Laguna de Atlangatepec

The Laguna de Atlangatepec, also known as the Presa de Atlangatepec, spreads across the high plains southwest of Tlaxco. It was created when a dam opened in April 1961, under President Adolfo López Mateos: a stone wall about a kilometer long holds back rainwater and the flow of the Zahuapan River and several smaller streams. In good years the reservoir covered some 1,200 hectares; it is smaller now, around 700, and shrinks further in droughts. It is still the largest reservoir in Tlaxcala by volume.

The water irrigates corn, vegetables and fodder in the surrounding ejidos, and fishing keeps several dozen families busy. A state fish-farming center introduced carp, and the lake also holds charales, crayfish and axolotls. Around Holy Week, when demand peaks, fishermen can pull in tons of carp, and you'll find fried fish and charales sold near the shore.

The lake is also one of the best birding spots in the region. Researchers have recorded around a hundred species here, including migratory ducks and shorebirds that winter on the Mexican altiplano. Come early on a winter morning for the most birds and the clearest light over the plains, with the hills of the Sierra de Tlaxco behind.