Edward James, a major patron of the surrealist movement, arrived in Xilitla, San Luis Potosí, in the mid-1940s. He fell in love with its exotic beauty and decided to create Las Pozas (“The Pools”) in the midst of the Mexican jungle. Over the course of nearly 40 years, James invested in creating a fantasy world, hiring local artisans to construct thirty-six concrete follies, including a stairway to heaven, a house poised on mushroom-like pillars, and a multitude of other intriguing structures.

Las Pozas is located near Xilitla, in the state of San Luis Potosí, approximately seven hours north of Mexico City by car. The most convenient way to reach Xilitla is to fly to Mexico City and then take a domestic flight to Tampico or Queretaro. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Xilitla. Once in Xilitla, Las Pozas is only a short taxi ride or a vigorous uphill walk from the town center.

Las Pozas provides a captivating setting for unique and surreal photographs. Here are a few tips for your photographic exploration:

1. Early Morning Magic: Arrive early in the morning (opens at 9 AM) for the best lighting conditions and to avoid the crowds. The way the soft morning light filters through the thick foliage, casting an ethereal glow on the concrete structures, is truly magical.
2. Play with Perspective: The surrealistic sculptures lend themselves to creative compositions. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the most intriguing shots.
3. Long Exposure: The site is dotted with waterfalls and pools. Use a tripod and a long exposure to capture the movement of the water and create a dreamy effect.
4. Pack Smart: The site is vast and requires a fair bit of walking, so bring comfortable shoes. Also, given the unpredictable weather of the jungle, it’s wise to bring a rain cover for your camera.
5. Respect the Environment: As with any location, please respect the site and its rules. Avoid climbing on the sculptures and always stick to the paths.

Las Pozas is undoubtedly a paradise for photographers, offering a blend of natural beauty and surrealistic architecture that cannot be found anywhere else. So pack your gear and get ready to capture the magic of this extraordinary garden in the heart of the Mexican jungle.