Nuevo Ideal Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Nuevo Ideal with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Nuevo Ideal

Nuevo Ideal is a small town located in the northern state of Durango in Mexico. This charming town is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax and unwind, Nuevo Ideal has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Nuevo Ideal

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo de las Piedras Pintadas: Also known as the Museum of Painted Stones, this museum showcases a collection of pre-Columbian petroglyphs (rock carvings) that were discovered in the nearby Sierra Madre Occidental mountains.
  • Parroquia de San Francisco de Asis: This beautiful church, built in the 18th century, is a fine example of colonial architecture in Nuevo Ideal.
  • Casa de la Cultura: This cultural center hosts a variety of art exhibits, concerts, and workshops throughout the year.
  • Presa Francisco Zarco: This dam was built in the 1950s and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.

Natural Attractions of Nuevo Ideal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Ecoturístico Los Azufres: This eco-tourism park features hot springs, horseback riding, hiking, and camping.
  • Cerro del Pilon: This mountain offers breathtaking views of Nuevo Ideal and the surrounding countryside.
  • Carretera Durango-Mazatlán: This scenic highway offers stunning vistas of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains and is a popular route for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nuevo Ideal

  • Sierra Madre Occidental: This mountain range offers numerous opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. Some popular trails include the Cerro del Pilon trail, the El Salto waterfall trail, and the La Campana trail.
  • Bosque Los Alisos: This forested area is located in the mountains near Nuevo Ideal and offers hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching opportunities.

Best Things to Do in Nuevo Ideal: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs Tour: Take a guided tour of the hot springs in and around Nuevo Ideal. Some popular spots include Los Azufres, Agua Caliente, and El Pescado.
  • Copper Canyon Adventure: Take a train ride to the Copper Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, and explore the stunning natural scenery.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the mountains and countryside on horseback with a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nuevo Ideal

Day Activities
1 Visit the Museo de las Piedras Pintadas and Parroquia de San Francisco de Asis
2 Hike the Cerro del Pilon trail and enjoy the scenic views
3 Take a hot springs tour and relax in the natural pools
4 Visit the Casa de la Cultura and attend a cultural event
5 Explore the Copper Canyon on a guided tour
6 Go horseback riding in the mountains
7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Nuevo Ideal

Must-Try Dishes

  • Caldillo Duranguense: A hearty beef stew with potatoes, corn, and chilies, served with tortillas.
  • Pipian de Pollo: Chicken in a rich pumpkin seed and chili sauce, served with rice and beans.
  • Asado de Boda: A traditional wedding stew made with beef, pork, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Sotol: A distilled spirit made from the Desert Spoon plant, similar to tequila or mezcal.
  • Pulque: A fermented drink made from the maguey plant, with a sweet and sour flavor.
  • Agua de Naranja: Fresh-squeezed orange juice, a refreshing and nutritious beverage.

Where to Stay in Nuevo Ideal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Posada del Sol: This hotel is located in the heart of Nuevo Ideal and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine.
  • Casa de Campo: This rustic guesthouse is located in the mountains near Nuevo Ideal and offers hiking trails, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.
  • Hostal Las Golondrinas: This hostel is located near the town center and offers affordable accommodations for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Nuevo Ideal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artesanías: Handmade crafts such as pottery, textiles, and wood carvings make great souvenirs and gifts.
  • Sotol: The locally-produced distilled spirit is a unique and flavorful beverage to bring back home.
  • Chiles: Durango is known for its spicy chilies, which can be found in markets and shops throughout Nuevo Ideal.

Local Culture and Customs of Nuevo Ideal

Nuevo Ideal is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local culture. The town is known for its traditional music, dance, and food, and there are many festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Respect for elders and family values are highly valued in the community, and visitors are encouraged to be polite and courteous at all times.

Best Time to Visit Nuevo Ideal

The best time to visit Nuevo Ideal is from October to April, when the weather is mild and dry. The summer months can be hot and humid, with the possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes. Some festivals and events take place in the summer, however, so it may still be worth considering a visit during this time if you’re interested in local culture and traditions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nuevo Ideal

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Learn a few words of Spanish to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water, as it may cause stomach upset.
  • Wear revealing clothing or show excessive public displays of affection.
  • Speak loudly or use offensive language in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nuevo Ideal

Nuevo Ideal is generally a safe place to visit, with low levels of crime. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take basic safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding isolated areas after dark. It’s also important to be aware of the potential risks of outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding, and to take appropriate safety precautions.

Health in Nuevo Ideal

Medical facilities in Nuevo Ideal are limited, and visitors should be aware of the potential for altitude sickness if hiking or visiting the mountains. It’s important to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and take breaks as needed to avoid overexertion in the hot, dry climate.

Getting to Nuevo Ideal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nuevo Ideal

The nearest international airport to Nuevo Ideal is General Guadalupe Victoria International Airport (DGO), located in the nearby city of Durango. From there, it’s a 2-hour drive to Nuevo Ideal.

Bus Stations Near Nuevo Ideal

Buses to Nuevo Ideal can be found at the central bus station in Durango. From there, it’s a 2-hour bus ride to Nuevo Ideal.

Other Options

Private car or taxi services are also available for transportation to and from Nuevo Ideal. It’s also possible to rent a car in Durango and drive yourself.

How to Get Around in Nuevo Ideal

The best way to get around Nuevo Ideal is by car or taxi. Alternatively, some attractions are within walking distance of the town center, and bikes can be rented for local exploration.

Where to Go Next from Nuevo Ideal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Durango: The capital city of Durango is known for its colonial architecture, museums, and art galleries.
  • Parras de la Fuente: This charming colonial town is known for its vineyards and wineries, as well as its historic architecture.
  • Mazatlán: This coastal city is known for its beaches, seafood, and vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Nuevo Ideal is a hidden gem in the Northern Mexico, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and hospitality. With its rich history, outdoor adventures, and delicious cuisine, this charming town is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Durango. Plan your trip now and experience the best that Nuevo Ideal has to offer!

Location of Nuevo Ideal district in Durango province Location of Nuevo Ideal district in Durango province