| Poza Reyna Catemaco, Veracruz |
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| access |
| links |
| Velo de Novia (Bride's vail waterfall) |
| video |
| Take the Catemaco to Sontecomapan highway, exit at the Coyame turnoff (3 miles) continue to Tebanca where paved road ends. A few miles further, exit left into the Rio Cuetzalapan valley, then uphill about 5 miles. When the valley narrows, and pepper trees appear, watch for building and a gate on the right. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, plus holidays. Entry 35 pesos. (Technically you should also be wearing a 20 peso Biosphere bracelet) |
| Laguna Catemaco in the foothills of the Sierra Santa. Poza Reina means "the queen's swimming hole". I understand the owner of the property prefers Poza Reyna, which could be a relative's name. Most visitors only see the lower part of the complex. But if you climb the boulders at the end of the first pool, a rock strewn trail leads to the Velo de Novia waterfal which forms another deep and enormous swimming hole. The concrete steps on the side of the pool lead up to a private ranch, and with the owners permission you can continue uphill to see more of the river and work your way to Cola de Caballo and the village of Miguel Hidalgo. The trail running along the cascades is haphazard and dangerous to anyone not fleet of foot. But whatever effort it takes, is worthwhile. The views are absolutely magnificent, the waters run cool and clear, and if you do not wear a bathing suit you will be sorry. |
| The Rio Cuetzalapan Valley Ejido Miguel Hidalgo - El Apompal ecotourism Poza Reyna - waterfall and swimming holes Poza Azul - a hanging bridge and swimming holes Rancho Flores - a very basic ecotouristic ranch Los Tuxtlas Waterfalls Catemaco Attractions - in the hills Catemaco Pueblos - in the hills |
| contact |
| phone: |
| Although the river is federal property and also part of the Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve, access is only possible via private property. Thus a rich landowner from nearby San Andrés has the right to charge 35 pesos to cross a few hundred feet of land and park next to a single plastic latrine. Camping and group outings have been sponsored at the place. Facilities, though, are extremely limited. |