Tecozautla is a Magical Town in Hidalgo, known for its thermal springs. In this territory with a warm climate and semi-desert landscapes, there is also a peculiar vertical cave that locals know as Dogunzafí, an Otomí word meaning “old thunder.” Tecozautla has numerous natural attractions, but this sinkhole is undoubtedly one of the places you should visit if you are a lover of adventure and the unknown. Are you ready to discover it?
Tecozautla Through Adventure
Although this destination is perfect for relaxing and taking in the surroundings, adventurers come here to take advantage of the natural scenery the destination offers for various activities. One of the treasures found in this Magical Town is the Dogunzafí pit, a vertical cavity more than 30 meters deep. Since the bottom of the cave cannot be seen from the surface, this impressive formation is also known as “the endless cave.”
It is a sinkhole located in La Mesilla, a community belonging to Tecozautla, Hidalgo. This region, which is part of the Mezquital Valley, is ideal for exploring the territory and encountering formations such as this sinkhole. The contrast is surprising: while the exterior and surrounding area are dry, looking into the abyss reveals large ferns growing along the walls, with an intense green color that makes the view a true spectacle.
Descending Into the Subsoil of Hidalgo to Enter Dogunzafí
Some explorers have ventured down, but so far no one has descended more than 30 meters. It is said that at that depth, the humidity and heat become increasingly noticeable, but up to that point there is no trace of water. They have also not found any point indicating the end of the cavity. Many stories have been created about the sinkhole, including tales of witches that inhabit it, but today it is known that a significant amount of wildlife uses the formation as a refuge.
You can reach this attraction with a local guide, who can direct you through the safest areas. With them, it is also possible to experience rappelling inside Dogunzafí. Although descending is relatively easy, climbing back up from a certain height can be challenging because of the inclination of the wall, so local guides know exactly how far it is possible to descend if you are not an experienced person.
Local guides also take advantage of the path leading to the site to point out some of the surprising flora found in the area. The experience can suddenly become gastronomic as well, since it is possible to find wild garambullo, prickly pears, and even apple and mango trees.
What to See and Do in Tecozautla
This destination has a great deal to offer, so a weekend will not be enough to enjoy all the possibilities available. Among the must-see attractions is a natural volcanic vent with thermal waters known as El Géiser, which has been developed into a water park and natural spa. The Taxidhó springs and El Arenal water park also have thermal waters, among many other sites that take advantage of this natural wealth.
In this Magical Town, you can also visit El Torreón, a monumental clock built from quarry stone in 1904, located in the heart of the historic center. Likewise, the El Pañhú archaeological zone is one of the region’s must-see attractions. It is an ancient ceremonial center of the Otomí culture, located among semi-desert plateaus.
How to Get to Dogunzafí, the La Mesilla Sinkhole
The Dogunzafí sinkhole is located in the community of La Mesilla, in the Magical Town of Tecozautla, Hidalgo. This attraction is very close to the border with Querétaro and just over an hour from Tequisquiapan, making it ideal for a complete weekend trip.
Whether you are traveling from Mexico City or Querétaro, you should take the Mexico–Querétaro highway. The turnoff leading to the destination can be found around kilometer 107, heading toward Huichapan/Tecozautla. There are clear signs that you can follow. Once in the Magical Town, La Mesilla is very close. There, as well as in the center of the Magical Town, you will find guides who can take you to the Dogunzafí sinkhole.
Source: mexicodesconocido
