Cupatitzio Ravine National Park

The place where the water sings. 🌿💦

Less than an hour from Pátzcuaro lies a tropical mountain paradise traditionally known as “The Uruapan Spring”. It's a must-do excursion for nature lovers.

This park protects the ravine formed by the source of the Cupatitzio River, whose name in Purépecha poetically means “river that sings through its falls” 🎶. As you walk through it, you'll understand why: the sound of water crashing against the stones and the fountains accompanies you every step of the way.

The Visitor Experience 🚶‍♂️

It is a haven of peace. Its paths wind through lush vegetation and montane mesophilic forest, surrounding crystal-clear water eyes with stunning hues turquoise blue.

• The Devil's Knee: The main spring originates right at the beginning of the tourist park (not at the end). Its name comes from a local legend about curious rock formations at the bottom of the pond, where it is said the devil left his mark.

• The Route: The park is full of artificial fountains and natural waterfalls that take advantage of the gravity of the ravine, creating a unique visual and auditory spectacle.

• Geographic Info: Although the river originates here, this flow continues its course to form, kilometers further on, the famous and imposing waterfall of Tzaráracua (de 60 metros de altura).

A Protected Green Lung 🌲🦜

Declared a National Park on November 2, 1938, It is one of the smallest protected natural areas in Mexico (450 hectares), but also one of the most biodiverse and dense. It is currently divided into two zones: the recreational area open to tourism and the strict conservation area.

Natural Wealth in Numbers: It is a true biological laboratory that serves as a refuge for migratory and native species:

• Flora: 495 species of native plants (including pine forests, pine-oak forests and 4 endemic orchid species 🌸).

• Fauna: 213 species of terrestrial vertebrates.

• Endemism: Hogar de 28 especies exclusivas de la región (2 anfibios, 3 reptiles, 14 aves y 5 mamíferos).

• Fungi: 84 species of fungi recorded 🍄.

• Conservation: 31 species of flora and fauna are protected under the NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010 standard.

🌟 Our Recommendation

The Perfect Getaway from Pátzcuaro.

Uruapan is the neighboring city and the ideal complement to the lake climate.

1. Arrive early: The park is best enjoyed in the morning, with the coolness of the forest and fewer people.
2. Eat right there: Inside the park there is a food area where you can try rainbow trout (raised in the area) or snacks with real avocado sauce.
3. Don't forget: Comfortable, non-slip shoes (it's a wet area) and a camera. The colors of the water are unreal. 📸