Museo del Desierto is a natural history museum in Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila, opened in 1999 inside Parque Las Maravillas. It is devoted to the Chihuahuan Desert, the largest desert in North America, and brings paleontology, geology, biology, anthropology, history and art together in one visit. You see dinosaur skeletons, regional fossils, minerals and a crystal cave, then meet live animals including reptiles, prairie dogs and wolves. The exhibits are easy to follow even if you do not read Spanish, and an English audio guide is available. The museum is about 15 minutes outside the city centre.
A museum built around one desert
The Museo del Desierto opened in 1999 in Saltillo and is counted among the most important museums in northern Mexico. Its subject is the Chihuahuan Desert, which is the largest desert in North America. The museum is known for combining several fields in one place: paleontology, geology, biology, anthropology, history and art.
The address is Blvd. Carlos Abedrop Dávila 3745, within Parque Las Maravillas. It lies about 15 minutes outside the centre of Saltillo, so it works best as its own outing rather than a quick stop between downtown sights.
Fossils, minerals and how deserts form
The exhibits explain why sea currents can create deserts and how sand dunes are formed. There is a collection of fossils from the region and a large display of dinosaurs, with a Tyrannosaurus rex that draws children in particular. Rooms on geology and minerals include a crystal cave you can walk through.
Another part follows the history of humankind from the Big Bang to the present through presentations. Text and displays are clear enough that visitors who do not speak Spanish can follow the main ideas.
Animals and the cactus garden
The museum keeps live animals as well as specimens. You can see a reptile house, prairie dogs and wolves, which shows how animals live in desert conditions.
The botanical garden has more than 400 species of cactus. A nursery on the grounds sells cacti, so you can take a plant home if you wish.
Planning your visit
Admission is charged, and buying tickets ahead is recommended. Parking is paid, both in the lot and on the street. The site has a coat check, a gift shop, a cafe and a restaurant, so you can stay through a long visit.
The museum suits families. It has changing tables, gender-neutral restrooms, and a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom and parking lot. Guided tours are offered. Live performances and private events are also held on site.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee at Museo del Desierto?
Yes, admission is charged. One recent figure was close to 15 US dollars. Buying tickets in advance is recommended.
How long do you need at Museo del Desierto?
Plan about 3 hours to see all the exhibits, the live animals and the garden.
Is there an English audio guide?
Yes. Scan the QR code on site with the Spotify app to listen to the English guide.
Is the museum good for children?
Yes. Dinosaurs, live animals and a crystal cave suit children, and the site has changing tables and family facilities.
How far is the museum from central Saltillo?
It is about 15 minutes outside the centre, in Parque Las Maravillas. The museum is closed on Mondays.
