First, walk from Calle Colon to Walmart or a level hike of about that distance. Do it for maybe three days. If you can do this without being exhausted, you are ready to begin the elevation part. Hike from the trailhead at the top of Calle Colon up to the Shrine/ Chapel. It follows the 14 stages of the cross. Do this until you can make it up to the Shrine/Chapel and back in 45 minutes.  Now you should be able to partake in the short hike with the Ajijic Hiking Group. Bienvenidos!

NOTE: all hikers are welcome, and everyone must be fit enough and be of the appropriate age to hike on their own two feet.

No. The mountains in this area are very dry. Most of the year the only water available is the water you take with you. In the rainy season there are streams and waterfalls. There are also plenty of livestock up there to contaminate it. It may look fit to drink. Don’t take a chance. Carry plenty. Two or three liters are recommended depending on the hike. It is better to have too much than not enough. Dehydration can be very serious, even deadly.

On all of the hikes, we take a snack break.  Bring what you like. Typical snacks might be fruit, trail mix, or sandwiches. The length of your hike will help to determine how much food to bring. Remember you will be burning calories. It is important to refuel.

Absolutely.  For safety sake always bring one day’s worth of medications with you on a hike.  Hike leaders have limited first aid supplies and obviously can’t cover everything. It is also good to notify the hike leader if you have a pre-existing condition that they may need to be aware of and how they can help you in case of an emergency.

No. It is extremely unlikely that you are going to come across any banditos or anybody else that might harm you. You will find all the people here very friendly and helpful. That being said, it is never a good idea to hike alone anywhere. You could have an accident or get lost. We highly recommend staying with the group.

Yes. There are many species of wildlife in this area including animals, birds and insects.  However, you aren’t likely to see many of them. Lack of water is the primary reason.  Also, many are nocturnal. This video is very interesting:  Proyecto E Mammal. Don’t let it scare you off. They are more afraid of you than you are of them.  Insects are generally not harmful, but certain locations they can be a nuisance.  You may want to bring along some repellent just in case.

Yes. We hike in public parks, on private land and Ejido land.  We are always careful to observe all posted rules and regulations and respect the rights and property of others.  You will find the people you meet very welcoming.  “Take only pictures, leave only footprints and kill only time”, is the one rule that sums it up best.  If you follow this rule, you will be fine.

You can join the Ajijic Hiking Group on Facebook.  Click the JOIN button and our administrator will approve your request.

Yes!  Hiking boots/shoes are a necessity in the mountains.  There are several hazards depending on the season and the added support of sturdy footwear comes in handy while traversing over the rocky paths.

Hiking pole/stick for stability especially when descending the mountain as the path gets very slippery and both the rainy and the dry season.

A backpack and water reservoir or bottles, and a hat are also highly recommended to keep you hydrated and protect you from the sun.

All of our hiking schedules and updates can be found on the Ajijic Hiking Group Facebook page a few days prior to the hike.  The schedules are for our twice-weekly hikes and feature three different hikes each day, they also indicate which hike leader will be leading the hike.  Updates are posted as needed so be sure to check the Ajijic Hiking Group Facebook page prior to setting out for your hike.