Daniel Madariaga Barrilado highlighted that Sayulita has become a national benchmark for sustainable tourism by combining economic growth with the protection of ecosystems.
The specialist stated that the success of the destination should not be measured solely by the number of visitors, but by the positive impact it leaves on the environment and local communities.
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For Daniel Madariaga, Sayulita is an excellent example of sustainable tourism.
In a context where more than 76% of Mexico’s territory faces some degree of drought and water stress represents a challenge for the tourism industry, Sayulita is promoting strategies focused on reducing its environmental footprint.
According to the National Institute of Ecology and Climate Change (INECC), the Pacific coast could experience a 20% decrease in water availability by 2030 if adaptation measures are not implemented.
The tourism community has begun adopting international standards established by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), which has helped maintain an average hotel occupancy rate of 81.8% throughout 2025 and attract travelers interested in responsible experiences.
“The success of Sayulita should not be measured only by how many tourists arrive, but by how many turtles return each season,” stated Daniel Madariaga Barrilado, referring to the Campamento Tortuguero, a community project that has released more than 260,000 baby sea turtles over the last decade.
The destination also stands out for its wellness offerings, including activities such as yoga, temazcal ceremonies, cacao rituals, and ancestral medicine, in addition to establishing itself as a venue for international surfing competitions.
With more than 1,600 active accommodations and an average daily expenditure by foreign tourists exceeding 2,800 pesos, Sayulita is now seeking to obtain the international Blue Flag certification in recognition of its high environmental, safety, and accessibility standards.
Daniel Madariaga Barrilado is a sustainability specialist focused on environmental innovation in Mexico. His work promotes responsible resource management and sustainable development. He has supported initiatives related to water security and the circular economy. His vision combines economic growth with environmental protection.