Santa Maria Expeditions
Santa Maria Expeditions is the El Camino Viejo collection of hikes, treks, and backcountry adventures along (or near) the stunning Río Santa María. This remote river—carving through rugged mountains, deep canyons, and wild Sierra Gorda terrain—offers a rare mix of natural beauty, exploration, and true wilderness travel. These are not typical tourist outings. Santa Maria Expeditions are real adventures: canyon hikes, river routes, water crossings, hidden swimming holes, dramatic viewpoints, and trails that few visitors ever experience.
Los Tres Estados
The Los Tres Estados hike is one of the most unique backcountry routes in the Sierra Gorda—an expedition-style trek that takes you into remote mountain terrain near the point where three Mexican states of Guanajuato, Querétaro and San Luis Potosí meet. This is not a tourist trail. It’s a true wilderness hike designed for strong hikers who want challenge, solitude, and the satisfaction of reaching a place very few people ever see.
Canyons of the Río Santa María
Our hikes in the canyons of the Río Santa María follow the river from its remote birthplace in the Sierra Gorda all the way downstream to the iconic Cascada de Tamul. Over years of exploration, we have traveled and mapped every major canyon along this river, uncovering hidden waterfalls, deep pools, towering limestone walls, and rarely visited sections far from the crowds. These routes offer a true immersion into wild landscapes, combining river hiking, canyon exploration, and powerful scenery. Each hike reveals a different character of the Río Santa María, making these experiences ideal for adventurous hikers seeking authenticity, solitude, and a deep connection to the river’s journey.
El Camino del Pame (Xi úi)
The El Camino del Pame (Xi úi) hike follows an ancient route once used by the Pame people and is our most popular hiking experience. This historic trail winds through remote terrain, blending cultural heritage with the natural beauty of the Sierra Gorda. One of the highlights of the route is the Río Santa María, famous for its striking turquoise waters created by mineral-rich springs and limestone riverbeds. Along the way, hikers encounter diverse ecosystems and meaningful landscapes, making this an ideal hike for those seeking both scenery and history.
