Desierto del Carmen National Park

Desierto del Carmen Overview

Desierto del Carmen National Park, also known as Desierto del Carmen or Nixcongo, is a protected natural area located in the municipality of Tenancingo, in the State of Mexico.

Covering approximately 529 hectares (5.29 km² or 2.04 square miles), the park was designated a national park on October 10, 1942. This serene and historically rich destination offers visitors a mix of cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife.

The park’s terrain is characterized by dense forests of pine and oak, interspersed with cedar and eucalyptus trees. It is part of the Sierra del Carmen, a mountainous area that provides stunning viewpoints such as the Balcón del Diablo and the Balcón de San Miguel.

From these vantage points, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the valleys of Tenancingo and Malinalco, as well as the imposing Nevado de Toluca volcano. The park’s landscape features rolling hills, deep ravines, and lush vegetation, creating a refreshing retreat for those seeking tranquility in nature.

Wildlife in Desierto del Carmen National Park is varied, making it an excellent location for observing native species. Among the mammals found in the park are shrews, field mice, skunks, bats, and squirrels.

Birdwatchers can spot species such as sparrows, owls, and hawks, while reptiles and amphibians like lizards and salamanders also inhabit the region. The combination of forested areas and open spaces provides suitable habitats for these species, contributing to the park’s ecological richness.

One of the most prominent attractions of the park is the Convent of Santo Desierto, built by the Discalced Carmelite order in the late 18th century. This convent, also known as Santo Desierto del Carmen, was established as a spiritual retreat, lending the park its name.

Within the convent, visitors can see the revered image of “Cristo de las Siete Suertes,” a life-sized wooden statue believed to have miraculous properties. The historical significance of the convent, combined with its architectural beauty, draws both religious pilgrims and history enthusiasts.

Visitors to Desierto del Carmen National Park can engage in various activities that immerse them in its natural and cultural beauty. Hiking trails wind through the forests, leading to scenic viewpoints and quiet spots ideal for relaxation.

The park also features designated camping areas, allowing guests to experience the serene environment overnight. Additionally, local vendors offer traditional foods and handicrafts, enriching the cultural experience for visitors. The blend of nature, history, and local traditions makes the park a unique destination.

In terms of conservation, the park faces challenges in balancing tourism with environmental preservation. Efforts are focused on protecting its natural and historical heritage while promoting sustainable practices.

Environmental education initiatives aim to raise awareness among visitors and local communities, ensuring that the park remains a well-preserved sanctuary for future generations.

Desierto del Carmen National Park stands out as a unique destination where nature and history merge harmoniously. Its striking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and historical significance make it an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and cultural exploration in a peaceful and scenic setting.

Park Map

Desierto del Carmen National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Desierto del Carmen National Park, located in the mountains of the State of Mexico, is a high-altitude protected area known for its pine and oak forests, misty landscapes, and rugged terrain. Despite its name, “Desierto” (Desert), the park is not arid but rather a cool, temperate forest with diverse wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, and amphibians adapted to its unique environment.

Mexican Gray Fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus)
A nocturnal and highly adaptable predator, the Mexican gray fox thrives in the park’s dense forests, where it hunts small mammals, birds, and insects.

Coyote (Canis latrans)
An opportunistic hunter and scavenger, the coyote plays an important role in the park’s ecosystem by controlling rodent populations.

White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
One of the most commonly seen mammals in the park, white-tailed deer graze on vegetation and serve as prey for predators like cougars and coyotes.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
This small, pig-like mammal forages in groups for roots, fruits, and small invertebrates. It is an important species for seed dispersal in the forest.

Ring-tailed Cat (Bassariscus astutus)
A secretive, raccoon-like mammal, the ring-tailed cat is a nocturnal climber that feeds on insects, small vertebrates, and fruit.

Rock Squirrel (Otospermophilus variegatus)
Common in the park’s rocky outcrops and forest floors, this ground squirrel collects seeds and berries, playing a role in forest regeneration.

Mexican Pine Snake (Pituophis deppei)
A large, non-venomous snake, the Mexican pine snake is an important predator in the park, keeping rodent populations in check.

Black-tailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus)
A well-camouflaged venomous snake, the black-tailed rattlesnake is often found in rocky areas, where it preys on small mammals and birds.

Ajolote del Altiplano (Ambystoma altamirani)
A rare and unique salamander, this species lives in the park’s cool streams, serving as an important indicator of water quality.

Pine Toad (Incilius occidentalis)
A common amphibian in the park’s moist environments, the pine toad plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Birds

The misty forests, rugged hills, and open meadows of Desierto del Carmen National Park provide an ideal habitat for a diverse range of bird species, including raptors, songbirds, and woodpeckers.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
A majestic bird of prey, the golden eagle soars above the park’s cliffs and forests, hunting for small mammals and birds.

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
One of the fastest birds in the world, the peregrine falcon is often seen diving at high speeds to capture its prey in mid-air.

Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida)
This rare nocturnal predator prefers the park’s dense forests, where it hunts rodents and small birds.

Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri)
A striking blue and black bird with a loud call, Steller’s jay is commonly seen scavenging and foraging in the park’s forests.

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus)
A social and highly vocal bird, the acorn woodpecker is easily recognizable by its black-and-white plumage and red cap.

Red Warbler (Cardellina rubra)
A small, vibrant red songbird, the red warbler is commonly seen flitting through the trees in search of insects.

Mountain Trogon (Trogon mexicanus)
This colorful bird, with its emerald-green back and red belly, prefers dense forest canopies, where it feeds on fruit and insects.

Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus)
A migratory raptor, the broad-winged hawk visits the park during seasonal migrations, preying on small mammals and reptiles.

White-eared Hummingbird (Basilinna leucotis)
A small hummingbird with a distinctive white stripe behind its eye, this species is frequently seen feeding on nectar from the park’s wildflowers.

Gray Silky-flycatcher (Ptiliogonys cinereus)
A soft-gray bird with a long tail, the gray silky-flycatcher is often found in groups feeding on berries and insects.