Nado Nocturno LAS ESTACAS 26 DE SEPTIEMBRE

The riverbed here is narrow, and as you pull through the dark water, the rhythmic pulse of your stroke is the only sound breaking the silence. Ahead, the silhouette of the San Miguel Arcangel monastery emerges, its distinct octagonal cupola catching the moonlight—a landmark that has stood watch over this valley since the 16th century. You are currently navigating the Nado Nocturno Las Estacas, an annual event held in the spring-fed waters of Morelos. The name of this reserve, 'Las Estacas', derives from the historical practice of driving wooden stakes into the riverbanks to manage agricultural irrigation, a legacy of human reliance on these constant flows.

The water and the history

Swimming here feels like moving through a living history. You are gliding in the same currents that once flowed past the headquarters of Emiliano Zapata, whose revolutionary ambitions during the Mexican Revolution transformed this region. The water remains consistently comfortable, sustained by a first-magnitude spring that has discharged for millennia. It is a stark contrast to the turbulent events of 1916, when the local population faced significant decline during the conflict. The 1km course in particular allows you to experience the river's natural push, while the 2km and 4km options invite a more sustained effort. If you are looking for a daylight challenge in the same environment, the 3 km and 5 km river swim takes place just weeks before in early August.

Race day logistics

Participation in the night swim, which costs between 54 and 65 EUR, includes a chemical light to ensure visibility as you navigate the darkness. Safety is managed by the organizers, who monitor progress and provide assistance if swimmers fall outside the established time frames. The atmosphere shifts significantly once you exit the water; the post-race experience centers on a communal bonfire where participants share stories under the stars. The event's origins are deeply tied to local tradition, echoing the area's historical reliance on the river for survival, a reality still celebrated in local culinary practices like the catfish tamale. Whether you are a local or visiting from further afield, the experience is designed to balance the intensity of open water swimming with the unique stillness of a nocturnal river environment.