Rock Climbing at El Potrero Chico

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in El Potrero Chico, Mexico, please refer to the US Embassy’s COVID-19 information for Mexico.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

What you get on this adventure:

• • An experienced, local climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  • A full day of climbing
  • All technical climbing gear

What’s not included:

• • Transportation
  • Accommodations
  • Lunch and snacks

If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

El Potrero Chico has plenty of options for beginner climbers. Whether you’ve never climbed before or are transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun!

For intermediate to advanced climbers, El Potrero Chico has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.

All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:

• • Helmet
  • Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
  • Ropes
  • Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
  • Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:

• • Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
  • Sun hat
  • Water bottle
  • Food you can eat on-the-go
  • Long-sleeved sun shirt
  • Light puffy jacket for high-altitude approaches
  • Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  • Comfortable approach shoes
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera — optional

Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and prices:

• • For single pitch climbs, the max guest-to-guide ratio is 4:1.
  • For multi-pitch climbs, the max guest-to-guide ratio is 2:1.
  • Costs per person decrease as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.

Climbing days in El Potrero Chico can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:

• • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to El Potrero Chico, most people fly into Monterrey International Airport 45 minutes away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Hidalgo, a town right below El Potrero Chico.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s in Hidalgo or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.