Calnali Microfinance Project/El Proyecto Microfinanciero de Calnali
Travel to State of Hidalgo/Viajar al Estado de Hidalgo
Table of Contents/Tabla de Materias
Current Initiatives/Iniciativos Actuales
Travel to State of Hidalgo/Viajar al Estado de Hidalgo
Success Stories/Casos de Éxito
Images of Calnali/Imágenes de Calnali
It is relatively easy to reach the State of Hidalgo from Indianapolis. Flights to Mexico City are available through a number of different airlines. Many people express concerns about travel to Mexico due to the drug violence. However, statistical reports indicate that the State of Hidalgo, particularly the area around Calnali, is one of the least impacted by the violence. IUPUI has been sending teams of students and faculty to this area since 1998. Nevertheless, when traveling anywhere unfamiliar, it is wise to be alert and take the usual precautions, such as avoiding large crowds and political demonstrations or drawing unnecessary attention to yourself by wearing expensive clothing or jewelry. It is worthwhile to consult the U.S. State Department website for the latest information whenever you travel internationally.
This map shows the location of the State of Hidalgo. It is the state just north and northwest of Mexico City. The State of Hidalgo stretches north and east from the northern extreme of the Valley of Mexico. The terrain of the state is very rugged. At its lowest point it is only a few meters above sea level and it is over 3,300 meters above sea level at its highest point. The State of Hidalgo is divided into three geographical regions, which vary in topography and climate based on altitude: the Coastal Plain, the Sierra Madre Oriental, and the Altiplano Meridional, which contains the highest peaks.
The State of Hidalgo’s economy has been based on mining and agriculture, with manufacturing more recently. Most industry is located in what is called the “Urban Industrial Corridor of the South, where most of the state’s economic activity is located. Outside of this corridor, the economy remains based on subsistence farming. Industry accounts for more than 25% of the State’s gross domestic product.
The capital city of the State of Hidalgo is Pachuca. The Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo (UAEH), a strategic partner with IUPUI, is located in Pachuca. The map shows the location of Pachuca within the State of Hidalgo.
To get to Pachuca, you can ride in a comfortable bus from the airport in Mexico City. The cost is typically less than $15.00 USD and the trip will take 1 to 1 1/2 hours, depending on traffic. Arrival will be at the bus station in Pachuca, which has a number of shops and restaurants as well as ATM machines. Taxis are available to take you to your hotel or to the UAEH campus.
This map of the State of Hidalgo shows the location of Calnali. Note its position relative to Pachuca.
To travel from Pachuca to Calnali, you will need to hire a taxi. The cost will be anywhere from $30 to $50 USD and the trip will take about 4 hours. From the dessert-like terrain around Pachuca, you will journey into the Sierra Madre mountains. The vistas and views are beautiful, but for those who have a fear of heights, be aware that there are many winding curves and steep drop-offs. Those who suffer from motion sickness might want to bring along the necessary medications.
Various groups associated with the Friends of Hidalgo and several schools on the IUPUI campus travel regularly to Pachuca and Calnali, particularly during spring break and summer. It is worth asking to see if you could join one of these groups or at least travel with them.
Note again that the State of Hidalgo is one the areas in Mexico that has been least impacted by the drug violence. Nevertheless, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not take unnecessary risks. The food is plentiful, inexpensive and delicious. It is recommended that travelers rely on bottled water and eat only fruit that can be peeled. The weather is warm during the day, but cool at night, so pack accordingly. Remember that this is a service opportunity, so you may be asked to pitch in with preparing meals and cleaning.
