Going to Chachalacas
Chachalacas is named after a bird, chachalaca, native to Mexico. I’m not sure why the town is named after a small noisy bird, but that’s where the name came from. Playa Chachalacas is a small, beach town located 50 km (31 mi) north of the port of Veracruz. This long sand beach and calm water makes it a perfect condition for outdoor activities. As a part of ATMEX 2013 pre tour, we explored the region on a gorgeous sunny day. Here are a few attractions you can find in the area.
Coastal lagoon of La Mancha
Costal lagoon of La Mancha is one of the richest areas of biodiversity on the entire central Florida coast. From evergreen forest to mangrove, birds to dune vegetation, you’ll witness nature in the raw. Tours of the reserve are available. The Festival of Shorebirds, held every March to send migratory birds on their return to the north of the continent, is a one such tour.
Quiahuiztlan Toltec Archaeological Ruins
Located on a large hill rising up from Hill Of The Metates and Cerro de los Metates beach areas, this Toltec burial ground is best known for its tombs. There are more than 75 of them. Each one is shaped like a house (locals call this ‘house of soul), because it is the last house they’ll ever have. The door of the tomb is placed in the direction of where they died. Penon de Bernal, a massive basalt, is recognizable from the entrance.
Sand Dunes
Who would’ve thought there would be massive sand dunes in the middle of the beach? On the Gulf coast of Southern Mexico lies a string of small sand dunes with the name Chachalacas. The sand dunes and shore create a dramatic vista. The moisture from the ocean keeps the sand wet and firm, and it makes the perfect condition for adventurers. Be sure to ride a four wheel drive, and try sand boarding.
Villa Rica
On the side of Villa Rica, the Quebraditas, offers a great view of the Gulf of Mexico. You get to see a unique perspective of the ocean through large rocks and cliffs.
#Disclosure: I attended ATMEX2013 as a Media Specialist. The opinions are completely my own based on my experience, as usual.
I really want to go to Mexico. This only makes me want to go more!
Those dunes look fantastic, what a fun time!
FUN! As always, your sweeping photos make me want to get going already… Love!
The cacti looks so neat!
whoa, lovely photos unni!
What a beyond gorgeous place! I LOVE Mexico!!!
Those sand dunes look amazing! Too small for sand boarding?
We went for sand boarding. It was really fun! I couldn’t take any picture because I was covered with sand.
The dunes remind me to those in Mui Ne , Vietnam 🙂
Looks like a fun destination! Love your pics 🙂 How was the adventure travel conference?
Beautiful photos…such colour.
Makes us really want to head over to Mexico!!
I am headed to Mexico later this month and I am feeling mega overwhelmed by all of the places I have to visit. In a good way. And you’ve just added another place to the list. Can’t wait to get on those sand dunes!
Very beautiful, and not quite how I pictured Mexico! Love it!
I never really associated dunes with Mexico, I’m not sure why. Now I do! Gorgeous pictures. 🙂
Oh Mexico, how I love and miss you.
Beautiful pictures and description. I think that’s where Cortes landed and started the conquest.
Yes it was. We learned the history when we were there!