Things To Do
in Joquicingo
Joquicingo is a highland town in the State of Mexico, about an hour or two from Mexico City by road. It sits amid pine and oak forests, offering cool air and scenic valley views. The town center features a colonial-era church, a lively plaza, and traditional mercados that showcase local produce and handmade crafts.
It's a gateway for rural escapes, nature walks, and day trips to nearby hills and waterfalls.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the main square of Joquicingo, where you can admire the vibrant architecture and local life. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional Mexican dishes at a nearby café, savoring fresh tamales and coffee. As you walk around, take in the sounds of street vendors and the scent of fresh tortillas being made.
After lunch, head to the nearby archaeological site of Teotenango, where you can explore the ancient ruins and learn about the region's pre-Hispanic history. Spend time walking through the site, taking photographs of the stunning views and the impressive stone structures. Return to the town and visit local artisan shops to pick up unique handmade souvenirs.
In the evening, find a cozy restaurant where you can sample regional specialties like mole or barbacoa. As you dine, enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with local music and laughter. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town's streets, illuminated by colorful lights, and reflect on your day.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike in the Sierra de Monte Alto, where you can immerse yourself in the lush natural beauty of the area. Enjoy the fresh air and listen to the sounds of birds singing as you make your way through the trails. Take a moment to pause and appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in the mountains, surrounded by nature. Spend some time relaxing and taking in the beautiful sights of the diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, visit the nearby ecological park to learn more about the local environment and possibly spot some wildlife.
Return to Joquicingo and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local eatery. Try some of the region’s delicious fish dishes, often made with ingredients sourced from nearby lakes. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar for live music, where you can experience the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or drink at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚗Taxi or local transport (short ride) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $25-60 |
| 🧺Local souvenir or craft | $3-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Serene rural setting with accessible nature
- Close enough to Mexico City for day trips
- Friendly, family-run hospitality
- Fresh, seasonal cuisine and markets
- Limited nightlife and fewer amenities
- Rural roads can be winding and slower
- Limited English in some establishments
- Public transport options are limited outside the town center
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor." - A table for two, please.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendar un plato típico?" - Can you recommend a typical dish?
Places to Visit in Joquicingo
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial church with a scenic plaza, especially picturesque at sunrise and during Sunday markets.
Historic town square with traditional architecture and lively street life ideal for candid photography.
A hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic views over the town and surrounding forests.
Forest edge trails and tranquil water reflections suitable for nature photography.
Food in Joquicingo
Joquicingo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted meat tucked into tortillas with onions, cilantro, and salsas, a staple at weekend markets.
Must-Try!
A rich hominy stew with pork, garnished with lettuce, radish, onion, and lime.
Oval corn cakes stuffed with beans or cheese, often topped with salsa and cilantro.
Warm maize-based drinks or chilled fruit-based aguas frescas to accompany meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market stalls selling produce, handmade foods, and ready-to-eat meals; try freshly made tortillas and chicharrón.
Open-air markets offering snacks, crafts, and seasonal fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or abrazo with close friends; wait for a handshake in formal settings.
In rural areas, dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or sacred sites.
Meetings and appointments may start a few minutes late; a relaxed approach is common in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Joquicingo
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of 10-15% if service isn’t included; for guides or drivers, 5-10% is common.
Cash is widely accepted; some places take cards; always have local currency for markets and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise gradually; blooming flora around the hills makes landscapes lush and colorful.
Warm days with afternoon showers; carry a light rain jacket and sun protection.
Cooler evenings; golden light on hills and hunter-green forests as leaves turn.
Mild daytime temps with potential chilly nights; layers recommended.
Joquicingo at Night
Hiking in Joquicingo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular short hike offering views over Joquicingo and the surrounding valley.
Longer hikes into forested ridges with diverse flora and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Joquicingo by plane.
Major international hub ~60-90 minutes by car depending on traffic; broad flight options.
Smaller airport closer to Joquicingo; useful for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo residents with a strong rural identity and a smaller presence of indigenous communities.
People engaged in agriculture and local crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and casual play are common among youth and adults.
Courts in schools and community centers; weekend games are common.
Rural ranches offer guided rides and pony treks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Joquicingo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based options like vegetable tortillas, beans, corn soups, fresh fruit, and salads; ask for dishes without meat broths or lard.