72 hours in Tepoztlán: A weekend itinerary for food, culture & adventure
What can you do in 72 hours in Tepoztlán? Turns out, there’s quite a lot to keep you busy.
Quick summary: Your 72 hour guide to Tepoztlán
This 72-hour Tepoztlán itinerary highlights how to reach this Pueblo Mágico from Mexico City, the best seasons to visit, and a balanced plan of adventure and relaxation. Key experiences include hiking to the Tepozteco pyramid, exploring the vibrant market and artisan shops, visiting the Ex-Convent of the Nativity, and sampling local cuisine at top restaurants like Axitla, Teocintle, La Veladora, Mesa de Origen, and Margarita Concept Garden. The guide also covers wellness experiences such as temazcal ceremonies and spa treatments, plus practical tips on where to stay.
72 hours in Tepoztlán
The pool at Amomoxtli is worth a trip all on its own.
There are a variety of reasons I enjoy Tepoztlán. At just two hours from Mexico City, it's relatively easy to get to. It's enmeshed in nature and spirituality – the Pueblo Mágico blends mystical mountain energy with vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. While downtown bustles during the day, the entire region seems to settle down at night, giving visitors the chance to relax under a starry sky, listen to dogs barking in the distance and cicadas humming in the trees. Tepoz (as locals call it) is the ideal getaway for a reset of any kind – going through a breakup? Tepoztlán. Thinking about a career change? Tepoztlán. Need a physical detox? Tepoztlán. Want to find your life's purpose? The only place you need to be is Tepoztlán.
Even though it's a small town, there's just enough to do to fill an extra-long weekend. From hiking to dining, meditation to massage, temazcals to tequila tasting, you're bound to walk away from this adventure feeling refreshed. This 72-hour itinerary balances adventure and relaxation, covering everything from ancient pyramid hikes and spiritual ceremonies to farm-to-table dining and boutique spa treatments. Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or wellness retreat vibes, this guide has you covered.
Getting to Tepoztlán from Mexico City
The easiest way to reach Tepoztlán is via Pullman de Morelos or ADO's OCC bus lines from Mexico City's Taxqueña/SUR terminal. The trip takes 1.5–2 hours, with tickets starting around 140 pesos. Rideshares are also an option, just be sure to factor in the cost of return tolls for your driver. Want a private driver? Ask me to put you in touch with Migue, my go-to chauffeur between CDMX and Tepoz.
Best time to visit Tepoztlán
There are basically two seasons in Tepoztlán: rainy season and dry season. Both are optimal for visiting, depending on what you're looking for.
Rainy season (June–September): Expect lush landscapes and flowing waterfalls. Temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F) with afternoon showers. Perfect for morning hikes and afternoon yoga. Indoor backup activities include museum visits, spa treatments, and extended time at covered restaurants like Margarita Concept Garden.
Dry season (October–May): Enjoy clear skies and crisp mountain views. Temperatures range from 10-28°C (50-82°F) with sunny days. Best for lounging by the pool.
Packing tip: Bring layers and rain gear in the wet months; light clothing and hats for the dry. Don't forget comfortable hiking boots, swimwear, and a light jacket for cool evenings year-round.
Day 1: Arrival, exploring the town, and local flavors
Itacates are a local favorite and can be found in any market.
Morning: Settle into your hotel and start your day at the vibrant Tepoztlán Market, where you can fuel up with fresh fruit juice or Chiapas espresso (second floor all the way to the left). Try some itacates, a regional dish of triangular-shaped fried masa topped with whatever you want.
Afternoon: Pop into the Museo de Arte Prehispánico Carlos Pellicer, across the street from the market's main entrance, to explore the region's ancient history and artifacts. Stroll the cobblestone streets and browse artisan shops for amate paper crafts, jewelry, and textiles. Around the corner is the Ex-Convent of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning 16th-century frescoes. For a sweet treat, try Tepoznieves Matriz, the original outpost of Tepoztlán's iconic ice cream shop, offering dozens of creative flavors—perfect for a midday pick-me-up. If you don't want ice cream, walk in there anyway, it's full of catrinas (the classically fancy skeleton statues prominent during Day of the Dead) and sometimes offers live music. Relax at the hotel pool, if there is one.
Evening: Dine at La Veladora inside Casa Fernanda, one of my favorite boutique hotels in Mexico (more on that below). The restaurant is known for its romantic ambiance and contemporary Mexican menu. The kitchen, led by Chef Iván Quiroz, draws inspiration from Morelos and Baja, featuring local produce and creative takes on fresh seafood dishes.
Day 2: Adventure, wellness, and culinary highlights
Make sure to squeeze in a few hours at your hotel pool.
Morning: Rise early for the classic hike up Tepozteco Mountain. The moderate trail rewards you with panoramic valley views and a glimpse of the 13th-century pyramid, and shouldn’t take you more than 3-4 hours.
Afternoon: For lunch, Axitla Restaurant is situated at the base of the mountain. The elevated boardwalk that leads to the entrance is hugged by tropical greenery and chirping birds. The restaurant features fresh, regional Mexican cuisine, and is set amid a lush garden.
Late afternoon: Book a treatment at one of Tepoztlán's renowned spas, preferably Amomoxtli. Choose from a variety of therapies incorporating ancestral techniques and local herbs harvested from the property's own gardens. Afterwards, soak in the jacuzzi or relax in the sauna, and primp in the onsite locker room before dinner.
Evening: Walk across the hotel's main house and past the chic pool (don't forget to take in the mountain views) to Mesa de Origen, known for its farm-to-table philosophy and inventive Mexican cuisine. The menu showcases ingredients from the Valley of Tepoztlán and surrounding regions, all served in a stylish, contemporary space and complimented by a robust list of Mexican wines.
