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Northeast Mexico

The northeast has never been Mexico’s main tourism draw, and news of cartel-related violence has turned off travelers even more. But the northeast’s history, sights and people are remarkable, and all the more rewarding for being unexpected. Monterrey is a lively modern city, while nearby Saltillo oozes colonial charm. You can check out the idyllic wine country of Parras and the unique desert ecosystem at Cuatro Ciénegas, one of Mexico’s most biologically diverse regions.

The security situation is serious but not paralyzing. Although news of the drug wars have faded considerably, border towns like Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, and the surrounding areas can be tense. Monterrey also has neighborhoods that are best avoided. That said, virtually all the violence pits one cartel against the other, and tourists are rarely affected. Keep your wits about you and discover the myriad treasures the northeast has to offer.

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Northeast Mexico.

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Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Cuatrociénegas
With hundreds of shimmering cerulean pozas (pools) and streams in the middle of the Desierto Chihuahuense (Chihuahuan Desert), this 843-sq-km nature reserve is a surreal sight. Fed by more than 500 underground springs, it's a desert habitat of extraordinary biological diversity, often compared to the Galapagos Islands. It's home to over 70 endemic species, including three kinds of turtles and 11 kinds of fish, as well as primitive organisms called estromatolitos (stromatolites), which are linked to the creation of Earth's oxygen-rich atmosphere.
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Macroplaza
A monument to Monterrey’s late-20th-century ambition, this city-block-wide series of interconnected squares, also known as the Gran Plaza, was created in the 1980s by the demolition of a prime chunk of city-center real estate. A controversial but ultimately successful piece of redevelopment, its charm has increased over the years as the once-naked urban space – said to form the largest public square in the world – has been softened by parks, trees and fountains.
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Parque Ecológico Chipinque
This stunning mountainside reserve is just 12km from downtown Monterrey. There's great hiking and mountain-biking on over 60km of well-marked trails through dense forest and up rocky peaks, including up soaring Copete de Águilas (2200m). The tiny visitor center has snacks and permits for those heading to the summits.
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Horno3
Blast Furnace No 3 in the former industrial site of the Parque Fundidora has been converted into Horno3, an exceptionally impressive high-tech, hands-on museum devoted to Mexico’s steel industry. No expense has been spared here, from the steaming rocks at the entrance to the metal, open-air elevator that climbs to the summit for dramatic bird's-eye views of Monterrey (included in admission). The entire process of steel-making is explained (with some English translations) along with its vital relevance to Monterrey and Mexico.
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Parque Fundidora
Formerly a vast steel-factory complex, this once-blighted industrial zone has been transformed into a huge urban park. Designers cleverly retained the iconic smoke stacks and industrial relics to give a surreal and, at times, apocalyptic feel, but also a vibe very much in keeping with Monterrey’s heritage. You can jog the trails, rent bikes (from M$40 per hour), paddle a rowboat (M$50 per hour), and visit the cultural sights, of which the Horno3 museum is the undoubted star of the show.
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Paseo Santa Lucía
The stunning 2.3km promenade of Paseo Santa Lucía is a world-class example of urban regeneration. This (artificial) river forms a turquoise ribbon through the heart of industrial Monterrey. Take a stroll down this delightful leafy pathway, or hop in one of the regular river boats (adult/child return M$70/40; 10am to 9pm). The landscaping is amazing, with lighting illuminating the water at night plus the 24 striking bridges and 13 fountains spanning the river.
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Poza Azul
The official visitor center for the Cuatrociénegas nature reserve, this small structure has informative displays about the reserve in Spanish and English. The Poza Las Tortugas, a good turtle-spotting pool, is right behind here, while 1.5km further back is the aptly named Poza Azul (Blue Pond), one of the reserve’s most photographed sites. Licensed guides can be hired here (there's no fee, you'll pay admission for the individual sites). In town the tourist information office has a list of recommended guides, all of which can provide transport if you don't have a car. Located about 9km southwest of town.
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Museo de Historia Mexicana
This sleek modernist museum on the Plaza 400 Años presents an extensive but easily manageable chronological history of Mexico. In the heart of the museum there’s an Earth section, full of mounted animals and realistic-looking landscapes, representing Mexico's remarkable biodiversity. Signage is mostly in Spanish, though there are strategically placed screens with overviews in English. Free tours – in either language – can be arranged by phoning in advance. Entry is free on Tuesdays and Sundays.
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Viñedos Don Leo
In the picturesque Valle del Tunal, this mountain-backed vineyard is one of the highest in the world. The 2100m growing conditions along with technical know-how create some extraordinary wines, including an award-winning Grand Reserve cabernet sauvignon. The tasting room and terrace offer fine views over the dramatic landscape. You can opt for a 45-minute cellar tour and tasting of two wines, or make an afternoon of it with a tour and tasting followed by a meal. Reservations are essential.