Queretaro, a role model in ecotourism
In early September, Mexico's Ministry of Tourism recognized the important work done by the state of Queretaro with the creation of an ecotourism project that has been able to create jobs and support local communities. In the past three years, six new areas have been developed to offer visitors a unique experience for camping. Each one has its own essence but all of them have safari-type cabins and come with all the services needed for camping.
Since its creation, more than 6,000 people have visited the camps every year, which means an occupation of 80 percent. Due to its success, the Mexican government will create a special guide in order to share a common framework that will guide other states to create eco-touristic projects like these camps where local communities are employed and the environment is unharmed.
San Pedro Huimilpan is located less than one hour from the city of Queretaro, and it is framed by the idyllic landscape of the dam of San Pedro. This is an ultimate getaway for those living in the city and for sport fishing lovers.
Located in the Sierra Gorda, El Jabali is a camp reachable only by ATV that takes visitors to one of the six safari-type cabins. In order to get there, visitors will go beyond the town of San Joaquin, cross rivers, canyons, forests and rough paths until they reach the cabins. For more information, e-mail campamento_eljabali@yahoo.com.mx.
Three hours from Santiago de Queretaro is the Escanela River, a campsite completely isolated from other towns and surrounded by the vibrant vegetation of a Biosphere Reserve. It is a unique camping experience with five safari-type cabins, a barbecue area, a palm shelter, and a common kitchen.
A few minutes from the town of San Joaquin, and surrounded by mountains is Aventura Park. This is an extreme adventure-themed camp with great areas for camping and additional activities such as zip lining, mountain biking, and rappelling.
La Isla is another campsite located in the middle of a great valley of water – just like an actual island. La Isla has eight cabins and an impressive landscape that can be observed from the swimming pool. The camp is ideal for sport fishing since black bass is abundant.
San Juan de los Duran is located in one of the best preserved areas of the Biosphere Reserve. Stargazing, bird watching, boat tours and mountain biking are some of the attractions. For more information, visit www.sierragorda.net.
To reach Queretaro (airport code QRO) you can take a direct flight from Houston on Continental Airlines.
