San Juan del Río Day Trip

Embark on a fascinating journey through the early life of General Pancho Villa with our excursion to San Juan del Río. This trip offers a unique glimpse into a significant chapter of Mexican history, enriched with captivating insights and local lore.

San Juan del Río Day Trip

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your Durango hotel, followed by a scenic drive to San Juan del Río. Midway, we will pause at the Peña del Águila dam to soak in the stunning vistas surrounding the La Sauceda River.

Upon arrival in San Juan del Río, our exploration will take us to several historic churches, including the San Francisco de Asís Church, a 16th-century marvel, and the revered sanctuary of Guadalupe. We'll also visit the San Miguel Arcángel Temple, known for its striking baroque altarpiece. Another highlight is the mural 'Potro de Hierro,' dedicated to Pancho Villa, a prominent figure from the Mexican Revolution who hailed from this region.

Next, we will explore the Community Museum to delve into the rich traditions and customs of San Juan del Río. As we venture further, we'll arrive at the town's outskirts to visit La Coyotada, Villa's birthplace, where we will recount his remarkable journey from local to the governor of Chihuahua.

A visit to the Willow Well hot springs follows, providing an opportunity to enjoy lunch and relax in the soothing warm waters. Our journey continues to the Santiaguillo Lagoon, a protected wetland renowned for being a nesting ground for thousands of birds migrating from Alaska and Canada.

Finally, we will stop by a Mennonite community to gain insight into the unique lifestyle of this pacifist population and their German heritage.

We will commence our return to Durango, expecting to arrive about 8 hours after we first set out.