Can you imagine paddling on calm waters while an ancient church emerges before you like a vestige of the past? ✨⛪️💦 Very...

Muy cerca de Irapuato existe una de las experiencias más sorprendentes y poco conocidas de Guanajuato: recorrer en kayak la Presa La Purísima hasta llegar a la famosa Iglesia Hundida.

Between nature, history, and adventure, this place has become an ideal destination for those seeking unique and memorable experiences.

A journey through water, nature, and history

The adventure begins at the La Purísima Dam, a huge body of water surrounded by natural landscapes and tranquility.

From the very first moment, the tour conveys a special feeling: the sound of the oars, the birds flying over the lake, and the green landscape surrounding the dam create a perfect atmosphere for disconnecting from the routine 🌿🚣‍♀️

One of the best ways to experience this is through guided tours like those offered by Campamentos Recrearte, who organize safe and accessible [trips/expeditions] for all types of visitors.

The best part is that you don't need prior experience or to know how to swim. Equipment is included, and you'll have professional guidance throughout the entire trip.

The Impressive Sunken Church of Guanajuato

But without a doubt, the most impactful moment arrives when the famous Sunken Church ⛪️💦 appears before you

This is about the old Temple of San José de los Llanitos, belonging to the vanished town of Zangarro, a community that was submerged during the construction of the dam in the 1970s.

Today, depending on the water level, part of the church emerges, creating a completely surreal scene.

The tower, walls, and ruins of the construction seem suspended between the past and the present, making this place one of the most impressive postcards in the state.

Rowing around this church is an experience that's hard to describe. The silence of the place, the reflection of the water, and the history held within the site make it all feel magical and mysterious.

An ideal experience for beginners

One of the big draws of this tour is that anyone can do it 👀

The calm waters of the reservoir are ideal for those who have never kayaked before, and guides accompany visitors throughout the experience.

Furthermore, the tours include security measures.

During the journey, they also share historical facts and curiosities about the dam and the old submerged village, making the tour even more interesting.

Sunrises, nature, and unforgettable moments

Another reason why this experience has become so popular is its incredible natural landscapes 🌅

There are tours available from very early in the morning to see the sunrise over the dam, when the light transforms the water and mountains into a spectacle of golden and pink hues.

Also, it's a perfect plan for:

  • Traveling with friends
  • Enjoy as a couple
  • To live a family experience
  • Take amazing photos 📸
  • Connect with nature

And yes... it's also pet friendly 🐕✨, so your doggo can join you on the adventure.

Very close to the main cities of Guanajuato

The location is another of its great benefits. La Presa La Purísima is located at:

  • 30 minutes from Irapuato
  • 50 minutes from Guanajuato
  • 1 hour from León
  • An hour and a half from San Miguel de Allende

This makes it an excellent option for a weekend getaway or to complement a trip around the state.

A different adventure in Guanajuato

Guanajuato can also be experienced by rowing amidst natural landscapes, hidden stories, and out-of-the-ordinary experiences.

The Sunken Church of La Purísima Dam is one of those places that surprise you from the very first moment and prove that the state holds corners full of mystery, adventure, and natural beauty.

Guanajuato opens new roads to discover unique destinations, where history and nature come together to create unforgettable experiences.

So if you're looking for something different, exciting, and full of magic... this kayak adventure definitely has to be on your next getaway.

Connectivity

Traveling to Guanajuato is as easy as enjoying it.

View Flights
Digital Tourist Library

Explore our digital collection

See books
Tourist Services

Search for and find tourism services in all our municipalities.

Search
State Tourism Registry

Be part of the outstanding Tourist Service Providers of our State of Guanajuato.

Go to the site
Experience Guanajuato

Join us and receive travel inspiration every two weeks.

Guanajuato Bicentennial Park

Carretera de Cuota Silao - Guanajuato Km 3.8. C.P. 36270. Silao, Guanajuato

(472) 103 99 00
[email protected]

© 2026. All rights reserved Secretariat of Tourism and Identity of the State of Guanajuato.