Things To Do
in Huasca de Ocampo
Huasca de Ocampo is a small, historic town in Hidalgo set amid pine and oak forests at a higher elevation. It is renowned for the Prismas Basálticos, dramatic basalt rock formations just outside the town, and for its charming colonial-era architecture. The cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and welcoming plazas create a relaxed, timeless atmosphere.
Visitors come to hike, sample Hidalgo cuisine, and use Huasca as a base for nearby natural wonders and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles and fresh fruit. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and colorful buildings that define Huasca de Ocampo. Stop at the local artisan shops to browse unique handicrafts and souvenirs made by talented local artisans.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional Mexican restaurant, where you can sample regional specialties such as barbacoa or mole. Post-lunch, visit the stunning Basílica de San Juan Bautista, known for its beautiful altar and intricate details. Spend the afternoon walking through the picturesque Parque de las Truchas, where you can relax by the water and enjoy the serene surroundings.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot at a rooftop bar to enjoy a cocktail while taking in the breathtaking views of the town. For dinner, indulge in a meal at a local taquería, where you can feast on mouthwatering tacos al pastor. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk through the town square, where you might catch live music or local festivities.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading towards the iconic Prismas Basálticos. Upon arrival, take a guided nature walk to explore the unique rock formations, formed by volcanic activity, that create stunning waterfalls and pools. Keep your camera ready as you may spot various species of birds and butterflies along the trails.
After your nature walk, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the park, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of flowing water. Spend the afternoon exploring the various viewpoints, taking time to appreciate the geological wonders and capturing the landscape from different angles. Don't forget to visit the small museum on-site to learn more about the history and significance of this natural wonder.
Return to Huasca de Ocampo in the late afternoon and freshen up before dinner. Choose a local restaurant for a relaxed meal, trying out dishes featuring fresh trout from the nearby rivers. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, enjoying the crisp evening air and the vibrant atmosphere of local shops and cafes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🧃Bottled water / soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including the basalt prisms
- Charming historic town with a relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and some services outside peak tourist seasons
- Rural roads can be winding and slower; fewer public transport options
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I'm lost
- "¿Puede recomendarme un plato local?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Huasca de Ocampo
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic canyon of hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity; best light early in the day and great for wide-angle and close-up rock textures.
A picturesque colonial church set against colorful town storefronts and arches—great for golden-hour portraits and street scenes.
Scenic overlooks and forest trails around Huasca offer expansive valley views, misty mornings, and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Huasca de Ocampo
Huasca de Ocampo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried pastry pockets filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables; a beloved Hidalgo specialty found in town markets and bakeries.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted lamb or beef wrapped in maguey leaves, offering smoky, tender meat often served with tortillas and salsas.
Compact, filling eats featuring local chorizo and regionally produced cheeses; widely available at mercados and street stalls.
Local fresh cheeses that pair well with tostadas, fruta, and herbs; available at mercados and small shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Locally produced ingredients, fresh produce, cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling regional flavors.
Elotes, esquites, funky aguas frescas, and simple, hearty Mexican dishes—perfect for a casual lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings in Spanish are appreciated. Use 'usted' with elders and strangers as a sign of respect; modest etiquette in churches and religious sites.
Ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural or indigenous communities; a polite nod or brief explanation is valued.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; keep voices low in quiet areas and avoid loud behavior in residential neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Huasca de Ocampo
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service is not included. For taxis and tour guides, small tips are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is commonly preferred at smaller eateries and markets; many hotels and larger establishments accept cards. ATMs are available in larger towns nearby; carry some pesos for local vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; brief, intense afternoon showers are possible. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Mild days with cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor explorations and long strolls through town. Pack a light jacket for cooler nights.
Chilly mornings and evenings; temperatures can dip. Layered clothing, a warm jacket, and a hat help you stay comfortable while sightseeing.
Mild to warm days with blooming flora; ideal for hikes and photography. Bring insect repellent and a breathable layer for warm afternoons.
Huasca de Ocampo at Night
Hiking in Huasca de Ocampo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A dramatic canyon with cave systems and thermal pools; popular for day trips with hiking and photography opportunities.
On-site trails around the basalt columns offering scenic canyon views and relatively accessible hikes for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Huasca de Ocampo by plane.
Mexico City’s main international gateway; good flight options and long-distance connections; drive or take a bus/transfer to Huasca (roughly 2–3 hours depending on traffic).
Regional airport with many domestic flights; access to the Bajío region and on to Hidalgo by road; approximately 2.5–3.5 hours’ drive to Huasca.
Smaller international and domestic flights; closer to the central Mexican highlands; drive to Huasca via toll roads and mountain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Mestizo with pockets of Indigenous communities; Spanish is the primary language, with Otomi influences in some rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local matches and informal games are common in town squares and fields.
Hiking, biking, and occasional community games are part of seasonal events in surrounding communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Huasca de Ocampo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many plazas and mercados offer bean-based dishes, quesadillas with cheese and peppers, and vegetable stews. When in doubt, ask for ‘vegetarianos’ and request no meat stock in soups.