Ecos del Mictlán

Ecos del Mictlán 2026 takes place on November 28, 2026, in the open waters of Bahía de Banderas, Mexico. The event features four competitive distances—750m, 1500m, 3000m, and 5000m—starting from the beach at Los Picos Hotel & Suites in Bucerías. Swimmers compete for a fee of 1650 MXN, which includes a timing chip, swim cap, commemorative hat, and event bag. Given the significant maritime traffic in this deep-water bay, the organization mandates the use of support kayaks and certified lifeguards throughout the course, strictly prohibiting unauthorized private escort vessels. Participation is capped at 800 swimmers, with registration closing on November 10, 2026.

The environment and history

The geography beneath the swimmers is as dramatic as the race. Bahía de Banderas reaches depths of over 900 meters, a result of the region rifting from the North American Plate millions of years ago. As you navigate the course, you are traversing a critical breeding ground for the humpback whale, which frequently inhabits these waters during the season. The event name itself pays homage to the local heritage; in 1525, Francisco Cortés de Buenaventura observed the indigenous people wearing elaborate featherwork and colorful costumes along the coast, leading to the designation of the 'Bay of Flags'.

Bucerías, historically known as a 'Place of Divers', maintains its connection to the sea through a 2014 bronze sculpture of a diver on the beach. This spirit of maritime devotion is shared annually on January 24th, when local fishermen transport the Virgin of Peace by boat to Bucerías for a traditional blessing. Those looking to bridge their season with another challenge in the same bay can look to Ironswim 2026, held just four weeks prior on October 31. While the coastline is marked by historic landmarks like the Punta Mita headland and the distant silhouette of Cabo Corrientes, swimmers must remain focused on their individual lines within the marked circuit, as the 5km and shorter distances are strictly individual tests.