The reserve occupies an area of 84,347 ha (208,425 acres) at the eastern edge of the Chihuahuan Desert. It was created to protect the unique and diverse ecosystem of the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin, home to many endemic species of flora and fauna.

It consists of a small valley locally known as 'Bolson” and is ringed by a desert and six mountains whose altitude exceeds three thousand meters above sea level. The area has approximately 250 crystalline natural pools of varied shapes and shades, some pools are transparent and others are turquoise, aquamarine, cerulean, or teal, depending on sky conditions.

Water temperatures vary by season and pool. Averages are 20°C (68°F) in Poza Azul (winter) to a balmy 32°C (90°F) in Poza Escobedo (summer).

These wetlands are home to over 800 flora species and about 360 fauna species, some critically vulnerable or endangered. In addition, it has a biological endemism similar to that of the Galapagos Islands.

For millions of years it has been home to plants and species such as the hinged turtle and the blind fish. You can even see stromatolites, a coral-like structures that are geologically identical to 3.5 billion-year-old fossils that are believed to be the oldest evidence of life on Earth. bisagra y el pez ciego. Incluso se pueden ver estromatolitos, una especie de coral que forman estructuras que son geológicamente idénticas a fósiles de 3.500 millones de años que se cree que son la evidencia más antigua de vida en la Tierra.

Among the most important natural pools are:

Poza Azul (Blue Pool)

The minerals inside the water create a wide range of blue shades that goes from turquoise to zaphire. Beside, the spectrum of blue colors in the middle blend with the yellow colors toward the pool’s edge, bringing to mind the mixing of colors in a painter’s palette.

It is considered the most beautiful of all the pools and has a viewpoint to enjoy the panoramic view. It is home to one of the greatest riches of flora and fauna in the entire state.

You can’t swim in this pool.

Poza de la Becerra

It is another pool of crystalline waters whose temperature ranges between 28º and 32ºC, depending on the season of the year, there are also warm water currents. oscila entre los 28º y 32ºC, según la estación del año, además existen corrientes de agua cálida.

Poza Los Mezquites

It is part of the river of the same name and also has crystal clear waters, although its temperature is 22ºC.

In these beautiful pools you can swim and snorkel. And in its surroundings you can practice mountain biking, rappelling and camping.

The place has grills, palapas, tables and parking.