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If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Real de Catorce.
Step into a world where time stands still, the rugged terrain meets the clear blue sky, and adventure lurks around every corner.
Real de Catorce, a hidden gem in Mexico, is a breathtaking destination that offers a plethora of activities that embody the essence of adventure, mystique, and spiritual enlightenment.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping excursion or a serene getaway, Real de Catorce has everything you need to nourish your soul and feed your wanderlust.
So pack your bags, buckle up, and let’s explore the wonders of Real de Catorce – where possibilities are endless.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Real de Catorce:
1. La Parroquia de la Purísima Concepción
A beautiful 18th-century church located in the town of Real de Catorce, Mexico.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning neoclassical architecture and the intricate artwork inside. Attend a mass or a religious celebration to fully experience the spiritual essence of the church.
Don’t miss: The impressive main altar, covered in gold leaf and featuring a statue of the Virgin Mary at its center.
Also, make sure to climb to the top of the bell tower for a breathtaking view of the town and the surrounding desert.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. If you’re interested in history, join a guided tour to learn more about the church’s significance and the town’s past.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes as the climb to the bell tower can be quite steep.
2. The Real de Catorce Cemetery
The Real de Catorce Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in the town of Real de Catorce in northern Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the cemetery and take in its eerie beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The cemetery has a number of historic graves, including those of soldiers who died during the Mexican Revolution.
There are also numerous ornate gravestones and crypts that are worth seeing.
Don’t miss: One of the most interesting parts of the cemetery is the area reserved for the indigenous Huichol people. The graves here are decorated with colorful, intricate beadwork and offer a glimpse into the Huichol culture.
Insider travel tips: – The cemetery is best visited during the day, as there is very little lighting at night.
3. The Ogarrio Tunnel
The Ogarrio Tunnel is a 2.3-kilometer long mining tunnel located in the town of Real de Catorce in Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk through the dark and eerie tunnel which is dimly lit with lanterns and learn about the history of mining in the region.
The tunnel is scattered with old mining tools, carts, and tracks, which add to the historical significance of the place.
Don’t miss: The chance to take a trip in a former mining cart, which is pushed by a local guide and provides a thrilling ride through the tunnel.
The cart ride is a unique and unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Insider travel tips: – Be prepared to walk for about forty minutes to reach the tunnel entrance.
4. El mirador del cerro Quemado
El Mirador del Cerro Quemado, also known as the Mirador de la Cruz, is a scenic viewpoint located in the town of Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí, Mexico.
What to see or do: From the viewpoint, visitors can witness breathtaking views of the town, the surrounding desert landscape, and the Sierra de Catorce mountain range.
It is also an excellent spot for stargazing and watching the sunset.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a moment to admire the beautiful metal cross that stands at the viewpoint. This cross is a symbol of the town’s religious heritage.
Insider travel tips: To reach the viewpoint, visitors must hike up a steep path that can be challenging. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
Visitors should also be mindful of the altitude and take necessary precautions, especially if they are not accustomed to high altitudes.
Additionally, it is best to visit the Mirador in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
5. The Plaza de la Alhóndiga
A historic square located in the heart of Real de Catorce, a mystical town nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains of Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the picturesque plaza and admire the colonial architecture, including the famous Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a former grain warehouse turned museum.
Visitors can also browse through handicraft stalls, enjoy a coffee or beer at one of the local cafes, or simply people watch.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset over the stunning desert landscape from the plaza.
As the sun dips behind the mountains, the sky transforms into a fiery display of pinks and oranges, casting a magical glow over the entire town.
Insider travel tips: Real de Catorce is located at an altitude of 2,740 meters (8,990 feet), so visitors should bring warm layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night.
Parking is limited in the town, so it’s best to park at the entrance and walk into the center.
Take some time to explore the town’s winding cobblestone streets, including the famous Tunnel Ogarrio, an old mining tunnel that runs underneath the mountain.
Finally, be sure to try the local delicacy, gorditas de nata, small pastries filled with sweet cream.
6. The Museo de Sitio Casa de las Diligencias
A museum located in Real de Catorce, Mexico, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of the region.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Museo de Sitio Casa de las Diligencias can explore a range of exhibits and displays related to the area’s rich mining heritage and indigenous culture.
Highlights of the museum include a recreated 19th-century diligencia (stagecoach) and a collection of artifacts and photographs chronicling the town’s history.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the museum’s collection of huichol art, which showcases the vibrant and colorful handicrafts produced by the indigenous Huichol people of the region.
The museum’s gift shop also offers a range of souvenirs and handicrafts from local artisans.
Insider travel tips: Pay a visit to the museum’s rooftop terrace for stunning views of Real de Catorce and the surrounding mountains. Also, be sure to check the museum’s hours in advance, as they can vary depending on the season.
7. The Casa de las Minas
A historic mansion turned into a museum showcasing the history of local mining.
What to see or do: Wander through the various rooms of the museum and admire the antique artifacts and photographs on display that tell the story of the local mining industry.
