Veracruz is a Mexican State full of surprises and ready to be discovered. It offers touristic opportunities for those who like history, tradition, flowers, birds, butterflies, seafood, beaches and adventure sports.

Jalcomulco is an appealingly picturesque town situated in the middle of a verdant mountainous region lying along the River “Pescados” (fish). People are drawn here from all over the world and come for the white water rafting, kayaking, hiking, biking, and climbing sports. The town has many outfitters with safe, well cared for equipment and trained guides. For those who may not want a day on the river, there are abundant ways to enjoy your time. Restaurants dot both sides of the river and are connected by either a swinging foot bridge (scary) or a car bridge. It is a pleasant experience to sit and watch the rafts go by while enjoying a shrimp cocktail and an ice cold beverage.
If you want to keep your feet on solid ground, then a hike to one of the local natural phenomenon may be the perfect activity. You can hike along a shady trail winding though the huge mango trees of an ancient grove to either the “gotera” (dripping water) or the “poza azul” (blue well) where you may take a refreshing dip in the cool pools.

Jalcomulco is worth an overnight stay. There are several options to choose from, depending on one’s preference. A small, lovely hotel two blocks from the river is the Posada del River. The rooms are small but comfortable and the open restaurant looks over their garden where a toucan perches in a large cage. A recent addition is the swimming pool. This is a spot that is best enjoyed without children. Another place I like is the Aldea Picocanoa. This is a large operation, one of several run by Montana y Rio, and is great for families and groups. The wood cabins have a small bedroom, with another sleeping loft placed over the bathroom. Other cabins have a dormitory set-up for several people. The grounds are immaculate with large expanses of grass and myriad flowers. There is a swimming pool, restaurant, play area for children, and even a conference center. The resort runs along the far side of the river off the main road. They run summer camps for children so it an get rather busy and noisy.
The third resort is very unusual. Mexico Verde is a prime example of sustainable tourism, somewhat unusual in Mexico. However, the most unique feature is the infrastructure. The rooms are all modeled after British camping tents! The tents are built on top of wooden platforms with a large tarp covering the actual tent. This allows for air circulation and dryness. The smaller cabins are tents with bunk beds and a small front porch. These share a communal bathroom down a pathway (spotlessly clean). Also offered are “suites,” larger units which include a private bathroom. The walls of these units are draped with white cotton giving the sensation of being in a cocoon.
This resort also offers camping sites. It has a large outdoor bar/restaurant where the young gather to listen to loud music and let their hair down.
All of these hotel choices offer packages that include river activities.
Check them out at: www.TripAdvisor.com