Nature in Central México: Landscapes, majestic volcanoes and picturesque spots
February 23, 2024
Jean G. Fowler
Latest Modification Date: 2/23/24
Looking for breathtaking views? Central Mexico offers natural wonders in areas of the states of Hidalgo, Mexico City, Morelos, Puebla, Querétaro and Tlaxcala. With its national parks, firefly sanctuaries, and picturesque spots like Malinche and Sierra Gorda, the country’s biodiversity and natural splendor awaits to be discovered by curious travelers.
Barranca de Metztitlán, Hidalgo
Barranca de Metztitlán Biosphere Reserve is located just a 3-hour drive from Mexico City and less than two hours from Pachuca, making it an ideal destination to escape the routine during the weekend. Thanks to its geography, it is surrounded by natural beauties such as the mountains, plateaus, canyons, and plains.
Furthermore, in this beautiful “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town), you can find the Barranca de Metztitlán, declared a Biosphere Reserve in 2000. Ocelots, eagles, jaguars and a variety of flora such as endemic cacti can be found amongst its majestic canyons and cliffs.
Izta-Popo National Park, Puebla, Morelos and State of Mexico
Popocatéptl and Iztaccíhuatl are the two volcanoes that rest upon this park, located in the states of Mexico, Puebla, and Morelos, is part of the Sierra Nevada and is one of the oldest protected areas in Mexico.
Its landscape includes coniferous forests, extinct craters, glaciers, and rivers, creating a visually stunning setting. In addition to its ecological richness, the park is crucial to Mexican pre-Hispanic legends and myths.
Several mountains, particularly Popocatépetl, Tláloc, and Iztaccíhuatl, were revered as gods, and rituals dedicated to water deities were performed on them.
The park is easily accessible from major cities like Mexico City and Puebla, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking natural beauty, recreational activities, and a connection with Mexican history.
Firefly Sanctuary, Tlaxcala
The firefly sanctuary in Tlaxcala refers to the Santuario de Luciérnagas in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala, Mexico. This sanctuary is known for its mesmerizing natural spectacle where thousands of fireflies illuminate the night sky during their mating season.
Nanacamilpa is accessible by road from various nearby cities, including Tlaxcala and Puebla. Visitors interested in experiencing the firefly sanctuary can make arrangements through organized tours or directly with local guides for cabins and places for campings, allowing visitors to hike the trails.
As the six weeks from the last week of June to the first week of August unfold, thousands of fireflies can be seen shining in this place that resembles a magical forest, creating an unforgettable experience. However, the best season to visit is during the month of July.
Parque Nacional la Malinche – Puebla Tlaxcala
For those who enjoy activities such as hiking, climbing, mountain biking, camping, and bird watching, La Malinche National Park offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural significance. The park is named after the iconic volcano, La Malinche, which is the sixth-highest peak in Mexico and is also known as Matlalcueye.
Its situated approximately 44 kilometers east of the city of Tlaxcala and about 44 kilometers west of Puebla. Its central location makes it easily accessible from major cities in the region.
La Malinche also holds cultural significance in Mexican history. It is named after Malinalli Tenépatl, or La Malinche, an indigenous woman who played a crucial role as an interpreter, advisor, and companion to Hernán Cortés during the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the early 16th century. The naming of the volcano after her is a reflection of her historical importance.
Sierra Gorda Reserve, Querétaro
Forests, waterfalls, caves, and canyons can be found at The Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra Gorda, or Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, which is a protected natural area located in the state of Querétaro.
It is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, including endemic and endangered ones. The reserve supports populations of jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and a variety of bird species.
The reserve is known for its extensive network of caves and sinkholes, and its diverse landscapes and ecosystems make it valuable for responsible eco-tourism.
Xpats accompanies you on every adventure; get to know us and fall in love with Mexico as much as we have!
