Cuetzalan, a magical village and its mountains

Cuetzalan and its mountains

Cuetzalan is one of 35 magical villages in Mexico

The "magic" of Cuetzalan is not only found in the breathtaking scenery surrounding this mountain village. This warmth and magic are also found in the smiles and hospitality of its inhabitants. Located in the Sierra, 174 Km to the north of Puebla, at an altitude of about 1,000 metres, the village enjoys a warm and humid climate.

Waterfalls and lakes

Buried in deep evergreen canyons criss-crossed by rivers, Cuetzalan is located near numerous waterfalls and lakes with crystal clear waters that inspire imagination and adventure. We come across the caves of Chivostoc and Apolihui, the rapids of the Apulco River and the el Salto de la Gloria waterfall flowing into a deep canyon.

The most popular café in the country

Adventure is to be found even in the local dishes. Discovering local cuisine, visitors can enjoy the Sunday market and savour the taste of tamales stuffed with vegetables and wrapped in a sheet of avocado or try the coffee produced on plantations in the region, the most popular in the country.

A festival of colours and scents

The crafts of Cuetzalan form a part of its most precious treasures. The villagers produce clothes from white cotton, wool, shawls, jorongs, and other Cambaya in many colours. The craftsmen also work with wood. They make furniture, musical instruments and even masks. The Sunday market which is organised in the market place on is a vibrant festival of colours and scents.

Inspired by the Basilica of Lourdes

The buildings, echoing the history of the village, stand out from uniform houses. The Chapel of La Purísima Concepción or the “Conchita”, erected in 1913, retains the frescoes of Joaquín Galicia Castra, from Cuetzlan. The shrine of Guadalupes, with its neo gothic style is inspired by the Basilica of Lourdes.

Through every street, every house, every building, the past leaps out at you in this village. Everywhere, even in its natural beauty, the magic of the place invites you to take part in the celebrations of Saint Francis and Huilpil with traditional music and dances of Valadores, in Quetzales, the Santiagos and bullfighters.