Benito Juarez National Park

Benito Juarez National Park is a large mountainous park in Oaxaca, Mexico. The park is very natural with few improvements yet is just 8 minutes by taxi from downtown Oaxaca.

History
The park was declared a national park in December 1937. It was named in honor of the former president, who was born and raised in Oaxaca.

Landscape
The park is large, covering an area of 2,591 hectares. Most of it is remote and off the beaten path.

Flora and fauna
Oaxaca has the greatest variety of bird species of all the states in Mexico, and the Benito Juarez National Park was established largely to provide habitat for the many kinds of birds that live and migrate in the area. 230 species of birds have been recorded in the park, along with 67 species of mammals, 39 reptiles, and 18 amphibians. Nature lovers will find lots to see in the pine-oak forests and hills of the park.

One animal you should not see in the park is dogs. Signs at the entry prohibit people from bringing dogs to the park.

Get in
The park is located on the north side of Oaxaca.

Fees and permits
Entry to the park costs M$20.

Get around
Walk.

See
Nature. Views of the city.

Do

 * Zip lines - prices start at M$50 (weekends only)
 * Hike - Sendero la Coronilla is an easy marked hiking trail through the woods
 * Jog
 * Mountain bike - the park has some trails for downhill mountain biking, if you're into pushing yourself to the limit

Park facilities
There are very limited facilities in this park. Expect:
 * ample parking
 * a restroom (M$5)
 * a playground area for kids
 * an observation deck on one of the trails
 * nicely maintained, well-marked trails (3 km and 5 km)

Stay safe
All the usual precautions about being outdoors in mountainous areas of Mexico apply. Wear good hiking boots (there are snakes in this park). Bring sunglasses. Wear a hat. Use sunblock. Bring bottled water.

Go next

 * Oaxaca (city)
 * Monte Alban