El Cedral, Pinal de Amoles
El Cedral, Pinal de Amoles: Where Axolotls Still Live in the Wild
Tucked away in the highlands of Pinal de Amoles, Querétaro, El Cedral is one of the most special and lesser-known natural areas in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve. This quiet, forested valley is one of the very few places in the Sierra Gorda where you can reliably and easily find ajolotes, also known as axolotls (Ambystoma species), living in the wild—something that has become increasingly rare throughout Mexico.
El Cedral offers a peaceful combination of clear water, forest trails, wildlife, and dramatic scenery, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers who want to slow down and explore.
A Rare Encounter: Ajolotes (Axolotls) in the Sierra Gorda
Ajolotes are among the most fascinating amphibians in the world, famous for their ability to regenerate limbs and for their increasingly fragile populations. While most people associate axolotls with central Mexico, El Cedral is one of the few accessible places in the Sierra Gorda where they can still be observed in their natural habitat.
With careful observation and respect for the environment, visitors may spot these elusive creatures in calm pools and streams. Seeing an ajolote in the wild is a memorable experience and a reminder of how important conservation efforts are in this region.
Waterfall and Seasonal Changes
El Cedral is also home to a tall waterfall, which changes dramatically with the seasons. During the rainy season, the waterfall comes alive with powerful flows of water cascading through the forest. In the dry season, it may slow to a trickle or temporarily dry up, offering a completely different but equally beautiful landscape.
These seasonal shifts make each visit unique and highlight the dynamic nature of the Sierra Gorda.
Birdwatching, Hiking, and Camping
The forests around El Cedral are excellent for birdwatching, with opportunities to see both resident and migratory species, especially in the cooler months. The mix of pine-oak forest and riparian habitat supports a diverse range of wildlife.
For those who want to spend more time immersed in nature, camping and hiking are excellent options. Quiet trails, cool temperatures, and minimal crowds make El Cedral an ideal place to disconnect and enjoy the natural rhythms of the mountains.
A Perfect Addition to Nearby Highlights
El Cedral pairs well with several iconic destinations in the region and is often included as part of a full-day or multi-day itinerary. It works especially well when combined with:
Mirador Cuatro Palos or Mirador Campestre for sunrise or panoramic views
Puente de Dios (Grutas de Jalpan)
Cascada El Chuveje
In the winter months, daylight is limited in the mountains, and there is sometimes only enough sunlight to comfortably visit two of these locations in a single day, making thoughtful planning important.
A Quiet Place Worth Protecting
El Cedral remains peaceful largely because it has avoided mass tourism. Visitors are encouraged to treat the area with care—respecting wildlife, staying on trails, and leaving no trace—so that rare species like the ajolotes can continue to survive here.
Want to Visit El Cedral?
If you’d like more information or want to include El Cedral in a guided tour—whether as a standalone hike or combined with nearby miradors, waterfalls, or caves—feel free to get in touch.
📞 WhatsApp / Phone: +52 441 203 9677
Derek Larson
El Camino Viejo Adventures