The natural surroundings in Veracruz are beautiful and varied making it a great place for outdoor activities. Some of the more popular activities include:
White Water River Rafting:
Ride down the beautiful rivers of Veracruz. This exciting sport requires
no previous experience on the more tranquil rivers, but there are plenty
of exciting routes that require more experience. The swiftly rushing currents
of some of the rivers will get your adrenaline going and make your heart
go a thousand miles an hour.
The rivers are classified by the International Scale of River
Difficulty based on the degree of movement, force and volume of the water.
The most popular rivers are:
Known as one of the most technical rivers in the world, this
2 to 2 ½ hour trip (depending on the conditions of the river) will
take you through the exciting rapids known as “La Bruja Blanca” (The
White Witch), “La Cueva” (The Cave), and many more class III
and IV rapids.
This river is near the town of Tlapacoyan, Veracruz, approximately 4 hours
from Mexico City. This 25 kilometer odyssey takes you through the white
waters that characterize this area of Veracruz. Along the way, you will
pass imposing places like the “Cuajilote” archeological zone.
This area was an important ceremonial center for the Totonaca culture.
You will also enjoy the large “El Encanto” waterfall and the
25 meter deep pool of crystal clear water beneath it. It is so beautiful
it is called “Nature’s Cathedral” by the natives in this
area.
Rafting down this river, you will find yourself within an impressive 80
meter canyon. Admire the beautiful scenery as you travel through this unpredictable
water.
Rappelling
Due to its varied geography, Jalcomulco is an ideal spot for rappelling.
It has numerous ravines and interesting hills including Tuzamapan Ravine,
Chicabaxtla, La Mesa De Olvera Hill, Boludo Hill, and Pizaltepec Hill.
At Pizaltepec Hill you will find the Cotlamani archeological zone. Enjoy
amazing vistas from the best possible vantage points.
This activity is a challenge that requires intelligence,
strength and the use of all 5 senses.
Gotcha
Gotcha, also known as paintball, is an extreme sport that has gained
considerable popularity in the state. This game consists of eliminating
opponents by shooting them with paint balls. It requires intellectual
and physical aptitude, combining strategy and talent in an adrenaline
pumping fight. The “guns” are basically pistols that work
with a system of valves and hoses that shoot the paintballs up to 280
feet per second, with a maximum range of 100 meters and precision shooting
up to 20 meters.
The “bullets” are balls of paint made to explode on impact.
Opponents are eliminated from the game when they are hit and splattered
with paint. (The paint in the capsules is non-toxic, biodegradable and can
be removed with water, so clothes are not permanently marked.)
The essence of Gotcha or paintball is strategy and conquest.
Although it may appear to be a child-like game, this sport combines technology,
adrenaline and skill. These concepts are joined by the survival instinct
and the always-present desire to overcome the enemy.
The Temazcal Bath
The Temazcal is a pre-Hispanic bath that illustrates the Mesoamerican
culture whose ancient traces can be found in the Palenque archeological
zone in Mexico and in Piedras Negras in Guatemala. This practice has enjoyed
a new popularity as an effective form of therapy and relaxation in some
of the most luxurious and exclusive spas in the world.
The Temazcal was a spiritual center that was used for important ceremonies
and the practice of the legendary wisdom of the Mexican natives. The word
comes from nahua “Casa de Vapor” or “Steam House” (Temaz-Vapor,
Calli-Casa).
Upon entering Temazcal, you will discover the spiritual qualities that
exist there. The relaxation you experience encourages introspection, reflection
and total attention on the expanded perception of the passage of time.
Without a doubt, this is an experience without equal.
Pulley
Another extremely intense activity in Veracruz challenges your vertigo
and gets your adrenaline pumping as you cut through the high, dense trees
at top speed hanging from a pulley.
The greatest benefit is crossing through 400 meters of magical forest
in Jalcomulco to Xalapa in only 35 minutes. This adventure is a must!
Horseback
Riding
Horseback riding in Veracruz is another fun option to make your vacation
an unforgettable experience. Find a stable run by natives to the area
to ensure experienced guides who will know of many great spots in the
valley of Jalcomulco.
The trails will take you to the innermost part of nature in Veracruz,
through the hills, along the bank of the river and through amazing landscapes.
Mountain Biking
Also known as down-hill, this activity is another way to explore the
dazzling natural surroundings in the state of Veracruz. Mountain biking
requires little equipment to explore the paths and slopes that Veracruz
has to offer. Biking through town is also a great way to explore the attractions
in the area.
The diverse ecosystems create a variety of climates, flora and fauna
that make this a fabulous experience.
Adventure Trips
Adventure trips for the whole family explore ancient sites and magical
places. One of these is the Totonaca cemetery called Cotlamani. Local
guides will take you through this humid tropical zone of majestic trees.
Later, you can descend into a 200 meter canyon to the magical city of
Xocilapa. Here the adobe houses, which blend into the natural surroundings,
help to conserve the landscape and its ecological equilibrium.
Trekking is an adventure of exploration in the natural world. Paragliding
is another intense activity to enjoy. Defy the laws of gravity as you
glide through the sky.
The Pico de Orizaba is the tallest volcano in the country and is the
third highest summit in North America. It is world-famous for its beauty,
its incredible number of micro climates and its altitude.
The experience of reaching the summit of this volcano is beyond compare.
This trip is physically taxing, but arriving at the top of the crater
is worth all the effort when you see the incredible view from the highest
point in Mexico.
Diving and Snorkeling
The 800 kilometers of coastline in Veracruz makes this an ideal spot
for diving and snorkeling. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico are filled
with amazingly beautiful underwater life. Some of the best places to find
coral and other colorful life are: Roca Partida, Isla Lobos, La Gallega,
La Galleguilla, La Blanquilla, Anegada de Adrentro, Isla Verde, Arrecife
Pajaros, Isla de Sacrificios, La Blanca, Chopas-Salmedina-Los Bajitos,
Arrecife Polo, Arrecife Rizo, Arrecife de Isla de en Medio, Arrecife Cabezo,
Anegada de Afuera-Isla Topatillo, Isla Santiaguillo and Anegadilla.
Many businesses in the area offer diving and snorkeling services to help
you discover the natural wealth off the coast of Veracruz.
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