| access |
| Leave Catemaco to the north towards the beaches, turn right towards Coyame and continue to Tebanca, where the paved road ends. A few miles further, exit left into the Rio Cuetzalapan valley, then uphill about 4 miles. Near a sign for Poza Reyna, un unmarked gate leads to a dirt road with 5 gates to the rancho. There is infrequent pirata service (communal taxis) from the north depot in Catemaco. Note: avoid road past Tebanca after heavy rains. App. 16 miles (1 hour) from Catemaco. Open year round by appointment. Minimum fee: Negotiable depending on activity, all day 50 pesos per person (Technically, you should also be wearing a 20 peso Biosphere bracelet) |
| contact |
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| Rancho Flores Catemaco, Veracruz |
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| website:http://www.ranchoflores.webs.com email: ranchoflores@hotmail.com phone: (294) 944 6126 Telcel, prefix 045 |
| Rancho Flores is a working farm and private ecological reserve that recently opened its doors to visitors. The ranch is located along Catemaco's largest river, about 700 feet above the southern shore of Laguna Catemaco in the Sierra Santa Marta foothills. The owners arrived from Cordoba, Veracruz in 1975 to take advantage of the then popular invasion of the Los Tuxtlas to convert them into cow pastures. Fortunately, the family had an ecological bent, and preserved most of its 120 acres in their natural state. In addition, previously deforested areas have been replanted and various other ecological projects are under way. |
| Less than 2 years ago the ranch opened to visitors, but as of today, still lacks basic infrastructure. Walking tours are available, and camping is encouraged, although reserved for true wilderness campers or urban masochists. Basic food service is also available. The primary attraction of the ranch is the river running through the property, featuring an attractive waterfall and numerous swimming holes. A hanging bridge is under construction to open access to the jungle on the slopes of the 2700 foot tall Cerro Vígia (Lookout Mountain). Within walking distance is Catemaco's most fabulous Cola de Caballo waterfall and the rapids of Poza Reina. |
| campground and latrine |
| owner's home and fish tanks |
| Campground. Tent rental is available |
| A swimming hole in a narrow gorge |
| links |
| a video provided by the owner |
| The Rio Cuetzalapan Valley Poza Reyna - waterfall and swimming holes Cola de Caballo - horsetail waterfall Poza Azul - a hanging bridge and swimming holes Rancho Flores - a very basic ecotouristic ranch Los Tuxtlas Ecotourism Catemaco Attractions - in the hills Catemaco Pueblos - in the hills |