Things To Do
in Olintla
Olintla is a highland town in Puebla set among forested hills and deep valleys. The town blends Indigenous and mestizo traditions, with a slow-paced rhythm and welcoming locals. Cobblestone streets, a colorful central market, and nearby natural scenery create a tranquil escape from larger cities.
Its cool climate and scenic viewpoints make Olintla a gateway to outdoor exploration in the Sierra Norte region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Olintla, where you can admire the colonial architecture and vibrant local life. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, sampling dishes like chilaquiles and fresh fruit. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, absorbing the history and culture that surrounds you.
Head over to the Museo de Olintla, where you can learn about the town's rich history and the significance of its indigenous roots. After exploring the museum, enjoy lunch at a local eatery, trying out some regional specialties like mole or tamales. Spend the afternoon visiting the local artisan shops, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs made by talented local artisans.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy live music while savoring delicious regional dishes. After your meal, take a peaceful walk in the plaza, where locals gather to socialize and enjoy the evening air. Finish your day by sipping on a traditional Mexican hot chocolate from a nearby café.
Wake up early and prepare for a day of hiking in the stunning Sierra Norte mountains surrounding Olintla. After a hearty breakfast, join a guided tour that takes you through lush forests and past breathtaking waterfalls. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you ascend to one of the scenic viewpoints in the area.
Take a packed lunch to enjoy at a picturesque spot while surrounded by nature. After lunch, continue your hike along the trails, discovering native flora and fauna while listening to the sounds of the forest. Capture photos of the stunning landscapes and the occasional glimpse of mountain wildlife.
Return to Olintla, feeling invigorated from your day in the mountains. Relax with dinner at a local restaurant, sampling more traditional dishes that reflect the region's flavors. Conclude the evening by sharing stories of your adventures with fellow travelers or locals at a bustling café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🧺Small souvenir | $3-12 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful mountain scenery and cooler climate
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Rich local culture and crafts
- Good base for Sierra Norte hiking
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Some areas can be remote and payout-focused on agriculture
- Roads can be winding and weather-dependent
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Olintla
Visit one of these nice places.
A lookout point above Olintla offering sweeping views of the valley, forests, and distant hills, ideal for sunrise shots.
Historic church with colorful façade and a simple interior; great for architectural details and candid street scenes.
Bustling market stalls, woven textiles, and fresh produce provide vibrant color and texture for street photography.
Nearby waterfall with lush greenery; a classic spot for long exposure and nature portraits.
Food in Olintla
Olintla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet corn tamales wrapped in corn husks, often enjoyed with crema and a drizzle of queso fresco.
Must-Try!
Herbal beef soup common in mountain communities, flavored with local greens and herbs.
Rich chocolate and chili-based sauce served over meat with rice, reflecting Puebla's culinary heritage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market offering fresh produce, herbs, cheeses, tortillas, and quick street bites like wild-green tortillas and local salsas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite greetings like Buenos días or buenas tardes; address elders as Señora or Señor and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people or private homes; modest dress and respectful conversation are valued in town.
Participation in local festivals and respect for Mariachi or community events is appreciated when invited.
Safety
Tipping in Olintla
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated if service is satisfactory. Guides and drivers often receive a similar or slightly higher tip.
Cash in MXN is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; many larger establishments accept cards, but some rural spots may be cash-only. ATMs are available in nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with afternoon showers; carry a light rain jacket, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for morning hours.
Milder temperatures and clear skies; great time for hikes and photography with golden light.
Cool to cold nights; layers essential, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.
Fresh greenery and blooming flora; expect mild temperatures and occasional rain, ideal for outdoor exploration.
Olintla at Night
Hiking in Olintla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of Mexico's tallest mountains; challenging high-altitude hike with technical considerations; best with a guide and proper gear.
Accessible high-altitude trek near Tlaxcala/Barlovento; offers panoramic views and distinct ecosystems.
Network of forest trails around Olintla with varied difficulty, ideal for day hikes and wildlife watching.
Airports
How to reach Olintla by plane.
Located near Puebla City; the most practical major airport for international travelers visiting the region; 2.5–4 hours by road depending on traffic.
In Veracruz City; serves many domestic and international flights; approximately a 3–4 hour drive to Olintla.
Mexico City airport; a longer drive but useful for international connections; plan for 4.5–6 hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Indigenous heritage with mestizo residents; traditional crafts and languages can be present in surrounding areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in towns and schools; local matches bring communities together.
Casual leagues and school teams are common in the region, especially in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Olintla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable stews, beans, corn-based dishes, fresh produce, and bread; ask for oil instead of lard and request meat-free preparations when possible.