Things To Do
in San Felipe del Progreso

San Felipe del Progreso is a charming town located in the State of Mexico, known for its rich indigenous culture and beautiful natural landscapes. The town serves as a gateway to the Sierra de Monte Alto, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. It features a blend of traditional Mexican architecture and local customs, making it a unique destination for travelers.

San Felipe is also renowned for its vibrant festivals, showcasing the local community's pride and heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the main square, Plaza de San Felipe, where you can admire the colonial architecture and enjoy a traditional Mexican breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby artisan market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and textiles. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets and explore the local churches.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk in the town center to experience the local nightlife and perhaps catch a folkloric dance performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Embark on a hiking adventure in the Sierra de Monte Alto, enjoying the fresh air and stunning views of the surrounding valleys.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local food market to sample authentic dishes like tamales and atole. Spend some time relaxing in a local park or enjoying the scenic views.

evening
:

Cap off your day with a visit to a local bar for live music and drinks, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Cup of coffee$2
🚖Taxi fare (within town)$3-5
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-40
🎟️Entry fee to attractions$1-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with vibrant festivals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose a language barrier.
  • Public transportation options can be limited.
  • Nightlife options are not as diverse as in larger cities.
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Me gustaría probar eso." - I would like to try that.
  • "Gracias por su ayuda." - Thank you for your help.
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta esto?" - How much does this cost?
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in San Felipe del Progreso

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza de San Felipe

The main square offers vibrant scenes of local life, surrounded by historical buildings.

Sierra de Monte Alto

Breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and valleys, ideal for nature photography.

Church of San Felipe

This beautiful church with its colonial architecture is a perfect backdrop for stunning photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Felipe del Progreso

San Felipe del Progreso offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich flavors and local ingredients, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

San Felipe del Progreso Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tamales

Steamed corn dough filled with meats or vegetables, wrapped in corn husks.

Must-Try!

Atole

A warm, thick beverage made from corn masa, often flavored with chocolate or fruits.

Barbacoa

Slow-cooked meat, traditionally lamb, seasoned with local spices, served with tortillas.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de San Felipe

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional dishes.

Street Tacos

Vendors along the streets offer delicious tacos filled with various meats, garnished with fresh salsa.

Climate Guide

Weather

San Felipe del Progreso experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters are cool and dry, while summers are warm with occasional rain. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Overall, the climate is generally pleasant year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or friendly greeting is customary; using titles such as 'Señor' or 'Señora' shows respect.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin; it’s polite to try all dishes offered.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending local events.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Felipe del Progreso is considered relatively safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep your belongings secure.

Tipping in San Felipe del Progreso

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% at restaurants and for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards; ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather and occasional rain; perfect for enjoying local festivals but be prepared for humidity.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and harvest season; a great time to experience local food and cultural events.

Winter

Cool and dry; suitable for hiking and enjoying the festive atmosphere around Christmas.

Nightlife Guide

San Felipe del Progreso at Night

San Felipe del Progreso has a vibrant nightlife that revolves around local bars and cultural events. You can find live music, particularly traditional Mexican genres, in various venues. The town hosts festivals throughout the year, drawing crowds with food, music, and dancing, providing a lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

Hiking in San Felipe del Progreso

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Campana

A popular hiking trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, suitable for all skill levels.

Las Lagunas Trail

This scenic trail leads to a series of beautiful lagoons, ideal for a day hike and picnicking.

Airports

How to reach San Felipe del Progreso by plane.

Licenciado Adolfo López Mateos International Airport (TLC)

Located about 85 km from San Felipe, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Felipe del Progreso is a compact town, making it quite walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance from each other. The streets are generally safe for pedestrians, although some areas may lack sidewalks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to various indigenous groups, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of San Felipe.

Young Families

A significant demographic in the town, young families often participate in community events and local traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in San Felipe, with local teams and leagues actively engaging the community.

Volleyball

Beach and indoor volleyball are popular recreational activities, often played in local parks and schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in San Felipe del Progreso is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation consists mainly of local buses and taxis, which are affordable and readily available. However, the frequency of services may vary, especially during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Felipe del Progreso.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is prevalent, many local dishes can be made vegetarian, especially tamales with cheese or vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Corn-based dishes like tamales and tortillas are widely available, making gluten-free dining feasible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in San Felipe del Progreso includes local clinics and hospitals that provide basic services. However, for more serious medical needs, larger hospitals in nearby cities may be required. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide