Acaxochitlán

Acaxochitlán is an ancient and timeless small town in the mountains of Central Mexico's state of Hidalgo. The town's original settlers were the Tula and Teotihuacan peoples who pre-dated the Aztecs who dominated the region long before the Spanish conquest. As one of Mexico's Pueblos Magicos, it is a popular weekend destination for romantic couples enjoying small-town hospitality and for naturalists exploring the misty mountains and forests that surround the town.

By bus
From Mexico City, go to the north bus terminal (Autobuses del Norte) and find the Grupo Estrella ticket counters where you can get a ticket on the Conexiones bus, direct to Acaxochitlan. Conexiones operates 4 buses per day on the route. The trip takes just under 2 hours and tickets cost M$120. Other bus companies, such as Futura and AVM, also operate on this route.

Do
Travelers who value nature will find abundant opportunities for birdwatching, nature hikes, boating, camping, and mountain biking. The town is set in a forested mountain region called the Sierra Otomí- Tepehua. Abundant small streams flow down the mountain slopes to feed rivers in the lower valleys. Two dams create lakes that can be enjoyed for their scenery, or perhaps for an afternoon of fishing or boating.









Festivals

 * Festival of the Lord of Colateral - May 3-11, the town's biggest festival of the year honors the sacrifice of Christ. Locals make a brilliantly colorful carpet of sawdust along a parade route leading to the front doors of the town's main church. Religious ceremonies each day along with regional music and dance, a carnival midway, and lots of food and drink.


 * Assumption of Mary - August 13-15, the town's festival to honor its patron saint begins on August 13 with the image of the Immaculate Conception lying on a table as a bed. It rises on August 14 and remains the main representation of the altar. The 15th, is the day of the Assumption, beginning with a mass and followed by a procession through the streets.

Eat
Acaxochitlan is known for its traditions around baking bread. Certain types of bread are baked for birthdays, weddings, and Day of the Dead. The town is an apple growing region and you may find cider and similar apple-based food and drink around town.



Go next

 * Tulancingo
 * Huasca de Ocampo
 * Chignahuapan