My last trip to Mexico in December was especially memorable, because I got to spend a weekend in Cuetzalan. My boyfriend and I took a bus from Puebla, Mexico, to the adventurous and romantic town nicknamed "Pueblo Magíco." The town was indeed magical with its misty mornings and steep-hilled roads. There seemed to be something for everyone as we took tours around town and adventured into the wild, wooded forests. The town was a perfect getaway from the trafficked streets of bigger cities. Coming to Mexico once again, I can't help but reminisce on what a good time I had in Cuetzalan and hope to make it back there in the future.
I was inspired by one of my favorite travel blogs, 12hrs, to lay out what one day in Cuetzalan would look like and what you shouldn't miss if you're on a strict time limit.
9 a.m. - Cuetzalan Town Market
Good morning! Some days the early hours in Cuetzalan can be foggy and rainy. This is not ideal for sightseeing, so stop by the market that is pitched in the center of town. The stands add more cover from the gloomy day, you can meet some locals, and grab some breakfast!
10:30 a.m. - San Francisco de Asis Church
Once the weather has cleared, head over to the San Francisco de Asis Church. This church is a famous landmark in Cuetzalan and can be seen from many different areas throughout the town. Enter to say a prayer or take a walk around the church's atrium. The atrium is home to the town's flyer pole, which is used in a traditional ceremony that includes dancers suspended upside down around the pole. You have to see the Flyer's Dance once while in Mexico! You can catch the Cuetzalan Flyer's on Sundays at 12 p.m.
Want more information on the Flyer's Dance? Click here.
Wanna know what it's like from the viewpoint of a Flyer? Watch the video here.
12:15 p.m. - Combi Ride
The next destination on the list (La Brisas Waterfall) is a bit far from Cuetzalan's center. The best way to get there is a combi ride. Combi's are popularly used as public transportation in Mexico and can be rather cheap. Combi's are usually found in the form of vans that can fit a good amount of people in them. You can ask a local where to pick up a combi, or just be on the lookout. Just remember to always be wary and use your best judgement when getting into a vehicle with people you don't know!
Worried about safety while in Mexico? The best thing is to be prepared! Frommers has compiled a great article on the different aspects of safety while visiting the country. Don't be afraid, be smart, and read the article here.
2 p.m. - Hiking
Unfortunately, the combi can't drop you right off at Las Brisas Waterfall. You'll have to do a little bit of hiking. The route isn't very strenuous and a nice path is laid down to follow. The hike can take an hour or more so make sure to prepare enough time for both walking and enjoying the falls before dark. Along the way you'll get to enjoy all the natural foliage and light, plus you'll come across a small waterfall to cool off before reaching the real destination!
3:20 p.m. - Las Brisas Waterfall
Las Brisas Waterfall will no doubt take your breath away. The waterfall is tucked back in a small cove and on a quiet day seems like your own personal oasis. If you're tired after the hike you can buy a refreshing drink from men with ice coolers in the area, so don't forget your pesos! The water is quite refreshing and you can feel free to take a dip in it. There are also plenty of rocks to perch yourself on with a good book or if sunbathing is more your style.
6 p.m. - "Magic" Town Sightseeing
You'll want to take your time at Las Brisas, but after you're done, dry off and take a combi ride back to town. There is still more to see! Cuetzalan has many small streets to follow and explore. You'll come across stores lined with trinkets, more beautiful churches, and delicious restaurants if you're hungry for dinner. The town has a quaint energy that's impossible not to feel relaxed in.
Wondering what activities will fit perfectly for you while visiting? Click here for a full list of sites to see in Cuetzalan.
9 p.m. - Enjoy the view
Finish off the night by picking up some elote from a nearby stand and viewing the town's lights from a rooftop or hotel view.
Wondering what elote is? Click here to read my article on "Mexican Munchies" that lists traditional snack foods that will leave you hungry for more.
Interested in visiting Cuetzalan? Zona Turistica is the perfect site to view more activities, lodging, and restaurants in the area, so you can plan a perfect trip! To view the website click here.
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