Mapimí
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◈ This a truly unique spot. Its colorful history and location in the midst of an inhospitable desert give a certain air of mystery. Moreover, its striking monuments and scenery are breathtaking, especially the famous ghost town of Ojuela.
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◆ Whiz across the zip line above Ojuela, and pose for pictures on the bridge.
◆ Visit Mapimí’s unusual cemetery.
◆ Explore nearby Grutas del Rosario
Every July 25th, the town celebrates its founding in 1598 with a festival.
Festivities include masses, fireworks, traditional dances, rides, sporting events, and food shows.
❖ Bolsón de Mapimí
Today a desert, Bolsón de Mapimí, was once an ancient ocean called Tethys. Then, it was a tropical forest, and more recently, it was made up of a series of bodies of water that fed into two rivers—the powerful Río Nazas and Aguanaval.
The Bolsón de Mapimí Biosphere Reserve in particular is teeming with diverse forms of life. There are 350 plant species, 270 vertebrates, and endangered endemic species such as Bolson tortoises (AKA Mexican giant tortoises), red-tailed hawks, prairie falcon, turkey vultures, common kestrels, woodpeckers, mule deer, and other species.
❖ Panteón Municipal
Another noteworthy spot in Mapimí is the city cemetery. This Panteón Municipal shows how this Magical Town’s inhabitants have come from all over.
Moreover, you can admire the sculptures by local artist Benigno Montoya. The limestone angels in particular are prime examples of funerary art.
❖ Museo Benito Juárez
Also known as Casa Cigarroa, former President Benito Juárez, or the Benemérito de las Américas, stayed here during the República Itinerante period. You can see the bed where he slept, as well as paintings, documents, and household objects that give a glimpse of what life was like during his time in town.
❖ Cross Puente Ojuela and Slide Down a Zip Line
Dare yourself to cross the hanging bridge that is almost 6 feet wide. The bridge’s design was inspired by the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Plus, the zip line circuit here is a must. The views of the ravine are breathtaking, and if you brave a look, the bottom is some 328 feet down.
Mina de Ojuela was the world’s second poly-metallic mine, and one of Mexico’s most important mines. It produced silver, gold, copper, lead, zinc, and magnesium. The Camino Real de Tierra Adentro (Royal Road of the Heartland) which ran by here is now a World Heritage Site.
❖ See Castles and Elves in Grutas del Rosario
Only 14 miles from Mapimí, lies this cave system where you can admire stalagmites and stalactites. In addition, there are also very unusual rock formations that are not found in all caves. They grow horizontally from the roof of the cave.
Throughout the 547-yard tour, there are figures like castles, elves, churches, and harps. It is believed that this cave was formed some 134 million years ago in the last ice age, although it was only discovered 20 years ago.
❖ Soak Up the Skies in Aguas Termales de Pelayo
Spend time in nature and experience the hot springs’ healing powers.
If you stay overnight, you can marvel at the dark, starry skies.
❖ Fiestas de
la Fundación de Mapimí
Every July 25th, the town celebrates its founding in 1598 with a festival.
Festivities include masses, fireworks, traditional dances, rides, sporting events, and food shows.
