General Information for Being a Responsible Tourist

• When planning your trip, choose suppliers that guarantee quality and respect for human rights and the environment.
• Use natural resources, such as water and energy, in moderation. Remember, they are scarce goods.
• Try to minimize waste generation. Waste is a source of pollution and a major environmental problem.
• When disposing of waste, do so in the cleanest way possible and always consider recycling.
• In natural spaces, ensure that the only footprint you leave behind is that of your shoes.
• If visiting sensitive ecosystems, such as coral reefs or forests, inform yourself on how to do so with minimal impact and avoid degrading them.
• When buying gifts and souvenirs, look for products that reflect the local culture.

Recommendations for Tourist Behavior in Natural Environments

Respect Flora and Fauna. The Following Are Not Allowed:

• Removing or cutting vegetation, or collecting fruits, flowers, and seeds.
• Disturbing, injuring, capturing, or killing wildlife, including their eggs, offspring, or larvae.
• Pets must always be under their owner’s control. In crowded areas, they must be leashed.
• Introducing plants or releasing animals is prohibited, as they can spread diseases and disrupt local wildlife.
• Emitting bright lights or flashes that disturb nighttime tranquility is not allowed, except for the use of individual flashlights.
• Respect nature’s silence—everyone has the right to enjoy it. Avoid loud noises from megaphones, whistles, music players, or other disruptive actions that may scare animals.
• Leave no trace of your visit. Do not litter in National Parks or Biological Reserves. Carry out your waste and dispose of it in appropriate containers. Avoid leaving any food scraps, as they can alter animals’ feeding habits.
• Collecting, destroying, or altering archaeological, historical, or geological elements is not permitted.

Water Conservation

• Do not wash utensils in rivers, streams, or bodies of water, nor use detergents, soaps, or bleach near them.

Mountain Biking

• Pedestrians and horseback riders always have the right of way, as does livestock on permitted trails. Reduce speed when approaching them or stop if necessary.
• Ride at a moderate speed for your safety and that of others. Brake progressively to avoid skidding, which damages trails and harms the environment.
• Do not litter along the route. Keep wrappers from energy gels, bars, or other packaged foods until you can dispose of them properly.

Horseback Riding

• Equestrian activities should take place on designated paths, trails, and permitted roads, as well as public roads and traditional routes, unless prohibited.
• Right of way at crossings between riders and hikers is determined by mutual respect, giving priority to those who need it most in each situation.
• On permitted roads, livestock transit has priority.
• If horseback riding is part of an economic activity, proper authorization is required.

Rock Climbing

• Climbing is allowed, except in Reserve Zones and restricted areas for conservation purposes.
• The use of pitons or any drilling tools that cause mechanical or acoustic damage to the natural environment is prohibited.
• The use of magnesium or other chemical grip aids for hands and feet is not allowed. Do not use brushes or other tools to remove vegetation from rocks, as these are unique habitats for many plant species.
• Respect bird nesting periods. If you find a nest, inform National Park or Biological Reserve staff so they can mark the area.

Camping

• Camping is not allowed.
• Unregulated and uncontrolled camping leads to waste accumulation and environmental degradation, which is why it is prohibited within National Parks and Biological Reserves.

Motor Vehicle Circulation

• Motor vehicles are not allowed on trails and paths unless explicitly authorized.
• Avoid parking on road shoulders or at trail and path entrances, as this can create serious issues in case of an emergency.