Things To Do
in El Oro de Hidalgo
El Oro de Hidalgo is a small historic town in the State of Mexico known for its mining past and colonial-era architecture. Its streets are lined with colorful facades, a central plaza, and a heritage church that recalls its mining-era heyday. Visitors enjoy markets, crafts, and warm hospitality in the highland air.
The surrounding hills offer scenic viewpoints and rural villages rich in culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of El Oro, taking in the stunning architecture of the historic buildings. Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque Plaza de la Revolución, a perfect spot for photography.
After a midday meal at a local restaurant, immerse yourself in the town’s mining history by visiting the Museum of Mining and the nearby tunnels. As you explore, imagine the stories of the miners who once worked these hills. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the artisan shops, where you can purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs.
As evening falls, enjoy a traditional dinner at one of the town's charming eateries, where you can indulge in local specialties. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk around the town square, where you might catch live music or other cultural events. Finish your day with a nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on the rich history and beauty of El Oro.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike to the Bom Intensity Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery. The journey offers breathtaking views, and you might spot various bird species along the way. Arrive at the waterfall to soak in its beauty and perhaps take a refreshing dip.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy near the waterfall, where you can relax while taking in the serene environment. After lunch, consider exploring nearby trails or simply lounging in the area, soaking up the nature around you. Capture photos of the stunning landscape and the playful water cascading down the rocks.
As the day winds down, head back to El Oro and dine under the stars at a terrace restaurant that offers a view of the town. Engage with local residents and share stories over dinner, finding common ground with the rich culture of the area. Afterward, relax at your hotel or take a walk to see more of El Oro at dusk.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transportation | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic supplies) | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Priceless Highland charm and a relaxed pace
- Friendly locals and good access to nature
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale dining options
- Rural transport can be infrequent and some services are cash-only
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in El Oro de Hidalgo
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft light over colonial façades and the central fountain makes for classic street photography.
Architectural details, long shadows, and vibrant doorways provide rich textures.
Panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills, perfect for golden-hour shots.
Food in El Oro de Hidalgo
El Oro de Hidalgo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked lamb traditionally served with tortillas, onions, cilantro, and salsa.
Must-Try!
Blue corn tortillas stuffed with beans and cheese, topped with salsa and cilantro.
Beef soup with chayotes, corn, and potatoes, a comforting Highland staple.
Grilled corn on the cob slathered with crema, queso, and chili powder.
A tomato-chile soup with tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustle of stalls offering fresh produce, salsas, tortillas, and ready-to-eat snacks such as tamales and tostadas.
Late-afternoon and evening stalls serve tacos, sopes, elotes, and aguas frescas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite hola/buenos días and a handshake; address elders as señor/señora.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and remove hats inside; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Some shops close in mid-afternoon; plan visits accordingly and be patient with slower service in small towns.
Safety
Tipping in El Oro de Hidalgo
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated if service is good; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are common.
Cash and card are accepted in town centers; some rural vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming landscapes; good for outdoor walking and photography.
Warm days with higher humidity and afternoon rain showers; expect lush scenery but carry water and a light rain jacket.
Comfortable temperatures; harvest season brings markets with fresh produce.
Cool to mild days with cool nights; layers recommended, some mornings may be foggy.
El Oro de Hidalgo at Night
Hiking in El Oro de Hidalgo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trail through pine and oak forests with viewpoints over the valley, suitable for a half-day hike.
Riverside route leading to a scenic waterfall and natural pools.
Steeper climb to a panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of the town and hills.
Airports
How to reach El Oro de Hidalgo by plane.
Main regional airport serving the Toluca valley; about a 1.5-2 hour drive from El Oro depending on traffic.
Major international hub; longer drive but better flight options; use a private transfer or long-distance bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents identify as mestizo, with a blend of Indigenous and European ancestry.
Communities such as Mazahua and Otomi live in nearby rural zones and contribute to local crafts and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local leagues and community games.
Played in regional clubs and schools; occasional exhibition games in nearby towns.
Occasionally held in rural areas during festivals, featuring horsemanship competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Oro de Hidalgo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find beans, rice, corn, cheese, and seasonal vegetables; ask for vegetarian versions of dishes or sides like tortillas and salsas.