Since 1975, the Arches of Mismaloya have been declared a refuge area for the protection of marine flora and fauna through a Secretarial Agreement. However, in the year 2000, with the creation of the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas, they were not considered as a protected natural area due to their small size, leaving them without official protection ever since. Despite this, they have always remained the most prominent natural landmark in the municipality of Puerto Vallarta.

Over time, the Arches of Mismaloya have become a popular tourist attraction, almost a must-see for any visitor, due to their scenic beauty and the opportunity they offer for a significant encounter with nature.

Within this area, you can find countless species of flora and fauna, and each of the ecosystems present here is crucial for the conservation of at least one species considered to be at some conservation risk, such as the low deciduous forest for the nesting of the Blue-footed Booby (Sula nebouxii) or the Sargassum for the Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia agassizii).

For this reason, since 2022, a group of researchers and ecotourism service providers have been advocating before SEMARNAT for the official protection of the Arches of Mismaloya through a secretarial agreement that designates the area as a critical habitat for the preservation of wild flora and fauna species.

That's why we invite you to watch these videos and contribute to the protection of this important place by following good practices during your visit to the area.