Cañón de Santa Elena Flora and Fauna Protection Area, Flora and fauna protection area in Chihuahua, Mexico
Cañón de Santa Elena is a protected nature reserve in Chihuahua that spans large desert expanses with mountain ranges and valleys throughout. The landscape shifts between flat arid zones and higher elevations, creating different natural habitats within the reserve.
The area has been occupied since ancient times, as shown by archaeological finds, with early inhabitants relying on hunting and fishing. European expeditions later arrived and transformed conditions for the resident peoples.
The Conchos, Jumanos, Chisos, and Apache indigenous groups inhabited this territory until European expeditions altered the native populations.
The best time to visit is outside the hottest months, when conditions are more manageable. You will need your own transportation, as no public transit serves this protected area.
The reserve holds an unusually high concentration of golden eagles that nest here in significant numbers. With over 700 plant and animal species, this location offers rare opportunities to observe these raptors in their natural setting.
Location: Manuel Benavides Municipality
Location: Ojinaga Municipality
Inception: November 7, 1994
GPS coordinates: 29.11122,-103.86880
Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:31
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