Acaxochitlán, one of the magical towns of Hidalgo and Mexico, stands out for its extensive forests and indigenous communities that provide a variety of unique gastronomic, cultural and tourist experiences.
This municipality obtained its magical town distinction in June 2023, thanks to its imposing cloud forests, waterfalls, colonial architecture, artisanal embroidery and communities that preserve their traditions and rich gastronomy.
Where is Acaxochitlán?
Acaxochitlán is located in the southeast of the state of Hidalgo, near the border with Puebla, in the Sierra de Tenango, more than 2,000 meters above sea level. From Pachuca, the drive is just over an hour, and from Mexico City, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
What to visit in Acaxochitlán?
Venture into the forests and low mountain range of Acaxochitlán and follow a path to the community of Santa Catarina, where this mystical cave is located, one of the first inhabited caves in the region.
Its name comes from a footprint on the ground, attributed to an ancient settler. In addition, petroglyphs can be seen inside.
The walk includes streams, waterfalls and leafy trees, and an entrance ritual is performed with offerings of chocolate, bread, music and xochimacpales, elements in the shape of a cross with bread and flowers.
Cascada de la Azucena
In the community of Zotictla, an ancient royal road leads to the spectacular Cascada de la Azucena, 50 meters high, surrounded by pools of crystal-clear water, ideal for a dip. The walk along this path, covered with moss and ferns, offers a magical experience. The visit may include a breakfast at a local’s home with tamales canaxtles, regional coffee, lime tea and corn.
Traditions and customs Visit to the Tekitonalli group
Made up of indigenous women who share their traditions, crafts and the iconic smoke kitchen with Mexican recipes. Try coffee sweetened with piloncillo and participate in a natural dye workshop, where plants and cochineal are used to color wool and cotton.
Religious festivals
If you like religious festivals in Acaxochitlán there are different festivals such as the May festival of the Lord of Collateral, the patronal festival of the Assumption of Mary, the patronal festival of San Pedro Tlachichilco and the Easter Festival.
Gastronomy in San Mateo
Enjoy a welcome ritual and a traditional breakfast at the Conservatory of Traditional World Cuisine, where authentic recipes from Mexico and other parts of the world are preserved. The experience includes ritual drinks such as chocolatzintle and a walk through the forest to collect mushrooms, fish in the Santa Ana Tzacuala Dam or collect fresh produce.
Omiltemetl, Tejocotal and Santa Ana Tzacuala Dams
The natural border between Acaxochitlán and Puebla, the Omiltemetl Dam is surrounded by the communities of Los Reyes, Montemar and Buena Vista. It offers various activities such as swimming, fishing, picnics, camping and mycotourism in search of edible mushrooms.
The Tejocotal Dam is an ideal space for coexistence and recreation, offering various services and activities: restaurants, sale of crafts, rides in colorful boats, horseback riding among the trees of the forest, touring the dam on an ATV, camping and preparing a barbecue.
The Santa Ana Tzacuala Dam is an ideal place to take long walks and admire its semi-transparent waters. Around it you can find a wooded area, two restaurants, and a small park with grass fields, grills and a sign indicating the name of the place, where you can have the best memory.
Source: eluniversalhidalgo
