Get to know the work of Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda by visiting some of the traditional restaurants alongside the Flavor Trail, the network of eco-lodges, farms working to regenerate their soils, and organic vegetable and fruit producers. Delve into the concepts of ecosystem services and carbon footprint, and think about the ecological impact of our lifestyle while learning about strategies that will help you reduce it. All this while observing several ecosystems that comprise the most eco-diverse protected area in Mexico and conducting field work.

    Day 1

    Meet your local guide at Artisan Rest Point in Maguey Verde, Peñamiller. We will then drive to the community of Cuatro Palos. Once there, we will be able to observe the transition from semi-desert to forest ecosystem and get an explanation of their functions, flora, and fauna. We will take a walk through an oak forest to reach a lookout point where we will be able to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Sierra Madre Oriental. Lunch boxes will be provided in order to maximize our time in nature.

    After lunch, we will head to Chuvejé Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state of Querétaro that has a nearly 30-metre drop into the crystal-clear rock pools. To reach it, we will take a walk on the path that intertwines through a forest of stately sycamores. Once there, you will have time to enjoy the natural beauty while we explain to you the function of watersheds.

    We will then travel to Centro Tierra Cabins in Jalpan de Serra, where we will attend a presentation about the Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda’s conservation work over the past 30 years.

    You will end the day with a dinner in Centro Tierra and a well-deserved rest.

    Accommodation: Sierra Gorda Cabins

    Day 2

    After breakfast, we will attend a presentation on the ecosystem services in the Sierra Gorda. This will be followed by a working session on Protected Natural Areas led by the Environmental Education Team.

    Afterwards, we will travel to Concá to visit Alimentos Pura Vida workshop and learn how a group of women makes jams, sauces, and other processed food.

    We will continue on to Ayutla, where we will enjoy lunch at Los Sauces Campground. After lunch, we will have time to take a walk or swim in Ayutla River.

    We will then drive (approximately one hour and a half) to Rancho Tonatico, our educational farm. Once there, we will set up camp and bonfire, and have dinner.

    Accommodation: Rancho Tonatico

    Day 3

    Before breakfast, we will have the opportunity to milk goats and observe others as they milk cows. We will learn about organic milk production and the role that organic fertilizers play in soil regeneration. We will also have a chance to get our hands dirty in a bio-intensive fruit and vegetable garden, attend a horse training session, and take a walk through a forest to learn how to measure carbon capture in trees.

    Before returning to Pinal de Amoles where we will conclude our tour, we will be able to enjoy a delicious lunch made from organic ingredients produced on the farm.