A not crowded Archaeological tour in Cañada de la Virgen

Great experience overall with Jesus who is EXTREMELY knowledgeable about the archaeology, history, and even medicinal plants native to the area! Jesus has an eagle eye and he was pointing out 800+ year old pottery shards in the ground as we walked along!

+5

Jesus was a friendly and knowledgeable guide. From the time he picked us up, he was giving us history and context for Cañada de la Virgen but also about the areas of SMA that we were passing through. We had a great time and will definitely recommend this to friends of all ages. The site had a lot to offer — the structures, the views, the history, the flora and fauna, and some artifacts along the way. They have complimentary lockers as well at the entrance since you can’t bring in bags. While heftier shoes wouldn’t hurt, I readily did this in Keds-styled shoes. As the description indicates, the cobblestone and mild uphill walking (necessary) and stair climbing (optional) might be challenging for those with limited mobility or ankle/knee/hip challenges.

This was a great experience, very different from spending time in San Miguel de Allende itself. I didn't realize it was a two-mile walk to the pyramid, Canada de la Virgen! We appreciate the crowd control measures--the site was not overrun by tourists. Climbing all those stairs (six, up and back) was a bit intimidating, but we were the only two in the group so our guide could afford to be quite solicitous, helping me to find the right places to walk up and down, making sure I did not fall. There was a small museum at the place where we picked up the bus, but it was not lit so we could not see all the exhibits, which was a bit disappointing. I was very impressed that the Otomi knew so much about astronomy. Walking up the ceremonial road made me feel like I was part of their culture, at least for a little while. It was a fabulous way to spend my 80th birthday!

If you have rented a car or have your own vehicle, it is better to go on your own; admission costs 100 Mexican pesos paid to the INAH, and from the site museum, a van (already included in that cost) takes you to the archaeological zone with a guide. Once inside the zone, you have to walk; it is a cobblestone path that is very beautiful right at this time of year, and it is full of beautiful landscapes. You should bring your water in a thermos; they do not sell much in the area, so you have to go prepared. One fundamental thing: you CANNOT arrive at the zone with any type of handbag, so the basics can go in your pockets. Wearing a hat or using an umbrella is ideal since there is a lot of sun, and although there are places to rest, if it is very hot (wear appropriate clothing and footwear, as well as sunscreen and some repellent already applied because there are mosquitoes in the rainy season). At the site, there is an expert available who will guide you and explain everything about the zone, including the flora and fauna, so it is very enjoyable. There is a dry toilet in the archaeological zone. It is very much worth it; it is possible to climb each of the ruins, and the view from the top is spectacular.

Very interesting and informative tour! I’ve recommended it to friends.

Very enjoyable trip to see the Otomi pyramids at this impressive archeological dig. Jesus was a knowledgeable guide who clearly enjoys his work. I would have liked more time to see the exhibit hall and also possibly watch the video. I hope financial constraints don’t prevent a continuation of the excavation. This ancient site adds significantly to the tourist appeal of San Miguel.

I usually look into Victor wherever I go. I know it is the one that I can trust around the world. The guides are good.

This excursion to Canada de la Virgen was simply amazing! Our guide was so knowledeable and passionate about the history and all that has been learned from this site ... and he was friendly, enthusiastic, and accommodating of everyone on the tour. Can't recommend this tour highly enough, it's a can't miss experience!

We recently had the pleasure of touring this magnificent archaeological site outside SMA. Jesus was an exceptional guide who was well versed in the history of the site and passionate about sharing its heritage. A very easy and practical way of exploring this amazing place!

Jesús Rodríguez was an excellent guide for our trip to Cañada de la Virgen. He was very knowledgeable about the site and its history! The site itself felt very special to visit as they only allow small groups in at a time.