Discover the Glorious Huasteca Potosina
Concrete, skyscrapers, and minimalism are so last year – flourishing forests, crystal clear ponds, and roaring waterfalls are in and La Huasteca Potosina has it all! This tropical subregion in the eastern Mexican state of San Luis Potosí is famous for its dazzling nature and stunning scenery, as well as its rich indigenous culture. The Huasteca region in fact spreads over a few states: beginning in south Tamaulipas, and reaching all the way to Veracruz, it covers areas in Hidalgo, Puebla, and even Guanajuato. In this article, we will introduce you to the best towns and natural wonders that you simply have to see in La Huasteca Potosina, mainly in San Luis Potosí Huasteca. Pack your rucksack and let’s start our tropical adventure.
When to Visit La Huasteca Potosina
The Mexican year is divided into a rainy season, which falls roughly between May and October, and a dry season, which runs parallel to the European winter and spring. We recommend visiting La Huasteca Potosina between January and March. During these months, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures and less rainfall. If you prefer slightly less hot weather, opt for a time between October and December. One thing to keep in mind when planning your trip to this region is that it is best to avoid the semana santa. Easter time is when many locals from around the country tend to holiday in La Huasteca Potosina. While it’s a great chance to mingle, queues for any attractions will be super long during this week.
Getting Around La Huasteca Potosina
If you have a driving licence and don’t want to travel solo, we wholeheartedly recommend renting a car to navigate La Huasteca Potosina. A set of wheels will grant you almost immediate access to all the best spots. Plus, you won’t have to wait for buses, enjoying the liberty to go wherever, whenever. With a car, you have the freedom to stop at any of the spectacular lookout platforms, and to sing along to your favourite playlist while you cruise through stunning landscapes. In comparison to other places, car rental in Mexico is totally worth it. If you land at the airport in the state capital San Luis Potosí, or airports such as Guanajuato (BJX), you can rent a car right there and then. Remember, it’s always a good idea to invest in car insurance!
The Best Locations in La Huasteca Potosina
Puente de Dios, Tamasopo
Once you’ve got your travel arrangements sorted, a great first stop on your agenda is the so-called Puente de Dios, located in the El Cafetal community within the Tamasopo region. Mighty waterfalls and sparkling pools await you at this ‘bridge of God,’ making the temptation to jump in for a swim almost too much to resist. The Mexican sun peeking into alluring caves and dappling the shimmering waters – what more do you need? A trip to Puente de Dios – indeed to the whole Huasteca Potosina region – is definitely one for the water babies. Dive head first into the spectacular nature here! Another spot we recommend in this area is the Cascadas de Tamasopo. With shallow waters for chilling and high ridges for jumping off (adrenaline junkies, we’re looking at you!), these falls are the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon or evening.
Waterfalls, Waterfalls, and More Waterfalls!
Moving on to the next natural wonder, the Cascada de Tamul, a magnificent waterfall standing proud at a staggering height of 150 metres. In this area, you can get your heart pumping with a spot of rappel or a water tour with a guide.
Just an hour’s drive further north, you will find the spellbinding Cascadas de Mico. Ranging from two to 20 metres in height, this glorious set of waterfalls is a feast for the senses. Here, too, canoeing is a fantastic way to explore the area. On your paddling route, make sure to stop by at the caves with cold ponds, so you can cool down a bit. You can buy a snack or two while you’re there and explore the landscape on foot. All in all, a trip to waterfalls is a must on any Mexico bucket list.
Xilitla and Las Pozas
Affectionately called pueblo mágico – ‘magical village’ to you and me – Xilitla, a tropical town shrouded in mystique. Located in a dense rainforest, Xilitla is home to the Las Pozas garden. The British poet Edward James created this otherworldly masterpiece where surrealist sculptures peek out from around tranquil pools and waterfalls.
You have everything you could possibly need. Quiet? Check. Beautiful gardens? Check. A unique experience you can’t wait to snap photos of? Double check! Just take care not to walk into one of the many spiderwebs – like we did! Entry is just five euros (100 Mexican Pesos) and the garden is a perfect place to slow down and explore. There are a handful of restaurants selling delicious local delicacies and plenty of places to discover.
Manantial Media Luna
One last recommendation: do not go home before you’ve seen the Manantial Media Luna! Huge natural pools are lined with trees and lianas, woody vines that you can swing into the crystal-clear water with. Manantial Media Luna has a captivating, divine atmosphere – you’ll barely believe it’s a real place! You can either spend an entire day here or just the afternoon before heading back to your accommodation. Not far away from the ponds are cute places to enjoy a meal and a typical Mexican drink, we recommend the delicious Michelada!
Packing and Accommodation in La Huasteca Potosina
It goes without saying that it gets pretty hot in San Luis Potosí. Make sure to pack light clothing and avoid bringing heavy jumpers or multiple long-sleeved tops. You only really need a light jacket for the nighttime. By now, it’s also probably clear that there’s a good chance of spending some time in the water during your La Huasteca Potosina trip. Be sure to pack enough swimsuits and at least one towel to take out of the accommodation and dry yourself with. We also highly recommend bringing sandals to protect your feet while walking over rough or potentially slippery rocks. Mosquito repellent is also a must when visiting Mexico. The combination of water and wild nature is the perfect mix for flying critters.
Take only the necessities on your excursions: towel, back-up swimsuit, shoes, and plenty of water. If you’re planning on taking lots of photos, you might want to invest in a waterproof phone case or a waterproof disposable camera. The latter is a better option because getting your phone underwater can be a bit risky even with a case. Leave all your valuables in the hotels, so that in the (unlikely) case your rental car gets stolen, there’s minimal loss. Stay alert and remember, security measures are there for a reason! We’re giving you these tips from our own experience, and although we learned our lessons the hard way, that doesn’t mean you have to.
Since you’re likely to be spending most of your time outside on adventures, your accommodation doesn’t have to be a luxury five-star boutique hotel. Hotel prices are generally very good in this region, and group accommodation is affordable if you’re travelling with your friends. All the people we met here were very friendly and told us many stories about the region. La Huasteca Potosina is, like many other places in Mexico, a fantastic place to meet new friends!
Conclusion
There is so much to sink your backpacking teeth into in La Huasteca Potosina. Our top tip is to take your time planning your trip. This way, you can really make the most of all the splendid views, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking nature that this magical region has to offer, no matter how much time you have here. Our personal highlights are the Puente de Dios and the quaint village of Xilitla, as well as the Manantial Media Luna area. If you want to find out more about culture and safety before your trip to Mexico, check out our info article. Take care and have a blast in La Huasteca Potosina!