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Nature in Central México: Landscapes, majestic volcanoes and picturesque spots
February 23, 2024
Jean G. Fowler
Nature in Central México: Landscapes, majestic volcanoes and picturesque spots
February 23, 2024
Jean G. Fowler
Looking for breathtaking views? Central Mexico offers natural wonders in areas of the states of Hidalgo, Mexico City, Morelos, Puebla, Querétaro and Tlaxcala. With its national parks, firefly sanctuaries, and picturesque spots like Malinche and Sierra Gorda, the country’s biodiversity and natural splendor awaits to be discovered by curious travelers.
Barranca de Metztitlán, Hidalgo
Barranca de Metztitlán Biosphere Reserve is located just a 3-hour drive from Mexico City and less than two hours from Pachuca, making it an ideal destination to escape the routine during the weekend. Thanks to its geography, it is surrounded by natural beauties such as the mountains, plateaus, canyons, and plains.
Furthermore, in this beautiful “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town), you can find the Barranca de Metztitlán, declared a Biosphere Reserve in 2000. Ocelots, eagles, jaguars and a variety of flora such as endemic cacti can be found amongst its majestic canyons and cliffs.
Izta-Popo National Park, Puebla, Morelos and State of Mexico
Popocatéptl and Iztaccíhuatl are the two volcanoes that rest upon this park, located in the states of Mexico, Puebla, and Morelos, is part of the Sierra Nevada and is one of the oldest protected areas in Mexico.
Its landscape includes coniferous forests, extinct craters, glaciers, and rivers, creating a visually stunning setting. In addition to its ecological richness, the park is crucial to Mexican pre-Hispanic legends and myths.
Several mountains, particularly Popocatépetl, Tláloc, and Iztaccíhuatl, were revered as gods, and rituals dedicated to water deities were performed on them.
The park is easily accessible from major cities like Mexico City and Puebla, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking natural beauty, recreational activities, and a connection with Mexican history.
Latest Modification Date: 2/23/24
Firefly Sanctuary, Tlaxcala
The firefly sanctuary in Tlaxcala refers to the Santuario de Luciérnagas in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala, Mexico. This sanctuary is known for its mesmerizing natural spectacle where thousands of fireflies illuminate the night sky during their mating season.
Nanacamilpa is accessible by road from various nearby cities, including Tlaxcala and Puebla. Visitors interested in experiencing the firefly sanctuary can make arrangements through organized tours or directly with local guides for cabins and places for campings, allowing visitors to hike the trails.
As the six weeks from the last week of June to the first week of August unfold, thousands of fireflies can be seen shining in this place that resembles a magical forest, creating an unforgettable experience. However, the best season to visit is during the month of July.
Parque Nacional la Malinche – Puebla Tlaxcala
For those who enjoy activities such as hiking, climbing, mountain biking, camping, and bird watching, La Malinche National Park offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural significance. The park is named after the iconic volcano, La Malinche, which is the sixth-highest peak in Mexico and is also known as Matlalcueye.
Its situated approximately 44 kilometers east of the city of Tlaxcala and about 44 kilometers west of Puebla. Its central location makes it easily accessible from major cities in the region.
La Malinche also holds cultural significance in Mexican history. It is named after Malinalli Tenépatl, or La Malinche, an indigenous woman who played a crucial role as an interpreter, advisor, and companion to Hernán Cortés during the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the early 16th century. The naming of the volcano after her is a reflection of her historical importance.
Sierra Gorda Reserve, Querétaro
Forests, waterfalls, caves, and canyons can be found at The Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra Gorda, or Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, which is a protected natural area located in the state of Querétaro.
It is home to numerous species of flora and fauna, including endemic and endangered ones. The reserve supports populations of jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and a variety of bird species.
The reserve is known for its extensive network of caves and sinkholes, and its diverse landscapes and ecosystems make it valuable for responsible eco-tourism.
Xpats accompanies you on every adventure; get to know us and fall in love with Mexico as much as we have!