| Instigated by university researchers and initially supported by both Mexican government and NGO funds, several communities on the Sierra Santa Marta side of Laguna Catemaco began ecotouristic projects in the late 1990's. These villages offers excellent ways to enjoy rain forest biodiversity, birdwatching, waterfalls, hiking, swimming or canoeing; as well as an opportunity to learn about Mexican community life, local history, plant uses and recipes, and an interesting perspective on the role communities can play in conservation. (from one of their prospectuses). Accommodations and trails are rustic. Knowledgable guides are available. Expect to hear only Spanish and don´t expect catering to special needs. The services offered at present are geared towards groups with communal accommodations and kitchens. Individuals are welcome but will need to employ a guide to trek through the surrounding forest which is inherently private property. Numerous private entrepreneurs have now jumped on the "ecotourism" steamroller providing fourth class accommodations at second class prices. The following destinations may qualify as bonafide adventures. |
| El Apompal Miguel Hidalgo in the foothills of El Bastonal, Sierra Santa Several nearby waterfalls and a pretty lake will tempt you to stay in communal cabins. |
| Selva del Marinero Lopez Mateos On the shores of the Rio Coxcoapan and the slopes of Sailor's mountain at the northern edge of the Sierra Santa Marta Catemaco's first ecotouristic community invites you to its nature trails, a bat cave, waterfall and rivers. |
| Las Margaritas at the edge of Laguna Catemaco and Rio Margarita A small archaeological zone, bast caves and jungle trails await visitors after rowboat excursions along the shores and the delta of the rio. |
| Las Cabañas Sontecomapan on the edge of Laguna Sontecomapan Communal cabins allow a prolonged stay to explore the endangered mangroves and wildlife of the Laguna by canoe. |
| Los Clarines Ruiz Cortines on the slopes of Volcano San Martin Tuxtla One of the coolest spots in Los Tuxtlas, at 1000 meters altitude offers guided tours to the top of the volcano. |
| Peña Hermosa on the Gulf of Mexico at the foot of volcano San Martin Pajapan An over sized eco-touristic facility invites turtle watchers and beach combers primarily from southern Veracruz. |
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| Ecotourism around Los Tuxtlas |
| Benito Juarez above Laguna Catemaco on the Sierra side with access to La Margarita Great views, trails, waterfall and bat caves |
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