The Magic of Cuetzalan.

 

 

 

Cuetzalan is a place that evokes magic just by hearing its name. Yes, I admit, I’m a romantic at heart.

I had heard so much about this town that I was expecting something truly enchanting, with fairies emerging from houses and elves or Chaneques welcoming visitors upon arrival. However, Cuetzalan has much more to offer than mere human illusions.

 

Location-wise, Cuetzalan is nestled in the mountains of northern Puebla. As I approached the town, I couldn’t believe my eyes—the view was like something out of a movie. Surrounded by hills, mountains, and clouds blanketing the landscape, it felt as if I were entering a Viking realm. Yet, it was the realm of Cuetzalan, where coffee and magic abound.

I may be glorifying this town a bit too much, but that’s how it feels to me.

Getting There!

There are different ways to reach Cuetzalan. I chose to take the bus, as I wanted to experience the journey without the stress of driving and navigating unfamiliar routes. Plus, it’s an inexpensive option, with a round-trip ticket costing only 255 pesos from the bus station in Puebla.

Alternatively, traveling by car is a safe and affordable choice. It allows you to make your own stops at your own pace, and you can avoid the motion sickness that comes with navigating winding roads like my bus driver that he want to be Toreto.

The bus driver felt the pressure to arrive with plenty of time, and let me tell you, there were plenty of twists and turns as we approached the nearest town, Zacapoaxtla. Be sure to be prepared with some Dramamine (a medicine for dizziness) to avoid any discomfort during the bus or car ride.

Upon arrival in Cuetzalan, you’re greeted by the towering main church and the sheer beauty of the place, making you feel like an integral part of the town itself.

There are various places to stay, but it seems the best option is to choose accommodation closer to the main square if you prefer not to walk too much. However, you might miss out on some of the town’s charming appeal by doing so. It’s a matter of personal preference.

Personally, I stayed far from the main square, which allowed me to explore and wander. Beauty can be found in every corner, and you can truly feel the unique atmosphere of this special place.

The streets of Cuetzalan rank among the best I’ve seen in Mexico. While they may not be bursting with vibrant colors, the beauty of the place and the occasional bursts of color make up for it.

You can easily spend two days exploring the town, but if you truly want to discover every nook and cranny, you’ll need more time to wander, soak in the streets, connect with the locals, and embrace the atmosphere.

Places to Explore

Cuetzalan offers several must-visit places where you should spend some time. One such place is the main square, which features a log in the center and is home to the Voladores de Cuetzalan—a group of dancers who perform a ritual tribute to the elements and cardinal points. They share similarities with the famous Voladores de Papantla from Veracruz. This show takes place three or four times a day, mostly on weekends.

 

The Parroquia of San Francisco de Asis is another notable spot. The church boasts remarkable religious art, providing a moment for reflection. Remember to be respectful when visiting any religious place.

On the main square, you’ll also find the quisco or gazebo, where local vendors, mostly women, set up a weekend market. It’s the perfect place to see and buy various items. Exploring the streets near the main square will lead you to numerous shopping opportunities, with coffee being one of the town’s specialties. Cuetzalan is renowned for producing some of the best coffee in Mexico, along with other regions in the country.

The Church of Jarritos is another gem. Surrounded by graves and a beautiful garden, it’s a cemetery that you can visit and admire. I wish I could have been there during the Day of the Dead festivities to witness the cemetery adorned with flowers and traditional decorations.

Named after the jars that adorn its main tower, the church possesses a unique beauty not easily found elsewhere in Mexico.

Places to Stay

There is a wide range of hotels and hostels in Cuetzalan, varying in price and amenities. The ones closest to the main square tend to be more expensive. However, you’ll find that the locals are friendly and helpful, and they will gladly assist you with your accommodations.

 

Places to Eat

Initially, I was searching for traditional restaurants and safe choices for a good meal. But if you truly want to experience the local cuisine and are willing to be a bit adventurous, I recommend trying the food sold by local vendors along the streets. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quite affordable. The way they prepare the dishes is simply outstanding. For less than 5 USD, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that will leave you more than pleased.

Visit Cuetzalan

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Cuetzalan welcomes you with open arms. The people are incredibly friendly, and even though English is not widely spoken, they will go out of their way to make you feel at home.

As Mexicans, it’s important for us to invest in our people and appreciate what they offer. They open their homes, their hearts, and their town, making us feel like we belong. Let’s preserve and support the spirit of hospitality that Mexico is known for.

 

There are moments when clouds and mist descend upon the town, creating a sense of beauty and mysticism that further enhances the allure of this place. I hope you find Cuetzalan as charming and magical as I do. It’s a destination that eagerly awaits your visit.