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Malpais
Contact cell phone #044-434-106-4849
Francis can customize a trip to El Malpais to suit your group,
your interests, and your hiking abilities. Children are welcome.
Tours in English or Spanish
Trips Options (to meet your needs):
Levels - easy, moderate or difficult
Lengths - 2 to 5 hours
The village of Erongaricuaro is the takeoff point for a walk in what is called here the Malpais, which is a relatively recent lava bed from two little volcanoes near Arocutin. It is a thirty-five square kilometer area that is wild and untouched with plants and animals that do not exist anywhere else. Francis, a dear friend, is the Mama of the Malpais, and she will gladly give you a tour for a small fee, and it is worth every centavo. Especially in the rainy season, which we will be in the midst of in July.
El Malpais de Arocutin was formed around the year 1460 when two twin volcanoes - "los cerros cuates" - erupted, covering about 12 square miles with lava. Today it is a beautiful and pristine forest containing approximately 80% of the plant species found in the Lake Pátzcuaro region. Because of its rich volcanic soil, diversity of altitudes and latitudes, and numerous micro-climates, you can find an incredible array of vegetation in close proximity, including cactus next to ferns, and orchids growing on live oaks.
To get there from Pátzcuaro, head clock-wise around the Lake towards Erongaricuaro, passing Arocutin and Jaracuaro, and turning left up a steep dirt path before you pass the German Restaurant (Campestre Aleman). Paths are not well marked, so we encourage you to hire a guide. Francis Rodriguez is a local guide with over 20 years experience hiking and exploring El Malpais. Born and raised in the US, Francis and her Mexican husband Rodolfo raised their two children right outside of El Malpais, and have learned about medicinal plants and folklore from their neighbors.
Malpais features 200 year old live oak, numerous plants and trees, folk stories, tower rock. "What is your Environment" exercise for kids ages 5-18, medicinal plant identification, and bird watching.
El Malpaís contains approximately 80% of the plant species found in the Lake Pátzcuaro region. Its diversity and beauty is unmatched in the region.
Francis describes the Malpais flor to Bob, on left.
