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Five Nature Experiences in Mascota

Just three and a half hours by car from Guadalajara lies the Magical Town of Mascota, known for its beautiful mountain landscapes surrounded by forests, rivers, streams, and lagoons — perfect for outdoor and nature-based adventures. At Escape a lo Mágico, you’ll find activities for all ages and fitness levels designed to help you connect with Mascota’s natural side. This tour company offers experiences such as stargazing nights, mountain biking, kayaking, off-road tours, and hiking. It’s also worth noting that Mascota is just a two-hour drive from Puerto Vallarta, making it easy to plan a trip that combines beach relaxation with mountain adventures. The town is located between two other Magical Towns — San Sebastián del Oeste and Talpa de Allende — and is also part of the Raicilla Route. Discover below five nature experiences you can enjoy in Mascota. Astronomical Camping Climb to one of the highest points of the Sierra Madre Occidental, set up your tent, and get ready for a stargazing night where you’ll witness the wonders of the universe and reflect on how small we are on this planet called Earth. From the moment you begin your ascent in an all-terrain vehicle along forest-lined roads with breathtaking views, you’ll know the adventure is worth it. Once you reach Cerro del Puerto, located at the highest point of the town of Juanacatlán, and set up your tent, enjoy a dinner of grilled meat, freshly made tortillas, vegetables, panela cheese, quesadillas, and local products from nearby communities. From 9:00 p.m. to midnight, with the guidance of an expert, identify the main constellations and observe the Milky Way. They provide all necessary equipment, including binoculars and a telescope. The next morning, end your experience with a hearty countryside breakfast of huevos rancheros, fresh cheese, handmade tortillas, and regional coffee. This activity takes place during the clear-sky season, from November to May. Participants aged 3 and older who are familiar with outdoor activities are welcome. Mountain Biking Dare to explore the mountains on two wheels. Mascota is known for its multiple mountain biking routes, especially enduro biking — a more extreme version that involves fast downhill riding and requires specialized bikes. Another popular form is cross-country biking, which involves covering long distances through natural and mountain terrain with less technical descents. Mascota offers several routes for this style as well. Escape a lo Mágico provides the necessary equipment for cross-country biking. Depending on your level, there are beginner routes starting at 5 kilometers and advanced ones up to 60 kilometers, all leading you deep into the Sierra Madre Occidental. Depending on your purpose — training or leisure — you can maintain a steady pace or make stops along the way to admire the scenery, visit local attractions, and take photos. Each group, with a maximum of 12 participants, is accompanied by a support vehicle carrying water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Off-Road Nature Tour If you prefer something less extreme, try an off-road racer tour through Mascota’s surrounding towns. The route is well-marked and in good condition. This experience begins in nearby communities such as Yerbabuena and continues through Cimarrón Chico, Navidad, and Juanacatlán. At each stop, you’ll have time to explore local attractions and take memorable photos. In Juanacatlán — the final destination — you’ll visit local producers to sample and purchase traditional treats such as handmade ice cream (nieves de garrafa), panela cheese, ates (fruit paste), dried figs, and the famous tamales colados, a true regional delicacy. It’s best to take this tour during the rainy season (June to September), when the landscapes are especially lush and green. Paddleboarding and Kayaking at Corrinchis Dam For water lovers, Escape a lo Mágico offers paddleboard (SUP) lessons and guided outings on Corrinchis Dam. You’ll paddle approximately 7 kilometers over about three and a half hours. This full-body workout helps improve balance and endurance — and if you prefer sitting down, you can opt for a kayak instead. Hiking A peaceful, mindful walk through nature never hurts. Depending on your fitness level, you can choose routes ranging from 5 to 25 kilometers. Like the other activities, hiking allows you to connect with the natural beauty of the Sierra Madre Occidental. Bring hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, water, a snack, and a first-aid kit. More Information Escape a lo Mágico Address: Hidalgo 36, Col. Centro, Mascota, Jalisco Facebook: Escape a Lo Mágico Instagram: @escape_a_lo_magico_ Phone: +52 322 104 9062

[es:]Mascota[en:]Mascota

A high and cold mountain town turns everything you thought you knew about Jalisco on its head, and it's still close to everything and far up and away from what you thought.

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