Things To Do
in Temixco

Temixco is a small city and municipality in the state of Morelos, Mexico, located just south of Cuernavaca and within easy reach of Mexico City. The area blends residential neighborhoods, family-oriented water parks (balnearios), and a growing service sector while retaining access to archeological sites and natural springs nearby. Visitors come for relaxed weekend escapes, outdoor activities like river and spring swimming, and cultural visits to nearby Xochicalco and local markets.

The town offers a quieter base for exploring central Morelos while giving a taste of everyday Mexican provincial life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Temixco, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant murals that tell the story of the town. Don't forget to visit the main square, where you can soak up the lively atmosphere and perhaps catch a glimpse of a local market.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Museo de la Ciudad to delve into the rich history and culture of Temixco and its surrounding areas. Following your museum visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying regional specialties such as tacos de cecina. As the sun begins to set, take a walk along the picturesque streets, stopping at artisan shops to pick up unique handcrafted souvenirs.

evening
:

For dinner, indulge in a meal at a traditional restaurant where you can experience authentic Mexican flavors. Afterward, explore the nightlife by visiting a local cantina, where you can enjoy live music and vibrant dance performances. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll back to your accommodation, taking in the warm evening air and the sounds of the town.

day 2
Waterfall Adventures in San Juan
morning
:

Begin your adventure early in the morning with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby San Juan waterfall. The hike to the waterfall is a scenic journey through lush greenery, where you can encounter native flora and fauna along the way. Once you arrive, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views and the soothing sound of cascading water.

afternoon
:

After enjoying the natural beauty of the waterfall, pack a picnic lunch to savor by the water’s edge. Spend the afternoon swimming in the refreshing waters and taking photos of the breathtaking surroundings. If you're feeling adventurous, try some cliff jumping into the deep pools below, ensuring to capture the excitement on camera.

evening
:

Return to Temixco in the evening and relax with a casual dinner at a local eatery, sharing stories about your day. Explore the town’s vibrant art scene by visiting galleries or enjoying a performance if available. As night falls, enjoy a leisurely walk, immersing yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the town under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-10
Coffee (local café)$1.50-3
🚕Short taxi ride$2-6
🏨Midrange hotel (double)$40-80
🛍️Market groceries / street food snacks$1-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Cuernavaca and major attractions like Xochicalco and Las Estacas
  • Affordable local food, family-friendly water parks and outdoor activities
  • Quieter, authentic provincial atmosphere compared with big tourist cities
  • Good base for day trips around central Morelos and nearby lakes
  • Limited high-end dining and nightlife options within Temixco itself
  • Public transportation can be irregular; a car or taxi is often necessary
  • Heat and afternoon rains in summer can disrupt outdoor plans
  • Some neighborhoods may feel run-down or require caution at night
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias / Muchas gracias" - Thank you / Thank you very much
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Sin carne, por favor" - Without meat, please

Places to Visit in Temixco

Visit one of these nice places.

Xochicalco Archaeological Zone

Well-preserved pyramids, relief carvings and panoramic hilltop views provide dramatic sunrise and midday photo opportunities; textures, shadows and stonework are photogenic.

Local Balnearios and Springs

Clear natural pools, rustic water park scenes and people enjoying the springs make colorful, lively images — early morning or late afternoon light is best.

Temixco Centro and Market

Candid street scenes, colorful produce and traditional food stalls capture local life and vibrant everyday culture.

Surrounding Valleys and Overlooks

Views across Morelos valleys and distant mountains are good for landscape shots, especially at golden hour or with dramatic skies.

Culinary Guide

Food in Temixco

Temixco and the surrounding region of Morelos feature central Mexican cuisine with corn- and pork-based dishes, fresh tropical fruits, aguas frescas, and many casual eateries (fondas) and family-run restaurants. The area emphasizes simple, hearty flavors and local produce. Street food and markets are excellent for trying regional snacks and affordable meals. Nearby larger towns add variety with seafood at lakes/river spots and more refined dining in Cuernavaca.

Temixco Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cecina

Salted, dried beef or pork (often thinly sliced and grilled) commonly served with nopal, salsa and tortillas; easy to find at local markets and fondas.

Must-Try!

Tacos al pastor

Marinated pork roasted on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served in corn tortillas with pineapple, onion and cilantro; widely available at taquerías and street stands.

Tamales and atole

Steamed masa parcels with savory or sweet fillings, often sold in the morning at mercados and street stalls; pair with warm atole for a traditional breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal (Temixco)

Typical local market where you can sample tacos, tlacoyos, tamales, fresh fruit, and aguas frescas; an ideal spot for authentic, inexpensive eats and people-watching.

Roadside Taquerías and Balneario Stands

Near water parks and tourist spots are casual stands selling grilled meats, tortas, elotes (corn), and refreshing beverages — great for quick bites during outdoor days.

Climate Guide

Weather

Temixco has a warm temperate climate with warm to hot temperatures much of the year, a pronounced rainy season from June to September, and mild, drier winters. Daytime highs commonly range from the low 20s°C (70s°F) in winter to high 20s–30s°C (80s–90s°F) in spring and summer. Humidity rises during the rainy months and afternoon storms are frequent then.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly 'hola' and a handshake or nod is common; use polite phrases like 'por favor' and 'gracias' — respect and courtesy go a long way.

