Huasteca Potosina

Mexico's Instagram-famous turquoise waterfalls: Tamul, Micos, the Cave of Swallows and the surrealist garden at Xilitla.

The Huasteca Potosina is a tropical mountain region in eastern San Luis Potosí. The limestone terrain of the eastern Sierra Madre has produced an abundance of turquoise rivers, waterfalls, springs and sinkhole caves. Ciudad Valles is the regional transport hub, with the widest choice of accommodation and tours, and makes a good base for several classic routes: to the south, paddle a wooden canoe upstream to the 105 m Tamul Waterfall and stop at the Cueva del Agua; to the west, visit Tamasopo Falls and the cave pool at Puente de Dios; to the north, jump the falls at Micos, then continue to Minas Viejas, El Meco and El Salto near El Naranjo; to the east lies Tamtoc, an ancient Huastec archaeological site; and in the southern mountains are the Cave of Swallows (Sótano de las Golondrinas), where flocks of birds stream out at dawn, the Sótano de las Huahuas, and the Pueblo Mágico of Xilitla with Edward James's surrealist garden, Las Pozas (worth an overnight stay in Xilitla). The best time to visit is Mar–May, when the rivers are at their bluest; in the Jul–Oct rainy season the water turns murky and some waterfall activities are suspended, while winters are mild but can be cool. Public transport in the region is limited, so drive yourself or join a local day tour from Ciudad Valles. For waterfall jumping, rafting and similar activities, go with a certified guide and wear a life jacket at all times. From Mexico City, buses take about 9–10 hours, or connect via San Luis Potosí or Tampico. Plan on 4–5 days.

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