Cuetzalan, puebla: what to do in this magical mexican town?
Cuetzalan: Discover the Hidden Charm Among Coffee Plantations and Ancestral Rituals in Puebla
Cuetzalan is a magical place nestled among mountains, mist, and coffee plantations in the heart of the Sierra Norte of Puebla. This town captivates not only with its natural beauty but also with its rich traditions, ancestral rituals, and a way of life that feels frozen in time.
Visiting Cuetzalan is diving into a deeper Mexico—full of history, spirituality, intense flavors, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore it with car rentals by Hertz México!
What Makes Cuetzalan Special?
What sets Cuetzalan apart is not just its colonial architecture or its jungle surroundings: it's the authenticity of its people. Here, the Nahuas—the predominant Indigenous group—keep their languages, customs, markets, and religious festivals with pre-Hispanic roots alive.
Unlike other tourist destinations that have fully adapted to visitors, in Cuetzalan, it's the visitors who adapt to the rhythm of the town. The ceremonial calendar, the Voladores dance, the Sunday markets, the traditional temazcales, and the scent of freshly roasted coffee are part of a unique sensory experience.
Which Ancestral Traditions and Rituals Are Still Alive in Cuetzalan?
In Cuetzalan, pre-Hispanic spirituality and Catholic faith are intertwined in cultural expressions that have lasted for centuries. One of the most emblematic rituals is the Danza de los Voladores (Dance of the Flyers), recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. While it can be seen in other places, in Cuetzalan this ceremony has strong symbolic meaning tied to fertility and agricultural cycles.
Another important ritual is Xochitlalis, a thanksgiving ceremony to Mother Earth performed between March and April. If you visit Cuetzalan, you can also take part in a temazcal, a purification ceremony with steam, medicinal herbs, and chanting led by a local healer. These are not tourist shows—they are living practices deeply rooted in the spiritual fabric of the community.
Coffee Culture in Cuetzalan: Farms, Tours, and Flavors
Coffee is one of Cuetzalan’s cultural and economic pillars. The humid climate and altitude allow this region to produce high-quality beans under shade and in harmony with local biodiversity.
One of the best ways to understand this process is by visiting a coffee farm or cooperative. Guided tours let you walk among the coffee plants, learn about bean varieties, see manual harvesting, and take part in traditional roasting. Many end with an organic coffee tasting paired with local bread.
Some cooperatives also offer workshops on herbalism, textile making, or sustainable farming, offering a full picture of life in Cuetzalan.
What to Do in Cuetzalan, Puebla?
Cuetzalan is perfect for those looking to disconnect and reconnect at the same time. The town offers a wide range of options for couples, cultural travelers, or alternative tourism enthusiasts.
Explore the Caves
Top natural attractions include Cuetzalan’s caves, like La Aventura, Chivostoc, and Axtamazatl. These caverns are of great speleological interest and many can be toured with guides, flashlights, and helmets. Some feature underground rivers and impressive rock formations.
Visit the Waterfalls
Cuetzalan's waterfalls are another must-see. Don’t miss Cascada Las Brisas, which is easy to access and surrounded by lush vegetation, and Cascada El Salto, perfect for swimming. For a quieter experience, check out the lesser-known but charming Corazón del Bosque waterfall.
Stroll the Historic Center
The center of Cuetzalan feels like a painting: cobblestone streets, red-tiled roofs, morning fog, and the Jarritos Church topped with hundreds of clay jars. The Sunday market bursts with color, aromas, and living traditions. Women in huipiles sell honey, mushrooms, embroidery, and artisanal liqueurs.
How to Get to Cuetzalan from CDMX
From Mexico City, the easiest way to get to Cuetzalan is by car. Take the Mexico–Puebla highway, then take the exit at Zaragoza toward Zacapoaxtla and follow the signs to Cuetzalan. The trip takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
Don’t have a car? No problem. Use car rentals in CDMX to travel at your own pace, make stops along the way, and enjoy the scenic Sierra Norte drive without depending on public transport schedules.
How to Get to Cuetzalan from Puebla City
The recommended driving route from Puebla City to Cuetzalan covers around 170–175 km and takes about 2 hours and 10 to 20 minutes.
If you don’t have your own car, car rental in Puebla is a great option too.
If you're looking for an authentic getaway where time slows down and your spirit reconnects, Cuetzalan awaits. Whether it's coffee, history, or nature that draws you in—you’ll stay for the magic. Start planning your trip now!