Las Labradas Petroglyphs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

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North of Mazatlán, you will find one of Mexico's largest natural parks; La Meseta de Cacaxtla. I recently had the opportunity to visit park to see the pre-historic Las Labradas Petroglyphs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, within the nature reserve.

A tour group bussed in from Mazatlán enjoys the petroglyphs and scenery


Established in 2000, this 125,000 acres eco reserve is home to 26 species of amphibians, 59 species of reptiles, 79 species of mammals including jaguar, and over 350 kinds of birds.

Although we didn't see a jaguar, we did see these incredible petroglyphs on the boulders along the Pacific Ocean coastline. The local community provides guides (inquire in Mazatlan first - only 45 minutes north), a small museum and sometimes fresh Mexican food available for purchase.

Visiting this vast wild area is not only awe-inspiring, but helps some of the poor communities that are now the guardians of the park such as Barras de Piaxtla and La Chicayota.

Boulder petroglyphs at Las Labradas

Tourists enjoying the park


More unique petroglyphs
 

Jaguars, pumas, lynx and ocelots are among the fauna found here
Living cactus fence


Yaqui deer dancer in the local museum


Do you see any figures in these petroglyphs?

Outside the museum, local building and plants


Unfortunately there is not a lot of information in English, but here are some links with more information.

http://www.mexonline.com/cityguide-mazatlan.htm

http://mesetadecacaxtla.conanp.gob.mx/

https://www.facebook.com/Área-de-Protección-de-Flora-y-Fauna-Meseta-de-Cacaxtla-509527049098027/

Location: Sinaloa, Mexico

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