Cañada de la Virgen Archaeological Day Trip from San Miguel de Allende

Discover hidden ancient ruins in Central Mexico and enjoy lunch at a local ranch
From US$835 privately
Book a Tour
Tour Details
Duration
5.5 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
Cañada de la Virgen Archaeological Site
Photos & Highlights
  • Join an engaging, local expert at the top of their field as you explore the archaeological ruins first excavated as recent as 1995
  • Unique, personal tours for the intentional traveler your party
Select a date
Tour Description
Explore the well-preserved site of Cañada de la Virgen and a local ranch on this full-day excursion from San Miguel de Allende. This archeological wonder is an invitation to connect with the spirit of the Otomi people and unravel the mysteries of their ancient civilization. It's a chance to step back in time, to explore the wonders of the cosmos, and to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Mexican landscape. 

After pickup from your accommodation in San Miguel de Allende, you'll make the 2-hour drive to Cañada de la Virgen archeological site. You’ll embark on a journey through time to uncover the secrets of the ancient Otomi people. As you wander through the ruins of temples and plazas, once the epicenters of Otomi rituals and ceremonies, you’ll discover their deep understanding of the universe and profound connection to the heavens. Your guide will discuss the depths of Otomi astronomy and you’ll learn how they aligned their temples with the stars using them as celestial calendars and guides. 

You’ll continue to be immersed in the rich tapestry of Otomi life as you explore the botanical gardens, teeming with native flora that once nourished and sustained their community. You’ll step into a world of wonder and fascination as you explore this enigmatic site. You will be transported back to an ancient time when the Otomi people thrived, their lives intertwined with the rhythms nature and the cosmos.

You’ll then journey to a local ranch to be surrounded by the tranquility of the unique landscape. Here you will savor the flavors of an organic, regional lunch.

At the end of your tour, you'll head back to San Miguel de Allende with your expert guide where you'll be dropped off at your accommodation.
Experts
Diego Diego
Local Guide
Alex Alex
Local Guide
Armando Armando
Cultural Adviser
Luis Luis
Local Guide
Diego Diego
Local Guide
Israel
Local Guide
  • You're an archeology buff looking for a unique experience to dive even further into your passion
  • You're a nature enthusiast looking for a quick escape to an authentic local ranch
  • You want to sit back, relax, and allow our team to handle all the transportation details – ensuring you reach your destination outside the city hassle-free and return with ease
  • Cañada de la Virgen Archeological Site - an ancient archaeological site dating back to the Otomi culture with remarkable architectural structures
  • Local ranch - located in a local community where you will enjoy a regional organic Mexican meal. Please alert us of dietary restrictions.

Transportation
  • Includes accommodation pick up & drop off from your accommodation in San Miguel de Allende, and leaves the city limits to visit the Cañada de la Virgen Archeological Site and local ranch.
  • This tour includes a private car service that will pick you up at your accommodation. While adding the tour to your shopping cart, please tell us your hotel or apartment address in the 'Additional Details' box.

Lunch
  • The tour will take time for lunch, a traditional local meal is included in the tour price. Please inform our team of any dietary restrictions so we can plan in advance.

Resources
Wheelchair accessibility
  • Cañada de la Virgen archeological site is generally accessible with ramps and wheelchair-accessible restrooms available, however, there are some areas of the site that may be difficult to access. 
Service Dogs
  • Service dogs are allowed if you have a medical certificate proving the need. 
For more information about Context tours, please visit our FAQs.

What time of year is best for this tour?
Please take note of the rainy season between mid-September through the end of November. However, this does not affect the tour. Some clouds are actually very much appreciated when visiting Central Mexico.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunglasses; bringing sunblock is a good idea as it can be very hot depending on the season. Keep in mind that there may not be many ATM machines on site so if you’d like to tip or buy any souvenirs it’s recommended to bring cash.
Book with confidence — see Context's flexible cancellation policy here.

Where You'll Start