In the vast geography of Nayarit, where beaches usually steal the spotlight, there is a natural attraction that invites you to look inland: El Ceboruco, an imposing guardian of rock and lava that offers a distinct experience for those looking to combine nature, adventure, and a bit of geological history.
HOW TO GET THERE FROM PUERTO VALLARTA
El Ceboruco is located in the municipality of Jala, just over a two-hour drive from the outskirts of Puerto Vallarta. The route follows Federal Highway 200 toward Compostela, and then the highway to Guadalajara, until you take the exit for Jala, a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) that serves as the gateway to the volcano. The journey is not only comfortable but also offers changing views: from the ocean to the forest, from the jungle to volcanic landscapes.
HISTORY OF A SLEEPING GIANT
With an altitude of 2,280 meters above sea level, El Ceboruco is an active stratovolcano, though its last recorded eruption was in 1870. Its eruptive history, however, goes much further back: indigenous and Spanish chroniclers reported its violent activity in the 16th century, when its eruptions lit up the skies of New Galicia.
Today, it is considered a “low-risk” volcano, but its landscape still features fumaroles and volcanic hot spots that serve as a reminder of its latent energy. This balance between safety and majesty has made it a natural and cultural attraction for both national and international visitors.
WHAT TO DO AT EL CEBORUCO
The experience begins with the drive up, which takes you to a panoramic viewpoint. From there, various trails invite you to walk among ancient rivers of petrified lava, steaming fumaroles, and spectacular views that, on clear days, extend all the way to the Pacific. It’s an ideal place for hiking, landscape photography, and observing endemic flora and fauna.
The more adventurous can ascend to the main crater, a journey that, while demanding, rewards you with an impressive view of the volcanic amphitheater, a witness to the eruptions that molded the region.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
A visit to the volcano is perfectly complemented by a tour of Jala, a place renowned for its architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic temples like the Basílica Lateranense. Additionally, this area is famous for its giant corn crops, whose cobs reach surprising sizes—a curious and culturally significant detail.
Another recommended stop is the nearby Santa María del Oro Lake, a flooded volcanic crater surrounded by mountains, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply enjoying lunch by the water.
A DIFFERENT GEM OF NAYARIT
El Ceboruco is a place where geological history meets cultural tradition, where the majesty of nature invites you to pause, take a deep breath, and contemplate the powerful forces that shaped these lands.