Dress and Behavior

Casual dress is normal, but dress modestly at churches and religious sites; avoid loud or disrespectful behavior in public spaces.

Respect for Local Customs

Be mindful at small family businesses and private properties; ask permission before photographing people, especially vendors or families.

Safety Guide

Safety

Temixco is generally safe for tourists when taking normal precautions: avoid displaying expensive items, use licensed taxis or app-based services when possible, and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night. Keep copies of important documents, carry limited cash, and ask locals or your accommodation about any neighborhoods to avoid. As with many parts of Mexico, petty theft can occur — secure belongings and remain aware of surroundings. For remote outdoor activities, let someone know your plans and check local conditions.

Tipping in Temixco

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated: 10–15% at sit-down restaurants if service isn't included, small change (10–20 MXN) for porters or restroom attendants, and a few pesos to taxi drivers for short rides; tip hotel housekeeping a small amount per day.

Payment Methods

Cash (Mexican pesos) is widely used, especially at markets, stands and small businesses; many restaurants and shops accept credit/debit cards in town but signal can be unreliable, so carry cash for smaller purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (Mar–May)

Warm to hot days with low to moderate rain; comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities, but afternoons can get hot — carry water and sun protection.

Summer / Rainy Season (Jun–Sep)

Hotter temperatures with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; mornings are best for outdoor plans and archaeological visits, while pools and balnearios are popular despite storms.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Drying trend with pleasant temperatures and clear skies; a great time for outdoor activities and cultural events after the rainy season.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Mild days and cooler nights; comfortable for sightseeing with less humidity and lower chance of rain — bring a light jacket for evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Temixco at Night

Temixco's nightlife is low-key compared with larger cities: expect casual bars, family restaurants, occasional live music at plazas or local venues, and small cantinas. Nearby Cuernavaca offers a wider selection of nightclubs, cocktail bars and cultural events for late-night options. Evenings are often relaxed and centered around dining and socializing rather than heavy clubbing.

Hiking in Temixco

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Xochicalco Hills

Short trails around the archaeological site provide easy hikes with panoramic views of the surrounding valley and access to historic ruins.

Las Estacas Natural Park (nearby)

Although a short drive away, Las Estacas offers riverside trails, spring-fed swimming spots and light hikes in a lush setting — ideal for a nature day trip.

Local Countryside Paths

Various unmarked rural paths and minor trails near Temixco are suitable for short walks and gentle hikes; inquire locally for recommended routes and safety tips.

Airports

How to reach Temixco by plane.

General Mariano Matamoros Airport (Morelos)

Small regional airport near Cuernavaca (short drive from Temixco); limited commercial flights—mostly domestic charters and private aircraft.

Mexico City International Airport (Benito Juárez)

Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic; offers the most flight options and is the easiest entry point for international travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Temixco's center and markets are reasonably walkable for short trips, but the municipality is spread out and many attractions (balnearios, archeological sites, lakes) require a car or taxi. Sidewalks can be uneven in places; for longer distances expect to use local buses, colectivos or taxis.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Families and Workers

A large portion of the population is local families and working-class residents employed in services, tourism, construction and commerce.

Commuters and Residents from Cuernavaca

Some residents commute to Cuernavaca for work; the area also attracts people seeking more affordable housing near the city.

Tourists and Weekend Visitors

Weekend visitors from Mexico City and surrounding states come for balnearios, lake activities and archaeological sites, influencing the local service economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Soccer is the dominant sport; you'll find local matches, youth leagues and community fields where people play regularly.

Swimming and Water Sports

Because of the many springs, balnearios and nearby lakes, swimming, snorkeling and paddle sports are popular recreational activities.

Basketball and Street Sports

Community basketball courts and street sports are common in neighborhoods for youth and adults alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during weekday commute times, especially on routes toward Cuernavaca and highways to Mexico City; weekend traffic increases around popular balnearios and lake areas. Public transportation includes local buses and colectivos (shared vans) which are inexpensive but may be crowded and have variable schedules. Rideshares and taxis are convenient alternatives for door-to-door travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Temixco.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available but less varied than in big cities; ask for grilled vegetables, nopal (cactus), cheese-based dishes, bean, and egg preparations. Markets and many restaurants can adapt dishes; learning the phrase 'sin carne' (without meat) helps.

Vegan/Gluten-free

Vegan and strict gluten-free choices can be challenging; rely on fresh fruit, salads, beans (confirm no lard), corn tortillas (generally gluten-free), and grilled vegetables. Inquire about preparation methods and cross-contamination at smaller kitchens.

Food Safety

Stick to busy stalls with high turnover, drink bottled or filtered water, and opt for freshly cooked hot foods to reduce the risk of stomach upset.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare clinics and pharmacies are available in Temixco and nearby Cuernavaca has larger private hospitals and specialist care. For serious emergencies or specialized treatment, Cuernavaca and Mexico City have better-equipped facilities. Travelers should carry health insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary, and bring any prescription medications with original labeling.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide