Tuxtla Gutiérrez Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Tuxtla Gutiérrez with our comprehensive guide including where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and more.


The Ultimate Tuxtla Gutiérrez Travel Guide

Tuxtla Gutiérrez, located in Chiapas, Mexico, is a city full of lively culture, pristine nature, and a rich history. As the state capital, it’s a great starting point to explore some of the region’s most stunning natural sites like the Sumidero Canyon. This comprehensive tour guide to Tuxtla Gutiérrez will help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit.

Introduction to Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a city situated in the southeastern state of Chiapas in Mexico. It serves as the gateway to the state’s storied attractions like the Sumidero Canyon, San Cristobal de las Casas, and Palenque. The city offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Although not as popular as some of Mexico’s other tourist destinations, Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a thriving city where you can easily spend a few days.

List of Places to Visit in Tuxtla Gutiérrez

No matter your interests, Tuxtla Gutiérrez has plenty of options to cater to your preferences. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Anthropology and History of Chiapas: The museum is one of Tuxtla Gutiérrez’s top attractions, which had exhibits that focus on history, science, and traditions that best represent the state of Chiapas.
  • Marimba Park: Marimba music is famous in Chiapas and is undoubtedly the musical style that blends with the city’s atmosphere and culture. The park has a magnificent kiosk in which music events and concerts happen all year round.
  • La Catedral de San Marcos: One cannot miss visiting the city’s central cathedral, which sits in the downtown area and is a hallmark of the city’s religious and historical significance. The church’s architecture draws visitors with its neoclassical vibe and splendid design.

Natural Attractions of Tuxtla Gutiérrez: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cañón del Sumidero National Park: Take a boat tour along the towering Canyon while admiring the view of the Grijalva River. The canyon is not all about the view, as wildlife such as crocodiles and monkeys can also be spotted.
  • Parque de la Marimba: The park gives you a place to relax, enjoy live marimba music and drinks while enjoying the pleasant view.
  • Cerro Mactumactzá: The site is not only full of history but also delivers a stunning view of Tuxtla Gutiérrez with a backdrop of mountains and forests. It’s an astonishing attraction if you’re a nature lover.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Tuxtla Gutiérrez offers several options for cycling or hiking enthusiasts. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • The Par Parque Bicentenario is an option for cycling enthusiasts. Enjoy the paved cycle path with your bike and take in the sight of the attractive nature of Tuxtla Gutiérrez.
  • Cañon del Sumidero has a nature park that also offers guided trekking tours where you can explore the hues of the canyon.

Best Things to Do in Tuxtla Gutiérrez: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities to do in Tuxtla Gutiérrez:

  • Take a boat tour of the Cañon del Sumidero and witness the magnificent nature of Chiapas’ interpretation.
  • Marimba amusement park offers an excellent space where you can interact with the locals, listen to the cheerful marimba music, and grab a drink or two
  • Explore the Museum of Anthropology and History, which has exhibits showcasing Chiapas’s diverse culture and history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Suppose you have a week to spend in Tuxtla Gutiérrez. In that case, you can make the most of your trip by following this itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Visit the Canyon sumidero, spend your day exploring the canyon, wildlife, and if possible, visit the museum located within the park
  • Day 3: Head downtown, where you can visit the museum of anthropology as well as the cathedral.
  • Day 4: Visit the Parque de la Marimba with its beautiful ambiance and live music performances.
  • Day 5: Visit the beautiful Cerro Mactumactzá in which history meets nature at its finest.
  • Day 6: Take a cycling tour around the Par Parque Bicentenario.
  • Day 7: Wind down, relax and enjoy your favorite drink at the park or the city’s scenic spots.

Food and Drink Scene of Tuxtla Gutiérrez

If you’re a foodie, you’ll find that Tuxtla Gutiérrez’s local cuisine has a distinct flavor compared to the rest of Mexico. Here are some dishes and beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cochinita Pibil: A traditional dish where the pork is marinated in achiote paste, sour orange juice, and spices then wrapped and slow-cooked in a banana leaf.
  • Tortas de Mojarra: Fried tilapia served in a bun and garnished with mayonnaise, onion, tomatoes, and avocado.

