Apozol lies in the Cañón de Juchipila between the Sierra de Morones and the Sierra de Nochistlán. The Río Juchipila flows from north to south north and west of the town and carries water year-round. Apozol’s location thus connects the canyon region with a clear link to the river and Sierras.
River Landscape and Natural Environment
Areas with low-growing woodland vegetation lie west of the town. This includes oaks, mesquite, manzanilla and various grasses; a diverse range of birds and mammals also shapes the natural heritage. The Río Juchipila carries water year-round, though seasonal water levels may vary. The river and western areas of vegetation offer different reference points for understanding the landscape around Apozol.
Getting There and Finding Your Way Around
Federal Highway 54, a paved road, runs through Apozol from north to south. Road conditions and maintenance needs may change; check the road situation before travelling. Long-distance buses stop along the highway; there is no bus station. Frequent services run to Juchipila, Jalpa, Zacatecas and Guadalajara. Since bus frequency should be checked before travelling, it is worth confirming the service for your preferred travel period.
Churches and Religious Heritage
The present-day Templo de Santa María Magdalena was rebuilt in the first decades of the 19th century. It has a wide nave and a Latin cross floor plan. The building is made of local stone; cantera stone is found only on the façade and in some details of the dome. The Templo also houses the Señor de la Ascensión, an 18th-century sculpture of Christ crucified.
The Capilla de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe stands on a rise, is painted magenta and is surrounded by cedars and casuarinas. Access is difficult because of the topography; take this into account when planning. The novena to Santa María de Guadalupe includes daily pilgrimages to the chapel on the adjoining hill. If you would like to include this religious occasion in your trip, check the current date in advance.
Tastoanes Tradition and Events
Apozol’s Tastoanes tradition is connected with the remembrance of the Mixtón War and the veneration of the Apostle Santiago. The Danza de los Tastoanes takes place in the municipality from July 23 to 26; the main feast day is July 25, in honour of Santiago el Mayor. Check the dates before planning your trip around the event.
Juchipilazo is a 4×4 event associated with Apozol and Juchipila. In the edition held on July 13, 2024, the route ran through the Sierra de Morones. As the route changes from year to year, check the date and route of any planned edition separately.
Former Haciendas
The former Hacienda San José de La Labor is located on Calle Bernardo Reyes. It is now used as a hotel and is in poor condition. Its complex of buildings is visible from higher parts of Apozol; check its condition and access locally. Another former hacienda, La Purísima, lies south of the built-up area.
Crafts and Festive Cuisine
Local craft traditions include cross-stitch, weaving and openwork, as well as wooden masks and animal figures. Other crafts include saddlery, ixtle bags, huaraches, monteras, hats, saddles and various wooden souvenirs. The range thus extends from textile work to leathercraft and woodwork.
Festive cuisine in Apozol includes Zacatecas-style chorizo, country bread and various stews. It also includes torrijas, pipián, asado de boda, capirotada, enchiladas, shrimp fritters, and menudo made with beef and goat.
Places to Stay near Apozol
The Paraíso Caxcán hot springs resort is located in San Miguel near Apozol. It offers hotel rooms, cabins, and Master, Junior and VIP suites. Reservations are requested by phone and then confirmed. Availability and reservation procedures may change; confirm the current details by phone before booking.
Discover more destinations: Río Frío, Tonalá, Jerez De García Salinas, Villa Garcia, La Cardona, Juchipila, Pinos and Plateros.
See the main travel overview: Zacatecas.
