Viewpoint 4 km southeast of Huautla
The sacred Mazatec hill above Huautla, where healers go to pray; a walk up gives wide views over the misty sierra.
The Cerro de la Adoración is the sacred hill that rises just southeast of Huautla, and for the Mazatec people it is far more than a viewpoint. It is known as the dwelling of the guardian of the hills, and it is one of the places where local healers, the chjota chjine or "people who know," come to gather strength for their ceremonies. María Sabina, Huautla's most famous healer, walked its paths throughout her life.
At the top stand crosses and an image of the Virgin, and you will often find offerings left at their feet: candles, flowers, cacao, eggs and copal incense. On feast days and at special ceremonies there may be prayers and cleansing rituals here, sometimes with violin music and songs in Mazatec. Visitors are welcome, but it is a place of worship, so keep your voice down and ask before taking photos of people.
The climb itself is a good walk through the green, misty hills of the Sierra Mazateca, and on a clear day the summit looks out over Huautla, the surrounding villages, deep ravines and a huge sky. Many visitors make the walk with a local guide, sometimes a member of María Sabina's family, who can explain the meaning of the place.
What to see and do
Walk up the hill on the old paths María Sabina used.
See the crosses and the offerings of candles, flowers and cacao at the summit.
Take in the view over Huautla and the Sierra Mazateca on a clear morning.
Go with a local guide who can explain the Mazatec traditions tied to the hill.
Getting there
The hill is a few kilometers southeast of the center of Huautla. You can walk from town, or take a taxi to the start of the path and climb from there. Ask in town or at your hotel for a guide; mornings are usually clearer, since fog often rolls in during the afternoon.
4 km southeast of Huautla
Directions from Huautla on Google Maps
Distances are in a straight line; the road is usually longer.
Plan your trip
Places to stay in Cerro de la Adoración
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Weather mild
Cerro de la Adoración shares the climate of Huautla, 4 km away. The best months to visit are Feb, Mar, Apr, May.
Make Huautla your base
Cerro de la Adoración is an easy trip from Huautla, a Pueblo Mágico with places to stay, food, and more to see.
More around Huautla
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Cascada de Puente de Fierro
· Waterfall · 3 km away
A waterfall in thick green forest about 10 minutes from Huautla on the road to Chilchotla, with clear water and spots for rappelling.
Location from OpenStreetMap. Written by Puebloteca.