A Journey Near Tepic: Waterfalls, History, and Culture in Nayarit
Into the Unknown: A Journey Around Tepic
Hiking through the hills surrounding Tepic means opening yourself to the unexpected. My trip began just like that—on foot, from Cerro de la Cruz, following a forest trail that, for an hour and a half, wrapped me in silence, clean air, and tall trees that matched the rhythm of my steps. The destination: Bellavista.
Traditional Breakfast at Los Telares, Bellavista
Reaching Bellavista on foot connects you to the essentials. My first stop was Los Telares, where breakfast carries the soul of tradition. Chilaquiles, chicharrón, freshly made beans, and typical gorditas, served with a warm cup of coffee that tasted like home. The perfect energy boost to keep going.
Between Factories, History, and Ruins: Bellavista and La Escondida
After breakfast, I visited the historic textile factory of Bellavista, a witness to another era whose walls still echo its past. Inaugurated in the 19th century, it was one of the most important factories in western Mexico. Nearby are the ruins of La Escondida, wrapped in mystery and vegetation, as if time had embraced them forever. The town moves at its own pace—calm, friendly, with open doors and streets made to be walked slowly.
A Refreshing Pause at El Elefante Waterfall
From there, I continued toward one of the region’s best-kept secrets: El Elefante (elephant) Waterfall. Surrounded by nature and featuring a cascade that looks sculpted by giants, I couldn’t resist a swim. The cool water woke up my soul.
Toward the Puga Aqueduct
I moved on to the Puga Aqueduct, a monumental hydraulic structure that stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the strength of the landscape. Built during the Porfirio Díaz era to supply one of the region’s main sugar estates, it’s still impressive today for its scale and design.
Dinner and Rest at Los Coras Lodge, Aguamilpa Dam
Later in the afternoon, I arrived at the Aguamilpa Dam, where the sunset painted the water in vivid colors. I had dinner at Los Coras Lodge, where flavors tell stories too. Juicy river prawns, a fine steak, and the view of the still water completed a perfect day. I spent the night there as well.
Sport Fishing at Dawn
At dawn, the adventure continued with sport fishing at the dam. We caught tilapia weighing between two and three kilos, as the golden sun rose over the mountains. Aguamilpa is a paradise for anglers, with waters full of species like bass, tilapia, and catfish.
Exploring the Grand Canyon of Nayarit
Later on, we sailed toward the Grand Canyon of Nayarit, a place that stuns with its rock formations—some of which look like faces carved by nature. Majestic, silent, and awe-inspiring.
Encounter with Wixárika Culture in Potrero de la Palmita
To end the journey on a high note, we visited Potrero de la Palmita, a Wixárika community that keeps its ancestral culture and wisdom alive. There, I visited their caliguey (ceremonial temple), walked their trails, met their people, and took with me more than memories: a deep connection to Nayarit’s roots.
Conclusion: A Journey to the Soul of Nayarit
This journey around Tepic wasn’t just a route through mountains, dams, and villages—it was a deep immersion into what makes Nayarit unique: its untamed nature, historical legacy, and vibrant culture. Every stop was a window into something different—from the silent forest of Cerro de la Cruz, to the ceremonial echoes of Potrero de la Palmita, and everything in between: waterfalls, century-old factories, and landscapes that take your breath away.
By Charlie viaja
Mile by mile
- Tepic, Cerro de la Cruz
- Trail to the town of Bellavista
- Breakfast at Los Telares
- Visit to the Bellavista Factory
- Ruins of La Escondida
- Strolling through Bellavista
- El Elefante Waterfall
- Puga Aqueduct
- Dinner at Los Coras Lodge, Aguamilpa Dam
- Sport fishing at sunrise
- Grand Canyon of Nayarit
- Potrero de la Palmita (Wixárika community)
