Hiking at Charco del Ingenio in San Miguel de Allende
Exploring the high-desert beauty of El Charco del Ingenio - a botanical garden much different from the lush greens of the Pacific Northwest
El Charco del Ingenio, located outside of the town, is an ecological reserve and botanical garden and is privately funded. It is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of Mexican flora and propagates mainly cactus species in danger of extinction. The reserve is centered on a canyon, at the bottom of which is a fresh spring that forms a natural pool. The canyon was the center of a number of myths and legends during the pre-Hispanic period. There are the remains of a colonial-era aqueduct and other waterworks on the property. This spring was so powerful it was the hydraulic power for an enormous water wheel and water supply to the city (thus, the name "Ingenio"). The water from this spring rose in the fountains throughout colonial San Miguel. An old dam that was part of this complex of hydraulic power became silted. A great flood ensued when the dam broke in 1999 during heavy rains. It is a stable wetland area now for the botanic gardens, with areas of the reserve crisscrossed with walking paths. There are opportunities for mountain biking, rock climbing, bird watching, camping and horseback riding. (Wikipedia: San MIguel de Allende Dec 2025))
Presa Las Colonias (Reservoir created by Colonies Dam)
Colorful geography
Very little water in the canyon most of the year. We’ve never been here to witness the wet season.
Cacti here are often transplanted from land developments where they would otherwise be destroyed.
Remains of the old aqueduct.
Amazing views of the city.
Garambullo cactus. We discovered later that the fruit from this cactus makes great sherbet!
View to the south. Love the architecture here.
Barrel Cactus
Sculpter Garden is a bonus when visiting!
This sculpture is by David Kestenbaum.
Gerry trying to blend in with the locals.