Presa Pucuato Ecotourism Center

Overview

Description

The Pucuato ejido (communal land) in the Hidalgo Municipality of Michoacán, Mexico, owns a large expanse of temperate forest that is divided into two areas: one under forestry management and one under conservation. Both have highly diverse flora and fauna and innumerable experiences for the ecotourist.

The "Presa de Pucuato" forms part of the tourism circuit Sabaneta-Mata de Pinos del Oriente de Michoacán, where sport fishing and a rich plate of rainbow trout can be enjoyed. In some places the water is clear to depths of 6.5 to 20 feet (2 to 6 meters).

Peña Blanca is a column of rock approximately 98 feet (30 meters) high, providing a natural overlook where one can appreciate the beautiful landscape and enjoy adventure activities.

Making a Difference

Number of employees: 8

Percentage of local employees: 100%

Residents of the ejidos (communal lands) show outstanding management, protection, and conservation of their forest resources. They are aware of the importance of maintaining healthy forests because they create jobs and provide income for their families through the forestry industry. To diversify their sources of income, they began building a tourism center in 1998, but eco- and adventure tourism activities did not begin until 2005

In order to understand how to manage their tourism business, the ejido shares experiences with other ejidos and indigenous communities. In 2005, this motivated the ejido to form the Community Ecotourism Network of Michoacán, A.C. as a founding partner. This network is made up of ejidos and forest communities from different regions of Michoacán, which are developing community-based ecotourism businesses as viable alternatives to generate employment and income while helping to conserve the environment. These activities are planned and carried out responsibly, taking the participation of the ejido and community landowners into consideration, without conducting extractive or any other activities that would jeopardize the perpetuity of the natural resources.

Rates

Cabana for 6 people: US$80.00 per night.

Camp house rental for 4 people: US$5.00 per night.

Camping fee (does not include a tent): US$3.00 per person per night.

Getting There

Nearest international airport: Morelia (MLM)

We are 80 km from the Francisco J. Mujica International Airport in Morelia and 100 km from the city of Morelia, with year-round access. From Morelia, take the highway to Ciudad Hidalgo; at the La Venta crossroads, continue on toward Presa Pucuato; 8 km beyond there is another crossroads where you turn right toward the village of Pucuato.

Additional Information

Date This Information Was Provided

January 2008.

Photos courtesy of Presa Pucuato Ecotourism Center, Mexico, for SustainableTrip.org.