Things To Do
in Temamatla

Temamatla, Mexico is a small highland town in the State of Mexico, known for its calm plaza, colonial church, and nearby agricultural valleys. The town sits at a mild altitude, offering pleasant day trips and scenic rural scenery just outside the bustle of Toluca and Mexico City. Visitors can wander colorful markets, sample regional dishes, and watch traditional crafts being made by local families.

With easy access to both hills and towns, Temamatla makes for a relaxed, authentic Mexican getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the vibrant Mercado de Temamatla, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Stroll through the stalls filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies, engaging with the friendly vendors. Sample traditional breakfast items like chilaquiles and fresh fruit while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After an exciting morning, head to a nearby café for a leisurely lunch featuring regional cuisine, such as tamales or quesadillas. Post-lunch, explore the charming streets of Temamatla, admiring the colorful buildings and unique architecture. Don’t forget to stop by the local artisan shops for some handmade souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant where you can savor dishes made from traditional recipes. Take a leisurely evening walk in the town plaza, where you can witness the local community come together for lively conversations and music. End your day with a sweet treat from a nearby gelato shop, relishing the flavors of Mexico.

day 2
Nature Hike in the Mountains
morning
:

Wake up early and fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a guided hike in the nearby Sierra de las Cruces mountains. As you ascend, take in breathtaking views of the valleys and rich biodiversity surrounding you. Listen to your guide share fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna while enjoying the invigorating mountain air.

afternoon
:

After a rewarding hike, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Take the time to relax and rejuvenate, perhaps capturing the beauty of the scenery with photographs. Later, continue your journey with a visit to a scenic viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the region.

evening
:

Return to Temamatla and unwind at a cozy restaurant that offers local specialties, indulging in a well-deserved dinner. Share stories of your adventures with fellow travelers or locals who are eager to hear about your day. Conclude your evening by stargazing, with the clear mountain air providing a spectacular view of the night sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🧃Cup of local coffee$2-4
🥗Vegetarian-friendly lunch$5-10
🚇Public transit ticket$0.5-1
🏨One-night hotel$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic small-town charm
  • Close-knit local culture and markets
  • Limited nightlife and international dining
  • Smaller selection of major tourism infrastructure
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "No hablo mucho español" - I don't speak much Spanish

Places to Visit in Temamatla

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Central and the Parroquia

Colonial church facing a lively square with colorful market stalls and early-morning light.

Mirador del Valle

Hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the valley, fields, and distant mountains.

Historic Callejones

Narrow alleys with vibrant murals, traditional balconies, and local life in the frame.

Culinary Guide

Food in Temamatla

Temamatla’s cuisine blends highland corn-based dishes with regional herbs and fresh produce. Expect simple, hearty meals that highlight local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Temamatla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tamal de elote

Sweet-savory corn tamal with cheese, commonly found in markets and family kitchens.

Must-Try!

Tlacoyos

Oval corn masa stuffed with beans or cheese, topped with salsa, onions, and nopales.

Elote asado

Grilled corn on the cob brushed with mayo, cheese, and chili powder.

Mole poblano

A richer sauce over meat or vegetables, occasionally available at local eateries focusing on regional dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Temamatla

Traditional stalls with fresh produce, tamales, atole, and local snacks.

Street food lanes near Plaza Central

Tacos, quesadillas, and fruit cups from late afternoon into evening.

Climate Guide

Weather

Temamatla has a moderate highland climate with mild days and cool evenings. The year includes a rainy season roughly May through October, with drier, cooler months the rest of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and respect

A courteous greeting (hola) and using Señor/Señora is appreciated; ask before taking photos of people or families.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in town. Practise standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure, be mindful in crowded markets, and prefer well-lit areas after dark. For serious medical needs, rely on nearby Toluca or Mexico City facilities.

Tipping in Temamatla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated; small tips for street vendors and taxi drivers are common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; many places accept cards and mobile payments, but carry pesos for markets and small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming plants; great for outdoor markets and daytime hikes.

Summer

Warm days with possible afternoon showers; stay hydrated and carry a light layer for evenings.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and harvest season; good for photography and outdoor strolls.

Winter

Cool to chilly with clear, crisp mornings; ideal for cozy meals and scenic views at higher elevations.

Nightlife Guide

Temamatla at Night

The nightlife in Temamatla is mild and family-friendly, centered around the plaza and small taverns. Expect relaxed circles with occasional live acoustic music, local dances, and neighborhood gatherings rather than large clubs or venues.

Hiking in Temamatla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro del Valle Reserve

Moderate trails with panoramic valley views and shaded forests; suitable for most hikers.

La Barranca Trail

Rugged canyon path with climbs and overlooks; best for experienced hikers and sturdy footwear.

Airports

How to reach Temamatla by plane.

Toluca International Airport (TLC)

Domestic flights and some international routes; roughly 40-60 minutes by road, depending on traffic.

Mexico City International Airport (MEX)

Major international hub; about 1.5-2 hours by road with highway connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and very walkable, with most sights easily reached on foot. Some hillside streets can be steep, so wear comfortable shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo community

Predominant heritage with a blend of indigenous and Spanish ancestry; strong family and neighborhood ties.

Rural to urban migrants

People moving to Temamatla for markets, agriculture, and small businesses; a growing younger population.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The dominant sport with local pickup games and community leagues in plazas and schools.

Basketball

Common in schools and community centers; informal games are popular in evenings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light within town, with occasional delays on main routes toward Toluca and Mexico City, especially during market days. Public transit and taxis are convenient options for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Temamatla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for grilled vegetables, beans, corn-based dishes, and fresh fruit. Ask about lard or meat-based broths in sauces and request vegetarian preparation when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics operate locally; for emergencies or specialized care, Toluca or Mexico City hospitals are accessible by road.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide