Huasca de Ocampo
DESTINATION

Huasca de Ocampo

Basalt Columns, Mining Estates, and Forest Landscapes in the Sierra

Why to Visit?

Huasca de Ocampo combines geological formations, colonial history, and mountain ecosystems within a compact region. The Basaltic Prisms stand as one of the most distinctive natural features in Mexico, while former mining estates reveal the economic and social history of the area. Forests, reservoirs, and small communities create an environment where outdoor exploration and cultural heritage intersect. The destination offers a balance between landscape, history, and local food traditions, particularly centered around trout farming.

Located in the highlands of Hidalgo, Huasca de Ocampo was the first town in Mexico to receive the Pueblo Magico designation. Its identity is shaped by both its mining past and its surrounding natural environment.

During the eighteenth century, the region became an important mining center under the direction of Pedro Romero de Terreros, known as the Conde de Regla. Large estates such as Santa Maria Regla and San Miguel Regla were developed to process silver extracted from nearby mines. Today, these sites remain as architectural landmarks, with courtyards, tunnels, and aqueducts that reflect the scale of industrial activity during that period. Some have been adapted into spaces for visitors, allowing access to both their history and structure.

Beyond its historical sites, Huasca is defined by its geological and ecological features. The Basaltic Prisms are the most recognized formation in the area, consisting of vertical, hexagonal columns formed by volcanic activity. Waterfalls cascade over these structures, creating a landscape shaped by both geological processes and seasonal rainfall.

The surrounding region includes pine forests, reservoirs, and open countryside. These environments support activities such as hiking, fishing, and outdoor exploration. Local food traditions, particularly trout raised in nearby farms, are an essential part of the experience and reflect the relationship between the community and its environment.

The Signature Experience

Momentours