ECOTOURISM

In Xalapa?s environs you?ll find numerous nature areas that are ideal for enjoying a wide array of a regional flora and fauna.

Cofre de Perote National Park. Located 50 km (31 mi) west of Xalapa, off Highway 140. This is one of the most visited nature areas in the state of Veracruz. It covers an area of 11,700 hectares (28,899 acres), which consists mostly of forested mountains. At this park you can observe endemic flora and fauna in pine, fir and oak forests, which are the habitat of such animal species as squirrels, opossums, raccoons, armadillos, foxes, owls and bats.

Parque Ecologico Macuiltepetl (Macuiltepetl Ecological Park). The main entrance is on the corner of Tepic and Toluca. This 31-hectare (76-acre) park has a moist forest where you can observe indigenous fauna, including reptiles, amphibians, birds and butterflies. Open Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 to 5:00.

Cascada de Texolo (Texolo Waterfall). Located 19 km (12 mi) southwest of Xalapa, in the town of Xico. This 80-meter (264-foot) waterfall drops into a canyon with abundant vegetation, which is home to numerous animal species.