The Nevado de Toluca or “Snowed One” of Toluca, is the 4th highest volcano in the country, it is located 45 km. away from the city of Toluca, capital of the state of Mexico, and 135 km. away from the centre of Mexico City, approximately one and a half hours by car.

The area where this volcano is located was declared a National Park in 1937. Its main attraction is the Xinantécatl or Nevado de Toluca, an extinct volcano 4,558 metres above sea level. The vegetation in the area consists of cold climate varieties like pines, cedars, ocotes and firs. In the highest parts there are species belonging to the tundra like zacatonales and an important variety of thisles (Cnicus benedictus L). The fauna consists mainly of small rodents, reptiles, deer and eagles.  

Something characteristic that distinguishes this volcano from the others in Mexico, is the fact that in its crater it has the Sun and Moon lagoons, two beautiful turquoise bodies of water in which there have been some archeological discoveries of sacred prehispanic ceremonies. The crater can easily be reached by car. Because it’s easy to get to, this place is attractive during the winter, season in which, with a bit of luck, people can witness an amazing snow-strewn landscape.

Countless sporting activities can be practiced here like camping, trekking, mountain cycling, mountain climbing, among others, becoming one of the favourite places for high-performance athletes that visit this place to train before Olympic and national competitions. This National Park has several refuges and security.

This National Park is open to the public all year, from 10:00 to 17:00 hrs. During the winter it’s important to check if the Park will open due to meteorological conditions.

For more information consult the following website:

http://www.edomex.gob.mx/Se/ANP/nevado.htm