Puente de Metlac Viewpoint
An engineering marvel offering breathtaking ravine views and a challenging climb, with a dramatic 153m drop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photography
Puente de Metlac Viewpoint
Best Time
Best light for photography
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An engineering marvel offering breathtaking ravine views and a challenging climb, with a dramatic 153m drop.
"A masterpiece of engineering with sensational views, but be prepared for a challenging climb and potential traffic delays."
💪 Conquer the Climb
Start from the bottom only if you're fit! It's a serious workout. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Essential to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen for the exposed climb. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Engineering Marvel
The bridge itself
A breathtaking feat of engineering offering sensational views of the hydroelectric plant and surrounding ravine.
Panoramic Ravine Views
Top of the bridge
Spectacular vistas of Orizaba peak and a ravine painted with shades of green and brown.
Graffiti Art Discovery
Underneath the highway bridge
Discover impressive graffiti art on the highway bridge structure from the middle of the Metlac bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Climb
Vertigo Alert & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💪 Conquer the Climb
Start from the bottom only if you're fit! It's a serious workout. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Essential to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen for the exposed climb. :sunwithface:
⚠️ Mind the Vertigo
The 153m drop is intense. Stay in the middle or beginning if you're prone to vertigo. :arrow_down:
🚂 Train Spotting Opportunity
If the railroad crosses while you're there, it's a unique sight! :train2:
Tips
from all over the internet
💪 Conquer the Climb
Start from the bottom only if you're fit! It's a serious workout. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Essential to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen for the exposed climb. :sunwithface:
⚠️ Mind the Vertigo
The 153m drop is intense. Stay in the middle or beginning if you're prone to vertigo. :arrow_down:
🚂 Train Spotting Opportunity
If the railroad crosses while you're there, it's a unique sight! :train2:
📸 Nature's Palette
The ravine offers enchanting views with diverse shades of green and brown. Perfect for photographers. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Puente de Metlac's engineering marvel and the sensational views of the ravine and Orizaba peak. The challenging climb is noted, requiring good fitness, and the 153-meter drop is a significant feature for those with or without vertigo. However, recent reports of prolonged traffic delays due to bridge repairs are a notable drawback for many.
"Ok"
Leopoldo Baca Sandoval
"It's a real challenge to climb and walk across this bridge. If you start from the bottom, you'll definitely need to be in great shape.
It's a masterpiece of engineering, and the view from the top of the bridge toward the hydroelectric plant is sensational.
If you suffer from vertigo, I recommend walking in the middle or staying at the beginning because if the railroad crosses, you'll definitely suffer.
In the middle of the bridge, there's a free fall of 153 meters, and from there, you can see the graffiti on the highway bridge structure—you're sure to be impressed.
Don't forget to bring water, a hat or cap, and sunscreen."
Edén Zárate (tierraprometida)
"The view from this bridge is cool. I came here for a rappelling activity with an agency. It has a good view of the Orizaba peak. It has the railroad tracks and it still passes through there, if I get to see it hehe 😅"
Krystel Deyanira Cruz Baac
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing the viewpoint often involves a challenging climb, especially if you start from the base of the ravine. Many visitors opt for guided tours that might include rappelling activities, which can simplify access. Research local tour operators for organized trips.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce. If driving, be prepared for potential roadside parking or to coordinate with tour groups.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of the viewpoint are limited. It's generally recommended to arrange private transport or join a tour.
The 'best' route depends on your fitness. Starting from the bottom is a strenuous hike. Some may find access points closer to the top via guided tours more manageable.
Recent reviews mention ongoing bridge repairs causing significant traffic delays, reducing lanes to one and leading to hour-long waits. Check local traffic updates before you go.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's no mention of official ticket sales for general access to the viewpoint itself. However, if participating in activities like rappelling, you'll need to book with an agency.
As a natural viewpoint and bridge, it doesn't have set opening hours. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
No specific entrance fee is typically associated with simply visiting the viewpoint. Costs would likely be related to organized tours or activities.
Since there isn't a formal ticketing system for the viewpoint, advance booking isn't applicable. If you book an activity, follow the agency's booking procedures.
The primary restriction is physical fitness due to the challenging climb. Those with severe vertigo should also exercise caution.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the bridge offers panoramic views of the ravine and Orizaba peak. Don't miss the unique perspective looking down at the graffiti on the highway bridge structure.
Early mornings provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the landscape. The contrast of colors in the ravine is enchanting.
Yes, if you're lucky enough to witness a train crossing the tracks on the bridge, it makes for a dramatic and memorable photograph.
There's no specific information regarding drone usage. It's advisable to check local regulations or inquire with any tour operators if you plan to use one.
Expect breathtaking landscape shots, impressive engineering details of the bridge, and potentially unique shots of trains on the tracks.
🎫 💪 Fitness & Safety
The hike, especially from the bottom, is described as a real challenge and requires great physical shape. Be prepared for a strenuous climb.
Be mindful of the 153-meter free fall if you have vertigo. Stay in the middle or at the beginning of the bridge for a less intense experience.
The bridge is an engineering masterpiece, but the height can be intimidating. If you suffer from vertigo, proceed with extreme caution or stay towards the edges.
Wear comfortable, sturdy athletic shoes suitable for climbing. Lightweight clothing is recommended due to potential exertion and sun exposure.
Information on immediate medical facilities is not readily available. It's wise to be prepared for emergencies and carry a basic first-aid kit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do decide to visit, focus on the less intense parts of the bridge and ensure constant supervision. The views are spectacular, but the 153-meter drop is a serious concern for safety. Consider if your children are comfortable with heights. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, as facilities may be limited.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Once at the top, the bridge itself offers a unique environment for exploration. The panoramic views and the sheer scale of the engineering are impressive. It's a great spot for active individuals who appreciate both natural landscapes and man-made marvels. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and stay hydrated.
📸 Photographers
The ravine's natural beauty, with its varied greens and browns, is stunning, especially during the golden hours of early morning. Don't miss the opportunity to capture the graffiti art beneath the highway bridge and, if you're lucky, a train crossing the tracks. The view of Orizaba peak adds a majestic element to landscape shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Puente de Metlac
This viewpoint is particularly famous for its dramatic height, with a reported free fall of 153 meters from the middle of the bridge. This sheer drop provides a thrilling perspective, allowing visitors to see details like the graffiti on the highway bridge structure below. For those interested in infrastructure and daring design, the Puente de Metlac is a must-see.
It's important to note that while the bridge is an engineering feat, its height can be a significant factor for visitors. Those who suffer from vertigo are advised to be cautious and may prefer to stay closer to the beginning or middle sections of the bridge.
Experiencing the Ravine's Natural Beauty
This natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for photography and for those seeking to connect with the outdoors. The combination of rugged terrain and vibrant flora provides a stunning backdrop. Visitors often mention the impressive view of Orizaba peak from the bridge, adding another layer to the scenic experience.
For those looking for an active experience, the ravine is also a popular spot for exercise and adventure activities like rappelling, often organized by local agencies. The raw, untamed beauty of the area ensures a memorable visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Navigating Access and Potential Delays
Recent traveler feedback highlights a significant issue with bridge repairs that are causing considerable delays. These repairs have reduced traffic to a single lane, leading to average wait times of up to an hour. This is a crucial piece of information for anyone planning a visit, as it can substantially impact travel time and the overall experience.
Given these potential delays and the nature of the access, it's worth considering organized tours. Agencies often handle the logistics of reaching the viewpoint and may offer activities like rappelling, which can provide a more structured and potentially easier way to experience the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit