Goodbye to Xcaret: the incredible turquoise lagoon that few know about and is located near Mexico City.

If you thought you had to travel to Xcaret or the Mexican Caribbean to enjoy a turquoise lagoon , it's time to reconsider. Just a few hours from Mexico City lies a little-known place that looks like something straight out of a postcard: the Pancho Poza Nature Reserve , a corner of wild beauty in Veracruz that is beginning to capture the attention of nature-loving travelers.

The Pancho Poza Nature Reserve is located in Altotonga , a municipality nestled in the central mountainous region of Veracruz. Unlike typical tourist destinations, this natural gem offers a more authentic, peaceful, and accessible experience, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and connect with stunning landscapes.

Getting there from Mexico City takes about 4 to 5 hours by car , making it a perfect option for a weekend getaway or for those looking to discover places unsaturated by mass tourism.

What makes Pancho Poza unique is its turquoise lagoon , formed by natural springs that emerge between volcanic rocks. The water is so clear that you can clearly see the bottom, and its color intensifies in the sunlight, giving you the sensation of being in a hidden oasis.

This natural beauty is surrounded by cloud forests and dense vegetation , creating a magical and relaxing atmosphere. Furthermore, the area is protected as a natural reserve , allowing it to remain relatively untouched and free of pollution .

Although it's an ideal place to simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Pancho Poza also offers a variety of outdoor activities:

• Swimming in designated areas of the lagoon, especially during warm weather.
• Go hiking in the surrounding area, where you'll find natural viewpoints and hidden waterfalls.
• Take photographs of the impressive contrast between the water and the intense green of the surroundings.
• Connect with local biodiversity , including birds, freshwater fish, and endemic plants.

Access is usually nominal and regulated by the local community, protecting the ecosystem and ensuring a safe and orderly experience for visitors.

Unlike places like Xcaret or popular cenotes in the Riviera Maya, the Pancho Poza lagoon is neither privatized nor themed. Here you won't find artificial parks or shows, but you will find a genuine connection with nature . This type of low-impact tourism is more sustainable and promotes local development without sacrificing environmental balance.

Additionally, visiting sites like Pancho Poza helps decentralize tourism in Mexico , offering economic opportunities to regions that have traditionally been off the tourist map, while allowing travelers to live unique and memorable experiences .

If you're thinking of visiting this hidden paradise, keep the following tips in mind:

• Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and water activities.
• Don't forget your biodegradable sunscreen to avoid damaging the springs.
• Respect the instructions of local guides or guards.
• Avoid leaving trash and try to take everything you bring in with you.
• Check the weather conditions , especially during the rainy season.

The Pancho Poza Nature Reserve is one of those gems that proves you don't have to travel far to discover natural wonders . Just a few hours from Mexico City, this place invites you to say goodbye to traditional tourism and discover a new way to enjoy Mexico: more conscious, more intimate, and more real . Without a doubt, a destination worth adding to your travel list.