Day 3: Culture, nature, and a taste of Amatlán
Vegan quesadillas? Yes, please.
Morning: After breakfast at your hotel, prepare for a day of spiritual exploration in nearby Amatlán. Head to Amatlán, about 20 minutes by taxi, to meet your local guide who will take you hiking to the "portal," a mystical spot known to only insiders. Meditate here for a bit. During the rainy season, there will be streams and perhaps some waterfalls. Bring waterproof boots. This hike takes about 2-3 hours.
Afternoon: Take a guided walk to the nearby village of Amatlán, known for its spiritual significance as the legendary birthplace of Quetzacoatl. Your guide most certainly will take you to the town center which, if you've already been to downtown Tepoz, is not much of a center at all. However, there is a señorita located near this main plaza famous for her quesadillas, a few of which are vegan! If street food doesn't call your name, dine at Teocintle. It's one of my favorite restaurants in this area. The carrot dish blew my mind. It's very casual – basically someone's house – the patio is covered in potted plants and sleeping dogs. The view is unexpectedly gorgeous.
Late afternoon: This shouldn't take long, so eat light and take a short walk up the road to Hostal de la Luz for a traditional temazcal ceremony (in my opinion, it’s the best one in the area). Ask for the temazcal with the pool (they will know what you're talking about) and ask for Andres as your shaman. Temazcal ceremonies must be reserved at least 2-3 days in advance.
Evening: If you're staying for a third night in Tepoztlán (and I hope you are), end your experience at Margarita Concept Garden, a greenhouse-turned-restaurant and bar that's become a social hub for both locals and visitors. Try their signature cocktails and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Where to stay in Tepoztlán
Casa Fernanda’s breezy design makes it one of my favorite hotels in Mexico.
Casa Fernanda: Boutique luxury hotel with a renowned spa and La Veladora restaurant. I love this place for its design, neutral colors, sculptures, and the saltwater pool that makes you feel like you're chilling at your rich friend's country house.
Amomoxtli: Lush gardens, excellent service, and a tranquil setting. To me, this 4-star property is actually a 5-star property and is the "Soho House" of Tepoztlán without the persistent smell of marijuana. The pool is exceptionally attractive, with fire pits and full beds for lounging.
Hostal de la Luz: Spiritual retreat with panoramic mountain views. It's the perfect spot for those who want to wake up, do yoga, drink green juice, and try a far-out treatment they didn't know existed (like an energetic cleanse in a gamma chamber). Top it off with good tequila in the onsite restaurant with views unmatched by any other property.
Featured restaurants in this itinerary
Axitla Restaurant: Garden restaurant with fresh, regional Mexican cuisine.
Teocintle: Casual home-style restaurant known for creative vegetable dishes and surprising mountain views.
La Veladora (Casa Fernanda): Contemporary Mexican, locally sourced, sexy vibe.
Tepoznieves Matriz: Iconic ice cream shop with over 100 flavors.
Margarita Concept Garden: Trendy greenhouse bar and restaurant with inventive cocktails.
Mesa de Origen: Farm-to-table Mexican cuisine with local ingredients in a sophisticated setting.
Quesadilla stand in Amatlán: Authentic, handmade quesadillas after your hike.
Essential packing checklist
Comfortable hiking boots with good grip
Swimwear and pool cover-up
Light layers for temperature changes
Rain jacket (June-September)
Sun hat
Yoga clothes
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones
Light jacket for cool evenings
Tips for your weekend in Tepoztlán
Tepoztlán's magic lingers long after your visit – whether it's the mountain air, vibrant energy, or the unforgettable flavors. Pack your hiking boots, a swimsuit, and an open mind. This enchanting town is ready to surprise you.
FAQs
How do I get to Tepoztlán from Mexico City?
The easiest way is by bus from Mexico City's Terminal Sur (Taxqueña), with Pullman de Morelos and OCC lines offering frequent departures. The ride takes 1–1.5 hours, but can be up to 2 hours with traffic. Rideshares and private drivers are also available—just remember to factor in return tolls for your driver.
What is the best time of year to visit Tepoztlán?
Tepoztlán has two main seasons: rainy (June–September) and dry (October–May). The rainy season brings lush landscapes and waterfalls—perfect for hiking—while the dry season offers clear skies and mountain views. Both are great depending on your preference.
What are the must-do activities in Tepoztlán?
Don't miss hiking to El Tepozteco pyramid (the town's iconic landmark), exploring the weekend market, visiting the Ex-Convent of the Nativity (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and sampling local cuisine like itacates and Tepoznieves ice cream. Spiritual experiences like temazcal ceremonies and massages are also popular.
Is the hike to El Tepozteco difficult?
The hike is moderately challenging, with steep and sometimes slippery sections. It usually takes 45–90 minutes to reach the top, depending on your pace and fitness. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and use sun protection. The pyramid is open Wednesday to Sunday, 9am–4pm, and the entrance fee is around 90 pesos (cash only). It's free on Sundays but can be crowded.
What kind of food should I try in Tepoztlán?
Try pre-Hispanic dishes at the market, itacates (triangle-shaped masa snacks), Tepoznieves ice cream, and quesadillas in Amatlán. For sit-down meals, recommended spots include Axitla, Teocintle, La Veladora, Mesa de Origen, and Margarita Concept Garden.
Where should I stay in Tepoztlán?
There are options for every budget, but I err on the side of luxury and suggest boutique hotels like Casa Fernanda and Amomoxtli to wellness retreats like Hostal de la Luz. Book in advance for weekends and holidays, as Tepoztlán is a popular getaway destination from Mexico City.
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