Cerro de Tlamimil

Description

Let me paint a picture for you: a wild heart-thumping adventure set against the unlikely backdrop of Ahuehueyo, Tamazunchale in the enchanting region of San Luis Potosí, Mexico. That’s Cerro de Tlamimil—a mountain you probably wouldn’t expect to be hiding a roller coaster, but here we are. I’ll be honest, if you love odd mixes of nature and adrenaline, you’re in for a treat. Cerro de Tlamimil isn’t just some “coaster bolted to some concrete.” Nope. The whole ride is set with lush scenery all around, the kind of green that only Mexico can offer, mixed with that earthy smell after rain that always reminds me why I trade suit and tie for sneakers any day.

So, what really makes this place unique? It’s not a gigantic, hyper-modern, Vegas-flashy roller coaster. It’s the opposite. You get a sense of raw fun—a roller coaster that feels like somebody decided life needed a twist (and a loop) right in the middle of forests, rolling hills, and lazy clouds. For those looking for off-the-beaten-path treasures, this one’s like an inside joke among locals and lovers of the unusual. There’s a warmth to the staff, too, and that matters when it’s your first time hurling through the air in the open countryside. I’ve seen families, couples, and even adventurous solo wanderers hop on, all coming out laughing or shrieking (usually both).

It’s not that the roller coaster is the biggest or fastest in Mexico. No, it’s more about heart and place—the merging of age-old landscapes and a burst of human invention. I remember my first time: butterflies in my stomach, the rattling sound on the ascent, a mix of trepidation and excitement (and maybe regretting my street tacos lunch just a tad). The views from the top? Unreal. Urban coasters just can’t compare to hurtling along tracks with actual mountains in the background, birds darting overhead, and that delicious rush in your veins. If you ask me, this is adventure with Mexican flair and bucket loads of character.

Key Features

• Distinctive mountain-side roller coaster experience surrounded by real Mexican wilderness
• Fresh, clean air (much appreciated after a city break, trust me)
• Family-friendly yet thrilling enough for diehard adrenaline fans
• Local staff who make you feel like you belong, even if you’re from way out of town
• Photo-worthy views of Ahuehueyo and Tamazunchale from unexpected angles
• Less crowded than major amusement parks (hello, no endless lines!)
• Unique blend of natural tranquility and full-throttle excitement—you don’t get that everywhere
• Plenty of places for a picnic or just to stretch your legs
• Hidden gem among Tamazunchale attractions, making it a great story to share back home

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let’s talk timing—because nobody wants to show up for adventure and get rained out or scorched. Here’s my take: plan your trip during the dry months, typically November through April. These months offer the best weather, with sunny days and those breezy evenings that are perfect after a day spent shrieking your lungs out. I’ve been there right at the cusp of dry season, and those mornings have this gold-tinged light that just makes the photos pop, no filters needed.

Summer (May to October) can be absolutely lush, with everything looking extra green, but you do risk the occasional downpour—those showers come fast and can turn things muddy. If you don’t mind risking your hairdo for a bit of thrill, you’ll get more of the countryside to yourself. Oh, and weekends and local holidays might get busier, but on weekdays, you’ll almost feel like you have the place to yourself. A touch of exclusivity never hurt, right?

In short: Dry season, mid-week, early(ish) morning or late afternoon for the magic hour light and cooler temps. And don’t forget the sunscreen, even if clouds are hanging low.

How to Get There

Getting to Cerro de Tlamimil is half the fun—it’s a bit of a treasure hunt, and that just adds to its charm. If you’re flying in, the nearest big city is Ciudad Valles, which offers plenty of transport options. From there, you’ll want to rent a car (if you’re braver than me with narrow roads) or hop on one of the local buses heading toward Tamazunchale. Trust me, local drivers know all the turns.

Once you reach Tamazunchale, Ahuehueyo isn’t far—think scenic countryside roads and the occasional roadside fruit stand. Directions can be a tad tricky (signage is charmingly old-school at best), so if you get lost, just ask at a gas station or tienda. People here are warm and, more often than not, eager to help out a traveler on a quest. Google Maps gets a bit confused in rural areas, so keep your wits (and your phone fully charged). If you’re like me and appreciate a good walk, even wandering from the main road up to the entrance is a part of the story. Pro tip: don’t wear heels or fancy sandals.

Plenty of travelers arrange for taxis or shared vans—locals will tell you how, if you look slightly lost and friendly. Part of the magic is getting there on paths less traveled, and that first glimpse of the mountain (and the roller coaster tracks winding around it) really gets your heart pumping.

Tips for Visiting

Just a few tidbits I’ve picked up along the way—and believe me, these are from real trial and error. First, dress for comfort and for changes in weather. Evenings can be cool, especially after the sun dips behind the mountain. Sneakers > sandals. It’s not the muddiest place on earth, but after a pop-up shower, you’ll appreciate solid footing. And bring a little cash, not everyone takes cards, and ATMs are few and far between.

If you’re planning to go with kids, set expectations—there aren’t a million rides or lots of neon, but what you get is genuine joy and safe thrills. Pack snacks and water, just in case the one food vendor is closed that day (it happens!). And don’t rush. It’s very tempting to just ride and dash, but the hillside walks are peaceful, and the photos you can get? Next-level.

Locals are happy to chat—ask them about the best places nearby for real Mexican food. My last visit ended with homemade gorditas from a little stall behind the main road. Divine. Also, keep your phone charged for photos—signal can be iffy but capturing the moment definitely isn’t. If you tend to get carsick, bring motion sickness tablets; those winding roads pack a punch. Most importantly, approach this roller coaster as a way to live a little outside your routine. It’s not mainstream, and that’s its superpower—you’ll leave with stories nobody at home will ever top.

I guess what I’m saying is: Cerro de Tlamimil is for the curious, for the thrill seekers who appreciate a dash of local flavor and the kind of raw, authentic adventure that doesn’t come wrapped in plastic. You’ll find yourself grinning, a little exhausted, and probably plotting a return visit before you even leave the parking lot.