Cuexcomate: The smallest volcano in the world is in Puebla, Mexico

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Mexico is full of surprising places in every corner of the country, but one of its best-kept secrets lies in Puebla: the so-called “smallest volcano in the world.”

Don’t be alarmed by the word volcano—this formation is inactive and completely safe to visit.

While some consider it an inactive volcano, others argue that it is actually a geyser, as there is a natural water deposit inside it.

What is certain is that its behavior is closely linked to Popocatépetl’s activity, since the water level inside Cuexcomate can rise or fall depending on what “Don Goyo” is up to.

Where does the adventure begin?

Staying at Quinta Real Puebla or Camino Real Puebla Angelópolis gives you the perfect starting point for this experience. Not only are these hotels located in the heart of Puebla—known as the City of Angels—but they’re also very close to this Mesozoic-era formation.

Photo: Camino Real Puebla Angelópolis

At Camino Real hotels, you’ll enjoy the best rest, along with an excellent breakfast prepared by top-tier chefs who master both traditional local cuisine and international dishes.

After a warm-up in the gym or a swim in the pool, it’s time to set off toward Cuexcomate. It’s so close to either hotel that you can arrive in under 30 minutes—traffic permitting.

How to get to Cuexcomate in Puebla

If you’re driving, simply set your GPS. Cuexcomate is located near Angelópolis, in the Libertad neighborhood.

Esteban de Antuñano Boulevard will be your best reference point, as the “smallest volcano in the world” is just a few blocks from this main avenue.

If you’re taking public transportation, you can hop on Route 68A or take a taxi. A taxi ride costs around 80 MXN and will get you there in just a few minutes.

What can you do there?

Also known as the “son of Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl”, Cuexcomate is 13 meters tall—an accessible height you can easily climb if you want to explore the inside of this geological formation.

Once at the top, you can descend via a staircase installed inside and observe the rock walls up close, as well as a small spring of crystal-clear water.

There are also family-friendly activities around the formation. Right next to Cuexcomate is a park where you can enjoy recreational time, with children’s playgrounds and a small soccer field.

The park is open every day until 6:00 p.m.

What else to do nearby

After your visit to Cuexcomate, you can head to the Parque Paseo de los Gigantes, located just minutes away. Here you’ll find miniature replicas of famous buildings and landmarks from around the world.

Walk through the park and spot the Arc de Triomphe, the Sydney Opera House, Buckingham Palace, and the Basilica of Guadalupe—all in tiny scale, making you feel like a giant among these small architectural wonders.

The park also features a mini-golf course where you can practice your best shots with friends or family.

Parque Paseo de los Gigantes is open Monday through Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., making it an ideal stop for fun after exploring the world’s smallest volcano.

End your day with a good cocktail at Blue Bar or Mezcalería Novicias, whether you’re staying at Camino Real Puebla Angelópolis or Quinta Real Puebla. Both offer some of the best drinks in the city.