Just imagine the scene. You wake up as the butler carries in the freshly-ground coffee you scheduled the night before while a warm breeze caresses your face in sync with the sounds of waves lapping the shore. You hear a commotion outside and rush to your terrace to see what all the fuss is about. Splash! “OMG! Wow!” A full-sized mama humpback whale and her baby can be seen jumping out of the waves. “Quick, bring the camera!”
Are you dreaming? No! Your long-awaited getaway in the tropical paradise of Punta Mita has finally begun. But, how good are you at capturing those unique moments on camera? Do you have any idea why these magnificent mammals jump at all?
Punta Mita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Punta Mita is a secure, gated community famed for its luxurious ocean front homes, a Four Seasons and St Regis Hotel, two golf courses, magnificent flora, fauna and local culture. What you might not know is just how unique and amazing the local wildlife is in this region that receives more attention for its luxury and comfort.
Guided Photo Safari
One of the most exciting ways to see the flora and fauna up-close and (almost) personal is with a private Photo Safari with the super personable, highly knowledgeable biologist and photographer, Petr Myska. I decided to find out for myself what this professional photographer with two master degrees — one in Ecology and Animal Behavior and another in Environment Protection — could teach me about humpback whales and other animals in the region. I wanted to know why they behave as they do, what they eat and why they like living in the area. More importantly, I was curious as to how he manages to take such fabulous wildlife photos. I was eager for a few tips.
Nature Photography
Nature photography is both challenging and rewarding. For Petr, the fascination and fulfillment totally outweigh the frustration. It was my turn to see if my patience would yield the same enthusiasm and photographic results. I spent a week with Petr as he guided me through this region’s excessive beauty, centuries-old history, unique topography and local culture. It was one of the most unexpectedly interesting and awe-inspiring experiences I’ve had in a long time.
Grass Roots Conservation
Petr, totally impassioned by his subject matter, introduced me to local families who were dedicated to saving the habitat of Green Macaws. He gave me invaluable instruction on how to change my camera angle or adjust my lenses in order to catch the best shot of these magnificent birds emerging from their nests. But, above all, I loved the camaraderie of helping a grass roots project and bonding with people who otherwise I’d never meet.
Mangroves and Crocs
We tracked down a splendidly scary male crocodile swimming stealthily in local mangrove swamps. I witnessed the first steps of awe-inspiring hatchling turtles, I learnt so much about breaching and mating whales and endemic bird species. And, to my great pride, I captured all this on film with the patient and enlightened help from my new friend.
Unique Experiences for Unique Guests
Fascinated by the natural wonders all about me, I retired each evening, invigorated and brimming with excitement, showing off my amazing photos and bragging about my new-found knowledge. Most of all, I was excited that we have a brand new Tripwix experience to offer our nature-loving guests visiting Banderas Bay.
PUNTA DE MITA RENTALS GUIDED PHOTO SAFARI
Specialist – Biologist, conservationist and photographer. BBC Radio correspondent.
Author of publications on Western Mexican fauna. Collaborator of CONABIO’s Image Bank Project. Cameraman, producer and co-creator of documentaries on Mexican nature.
Where: Punta Mita, Nayarit, Pacific west coast of Mexico
Airport: Puerto Vallarta
Duration: 1 day to 1 week
Length of day: 4 – 12 hrs.
Group Size: 1 – 6 people
Activity Level: Tailored to level of the group
Photographic competence: Beginner to professional
Season: November to May
Price includes staff, food and beverage, guided photo safari excursion transportation.
Tempted? Contact us today for more information.
Lisa Bruno is a long-term Punta Mita resident. She is a frustrated golfer, party princess and proud owner of Tank and Tonica,
Lisa lives in Punta Mita with her fiancé and business partner, Miguel. She has been a partner in Punta de Mita Rentals since 2015.
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Photo credit: Petr Myska