Things To Do
in Tejupilco

Tejupilco is a rural town in the southern part of the State of Mexico, set among rolling hills and fertile fields. It preserves a tight-knit community atmosphere where markets buzz with produce and handmade crafts. Local festivals, religious processions, and traditional dances anchor the cultural calendar.

Visitors can experience authentic small-town Mexico, from street-food stalls to scenic countryside viewpoints.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Historic Center Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through Tejupilco’s town square, surrounded by colonial-era buildings. Stop for a traditional Mexican breakfast of chilaquiles and fresh coffee at a local mercado stall. Chat with friendly vendors to learn about regional crafts and produce.

afternoon
:

Visit the small boutique shops along the cobblestone streets to discover handcrafted textiles and pottery. Engage with local artisans and witness demonstrations of weaving and embroidery techniques. Wander into the parish church to admire its simple yet charming architecture.

evening
:

Take a seat at an open-air restaurant to savor authentic tacos al pastor and local specialties. Enjoy live mariachi music performing classic rancheras under the warm glow of street lamps. End the night with a stroll around the illuminated plaza, soaking in the festive ambiance.

day 2
Laguna El Rodeo Excursion
morning
:

Depart early for a scenic drive to Laguna El Rodeo, a serene highland lake surrounded by pine forests. Upon arrival, take in the crisp mountain air and panoramic views of the water mirrored by the sky. Photograph the mist rising from the surface as the sun climbs over the horizon.

afternoon
:

Rent a rowboat or paddleboat to explore the calm waters and get close to the shoreline wildlife. Enjoy a picnic of local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruit prepared in advance by a nearby family-run eatery. Hike along the lake’s edge trails, stopping to spot colorful birds and squirrels among the pines.

evening
:

Return to Tejupilco to freshen up at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Dine on freshly caught trout from the lake at a rustic restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere. Cap off the night with a cup of chamomile tea or hot atole to warm up after the cool mountain air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
💧Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.50-1
🚶One-way ticket (local transport)$0.25-0.50
🏨Budget hotel (1 night)$25-50
Coffee in café$1.5-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic small-town atmosphere with affordable prices
  • Friendly locals and rich agricultural surroundings
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end amenities
  • Transportation options can be sparse outside the town center
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish

Places to Visit in Tejupilco

Visit one of these nice places.

Parroquia de San Juan Bautista

A colonial-style parish church with a tall bell tower and colorful facade, ideal for architectural photography and street portraits.

Plaza de Armas at Dawn

The central square glows in early light as vendors set up stalls and shadows lengthen across the pavements.

Mercado Municipal

Vibrant colors, textures, and candid moments among vendors and shoppers provide rich photo opportunities.

Hillside Lookouts

Ridge trails around Tejupilco offer sweeping valley views and sunset backdrops for landscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tejupilco

Local cuisine centers on fresh corn, beans, chiles, and seasonal produce; meals are often hearty, flavorful, and prepared using time-honored methods passed down through generations.

Tejupilco Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tamal de maíz fresco

Fresh corn tamales with regional fillings, commonly enjoyed at markets and family gatherings.

Must-Try!

Barbacoa de cerdo

Slow-roasted pork with earthy spices, often served with tortillas and salsa.

Chiles rellenos

Poblano peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, lightly battered and fried.

Frijoles de la olla

Simple simmered beans served with corn tortillas and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal Tejupilco

A bustling market where you can buy fresh produce, herbs, herbs, and prepared foods to sample on the go.

Street food stalls around Plaza de Armas

Casual stalls offering tacos, sopes, aguas frescas, and other quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a warm-to-hot climate for much of the year with a distinct rainy season typically from June to September. Winters are mild with cooler nights, while spring and autumn bring comfortable daytime temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and formality

Greet with a polite hello or buenas tardes; use 'usted' with strangers and elders as a sign of respect.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid loud or disruptive behavior in markets and during ceremonies.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise typical travel precautions: keep valuables secure in crowded markets, use reputable transportation, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Stay informed about local advisories and have emergency contacts handy. If you travel after dark, go with a trusted local or transport service.

Tipping in Tejupilco

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary if a service charge is not included. For street vendors, rounding up or small change is common and appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Some shops may accept cards in larger establishments or tourist-friendly venues; carry pesos for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming countryside; great for outdoor strolling and photography, with occasional showers.

Summer

Hot days with potential afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and harvest flavors; ideal for outdoor markets and scenic drives.

Winter

Cooler mornings and evenings; daytime is comfortable for exploring, but bring a light jacket for early starts and night travel.

Nightlife Guide

Tejupilco at Night

Tejupilco offers a quiet nightlife scene centered around family-friendly plazas, small bars, and weekend musical performances. Expect sharable snacks, regional tunes, and a relaxed pace rather than large clubs. Many activities wind down by late evening, especially on weekdays.

Hiking in Tejupilco

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero de las Colinas

Moderate hillside trail offering distant town and valley views.

Cascada de la Sierra

Scenic waterfall hike with shaded paths and picnic spots.

Airports

How to reach Tejupilco by plane.

Toluca International Airport (TLC)

About a 1.5–2 hour drive; serves several domestic routes and connects to major Mexican cities.

Mexico City International Airport (MEX)

Major hub about 2.5–3 hours by road depending on traffic; convenient for international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most sights and markets within easy reach on foot. Outside the center, some areas have uneven sidewalks or dirt paths, so a short ride or taxi may be more comfortable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo residents

Majority population combining Indigenous and European ancestry.

Indigenous communities

Presence of Mazahua-speaking communities with traditional crafts and customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The most popular sport; local leagues and pickup games are common in parks and schools.

Basketball

Played in schools, community centers, and informal courts around town.

Transportation

Traffic

Local traffic is usually light outside peak market hours. The main highways to Toluca and Mexico City can experience congestion during rush hours, especially on weekends or holidays. Public buses and shared taxis (colectivos) are common means of transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tejupilco.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most dishes can be made vegetarian by omitting meat; ask about lard-containing ingredients and request plant-based fillings or beans, rice, and vegetables as alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics and a local health center provide primary care. For more comprehensive services or emergencies, regional hospitals in nearby municipalities or Mexico City are options; carrying health insurance and knowing emergency numbers is advisable.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide