If you’re looking for a fascinating destination full of mysteries, you have to set out to explore Alchichinca Lagoon—a place that, without exaggeration, will take your breath away.
According to the National Water Commission, this stunning body of saltwater is actually an “axalapasco”—that is, a massive crater formed in flat-topped volcanic mountains. To give you a sense of its location, it lies right on the border between the states of Puebla and Veracruz, nestled between the imposing Citlaltépetl and La Malinche mountains.
Beyond its crystal-clear beauty, this site is the perfect place to explore nature.
According to the Ministry of the Environment, Sustainable Development, and Land Use Planning, its waters are home to microendemic species, including the axolotl and the Alchichica charal, both of which are protected under the Official Mexican Standard.
And keep in mind that during your visit, you’ll also come across stromatolites—microbial structures that have been there for more than 3,000 million years and are key to understanding the origin of life on our planet.
Legends of Alchichinca Lagoon
But wait—it’s not all pure science: local legends add a unique and rather unsettling twist. For starters, it’s rumored that due to its high salinity, it’s directly connected to the ocean, and that at the bottom of the crater lies a secret cavern.
Locals tell wild stories about an underwater base where glowing multicolored spheres of light come and go. In fact, someone swore they saw a flying object that was vibrating before diving into the lake—never to return. Oh, and to top it all off, there’s the myth of the silver-haired mermaid who emerges on full moons to enchant the unwary with her song and carry them off into the depths.
When you visit this incredible spot, you can put together a comprehensive itinerary: from hiking and stargazing to spending time with local communities and immersing yourself in their ancestral wisdom.
Whether you’re into the nerdy side of science, UFO rumors and mysterious lights, or just want to take some spectacular photos, Alchichinca Lagoon is a hidden treasure and a natural gem of Mexico that you absolutely must visit.
