Things To Do
in Tlayacapan
Tlayacapan is a small colonial town in Morelos perched on verdant hills just west of Cuernavaca. Its charm comes from a well-preserved 16th-century convent, a lively central plaza, and a rich tradition of local crafts sold by friendly artisans. The town serves as a peaceful base for exploring central Morelos, with nearby waterfalls, farms, and traditional kitchens within easy reach.
Visitors are welcomed by warm hospitality and a relaxed pace that invites lingering over meals and conversations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Tlayacapan with a visit to the historic center, surrounded by cobblestone streets and vibrant colonial architecture. Explore the magnificent 16th-century Convento de San Juan Bautista and take time to appreciate the stunning murals that adorn its walls. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Mexican pastries.
After lunch, stroll through the local artisan markets, where you can find handcrafted pottery and textiles unique to the region. Engage with local artisans, learning about their craft and the history behind their creations. Take a scenic walk to the viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding valley.
As the sun sets, find a quaint spot in the town square to soak in the local atmosphere, with street performers and music filling the air. Dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes like mole and tlayudas. End the evening with a leisurely walk under the stars, immersed in the peaceful vibes of the town.
Begin the day with a traditional Temazcal ceremony, a pre-Hispanic steam bath that offers rejuvenation and healing. Led by a shaman, you'll learn about the ancient rituals and the significance of this experience in Mexican culture. This immersive connection with nature will prepare you for the day's adventures ahead.
After the ceremony, enjoy a healthy lunch at a wellness café, featuring locally grown ingredients and smoothies. Spend your afternoon hiking up to the nearby Cerro de la Cruz for a panoramic view of Tlayacapan and its stunning landscape. Bring your camera to capture the lush greenery and valleys sprawling below.
As the day winds down, join a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh local ingredients. Share the meal you’ve created with fellow participants, making for a memorable dinner experience. Reflect on the day's activities under the starry sky, creating a lasting bond with the new friends you’ve made.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🌮Street food or quick bite | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️One night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚌Local transportation (day pass) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic charm and authentic local culture
- Walkable town center with markets and crafts
- Good base for exploring central Morelos and nearby natural areas
- Limited nightlife and fewer English-speaking services
- Somewhat limited healthcare facilities in town (major options in Cuernavaca or Mexico City)
- Rural roads outside town can be narrow and slower to navigate
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Tlayacapan
Visit one of these nice places.
16th-century convent with imposing arches, stone walls, and quiet courtyards—great for architecture and detailed close-ups.
Vibrant square framed by colorful façades, locals, and market life; ideal for candid street photography and golden-hour shots.
Ridge lines and green slopes surrounding the town offer wide-angle views of the valley and distant hills.
Food in Tlayacapan
Tlayacapan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting hominy stew usually with pork or chicken, garnished with lettuce, radish, oregano, and lime. Look for it in local eateries after market hours.
Must-Try!
A green mole made with herbs, chiles, and seeds; often served over chicken or pork with rice and tortillas.
Corn dough stuffed with beans or cheese, grilled and topped with salsa, cilantro, and onions for a savory, filling bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, prepared snacks, and regional crafts. Try sopes, tostadas, and fruit waters from street stalls around the market perimeter.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'buenos días' or 'hola' before asking questions. Use polite forms when addressing elders and show patience in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Tlayacapan
Ensure a smooth experience
In most restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated if service is good. For street food and small eateries, rounding up is common.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller venues. Cards are increasingly accepted at larger restaurants and hotels. ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; pleasant for outdoor strolling and early-in-the-day photography.
Warm days with potential afternoon showers and higher humidity. Start early to beat the heat and catch softer light after rain.
Comfortable days and cooler evenings; a good season for long walks and outdoor markets without crowds.
Cool but usually dry days; great for sightseeing and comfortable outdoor dining in the evenings.
Tlayacapan at Night
Hiking in Tlayacapan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike from nearby Tepoztlán with a challenging ascent to the pyramid on the summit; stunning valley views and interesting flora.
Gentle to moderate routes offering scenic overlooks of the town and surrounding fields; suitable for a half-day trek.
Short cascades nearby with easy access from road routes; ideal for a refreshing nature break and photography.
Airports
How to reach Tlayacapan by plane.
Major international hub about 1.5–2.5 hours by road from Tlayacapan, depending on traffic. Good for flights and connections.
Smaller regional airport closer to Tlayacapan; convenient for domestic travel and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding residents preserving crafts, foodways, and neighborhood traditions.
Writers, painters, and craftspeople who contribute to the town’s creative atmosphere.
Visitors drawn to the tranquil surroundings and friendly community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across the region with casual pickup games and local matches in town and nearby towns.
Occasional cultural events and family-friendly activities reflecting regional traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tlayacapan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots can prepare plant-based versions of staple dishes like tlacoyos, beans, rice, and vegetable-based stews. Ask for meat-free options and request salsa verde or pico de gallo for flavor.