29 August 2024

Monterrey in Nuevo León: Pearls of Northern Mexico. Cola de Caballo

Hola! Amigos,

I recently had the opportunity to visit two attractions that are considered icons of Monterrey. These are the Grutas de Garcia caves and the Cola de Caballo waterfall. Today I will talk a bit more about the waterfall.

The other attractions will appear on the blog in the next articles. But first things first…

Monterrey: The Industrial Heart of Mexico with the Soul of Culture

Monterrey, the capital of the state of Nuevo León, is one of the most important cities in Mexico, both economically and culturally. Known as the "City of the Mountains" (La Ciudad de las Montañas) due to its spectacular location at the foot of the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range, this dynamic city combines modernity with deep traditions, creating a unique blend that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is the second largest city in Mexico.

Monterrey Attractions & Culture

Monterrey is a city that impresses with its variety of attractions. Here you will find modern skyscrapers, historical monuments and numerous parks and places to relax.

Macroplaza: It is one of the largest city squares in the world, surrounded by numerous government buildings, theaters, museums and gardens. It is home to the Monterrey Cathedral, as well as the Mexican History Museum, which offers a fascinating journey through the country's history.
Paseo Santa Lucía: This is a man-made canal about 2.5 km long that connects Macroplaza with Parque Fundidora. Walking along the canal, you can admire modern sculptures, fountains and lush vegetation, and you can also take a boat trip that offers a different perspective on this beautiful city.
Parque Fundidora: A former steel mill transformed into a vast urban park that is a center of entertainment and culture. It is home to many museums, concert halls, bike paths and the KidZania theme park. It is a great place for a family vacation, as well as for taking part in the many festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year.
Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MARCO): This is one of the most important contemporary art museums in Mexico, featuring exhibitions of both Mexican and international artists. The museum building itself is a work of art, designed by the famous architect Ricardo Legorreta.
Cerro de la Silla: A distinctive saddle-shaped mountain that has become a symbol of the city. It is a popular hiking spot, offering breathtaking views of Monterrey and the surrounding area.

Nuevo León: Region of Contrasts and Natural Wonders

The state of Nuevo León, of which Monterrey is the capital, is a region full of contrasts, combining a developed industrial infrastructure with pristine nature and a rich cultural heritage. It is one of the most important states in Mexico in terms of economy, but also one of the most beautiful, with vast mountainous areas, deserts, rivers and waterfalls.

The Natural Beauty of Nuevo León

Parque Nacional Cumbres de Monterrey: This vast national park encompasses the Sierra Madre Oriental Mountains, including the famous Cola de Caballo waterfall. It is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers, who can encounter a wide variety of plant and animal species here.
Grutas de García: Spectacular caves that offer a unique journey through an underground world of stalactites and stalagmites. There are both hiking trails and a cable car that provides views of the beautiful surroundings.
Potrero Chico: A world-famous rock climbing spot that attracts adrenaline junkies from all over the world. The high, vertical rock faces offer challenges for climbers of all skill levels.

Culture and Traditions

Gastronomy: The cuisine of Nuevo León is as diverse as its landscapes. Monterrey is famous for its "cabrito" (roasted kid) and "machacado con huevo" (dried meat with egg), which are must-try dishes when visiting. Local delicacies are often accompanied by regional salsas, whose heat and flavor are unforgettable.
Festivals and Celebrations: There are many festivals in Monterrey and throughout the state that celebrate both contemporary culture and ancestral traditions. Of note is the Santa Lucía Festival, which is one of the largest cultural events in the region, showcasing art, music and dance from around the world.

Expedition to the Cola de Caballo Waterfall in Monterrey

If you are planning a trip to Monterrey, one of the places that is definitely worth visiting is the Cola de Caballo waterfall. This picturesque place, surrounded by lush nature, is the perfect destination for a day trip, during which you will relax in the bosom of nature while enjoying the amazing views. If your travel plan includes visiting the desert and the Parras Valley, the road along the mountain range from Monterrey to Saltillo will provide the right dose of adrenaline.

Let's start with the waterfall. For me, it is one of those places that you want to return to.

Below you will find a detailed itinerary and some practical tips to help you make the most of this day.

How to get there?

