzz of a major surfing hub without getting in the water.

Turtle Release at Playa Palmarito

The highlight for many is the visit to Campamento Tortuguero Palmarito, where you’ll participate in releasing baby turtles into the ocean. This activity is not only enchanting but also educational—offering insight into local conservation efforts to protect these gentle creatures.

The process involves watching the turtles make their way to the sea as the sun sets, creating a truly magical moment. One guest described it as a “unique experience that teaches you about conservation,” adding that it’s a heartwarming way to connect with nature. The turtle release costs MX$250 per person, but the experience itself is often considered well worth the additional fee.

Practical Details

The entire tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, with most stops lasting between 1 to 3 hours. Transportation is private and air-conditioned, making the long day more comfortable, especially under Mexico’s sun. Bottled water is included, but meals are on your own—giving you flexibility to explore local eateries at your leisure.

Meeting begins at 11:00 am, with pickup from your accommodation, simplifying logistics. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness—expect some walking, stairs, and uneven surfaces at viewpoints. It’s a private experience, so your group gets personalized attention.

What We Think About the Value

At $232.55 for up to three people, this tour offers a curated experience that combines beach relaxation, scenic vistas, and wildlife conservation. Given the inclusion of private transportation and a meaningful turtle release, many would say it’s a good value for travelers seeking a hassle-free day with diverse activities. The extra MX$250 fee for the turtle release is reasonable, especially considering the emotional and educational value.

While the price might seem steep compared to individual entry costs, the convenience of a guided, all-in-one excursion cannot be overstated. For those new to Puerto Escondido or short on time, this tour packs in highlights that might otherwise require multiple separate trips.

The Overall Experience

From the peaceful waters of Carrizalillo to the lively surf scene at Zicatela, the tour balances relaxation and activity. The panoramic viewpoint offers a visual break, and the turtle release adds a touch of purpose and connection to nature. Guests who value authentic, small-group experiences and want to learn about local conservation efforts will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day out that highlights Puerto Escondido’s natural beauty, social vibe, and wildlife. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views, peaceful beaches, and wildlife encounters. It suits families, couples, or small groups who prefer a personalized experience rather than a crowded tour.

If you’re interested in photography or simply want a relaxing day with a meaningful activity, this tour offers ample opportunity. It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues because of the stairs and walking involved but provides a well-rounded glimpse of the area’s most beloved sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the day comfortable and convenient.

What is the tour start time?
The tour begins at 11:00 am with pickup from your accommodation.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to buy your lunch or snacks separately at your leisure.

How much does the turtle release cost?
The turtle release has an additional fee of MX$250 per person, which you can pay directly at the site.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, including descending stairs at Playa Carrizalillo, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

How long does each stop last?
Most stops are between 1 to 3 hours long, with the total tour lasting around 8.5 hours.

What kind of experience does this tour offer?
You’ll experience a mix of scenic beaches, viewpoints, vibrant local culture, and wildlife conservation, making it a well-rounded day of exploration.

This tour offers a balanced mix of beach relaxation, scenic vistas, and wildlife engagement—perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive Puerto Escondido experience without the stress of organizing multiple activities. Its small-group or private setup ensures a personalized touch, and the inclusion of the turtle release makes it more than just sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and support local conservation efforts.

Whether you’re a beach lover, a photography enthusiast, or someone eager to learn about wildlife protection, this day trip promises a meaningful and enjoyable adventure. Just be prepared for some walking and stairs—and bring your camera to capture those unforgettable views and moments.