Don’t miss: The underground mine tunnel tour, where you can experience the feeling of being a miner and learn about the different types of minerals that were extracted from the area.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and can be slippery in some areas of the tunnel. Photography is allowed, but you need to purchase a permit at the entrance.
The museum is closed on Mondays.
8. The Ex-Hacienda de Guadalupe
A former hacienda turned museum located in Real de Catorce, a historic mining town in central Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum to learn about the rich history of Real de Catorce and its importance as a mining town.
The hacienda grounds contain a beautiful chapel, a courtyard, and a number of preserved buildings and artifacts.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views from the hacienda’s rooftop terrace, where visitors can take in the stunning landscape of the surrounding mountains and desert terrain.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the museum involves a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs.
Additionally, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, as the hacienda can get busy during peak hours.
9. The Galería Panteón
An art gallery located in the small town of Real de Catorce, Mexico.
What to see or do: The Galería Panteón features a variety of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography, from both local and international artists. Visitors can explore the gallery’s different rooms and admire the impressive artworks.
Don’t miss: The stunning architecture of the building that houses the gallery, which was once a 19th-century mansion. The gallery’s rooftop offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape, making for a great photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: Check the gallery’s schedule before visiting, as there are often temporary exhibitions and events.
It’s also recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the day, as the town can get quite crowded during peak hours.
Lastly, make sure to bring comfortable shoes, as some of the roads leading to the gallery can be steep and rocky.
10. La Capilla del Santo Cristo
La Capilla del Santo Cristo is a small chapel located in the heart of the popular ghost town of Real de Catorce in Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the simple but striking façade of the chapel, adorned with a magnificent wrought-iron cross.
The interior houses an embalmed figure of Christ, reputed to have miraculous powers, which draws hundreds of pilgrims and tourists each year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to witness the famous ‘Dance of the Matachines,’ a religious dance performed in honor of the Santo Cristo.
This event takes place every year on October 4th and is an integral part of the indigenous cultural heritage of the region.
Insider travel tips: Visit the chapel early in the morning when it’s quiet and peaceful or late at night when the stars shine the brightest.
Also, make sure to carry a light jacket because the weather in Real de Catorce can be unpredictable.
11. The Museo de Arte Sacro
The Museo de Arte Sacro is a small museum in the quaint town of Real de Catorce, Mexico, dedicated to religious art and artifacts.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a collection of religious items, including sculptures, paintings, altarpieces, and costumes. The museum also has a section dedicated to the history of the town and its religious traditions.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is a statue of Christ the King clad in silver robes, which is carried through the streets during the town’s annual procession.
Insider travel tips: The Museo de Arte Sacro is located in the center of Real de Catorce and is a short walk from the town’s other main attractions.
Admission is inexpensive, and the museum is usually not too crowded, making it a peaceful place to explore.
12. The Casa de la Cacica
A historic house located in the small town of Real de Catorce, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the inside of the house which was built in the 18th century and features traditional Mexican architecture. The house now serves as a museum dedicated to the local culture and history of Real de Catorce.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains from the rooftop terrace of Casa de la Cacica.
Insider travel tips: If possible, try to visit during the week as weekends can get very crowded. Additionally, it is recommended to hire a local guide to fully appreciate the history and significance of the site.
13. The Templo de la Limpia Concepción
The Templo de la Limpia Concepción, also known as the Church of the Immaculate Conception, is a stunning Baroque-style church located in the ghost town of Real de Catorce, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate architecture and design of the church, which was built in the early 18th century. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful artwork including frescoes and paintings.
Visitors can also attend a mass or religious ceremony within the church.
Don’t miss: Be sure to climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views of the entire town of Real de Catorce and the surrounding desert landscape.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid crowds.
14. The Plaza de Toros
A bullring located in the unique and mystical town of Real de Catorce in Mexico.
What to see or do: Attend a bullfight in the oldest and smallest bullring in the country, built in 1890.
Walk around the arena to admire the impressive architecture made of stone, and visit the bullring museum to learn about the history and tradition of bullfighting.
Don’t miss: Exploring the charming town of Real de Catorce and its narrow cobbled streets, old buildings, and artisan shops.
Take a horse ride through the enchanting desert landscape, visit the abandoned mining town of Estación Catorce, and witness the mystical energy of the Wirikuta Desert.
Insider travel tips: Check the schedule of bullfights in advance as they are not held regularly. If you are not comfortable with the idea of bullfighting, you can visit the bullring museum instead.
Wear comfortable shoes as the town’s streets are hilly and uneven. Bring sunscreen and a hat as the sun can be strong.
Remember to respect the local culture and traditions.
15. The Casa de la Moneda
A historic silver mint that was in operation in the 18th century, now converted into a museum.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive colonial architecture and exhibits on the history of currency and mining in Mexico. Visitors can also view the old machinery that was used to produce silver coins.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see the original tools and presses used to craft coins, as well as the various rooms used by the mint workers.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance of this site.
It is also worth visiting the nearby ghost town of Real de Catorce, which has a unique and intriguing history of its own.