//
This rocky point of land juts into the Gulf of Mexico. Volcanic slopes end at high basalt cliffs with columnar formations and a series of natural caves carved over millennia by the constant force of wind and ocean waves. The most famous cave on the point is called Lorencillo's Pirate Cave (Cueva de Pirata Lorencillo). Local lore says that the 17th century Dutch pirate, Laurent de Graff, used the cave to hide his stolen wealth from plundering the wealthy port of Veracruz. The cave is at the waterline and can be entered in a kayak when the tide allows.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Twin Falls
Twin 10 meter high falls set in a lush jungle landscape. Locals often dive from the cliff tops, but before doing it, check where others dive and verify depths to avoid a broken neck. The pool at the base of the falls is clear and smooth and suitable for swimming.
Beach village with several small hotels. Accessible by mixto from Catemaco
One of the most hiked volcano in the reserve, it rises to a height of 1,650 meters. Hiking trails to the summit crater ascend through dense cloud forests where trails can be slippery. The trails are somewhat difficult and require good physical conditioning. The volcano is an active shield volcano that last erupted in 1793.
The 800-meter high summit of the extinct volcano has scenic overlooks with panoramic vistas of the town of Santiago Tuxtla below.
The winding mangrove swamps of Laguna de Sontecomapan offer a birdwatcher the opportunity to spot many aquatic bird species as well as parrots, toucans, and crocodiles. The village of Sontecomapan lies along a paved road from Catemaco and kayaks and tour guides offering boat tours can be hired there. The mouth of the lagoon, where it drains into the Gulf of Mexico is called La Barra. Mixtos (shared truck transportation) from Catemaco go to both locations. Laguna de Sontecomapan is a Ramsar wetland covering an area of almost 9,000 hectares.
Isla de Monos
Island in Lake Catemaco populated by various types of new world primates, including mantled howler monkeys and spider monkeys.