Casas Grandes
Magical Town surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert, offering an authentic experience of exploration and wonder.
Location
Casas Grandes is located about 450 km northwest of the capital of Chihuahua, the city of Chihuahua.
Culture
Home to the ancient city of Paquimé, it stands out for its deep historical heritage and renowned pottery.
Nature
Framed by the vastness of the Sierra Madre Occidental and extensive grasslands that invite exploration.
In collaboration:
Discover Casas Grandes: Historical Relic of Chihuahua
Casas Grandes, a Magical Town and window to the past, stands as the guardian of the ancient city of Paquimé. This treasure of Chihuahua invites you to get lost among the shadows of history and culture that emerge from its land.
Discover its archaeological wonders, savor its culinary tradition, and immerse yourself in the living heritage of its artisans, all while the Sierra Madre Occidental envelops you with its majestic presence.
Weather and when to visit Casas Grandes
Casas Grandes enjoys an arid climate, with high temperatures in summer and cool in winter, making it a pleasant destination all year round.
Spring and autumn, mild and comfortable, are ideal times to immerse yourself in the culture and landscapes of this Magical Town.
How to get to Casas Grandes
To get to Casas Grandes, bus lines such as Transportes Chihuahuenses and Futura operate from Ciudad Juárez to Nuevo Casas Grandes, where you can find shuttle services and taxis. Additionally, airlines like Aeroméxico, Volaris, and VivaAerobus fly to nearby airports in Ciudad Juárez and Chihuahua, from where you can continue the journey by road.
What to do in Casas Grandes
Visit the ancient city of Paquimé and the Museum of the Cultures of the North. Explore the Mata Ortiz pottery and delight your palate with regional cuisine. Don’t miss the Cave of the Olla and enjoy the coniferous landscapes in the surrounding areas.
Things should know of Casas Grandes
Casas Grandes is famous for its archaeological legacy and the exceptional Mata Ortiz pottery. It is accessible from Nuevo Casas Grandes and offers a unique cuisine that fuses millenary traditions with contemporary flavors.
Where to sleep in Casas Grandes
Find a variety of lodging options in Nuevo Casas Grandes, from cozy inns to hotels with local charm, all offering warm hospitality and the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the Magical Town.
Cuisine and shopping
Savor the culinary richness of Casas Grandes, featuring highlights such as burritos and sweets made from local fruits. Take the opportunity to acquire the fine Mata Ortiz pottery and take with you a tangible piece of the town’s culture.
Casas Grandes: Heritage and Nature
A place where historical legacy meets the imposing natural setting, Casas Grandes invites you to live authentic experiences in an atmosphere of tranquility and cultural discovery.
1440m
Altitude of Casas Grandes.
30min
Distance to Mata Ortiz, cradle of ancestral ceramics.
600d.c
Date on which it is estimated that the oldest settlements of Paquimé, seed of Casas Grandes, were founded.
Weather and best time to visit
Spring (April – May):
Enjoy the mild season with temperatures ranging from 62°F to 71°F (17°C to 22°C), ideal for outdoor activities.
Summer (June – August):
Peak season, with temperatures varying from 80°F to 95°F (27°C to 35°C), perfect for adventures under the sun.
Fall (September – October):
Immerse yourself in the warm colors of fall with temperatures between 73°F to 86°F (23°C to 30°C), a pleasant transition towards winter.
Winter (January – March):
Experience the tranquility of the off-season with temperatures ranging from 35°F to 55°F (2°C to 13°C), perfect to enjoy the authenticity of the town.
Late Fall and Winter (November – December):
Experience calmness with temperatures between 43°F to 69°F (6°C to 21°C), fewer tourists, and the pure essence of Casas Grandes.
How to get to Casas Grandas from Chihuahua City
Renting a car:
- Cost: Around $500 and $1,200 pesos per day.
- Duration of the trip: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours from Chihuahua.
Bus:
- Cost: Approximately between $400 and $600 pesos.
