Five Reasons To Visit The State Of Michoacan, Mexico
If you want to travel to a state in Mexico that is off the normal tourist radar
, then head to the beautiful state of Michoacan, located to the west of Mexico City. With its western border on the Pacific Ocean, this is the ancient homeland of the Purhepecha Empire, which was a mighty empire that rivaled the Aztecs at the time of the Spanish invasion. The state is still populated by the Purhepecha people, along with the Otomis and the Nahuas. A road trip to Michoacan will get you up close and personal with the real Mexico, one that many tourists never experience. If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, then head south to Michoacan. Here are some of the sites not to be missed in this incredibly beautiful state.
Patzcuaro: This magical lake, and also the town of the same name, is one of the biggest tourist draws to Michoacan. This mysterious lake is surrounded by steep mountains and is of volcanic origin. A number of islands are in the lake, some populated and some not, and all can be visited by boat. A number of towns lie around the lake, including Patzcuaro, Erongaricuaro, Quiroga and Tzintzuntzan. Patzcuaro has been designated as a "Pueblo Magico" by the Mexican government and has also been designated as one of the 100 Historic World Treasure Cities by the United Nations. A number of hotels are available throughout the area. If you are in the area during the end of December, you will be able to witness the cultural festival that is celebrated by the local peoples. Expect dancing, feasting and all around merry-making.
Tzintzuntzan: A trip to Patzcuaro is not complete without a trip to the mysterious ruins of Tzintzuntzan. The pyramids at this site are unlike any other pyramids found in Central America. They were created using a style of stone-masonry similar to the ruins made by the ancient Inca people of Peru in South America. From the site, which is on a hill above the modern day town of Tzintzuntzan, you will also have a magnificent view of the lake, so be sure and bring your camera for some incredible photo opportunities.
Magic Circles: Deep in the mountain forests of Michoacan are these seemingly magical places, where each year millions of Monarch Butterflies fly each year to spend the winter, a migration that scientists say has been occurring for at least 40,000 years. You can visit them today at special reserves that are made just for the protection of these beautiful creatures.
The two main reserves are the El Rosario Reserve and the Sierra Chincua Reserve. You can visit the reserves as a day trip from the city of Morelia or you can stay overnight in the nearby town of Angangueo.
Morelia: The capital city of Morelia is known as a hub of culture and nightlife. Morelia is also known for its fascinating and beautiful colonial architecture, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic center is the place to be in Morelia, where you will find an abundance of beautiful colonial hotels and excellent restaurants, as well as shopping for handcrafts and antiques.
Playa Azul and Caleta de Campos: While Michoacan is mostly noted for its mountains, it does have about 250 kilometers of practically deserted coastline, making it the perfect escape for those looking for a pristine beach to hang their hammock on. Don't expect luxury here, but the accommodations are comfortable and appealing, and budget friendly. A toll road services playa Azul, as well, making it easy to get to by car.
A road trip to Michoacan will take you a few days from the Mexico/U.S. border, longer if you stop to enjoy the scenery. Toll roads service this area so the going is safe, smooth, and easy. Before you go, you will need a good Mexico road map and a Mexican auto insurance policy. You can get your road map from your local bookstore, or order Mexico Road Logs or a Guia Roji online. You can also get your Mexican auto insurance policy online at mexpro.com along with any additional travel insurance (recommended, you can never be too safe!). A trip to Michoacan is sure to be one that will top your list of most incredible places you have been, so make sure your camera is charged and ready and prepare yourself for the sights and experiences that await you in the mysterious and beautiful state of Michoacan.
by: Jim Labelle
A Wonderful Visitors Ideas In Getting The Exciting Journey In Mexico City The trendy Asics Netsuke Tiger Mexico 66 Sneaker Natural Wonders Of Mexico Continued Mexico' s Copper Canyon and Low Waters On The Amazon The Excellent Visitors Options In Having A Amusing Retreat At Mexico A Greatest Visitors Manual On Acquiring A Ideal Escape In Mexico Pachuca Mexico - Calm and Clean City! Mexico Is Columbia All Over Again Remittance To Mexico TOPCRET IN MEXICO Topcret has arrived in Mexico Benefits Of Driving In A Caravan Through Mexico Mexico All Inclusive Resorts Bet on World Cup: Argentina vs Mexico Odds - Round of 16