Huasca de ocampo: first magical town and natural paradise
Huasca de Ocampo: A Magic Town for Nature Explorers
If you are looking for a getaway near Mexico City full of nature, history and outdoor activities, Huasca de Ocampo is an ideal option. Among its curiosities, this destination is recognized for being Mexico's first Magical Town and every year receives thousands of tourists interested in enjoying its landscapes, gastronomy and historic haciendas.
Located in the state of Hidalgo, within the so-called Mountain Corridor, Huasca de Ocampo offers hiking trails, forests, unique geological formations and many activities for the whole family. Learn more about this beautiful destination in this article from Hertz Mexico.
Where is Huasca de Ocampo and how to get there from CDMX?
Huasca de Ocampo is approximately 130 kilometers from Mexico City, which equals a 2 to 2:30 hour drive, depending on traffic. So, if you are short on time but need to get out of the routine, this is an ideal weekend destination.
How to get there by rental car from the CDMX?
[Renting a car in Mexico City]*(https://www.hertzmexico.com/renta-de-autos-cdmx/) is the best way to get here, so you can enjoy the route at your own pace. To do so, take the Mexico-Pachuca highway (MEX-85D) and, once in Pachuca, follow the signs to Real del Monte and then to Huasca. On the way you will pass through wooded landscapes, picturesque villages and several viewpoints, which makes the enjoyment begin even before you arrive. Take the opportunity to stop at one of them, take pictures and breathe fresh air.
What to do in Huasca de Ocampo?
If you are wondering what to do in Huasca, the answer is: much more than you imagine. This town is part of the Mountain Corridor, a region rich in forests, ravines and unique natural formations.
Basaltic Prisms: an impressive geological rarity
It is not common to see perfectly aligned stone columns sticking out of the ground as if they were artificial. But in Huasca de Ocampo they do exist, and they are called Basaltic Prisms. They were formed millions of years ago, when the volcanic lava slowly cooled and took that almost perfect hexagonal shape. The striking thing is that a waterfall flows through these columns, creating a unique scenery in Mexico. You can tour the site from viewpoints, cross a suspension bridge or go down to the river to see the prisms from below. It is an ideal place to take pictures, have a picnic or just sit and watch.
Haciendas with history and some mystery
Huasca was a very active mining area in colonial times. Today, several of its old haciendas open their doors to tourism. The Hacienda de Santa María Regla, once owned by the Count of Regla, has subway tunnels, chapels and a design that mixes luxury with mining history. On the other hand, the Hacienda de San Miguel Regla is more family-oriented: it offers lodging, boat rides and recreational activities.
Nature in depth and outdoor plans
Do you like hiking in the forest or camping with friends? Bosque de las Truchas and Parque El Zembo are two good options. There is fishing, hiking, zip-lining and cabin rentals. All surrounded by nature and fresh air.
The curious Museum of the Goblins
Small but fun, this museum collects local stories about elves and other creatures. There are strange objects, sculptures and anecdotes told by local people. It is a quick stop, ideal to go with children or just have a different time.
Traditional flavors in the Corredor de la Montaña (Mountain Corridor)
In Huasca you not only explore with your feet, but also with your palate. Some not-to-be-missed dishes of the gastronomy of Hidalgo are:
The fresh trout, cooked to taste in the restaurants of the Bosque de las Truchas.
The traditional paste, English heritage adapted to Mexican taste.
Dishes with seasonal wild mushrooms, ideal if you visit during the rainy season.
The zacahuil, a huge tamale typical of the Huasteca of Hidalgo and Potosi, cooked for hours underground.
To accompany it, nothing like a pot of coffee with piloncillo and cinnamon, ideal for cold nights.
Best time to visit Huasca de Ocampo
Huasca is a year-round destination, but every season has its own thing. In spring and fall, the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring trails, touring haciendas or visiting the prisms without crowds. Summer brings frequent rains, but also intensely green landscapes and misty forests, perfect if you are looking for a more introspective or photogenic getaway. In winter, temperatures drop, but the town dresses up in Christmas lights and becomes enchanting. If you go at this time of year, bring a coat: the nights can be chilly, but the atmosphere is worth it.
Curious facts about Hidalgo and its hidden jewel
The name “Huasca” comes from the Nahuatl language and means “place of joy” or “place of the guajes”.
The Mountain Corridor, where Huasca is located, also includes magical towns such as Real del Monte, Mineral del Chico and Omitlán.
Huasca de Ocampo is home to numerous legends, many involving goblins, fairies, and enchanted mines. It is said that some visitors feel “special energies” in certain corners.
Some of the oldest trees in the state are found in the vicinity of Huasca, within ecological reserves.
A destination that has it all
Huasca de Ocampo is a picturesque destination and is also a gateway to the nature, history and magic of Hidalgo. Its charm lies not only in what you see, but in what you feel. Every corner seems to tell a story, every aroma and every flavor connects you with a living tradition.
If you are looking for a place to reconnect with nature, taste authentic flavors, explore living ruins and feel that time stands still, Huasca de Ocampo is waiting for you. Rent a car with Hertz Mexico and discover this Magic Town for an adventure you will remember forever.