Things To Do
in Santa Ana Nextlalpan

Slow-cooked lamb or beef traditionally prepared in an earth oven or modern steam method; often served with consommé, onion, cilantro and corn tortillas. Common in weekend markets and local fondas.

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Thick corn masa pancakes stuffed with beans, cheese or fava beans (tlacoyos) and handmade quesadillas — often cooked on comales in market stalls and a great midday snack.

Corn kernels (esquites) or grilled corn on the cob (elotes) served with mayo, cheese, chile and lime — a popular street snack available at market stands.

Use polite greetings (buenos días/buenas tardes) when entering shops or starting conversations. Address older residents respectfully and remove hat inside churches or homes if invited.

Many events revolve around the parish and patron-saint festivals; participate respectfully, ask permission before photographing people during religious ceremonies and dress modestly for church visits.

Haggling is acceptable in markets but keep it friendly; it's customary to be cordial, smile and thank vendors (gracias).

Local rural paths and dirt roads provide easy, low-elevation hikes through fields and small hills — ideal for casual walks, sunrise/sunset photography and birdwatching.

Trails and natural margins around the former Lake Texcoco area offer opportunities for nature walks and birding; seasonal conditions vary so check accessibility during the rainy season.

Within a moderate drive, the foothills of regional ranges provide more challenging hikes and viewpoints over the Valley of Mexico; suitable for half-day excursions with proper footwear and water.

Major international airport located to the southwest of Nextlalpan; reachable by car or shuttle in roughly 45–70 minutes depending on traffic. Offers the greatest number of domestic and international connections.

Newer airport located in the municipality of Zumpango, closer to Nextlalpan than MEX for some routes — convenient for domestic flights and some international connections; ground transport options are growing.

Located farther west near Toluca; useful for some domestic and low-cost international flights but a longer transfer from Nextlalpan compared with Mexico City airports.

Majority of residents are mestizo families engaged in agriculture, services and local trade — community-oriented, with many multi-generational households.

The area and surrounding valley have indigenous cultural influences (Nahua and other central Mexican groups) reflected in language traces, traditions and local crafts.

Some residents commute to nearby urban centers (Texcoco, Mexico City and industrial zones) for work, creating a mix of traditional rural life and modern employment ties.

The most popular sport — local informal matches and community teams are common, and many residents follow professional clubs and national competitions.

Played at school and community courts; a common recreational team sport in towns and nearby municipalities.

In the wider region you may encounter charreadas or rodeo-style events at fairs and festivals — part of rural cultural traditions.

Vegetarian options are available but limited in small towns; stick to vegetable stews, quesadillas with cheese, nopales (cactus) dishes, beans, corn-based items and fruit. Communicate clearly in Spanish (e.g., 'Soy vegetariano/vegetariana') and ask cooks about lard or meat broths.

Vegan choices are harder to find; many dishes use lard or cheese. Corn masa is generally gluten-free, but cross-contamination is common. Bring snacks and be explicit about restrictions when ordering.

Be cautious with nut or seafood allergies and with dairy; have allergy phrases written in Spanish and consider staying near towns with pharmacies and clinics in case of reaction.