Laguna Seca Puerto Aereo Airport

Laguna Seca Puerto Aereo is a small airstrip situated in the rolling hills of Jalisco, Mexico, near the town of San Jose de los Pozos. It functions primarily as a base for ultralight and scenic flight operations, offering passengers a unique perspective on the region’s green landscapes. The airstrip is well-maintained and clean, with a single runway that accommodates light aircraft. Its location, surrounded by verdant hills and open countryside, makes it a favorite among local pilots and tourists seeking a quiet alternative to larger airports. While it does not handle commercial airline traffic, Laguna Seca serves as a tranquil entry point for those looking to explore central Mexico from the air.

The airstrip’s name references the dry lagoon (laguna seca) that once existed in the area, now a grassy plain that adds to the scenic beauty. The control tower is minimal, and operations are coordinated by a small on-site team. Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere and the clear views of the nearby hill, blanketed in green throughout much of the year. This is a place where the journey itself becomes the destination.

Getting There

Laguna Seca Puerto Aereo lies approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Guadalajara, a drive of about 1 hour 30 minutes on Mexican Federal Highway 54 and then local roads. From Guadalajara, head south on Carretera a Colima (MEX 54) until you reach the turnoff for San Jose de los Pozos, which is well-signed. The last few kilometers are on a two-lane paved road that winds through farmland and patches of forest. A rental car is the most practical option, as public transportation to the airstrip is limited. Occasional colectivos (shared vans) run from the nearby town of Tapalpa to San Jose de los Pozos, but they drop you about 5 kilometers from the airstrip, so arranging a pickup in advance is wise. The parking lot at the airstrip is free and ample, and valet parking is also available for those who prefer it. The drive itself is scenic, with views of agave fields and oak-studded hills, so allow extra time to stop and enjoy the landscape.

Inside the Terminal

As an airstrip rather than a full airport, Laguna Seca has no traditional terminal building. Instead, passengers are met at a small, open-sided shelter that serves as the check-in and waiting area. A single room houses the operations desk, a bench, and a Wi‑Fi router (password available on request). The toilet is clean and functional, but it's the only one, so plan accordingly during busy times. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal; you'll likely share the space with pilots plotting their routes on paper maps. Departure is straightforward: you walk from the shelter directly onto the apron and then to your aircraft. On arrival, the process is reversed, with staff helping to unload bags. The lack of security screening or baggage claim works in your favor—transitions are quick. However, bring your own snacks and water, as there are no shops or vending machines. The Wi‑Fi is adequate for basic messaging, but don’t rely on it for streaming. The whole experience feels more like a flying club than an airport, which is precisely its charm.

Laguna Seca Puerto Aereo and San Jose de los Pozos

San Jose de los Pozos is a small, unassuming town that serves as the gateway to some of Jalisco’s most beautiful countryside. The name translates to “Saint Joseph of the Wells,” a reference to the natural springs and wells that dot the region. The town itself is quiet, with a population of around 2,000, and its economy revolves around agriculture—corn, beans, and cattle—along with a growing tourism sector focused on nature and adventure. The area’s main draw is its topography: a patchwork of rolling hills covered in oak and pine forests, interspersed with meadows that bloom with wildflowers in the rainy season. The “very green hill” that pilots mention is Cerro del Águila, a rounded peak that rises just north of the airstrip. Hiking trails lead to its summit, offering panoramic views of the Sierra Madre Occidental.

For travelers arriving by air, San Jose de los Pozos provides a base for several low-key activities. Horseback riding tours are popular, as are birdwatching excursions—species include the Mexican jay, golden eagle, and various hummingbirds. The nearby Laguna seca (dry lagoon) itself is a seasonal wetland, attracting waterfowl after the summer rains. A few kilometers away, the town of Tapalpa offers a larger selection of restaurants and accommodations, including rustic cabins and a 19th-century church. The region is also known for its charrería (Mexican rodeo) traditions, with occasional events in the town’s corral. What makes San Jose de los Pozos worth visiting is its authenticity—there are no large resorts or crowds, just open space and a slower rhythm. It’s a place where travelers can connect with rural Mexican life, whether by watching a farmer guide his ox-drawn plow or by enjoying a simple meal of birria at a local comedor. The airstrip itself, with its focus on scenic and ultralight flights, is a natural extension of this ethos: it gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of the land without altering it.

Practical Information

Laguna Seca Puerto Aereo is not open every day. Confirmed hours are limited, and the airstrip typically operates on Fridays through Sundays, with occasional weekday flights by arrangement. Call ahead at +52 33 2178 6269 or check the website (http://www.lagunasecapuertoaereo.com/) for current schedules. Note that the website is in Spanish, and responsiveness may vary. The airstrip provides free on-site parking and valet service, along with Wi‑Fi and a toilet. No fuel is available, so aircraft must arrive with sufficient range. For visitors, the best advice is to plan your trip around the morning hours, when the weather is clearest and the views of the hills are sharpest. Afternoon winds can make small aircraft flights bumpy and may cause cancellations. Bring layers, as temperatures can drop quickly once the sun sets. And finally, remember that this is a place where the experience matters more than the efficiency—be prepared for a laid-back pace and enjoy the scenery.