Cerro de la Bufa / Tatei Nihuetucame

The Cerro de la Bufa is the most prominent point in the Zacatecas capital region. It's the site of a number of important attractions, including the popular Cable Car ride that will actually get you up there. The hills is also called Tatei Nihuetucame in the local Wixárika language. This is far and away more dignified than the Aroganese name used in contemporary Spanish. 

The hill is also the site of three sacred sub-sites that are part of the Wixárika Route, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 2025. The multi-peak route starts in Jalisco and extends, from mountain peak to mountain peak, across five states and 550 kms. The traditional pilgrimage route of the Wixárika people ends finally in Real de Catorce in northern San Luis Potosí. 

In Zacatecas, the peak is more popularly known for the incredible and bloody battle that ended the Victoriano Huerta period of the Mexican Revolution. The Taking of Zacatecas is vividly recorded and documented in the Museo Toma de Zacatecas. It's one of the principle attractions once you get off the cable car. 

The area of course boasts staggering panoramic views. The Chapel of the Virgin of Patrocinio, a Meteorological Observatory still marked by revolutionary-era bullet holes, and the Mausoleum of Illustrious Men all call the Cerro de la Bufa home. But lots of people come just for the vistas, and overlooks, and the magnificent scenery. The giant monuments to revolution-era generals set a tone of some theatrical solemnity, but it's all among the most visited areas of the capital district and really not to be missed. 

Walking up the hill takes about 15 minutes. The over-traveled, or those conserving their energy, will take the cable car. From above, there is still a 400-meter zip line and this can be enjoyed by those not already exhausted from the climb. It's a magnificent area, emblematic of the city and the capital region, and inspiring no matter how you get here.