Presa Plutarco Elías Calles - Image 1
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Presa Plutarco Elías Calles

4.5
·14 reviews·San José de Gracia, Mexico

A monumental hydroelectric dam and reservoir, offering stunning landscapes, the iconic Broken Christ statue, and recreational activities.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Rainy season mornings

Dramatic water levels

CrowdLow
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Presa Plutarco Elías Calles - Image 1

Presa Plutarco Elías Calles

Best Time

Rainy season mornings

Dramatic water levels

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A monumental hydroelectric dam and reservoir, offering stunning landscapes, the iconic Broken Christ statue, and recreational activities.

4.5
(14 reviews)

"A place that, when the water level is high enough, is enjoyed by children and adults alike as a picnic."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Fishing Fun

Enjoy excellent fishing opportunities, though some note that large specimens are now rare. :fishing_pole:

💰 Affordable Excursions

Group trips for 9 people can be around 450 pesos for 45 minutes. :moneywithwings:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.5 · 14 reviews

Type

Sports Activity Location

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Broken Christ Statue

The Broken Christ Statue

San José de Gracia

A majestic statue offering a spiritual and scenic experience overlooking the reservoir.

El Novillo Dam's Grandeur

El Novillo Dam's Grandeur

Sonora

Witness the impressive scale of one of Mexico's key hydroelectric dams, a marvel of engineering.

Scenic Boat Tours

Scenic Boat Tours

Reservoir

Explore the vast waters and surrounding landscapes from a unique vantage point on a boat.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

The Presa Plutarco Elías Calles, also known as El Novillo, offers stunning vistas, especially when water levels are high. While it's a year-round destination, consider visiting during the rainy season for a more dramatic spectacle of the dam's power. Check local conditions before you go, as access can sometimes be restricted post-heavy rainfall.

Navigating Access and Activities

While some past reviews mention restrictions, it's worth checking current access for activities like fishing or boat tours. The Broken Christ statue is a significant draw, and local boat trips offer unique perspectives of the dam and surrounding landscape. Confirm availability and pricing for any planned excursions.

Best Times

When
Rainy season mornings
Why
Dramatic water levels
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cortina de la presa El Novillo (Plutarco Elias Calles), 68 mts de altura, y a 136 msnm (altura menor que la de Hermosillo). Una de las hidroeléctricas más importantes del país. Esta posicionada al centro del Estado de Sonora y curiosamente marca el fin del desierto y el inicio de imponentes cordilleras que terminan en la sierra madre occidental. #presaelnovillo #presaplutarcoelíascalles #soyopa...
marco.cordovamx
54 likes • 2.5K views

🎣 Fishing Fun

Enjoy excellent fishing opportunities, though some note that large specimens are now rare. :fishing_pole:

💰 Affordable Excursions

Group trips for 9 people can be around 450 pesos for 45 minutes. :moneywithwings:

El Cristo Roto de San José de Gracia asentado en la presa Plutarco Elías Calles vuelve a lucir espectacular. Visitala #RFInforma #videosvirales #Aguascalientes
rodolfofrancoinforma
4 likes • 221 views
En 1964, las familias de Suaqui, Tepupa y Batuc tuvieron que dejar sus pueblos, tras la construcción de la presa hidroeléctrica Plutarco Elías Calles, conocida como “El Novillo”, el inicio de una nueva era para el desarrollo energético en Sonora.🌊🏜️ #Sonora #Historia
tmxdigital
0 likes • 3.8K views

🚶‍♂️ Explore San José de Gracia

Visit the 'Pueblo Mágico' and its attractions, including the Broken Christ. ⛪

💧 Check Water Levels

Water levels vary; high levels make for a more impressive sight and better picnic conditions. :droplet:

Presa Plutarco Elías Calles, El Novillo, desfogando al río Yaqui.
lanuestra1270
12 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Fishing Fun

Enjoy excellent fishing opportunities, though some note that large specimens are now rare. :fishing_pole:

💰 Affordable Excursions

Group trips for 9 people can be around 450 pesos for 45 minutes. :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♂️ Explore San José de Gracia

Visit the 'Pueblo Mágico' and its attractions, including the Broken Christ. ⛪

💧 Check Water Levels

Water levels vary; high levels make for a more impressive sight and better picnic conditions. :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(14 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Presa Plutarco Elías Calles for its impressive scale, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities like fishing and boat tours. The Broken Christ statue is a significant draw, offering a spiritual and picturesque experience. While some note a decline in large fish catches, the overall atmosphere is considered enjoyable for families and those seeking a peaceful escape.

"Theme Park, La Alameda... Includes the Municipal Chronicler Museum, pool area, games, and a suspension bridge. Super affordable price"

Anaisa Luna Ámbar

"One of the few dams with water still in it.
You can still fish...
You can also visit the Broken Christ.
The price of a special trip for 9 people is 450 pesos, with a 45-minute trip duration."

Aurora Martinez

"Since the pandemic, you can no longer enter u.u"

Químico Roa

What People Like

Impressive dam structure
Scenic reservoir views
Broken Christ statue

What People Dislike

Fewer large fish
Occasional access restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Presa Plutarco Elías Calles is accessible by car. If coming from Aguascalientes, it's located near San José de Gracia. For those in Sonora, it's known as El Novillo and is a significant landmark in the state's energy infrastructure. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a well-known landmark, especially the El Novillo dam in Sonora and the area around San José de Gracia in Aguascalientes. GPS navigation is recommended for precise location. Instagram

Within the area, personal vehicles are common. Boat tours are available on the reservoir for exploring the water. Reddit

Presa Plutarco Elías Calles refers to different dams in different states. The El Novillo dam is in Sonora, while the one associated with the Broken Christ is in Aguascalientes. They are distinct locations. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the dam area itself is generally free, but specific attractions like boat tours or access to certain facilities might have associated fees. Reddit

The dam area is typically accessible during daylight hours. However, specific attractions or facilities might have their own operating schedules. It's best to check locally. Reddit

In the past, some areas might have had access restrictions, especially after heavy rains. It's advisable to check current conditions and any posted notices upon arrival. Reddit

A special trip for 9 people was reported to be around 450 pesos for a 45-minute duration, but prices can vary. Reddit

While the statue itself is a major attraction, there might be parking fees or small charges for certain viewing areas or associated facilities. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy fishing, take scenic boat tours, visit the Broken Christ statue, and have picnics. Some areas also feature pools and games. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, it's a great spot for families, especially when water levels are high, offering picnic areas and recreational activities. Reddit

Fishing is a popular activity here, though some visitors note that the abundance of large fish has decreased over time. Reddit

The Broken Christ statue in San José de Gracia is a prominent religious and tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of the reservoir. Instagram+1

Presa Plutarco Elías Calles is the official name for both. El Novillo is the common name for the large hydroelectric dam in Sonora, while the one in Aguascalientes is known for the Broken Christ statue. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are small restaurants located near the dam, offering local cuisine for visitors. Reddit

Absolutely! The dam area is a popular spot for picnics, especially when the water level is high, making for a pleasant atmosphere. Reddit

Expect typical local dishes, often featuring fresh ingredients. It's a good opportunity to try regional specialties. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vastness of the dam, the scenic reservoir, the impressive Broken Christ statue, and the surrounding landscapes. Sunset and sunrise can offer dramatic lighting. Instagram+2

Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more flattering illumination for landscape and architectural shots. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the dam's administration before flying a drone to ensure compliance. TikTok

Its sheer scale, the interplay of water and structure, and the dramatic natural surroundings make it a compelling subject. TikTokInstagram

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