Welcome, fellow travelers, to another heart-pounding adventure with Nomadic Corazón! This time, I found myself wandering through the lush, vibrant heart of Mexico: La Huasteca. Located in the northeastern region, primarily in the state of San Luis Potosí, La Huasteca is a paradise for nature lovers, thrill-seekers, and anyone craving a deeper connection with Mexico’s lesser-known wonders.
The Lure of Cascading Waterfalls
La Huasteca is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the country, each one more mesmerizing than the last. Cascada de Tamul is the crown jewel—a 105-meter-high waterfall that crashes into a turquoise river. To reach Tamul, I took a boat ride down the Tampaon River, paddling with a local guide who told me stories of ancient Huastec traditions, mixing history and adventure as we approached the roaring falls. Standing at the base of Tamul, feeling the mist cool my skin under the warm Mexican sun, I was reminded of why I travel—these moments of pure, natural awe.
Adventure at Every Turn
La Huasteca is much more than just waterfalls, though they are reason enough to visit. The area is packed with outdoor activities that will have your heart racing. If you love caving, you can’t miss Sótano de las Golondrinas (Cave of the Swallows), a 370-meter-deep sinkhole that’s perfect for adrenaline junkies looking to rappel down into the abyss.
The jungle-covered mountains that define the region hide countless adventures—zip-lining over the canopy, rafting down the rapids of the Río Micos, or trekking through the humid forests to uncover hidden caves and ancient ruins. Each day was an exhilarating blur of activity, leaving me both exhausted and exhilarated as the sun dipped behind the mountains.
Connection with Nature and People
The magic of La Huasteca is not just in its landscapes but in the people you meet along the way. The region is home to indigenous Huastec and Nahua communities, and the blend of cultures adds a rich layer to the journey. I spent an afternoon in the town of Xilitla, visiting the surreal Las Pozas gardens created by Edward James, a British artist who fell in love with the area’s mysticism. The sculptures rising out of the jungle look like they belong to an ancient dream—spirals, staircases to nowhere, and strange arches entwined with the natural environment. It’s one of the most unique places I’ve ever seen.
At night, after a long day of exploration, I sat with locals over bowls of zacahuil, a delicious tamale-like dish made from corn dough and meat, slow-cooked underground. They spoke of their deep connection to the land, their families, and their way of life, which seemed so beautifully intertwined with nature.
Why La Huasteca Should Be Your Next Destination
La Huasteca offers a little something for everyone—whether you’re in search of adrenaline-fueled activities, peaceful natural beauty, or cultural immersion. For me, it was the perfect mix of challenge and serenity. From the roaring waterfalls to the misty jungle mornings, every moment here felt like a discovery.
As I boarded my bus back to Mexico City, I couldn’t help but feel a little tug in my heart—a longing to return and explore more of what this incredible region has to offer. I left La Huasteca feeling renewed, my soul invigorated by its wild beauty, and eager to share it with all of you.
Until the next adventure, amigos.
— Pablo Trevizo, Nomadic Corazón: Journey of a Latin Explorer
