La Primavera Biosphere Reserve

La Primavera Biosphere Reserve is a protected area with pine and oak forests, valleys and volcanic landforms west of the Guadalajara metropolitan area. The reserve spreads across slopes and plateaus shaped by past eruptions of the Sierra la Primavera.

Volcanic eruptions between 120,000 and 20,000 years ago created the Sierra la Primavera and left lava fields and ash layers throughout the area. Later geological movements shaped the valleys and hills that now define the landscape of the reserve.

School groups spend two weeks camping in the woods, learning to recognize the plants and animals that grow or live in this part of Jalisco. These programs let young visitors explore firsthand and build a direct understanding of the forest ecosystem.

Twelve marked hiking trails lead through different sections of the reserve, and eight educational camps offer facilities for group visits. A smaller section is open for recreational activities, while other zones remain under stricter protection.

Hot rivers and fumaroles lie hidden in some valleys and show the active geothermal energy still present beneath the surface. Steam rises from the ground in certain spots and reminds visitors of the volcanic past of the region.

Location: Jalisco

GPS coordinates: 20.63528,-103.56889

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:25