The Cola de Caballo waterfall is located in the Parque Nacional Cumbres de Monterrey, about 40 km south of the city center of Monterrey. The most convenient option is to rent a car, which will allow for flexibility and comfort of travel. The route takes about 1 hour and leads through picturesque mountain roads. Alternatively, you can take advantage of local tours organized by tourist offices in Monterrey, which provide transport and a guide. I chose a car. And I do not regret it. Access is easy, parking is available on site without any problems. In addition, I could continue my journey to Saltillo, driving along narrow, mountain roads. Sometimes "with my heart in my shoulder" but the views of the mountain range, passes and valleys, compensated for the stress. Tip - fill up the car in Monterrey, fuel consumption on the mountain serpentines makes a whirl in the tank...

What to bring?

Comfortable shoes: The paths leading to the falls can be steep and rocky in places, so sturdy hiking shoes are essential. This is essential if you plan on going off the paved road to the falls. If you don’t plan on walking around, sturdy shoes will suffice.
Water and snacks: Although there are food stations in the park, it’s a good idea to bring a bottle of water and something to eat, especially if you plan on taking a longer walk.
Sun protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are a must, especially on hot, sunny days.
Camera: The views are spectacular, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the moments.
Swimsuit: If you plan on cooling off in the water, bring a swimsuit and a towel. Quite a few Mexicans swim in the streams that wind along the way to the falls.

The course of the expedition

Setting off early in the morning, preferably around 8:00, will help you avoid the crowds and the heat. Once you get to the park, it is worth visiting the information centre first, where you can get a map and information about the routes. The most popular route leads straight to the waterfall and is suitable for tourists of all skill levels. The walk takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace. Entry to the park is 50 pesos, or USD 2.5 per adult. You can also rent a Mexican carriage for fun. However, I recommend this only for children. 40 pesos, or USD 2, is not much, but the route to the waterfall is really not demanding.

On the way, you pass dense forests, and the path leads along the stream, which adds charm to the whole trip. It is in these places that you can go down to the water, take a swim and eat lunch. There are also many picnic spots.

At some point, you will hear the sound of water, which means that you are approaching your destination. The Cola de Caballo waterfall, or “horse tail,” owes its name to its characteristic shape. The water falling from a height of about 25 meters creates a magnificent sight, especially after rains, when the waterfall is most impressive. A footbridge and stairs have been built to allow you to go around the waterfall and see the torrents of water falling from the 25-meter cliff from several places.

Once you get there, you can relax in the lap of nature, admire the views, or have a picnic in the designated areas. If you are an adres.naline junkie, try zip-lining, which offers an unforgettable experience of flying over the canyon.

You can also drive up the road to the aforementioned cliff to see the waterfall from above. Then head towards Saltillo and… experience an exciting ride on mountain road.

After visiting the waterfall, it is worth exploring the surrounding area. Nearby is also the Grutas de García cave, which offers a fascinating journey through labyrinths of stalactites and stalagmites. You can also go hiking to the nearby mountain peaks, from where there are amazing views of the entire area.

The Cola de Caballo waterfall is a place that will delight any nature lover and active recreation. It is worth spending a whole day exploring this corner of Mexico, enjoying the beauty of nature and the peace that this place offers. Whether you are a keen hiker or just looking for a place to relax, a trip to Cola de Caballo is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Practical tips:

Remember cash: In some areas of the park, card payments may not be accepted.
Plan ahead: During the tourist season, it is worth booking tickets in advance, especially if you plan on additional attractions such as zip-lines or visiting caves.
Respect nature: Take all rubbish with you and respect nature so that this beautiful place remains unspoiled for future generations.

Tourist Friendly Environment

A trip to the Cola de Caballo waterfall is the perfect way to spend a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city and get closer to nature in one of the most beautiful regions of Mexico.

Monterrey and Nuevo León are places that offer not only amazing views and attractions, but also excellent tourist infrastructure. Numerous hotels, restaurants, and easy access to transport make it an ideal place for a short trip or a longer stay. The city and region are also known for the friendliness of their inhabitants, who are eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

These are true gems of northern Mexico, offering tourists a unique combination of modernity, culture and nature. From the bustling city to the peaceful mountain trails and picturesque landscapes, this is a place that will satisfy every traveler looking for an authentic experience and unforgettable impressions. I am already planning my next visit. Especially since many restaurants serve delicious steaks ...

It was just one day... but as Gabriela Mistral says:

Tengo un dia. Si lo se aprovechar, tengo un tesoro.

I have one day. If I know how to make the most of it, I have a treasure.

Hasta luego!