Nature reserve 5 km northwest of San Cristóbal de Las Casas
A cloud-forest reserve on the slopes of Huitepec volcano, just outside town, with a steep trail through oak and pine.
Huitepec is the dormant volcano that rises just northwest of San Cristóbal, and on its slopes is one of the oldest private nature reserves in Mexico. The conservation group Pronatura bought about 135 hectares of forest here in 1986 to protect it and use it for environmental education.
The reserve protects cloud forest and pine and oak woods, damp, mossy and full of bromeliads and wild orchids. More than 80 bird species have been recorded, including highland specialties such as the blue-throated motmot, and the forest also shelters small mammals like flying squirrels. A well-built trail climbs steeply up the hillside, and within minutes the noise of the city is gone.
It is a good half-day outing for walkers and birdwatchers, and early morning is the best time to see birds. Visiting arrangements have changed over the years, so contact Pronatura Sur before going to confirm opening days and whether you need a guide.
What to see and do
Climb the trail up through oak, pine and cloud forest.
Look for orchids and bromeliads on the mossy trees.
Go birdwatching early in the morning.
Bring a jacket: the forest is cool and often misty.
Getting there
The reserve's entrance is on the road from San Cristóbal to San Juan Chamula, about 10 minutes from the city by car or taxi; colectivos to Chamula can drop you at the gate. There is a small entry fee. Confirm opening days with Pronatura Sur beforehand.
5 km northwest of San Cristóbal de Las Casas
Directions from San Cristóbal de Las Casas on Google Maps
Distances are in a straight line; the road is usually longer.
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Weather cool
Reserva Ecológica Huitepec shares the climate of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, 5 km away. The best months to visit are Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec.
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Make San Cristóbal de Las Casas your base
Reserva Ecológica Huitepec is an easy trip from San Cristóbal de Las Casas, a Pueblo Mágico with places to stay, food, and more to see.
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Location from OpenStreetMap. Written by Puebloteca.