- Duration of the trip: Around 4.5 up to 5 hours
- Companies: Transportes Chihuahuenses, Futura y Norte de Sonora.
In Nuevo Casas Grandes, you can take a shared shuttle (colectivo) for $20 – $50 pesos or a taxi for $100 – $200 pesos, with an additional transfer time of about 15 to 30 minutes to get to Casas Grandes.
Plane:
There are no direct flights; you must fly to Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and then continue by road.
What to do in Casas Grandes and surroundings.
Paquimé Archaeological Zone: Step into this ancient city, whose ruins tell the story of a civilization that was remarkable for its advanced techniques, from adobe constructions to water systems reflecting an ingenious society adapted to its environment.
Museum of the Cultures of the North: Adjacent to Paquimé, this museum is key to understanding the historical depth and cultural richness of the region, with exhibits that bring to life the legacy of ancient civilizations.
Mata Ortiz Village: (18 miles away). Known for its pottery renaissance led by Juan Quezada, Mata Ortiz is a living testament to traditional ceramics, where each handcrafted piece holds a fragment of history and art.
Cueva de la Olla: (31 miles away) This cave is famous for its pre-Hispanic grain storage pots, offering a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural practices of the region’s ancient inhabitants.
Colonia Juárez: (9 miles away) Immerse yourself in the history of this Mormon community that hosts buildings with distinctive architecture and offers a testimony of the encounter of cultures in the vastness of Chihuahua.
Río Piedras Verdes: Gently flowing through the region, it is the ideal choice for those seeking direct contact with nature and the chance to spot the rich local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Nuevo Casas Grandes: Explore this vibrant city, the gateway to the Magical Town of Casas Grandes, where modern history, regional culture, and an active community life converge.
Vineyards: In the surroundings, you can visit local vineyards and taste a variety of unique wines from the region.
Practical information of Casas Grandes
Financial Preparation: It’s advisable to carry cash when visiting Casas Grandes. While the town does have some banking services, you might find that in certain small establishments and more remote areas, credit cards are not accepted.
Connection and Disconnection: Internet and mobile phone coverage in Casas Grandes can be intermittent, especially in remote areas. This offers you an invitation to disconnect from the daily grind and fully enjoy your surroundings. Don’t forget to inform your accommodation of your estimated time of arrival, especially if you require any transfer services.
Appropriate Clothing: Temperatures can be extreme, so it’s essential to carry suitable clothing for the heat in summer and something to cover up with at night.
Where to sleep in Nuevo Casas Grandes – Recommended Hotels
Hotel Hacienda. Offers comfortable rooms and exceptional service, ideal for travelers looking for quality at a moderate price. Relax in the swimming pool or explore regional flavors at their restaurant. ($).Click here to see prices and book.
Hotel Durazno Inn. Offers comfortable rooms and practical services such as Wi-Fi and parking, ideal for travelers who want convenience and a central location. ($$). Click here to see prices and book.
Magnolias Suites Hotel. Provides a peaceful and harmonious environment, and stands out for having suites equipped with amenities like a kitchenette for a more comfortable stay and included breakfast. ($$).Click here to see prices and book.
Cuisine and shopping in Casas Grandes
Cuisine in Casas Grandes:
The culinary scene in Nuevo Casas Grandes will captivate you with flavors that are the pure essence of the region. Here, local ingredients are blended into traditional and contemporary recipes.
Be sure to taste the famous burritos, particularly the ones filled with chile colorado, chile pasado, and beans with cheese.
Shopping in Casas Grandes:
Nuevo Casas Grandes is a meeting point for lovers of regional crafts. A rich selection of woven baskets awaits you, each with a unique design that speaks to the tradition and artisanal skill.
In markets and specialty shops, you will also find colorful textiles, ceramic pieces inspired by the ancient Paquimé, and jewelry that combines modern techniques with cultural motifs, providing invaluable support to local artists.
