Fans of botanical gardens will likely enjoy El Charco del Ingenio, a 170+ acre garden/ecological…read morereserve in San Miguel de Allende. It's a serene, safe place to wander pathways and explore, even if it lacks anything as colorful, vibrant, or artful as (my favorite), the U.K.'s Kew Gardens. Between the attractive gift shop one enters through, the building that functions as a museum for what you'll see here, and the al fresco cafe where fresh-squeezed juices are well-priced and delicious, you might mistakenly think you're in the Bay Area, with far cheaper prices. It's very aesthetically pleasing. The actual botanic gardens are somewhat less so. A map of the grounds will show you the trails and the layout but it's easy enough to just wander. There's some art (very little), some created habitats (e.g. medicinal plants), a greenhouse, and a lake/pond to cross and see some historic relics. Whether any of this appeals to you really depends on your mood. If you decide to come here I'd recommend you walk from wherever you are. The hilly walk here from central SMA takes you through a really lovely neighborhood of high end homes before suddenly navigating a dirt path with tumbleweeds and cacti. All of this nicely satisfies the desire you have to see things because, once on site here, what you'll see is - I have to admit - less exciting. Finish up with a green juice and purchase some organic honey for those back home. Then enjoy the walk back to where you came from.

This place was great, not only was it affordable but we really enjoyed the hike and the fresh air…read more Some people mentioned walking from the city center but I don't recommend it unless your ready to be tired when you get there. Just park directly at the location or get a taxi to drive you up there. Also it can be a bit challenging for kids and the elderly so I wouldn't recommend making the full circle. I would say to at least cross the mini dam since it was the most beautiful thing there. I also loved the abandoned villa with its ancient oven. The entrance was very nice and it had well kept bathrooms inside as well. Lastly, I would recommend bringing a bottle of water and to add some sunscreen.