Huitepec is an sleeping volcano. It has three craters which are now covered by forest. It is about one million years old. The Tzotzil of the area call it Muktevitz which means Great Mountain.  The Huitepec has a great cultural meaning for them, because it is a sacred place where ceremonial offerings to the Gods are made in order to ensure good luck in all the things they undertake.

The ecological reserve was established in 1986 as a result of this, Huitepec became the first private reserve in Mexico. This means it does not depend on the Mexican Government, and in 1996 it was classified as a priority area for protection and management by the National Commission for the Investigation and Management of Biological Diversity. The reserve is located on the eastern slope of the volcano, a natural protected area of ​​135 hectares that preserves one of the most diverse ecosystems, cloud forest, temperate forest and tropical mountain forest which hosts over 300 species of plants, many fungal species and over 150 vertebrate animals representing a third of the biological diversity of Los Altos de Chiapas.

The interactive trail located at the vulcano “Oxyoquet” which is another name given to the volcano Huitepec by the Tzotzil. The name comes from the support where you place the grill where food is prepared (due to the three peaks that shape the trail).  (Ox: three yoquet: support). During sunny afternoons, inside the three peaks which form the volcano Huitepec you can enjoy illuminating rays slipping through red and orange clouds that resemble a huge fire. The trail has a length of 2.5 km. During the tour you can observe and learn about the characteristics of species of flora and fauna that the Huitepec has with the aid of informative and interactive signs and signals. The trail has four resting areas for the tourist to enjoy.

 

Recommendations: Wear hiking shoes or tennis, comfortable clothes, camera, sunglasses and a hat. You can bring food. bringing water is a must. During rainy season it is better to wear mosquito repellent.

You must take the time to visit the reserve Huitepec. You can go with your family, friends or with your couple. Going alone is not recommended but is optional. Activities: Hiking, photography and observation.

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 to 16:00 hours.

 Getting there: It is located 15 minutes away from San Cristobal de las Casas. You can drive to Zinacantan or you can take the road to Chamula, there is not a difference..

Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 16:00 hrs.

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