Some of the main attractions in the Riviera Nayarit are undoubtedly the arts and crafts made by the Cora and the Huichol. These indigenous ethnic groups have inhabited the Sierra Madre Occidental for centuries and still preserve lots of their customs and traditions.
On occasion they'll go on a pilgrimage to the coast of Nayarit, where locals and tourists can see their delicate, colorful designs covering the masks, carved wooden figures, calabashes, necklaces and bracelets. Using only colored beads and yarn, they create intricate designs that reflect their religious beliefs and rituals.
Adorning these unique handcrafts, you'll find animals, such as jaguars, deer, coyotes, eagles and snakes, all of which are considered to be sacred. You can also find figures of humans depicted as living in perfect harmony with the animals, and images of the peyote plant, which is considered to have divine powers and is the focal point of their religious beliefs.
Beautiful decorative objects, which will make fantastic souvenirs of your trip, can be found throughout the Riviera Nayarit in the many arts and crafts markets, in the towns and small villages.
There is pottery from Ixtlan del Rio in the center of Nayarit, stone carvings from Santiago Ixcuintla, hardwood and wicker furniture from Jala, and charming blue ceramics from Ahuacatlan.
You should definitely purchase one of these beautiful objects to take back home because, besides being a lovely memory of your trip to the Riviera Nayarit, it will also be an original piece of art that will look absolutely charming wherever you decide to put it.