Repeated incidents challenge conservation efforts
In 1989, an incident involving a foreign tourist led to the damage of “El Hongo,” the iconic rock formation at Balandra Beach. The tourist climbed the monument, causing it to topple, which sparked a prolonged restoration effort beginning in 1993.
Despite measures implemented by CONANP (National Commission of Natural Protected Areas) and ZOFEMAT (Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone), including entry fees and rules aimed at protecting the site, issues persist. Many locals from La Paz argue that these efforts are failing, as evidenced by recent occurrences similar to the original incident.
@verduzcojorge01 Respuesta a @"rocko" ♬ sonido original – Jorge Verduzco
Jorge Cáceres, president and advisor of the “Balandra Flora and Fauna Protected Area” council, shared details of an annual operational program designed for strategic prevention, including surveillance and corrective actions to prevent damage to the site.
Although climbing “El Hongo” is not explicitly prohibited—since it is located in a designated public use area—the repetitive damage caused by such activities remains a concern. Cáceres expressed the need for more robust control and sanction mechanisms to safeguard these spaces effectively.
“We are collaborating with CONANP to revisit and reinforce our policies. We have security personnel on site from 8 AM to 5 PM, funded by our annual budget, to ensure consistent oversight during visitor hours,” he stated.
Why is it stupid if there is no sign? If he is a tourist how is he supposed to know it’s different from any other rock? Last time i checked it’s not illegal to climb rocks. What is stupid is assuming people will not do dumb shit no matter what. If you want to protect the rock so bad then block it off or don’t even let people go to playa balandra anymore.