Riviera Nayarit Blends its Authentic Cultural Heritage with a Dynamic Contemporary Art Scene

Exciting combination of traditional Huichol art, Mexican handicraft artisans and modern Mexican and international artists

Riviera Nayarit, MEXICO - Nayarit’s cultural heritage encompasses four separate ethnic groups: Huicholes, Coras, Tepehuanos, and Mexicaneros. This heritage has led to a destination rich in traditional culinary traditions reflected in a wide variety of restaurants as well as popular cultural events and festivals, folklore and, of special importance to visitors, excellent shopping for traditional handicrafts and art.

This authentic cultural heritage blends with a dynamic contemporary art scene through a combination of traditional Huichol art, Mexican handicraft artisans and the contemporary work of many Mexican and international artists drawn to the area. Visitors can find artwork in galleries, boutiques and open air markets.

Huichol Center and Galeria Tanana in SayulitaThis is the most accessible place to experience the art and culture of the Huichols in Riviera Nayarit since most live high in the mountains and do not welcome visitors. Here you can learn about their culture as well as see and purchase their art. Huichol art is personal and captivating with intricate designs, vibrant colors and sacred symbols. Visitors can purchase a wide range of colorful beaded animal figures, embroidered artwork and jewelry. The Huichol Center and Galeria Tanana are located at Revolución 22 in Sayulita, www.thehuicholcenter.org.

Huichol Indian Encounter Tour

The Huichol Indians of Riviera Nayarit are an indigenous ethnic group living high in the Sierra Madre Mountains who escaped the conquest of the Spaniards and remain little changed by the modern world. They are one of the last tribes of people in North America who still live much as they did in pre-Colombian times, maintaining their traditional rituals and beliefs. They refer to themselves as “Wixáritari” which means, "the people", in their native Huichol language. They consider themselves “mirrors of the Gods”, striving to reflect a physically and spiritually sacred vision of the world. They are a unique, mystical and spiritual people whose culture and artwork provide a fascinating educational and cultural encounter while visiting Riviera Nayarit.

Visitors who are interested in experiencing the wonders of the Huichol Indian culture can participate in a full day excursion into the Sierra Madre Mountains. The tour takes visitors north

along the coast visiting Rincón de Guayabitos before climbing 3,000 feet into the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains. Passing the historic, Colonial city of Compostela and the Puga sugar factory, the tour visits one of two Huichol villages, Nueva Valey or Potrero de la Palmita, to visit their temple, learn about their culture and enjoy their costumes, music and dance. Visitors can take photographs and purchase their original beaded artwork and handicrafts. This is a cultural experience that no one will ever forget!

###About Riviera NayaritMexico’s newest destination, Riviera Nayarit, stretches along 192 miles of pristine Pacific coast framed by the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains just ten minutes north of accessible Puerto Vallarta International Airport. The region extends along the entire coast of the Pacific state of Nayarit including the resorts of Nuevo Vallarta, the historic colonial town of San Blas, exclusive Punta Mita, picturesque fishing villages, miles of serene beaches and spectacular Banderas Bay. Riviera Nayarit offers countless activities, such as: PGA golf courses, luxury spas, whale watching, turtle release, zip lining, surfing, bird watching, international cuisine, and the local artwork from the traditional Huichol tribe. Riviera Nayarit is recognized as a “Virtuoso Preferred Destination.” The region attracts and satisfies vacationers of all tastes and budgets with its wide range of accommodations including chic luxury resorts, eco-tourism boutique hotels and quaint B&B inns. For more information, visit www.RivieraNayarit.com or follow Riviera Nayarit's Fan Page on Facebook.