Uruapan National Park
A lush green paradise in Uruapan, Michoacán, featuring the magical Cupatitzio River springs and cascading waterfalls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Uruapan National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lush green paradise in Uruapan, Michoacán, featuring the magical Cupatitzio River springs and cascading waterfalls.
"This is one of my favorite parks, a looot of water and everything green."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone paths and inclines mean comfy, non-slip shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink the Spring Water
Taste the clean, mineralized water directly from the Cupatitzio spring. It's surprisingly refreshing! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cupatitzio River Springs
The Devil's Knee
Witness the source of the Cupatitzio River, a crystal-clear spring emerging from underground. A truly magical natural phenomenon.
Cascading Waterfalls
Throughout the park
Marvel at numerous small waterfalls and cascades that create a soothing ambiance and add to the park's lush beauty.
Abundant Greenery
Entire park
Immerse yourself in a vibrant green paradise with diverse flora, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Rainbow Trout Ponds
Designated areas
Observe or even try your hand at fishing for rainbow trout in the park's well-maintained ponds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Comfortable Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone paths and inclines mean comfy, non-slip shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink the Spring Water
Taste the clean, mineralized water directly from the Cupatitzio spring. It's surprisingly refreshing! :droplet:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the stunning waterfalls and lush greenery. You'll want to remember this beauty! :camera:
💰 Small Bills for Vendors
Vendors sell snacks and souvenirs. Have small change ready for purchases and optional donations. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone paths and inclines mean comfy, non-slip shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink the Spring Water
Taste the clean, mineralized water directly from the Cupatitzio spring. It's surprisingly refreshing! :droplet:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the stunning waterfalls and lush greenery. You'll want to remember this beauty! :camera:
💰 Small Bills for Vendors
Vendors sell snacks and souvenirs. Have small change ready for purchases and optional donations. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ Prepare for Walking
The park is extensive. Be ready for a good amount of walking to see everything. :walking:
🗣️ Consider a Guide
Local guides offer great historical insights and make the visit more engaging. :bustsinsilhouette:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Uruapan National Park for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its lush greenery and the captivating Cupatitzio River springs and waterfalls. Many highlight the refreshing experience of tasting the pure spring water and the joy of exploring the extensive, well-maintained trails. While the walking can be extensive, most find it well worth the effort for the serene escape it offers from the city.
"This place is amazing, it’s quite a long walk to visit the whole park but it’s so worth it. I wish I had taken my camera here but forgot to. The trail is very clean but I do recommend taking shoes in which you won’t slip easily because some parts of the trail get very wet. There’s vendors in some sections of the park which sell from food to souvenirs. I highly recommend you visit this place."
Waldo Velazquez
"This is one of my favorite parks, a looot of water and everything green, this was my first time and we got early so basically all the park was alone, we enjoyed the nature and the guided tour with a lot of history.
If you are in Uruapan I highly recommend you to stop here.
Food was perfect as well, I tried coconut water with lemon and quesadillas!"
Miguel Verdugo Baylon
"We went on a guided tour with Joel, who had lots of great insight to share and made our visit pleasant. Highly recommend if you are ever in the area!"
Esther Valencia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located within the city of Uruapan, Michoacán. You can reach Uruapan by bus from major cities like Mexico City or Guadalajara. Once in Uruapan, local taxis or public transport can take you directly to the park entrance. Some visitors also enjoy walking from nearby areas, like the Tamacua market.
While specific parking details can vary, the park is centrally located in Uruapan, and there are usually public parking options nearby. It's advisable to check local signage or ask for directions upon arrival.
Yes, depending on your starting point, walking to Uruapan National Park from downtown is feasible. Some visitors have mentioned walking from areas like the Tamacua market.
The most common ways to reach Uruapan are by bus from major Mexican cities. If you're flying, you'd typically fly into Morelia International Airport (MLM) and then take a bus to Uruapan.
Yes, guided tours are available for hire inside the park. They can offer valuable historical context and insights into the park's natural features.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around $40 pesos for non-resident adults (12+), with a reduced price for children (3-11). Uruapan residents with ID often get free entry.
Yes, Uruapan residents with valid ID usually enter for free. Children aged 3-11 typically pay half the adult price.
The park is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check the most current operating times before your visit, especially if planning a visit on holidays.
Information on advance online ticket purchases is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the park's entrance.
Yes, there is a small fee, typically around $5 pesos per person, for using the restrooms within the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park's main attractions include the source of the Cupatitzio River ('The Devil's Knee'), numerous waterfalls, lush vegetation, and ponds with rainbow trout.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the natural beauty, observe wildlife, and there are areas for children to explore. The walking paths are generally safe, though supervision is recommended.
You can walk the trails, admire waterfalls, learn about the local flora and fauna, observe trout fishing, and enjoy the natural springs. There's also a zip line available for an extra fee.
The park involves a lot of walking on cobblestone paths and some steep sections, which may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. However, there is a 'Droid-lifted chair' option for aerial views.
Yes, there are benches and resting areas throughout the park, allowing visitors to take breaks and enjoy the scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Inside the park, you'll find vendors selling fresh drinks like coconut water, as well as finger foods such as quesadillas (especially pumpkin flower), taquitos, and other local snacks.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, allowing you to enjoy a picnic amidst nature. However, it's always good practice to check park regulations upon entry.
Yes, Uruapan is a vibrant city with many restaurants offering local and international cuisine. You can find dining options both inside and just outside the park.
Don't miss trying quesadillas de flor de calabaza (pumpkin flower quesadillas) and fresh coconut water or drinks.
The park's natural setting makes it ideal for picnics. There are many scenic spots where you can relax and enjoy your meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfalls, the Devil's Knee spring, the lush greenery, and the riverbanks offer stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the vibrant colors and natural beauty.
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed and encouraged to capture the park's beauty.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
Information regarding drone usage is not readily available. It's advisable to check with park authorities upon arrival to confirm any restrictions.
Focus on capturing the movement of the water, the textures of the plants, and the overall serene atmosphere of the park. Wide-angle shots can capture the expansive greenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Nature Photographers
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light. Capture the dynamic flow of the waterfalls, the serene source of the Cupatitzio River, and the intricate details of the plant life. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of the Park: Cupatitzio River
This pristine water not only sustains the park's abundant vegetation but also provides a vital water supply for the city of Uruapan. Visitors can witness this natural wonder firsthand and even taste the pure, mineralized water, which is often described as having a clean and refreshing flavor. The river flows through the park, creating a series of beautiful cascades and waterfalls that contribute to the tranquil ambiance.
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer volume and purity of the water. The park's commitment to preserving this natural resource is evident in its well-maintained trails and conservation efforts. It's a place where the power and beauty of water are on full display, offering a unique connection to nature.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
While the walking can be extensive, it's also incredibly rewarding. The paths lead you through diverse sections of the park, revealing hidden cascades, scenic viewpoints, and the vibrant flora that characterizes the region.
It's recommended to allocate ample time for your visit to truly appreciate the park's beauty without feeling rushed. Taking breaks on the numerous benches available allows you to soak in the atmosphere and the sounds of nature.
Local Flavors and Artisan Crafts
Food stalls serve up popular snacks like quesadillas, particularly the delicious quesadillas de flor de calabaza (pumpkin flower quesadillas), and taquitos. Refreshing drinks are also readily available, with coconut water and other fresh beverages being a popular choice, perfect for staying hydrated during your exploration.
Beyond food, vendors offer a variety of souvenirs, including hand-embroidered blouses, keychains, and other local handicrafts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit