Things To Do
in Poza Rica de Hidalgo

Poza Rica de Hidalgo is a vibrant city located in the northern part of Veracruz, Mexico, known for its rich oil industry and beautiful landscapes. The city is surrounded by lush greenery and is close to several natural attractions, making it a great destination for eco-tourism. Poza Rica is also famous for its cultural heritage, including traditional music and dance.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of urban life and nature, as well as a variety of local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parque de las Americas, a beautiful park perfect for a morning stroll and enjoying the local flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo de la Ciudad to learn about the local history and culture of Poza Rica, followed by lunch at a nearby taqueria.

evening
:

Head to the Plaza de la Independencia for some local shopping and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a day trip to the nearby Cazones River for kayaking or swimming in its clear waters.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch by the river and then explore the nearby waterfalls, such as the Cascada de la Lluvia.

evening
:

Return to the city and enjoy a casual dinner at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a walk around the vibrant nightlife areas.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🌮Taco$1
Coffee$2
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
🚕Taxi ride (within the city)$3
🏨Affordable hotel room$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  • Access to beautiful natural attractions and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Public transportation options may be limited.
  • The hot and humid summers can be uncomfortable for some.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Poza Rica de Hidalgo

Visit one of these nice places.

Pico de Orizaba

Capture stunning views of Mexico's highest volcano, located just a short drive from the city.

Parque de las Americas

A picturesque park with beautiful greenery and sculptures, perfect for nature photography.

Cascada de la Lluvia

A breathtaking waterfall that offers a perfect backdrop for stunning nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Poza Rica de Hidalgo

Poza Rica de Hidalgo offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Poza Rica de Hidalgo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tacos de cecina

Delicious tacos made with marinated beef, served with fresh salsa and avocado.

Must-Try!

Pescado a la Veracruzana

A seafood dish featuring fish cooked in a tomato sauce with olives and capers.

Tamales de elote

Sweet corn tamales often served with cream and cheese.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Poza Rica

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods.

Street vendors at Plaza de la Independencia

Try various street food options such as quesadillas and elotes (corn on the cob).

Climate Guide

Weather

Poza Rica has a tropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The rainy season lasts from May to October, with heavy showers and occasional thunderstorms. Winters are mild, with average temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and less humidity, making it a comfortable time to visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake or a friendly hug among acquaintances is common; greetings are essential before starting conversations.

Respect for traditions

Showing respect for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals, is appreciated.

Politeness

Using 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you) in conversations is seen as polite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Poza Rica is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and when using public transportation. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and keep your belongings secure. It's also recommended to use registered taxis or rideshare services for transportation.

Tipping in Poza Rica de Hidalgo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% at restaurants; rounding up taxi fares is also appreciated.

Payment methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy warm temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather, with occasional rain; stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during peak heat.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and less humidity make it a great time for sightseeing and exploring nature.

Winter

Cooler temperatures and dry conditions, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.

Nightlife Guide

Poza Rica de Hidalgo at Night

The nightlife in Poza Rica is lively, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular spots include bars that feature local bands and dance clubs where you can enjoy traditional and modern music. The atmosphere is friendly, and it’s common for locals and visitors to mingle.

Hiking in Poza Rica de Hidalgo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Ventana

A challenging hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, ideal for experienced hikers.

Cascadas de las Brisas

An easier trail leading to beautiful waterfalls, suitable for families and casual walkers.

Airports

How to reach Poza Rica de Hidalgo by plane.

El Tajín Airport (PAZ)

Located approximately 15 km from Poza Rica, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Poza Rica is moderately walkable, with many attractions and restaurants located within walking distance in the downtown area. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but some neighborhoods may lack pedestrian-friendly paths. Public transportation options are available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous communities

Several indigenous groups reside in the area, contributing to the region's cultural diversity.

Oil industry workers

Due to the city's oil production, a significant demographic includes workers and families associated with the oil industry.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is highly popular in Poza Rica, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Baseball

Baseball also enjoys a strong following, with local leagues and games being a common pastime.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Poza Rica can be congested, especially during peak hours, so it's advisable to plan accordingly. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and accessible. Walking is a viable option in the downtown area where many attractions are located.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Poza Rica de Hidalgo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Gluten-free

Gluten-free options are limited, so travelers with this restriction should communicate their needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Poza Rica is decent, with several public and private hospitals available. The main hospital is the Hospital Regional de Poza Rica, which provides a range of medical services. Pharmacies are common and often have staff who can assist with basic health inquiries.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide