Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – Dive into the fascinating world of hummingbirds during Hummingbird Week at the Vallarta Botanical Garden, happening July 9th through 13th. This is a nature enthusiast’s dream, with a chance to learn about these incredible birds and the lush gardens that sustain them.
Imagine these tiny marvels, buzzing around with wings that blur as they flit from flower to flower. Hummingbirds are native to the Americas, with an astonishing 57 species calling Mexico home. Remarkably, 13 of these species are endemic to the country.
These aerial acrobats aren’t just dazzling to watch; they play a vital role in our ecosystem. As they sip nectar from vibrant blooms, they help pollinate many of the plants that provide us with food. Hummingbirds even act as environmental health indicators, letting us know how well our ecosystems are faring. In Mexican culture, these little jewels hold a special place, symbolizing the boundless love we owe to nature’s beauty.
The Vallarta Botanical Garden is a haven for hummingbirds. Here, you might spot the fiery flash of a Cinnamon Hummingbird, the dazzling crown of a Violet-crowned Hummingbird, or the shimmering green of a Golden-crowned Emerald. Look for the Plain-capped Starthroat with its mesmerizing throat feathers, the Berylline Hummingbird with its glittering plumage, and even the elusive Mexican Hermit.
To celebrate these captivating creatures, the Vallarta Botanical Garden hosts a week-long extravaganza filled with unique activities each day. Get ready for an unforgettable exploration of the hummingbird world!
2024 Hummingbird Week Schedule of Events
Tuesday, July 9
9:30-10:00 am – Guided tour: All about hummingbirds
9:00 am-5:00 pm – Hummingbird feeding on the restaurant’s balcony
12:30-1:00 pm – Hummingbird Trivia
Wednesday, July 10
9:30-10:00 am – Guided tour: Plants to attract hummingbirds
9:00 am-5:00 pm – Hummingbird feeding on the restaurant’s balcony
1:30-2:00 pm – Hummingbird short films exhibition
Thursday, July 11
9:30-10:00 am – Guided tour: All about hummingbirds
9:00 am-5:00 pm – Hummingbird feeding on the restaurant’s balcony
10:00 am-12:00 pm – Hummingbird Treasure Hunt
Friday, July 12
9:00-10:00 am – Guided tour: Hiking in the gardens
9:00 am-5:00 pm – Hummingbird feeding on the restaurant’s balcony
12:30-1:00 pm – Hummingbird Trivia
Saturday, July 13
9:30-10:00 am – Guided tour: All about hummingbirds
9:00 am-5:00 pm – Hummingbird feeding on the restaurant’s balcony
12:00-12:30 pm – Hummingbird Origami
2:00-3:00 pm – Closing Ceremony
All activities are included in the standard Garden entry fee of $300 pesos per person. Entrance to the Garden is free for members.
Visit the internationally famous Vallarta Botanical Garden located just 30 minutes south of Old Town at Km. 24 on Highway 200 and easily accessible by public transportation and taxi. This 74 acre wildlife preserve and botanical garden have something fun for everyone. Over 200 species of birds have been observed on the Garden’s grounds. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the jungle river. See plantings of vanilla, chocolate, and hundreds of other botanical delights! Authentic Mexican Cuisine is served in the Hacienda de Oro Restaurant from 10 am to 5 pm. The Garden is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm (closed Mondays from April 1 to December 1). Garden admission is just $300 pesos. For more information, call (322) 223-6182 or visit vbgardens.org.