Local Beverages

  • Posh: A distinctly flavored corn drink that’s been made for thousands of years by indigenous communities in the region.
  • Chilate: A warm beverage made out of cooked corn, chocolate, or cacao, sugar, and other spices like cinnamon.

Where to Stay in Tuxtla Gutiérrez: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tuxtla Gutiérrez has a wide range of options for accommodation, catering to every budget range. Here are a few places to consider:

  • Marriott Hotel Tuxtla: This hotel is located in a prime location and has easy access to the city center and the major attractions, offering a relaxing and comfortable stay.
  • Hotel San Francisco: This hotel provides excellent value and comes with an affordable price tag. The hotel is well-maintained and has comfortable rooms.
  • Hostal Home: This hostel provides a cozy and homely experience for travelers and is an excellent option for budget travelers who prefer more economical options.

What to Buy in Tuxtla Gutiérrez: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are a few souvenirs to consider bringing back home:

  • Ambar: Amber is a translucent golden-green stone found in the region and is used by local artisans to create jewelry and other decorative objects.
  • Textiles: The region is known for its vibrant textiles with a wide range of patterns and colors and has been a cherished production since the pre-Columbian era.
  • Pottery: The pottery made in Tuxtla Gutiérrez is unique, and local artisans use traditional techniques to create beautiful pieces of ceramics that depict Mexican culture and history.

Local Culture and Customs of Tuxtla Gutiérrez

The people of Tuxtla Gutiérrez are proud of their Mexican heritage and identity. While Spanish is the official language, many residents still speak indigenous languages like Tzotzil and Tzeltal. The city’s religious traditions also play a significant role in the community and their customs. Be sure to dress modestly when visiting places of worship, and respect the local culture by avoiding any cultural appropriation.

Best Time to Visit Tuxtla Gutiérrez

The best times to visit Tuxtla Gutiérrez are between December and February, where the weather is generally mild and dry. Avoid visiting between June and September as this is the peak of the rainy season and can make it difficult to explore the city and its attractions. However, if you want to enjoy the city’s traditions and customs, plan your visit during the Semana Santa festival, which usually falls in late March or early April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Do:

  • Wear comfortable shoes as Tuxtla Gutiérrez is incredibly hilly and steep.
  • Make an effort to learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with the locals.
  • Carry cash as credit cards are not always widely accepted.

Don’t:

  • Overpack as Tuxtla Gutiérrez has a hot and humid climate.
  • Wear shorts or revealing clothes when visiting religious or conservative areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a relatively safe city for travelers. However, like any other city around the world, take precautions when walking around at night in isolated or poorly lit areas. Be careful when crossing the streets as traffic can be hectic and chaotic at times. Use a licensed taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber to get around the city.

Health in Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Make sure you pack sunscreen and bug spray and keep hydrated due to the city’s hot and humid climate. Always check with your doctor before traveling and get vaccinations if deemed necessary. The city has a good healthcare system, and there are several hospitals with excellent standards and medical facilities. Always carry your travel medical insurance and medication in case of emergencies.

Getting to Tuxtla Gutiérrez: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is well-connected to its surrounding areas and the rest of the country. Here are some ways to get there:

Airports Near Tuxtla Gutiérrez

  • Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport: Located thirty minutes from Tuxtla Gutiérrez, it’s a great connection point for international and local travelers.

Bus Stations Near Tuxtla Gutiérrez

  • ADO bus station: This bus station is the most popular connection point between Tuxtla Gutiérrez and other cities in Mexico. The station is centrally located with excellent transport connections.

Other Options

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is also accessible by car hire, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber. However, car rental services are not usually recommended, given the complexities of obtaining a Mexican driving license.

How to Get Around Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a city with hilly terrain, so it’s not always the best option for walking. Taxis, buses, and ride-sharing services like Uber are excellent choices to get around the city, with variating prices based on the level of comfort you desire.

Where to Go Next from Tuxtla Gutiérrez: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions you can take from Tuxtla Gutiérrez include:

  • San Cristobal de las Casas: A pleasant colonial town located just an hour and a half away from Tuxtla Gutiérrez, it’s well-worthy of a visit.
  • Palenque: A historical town, the site of Mayan civilization that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is approximately four hours away from Tuxtla Gutiérrez.

Conclusion

Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a city full of gorgeous natural landscapes, vibrant cultural traditions, and warmhearted people. It offers travelers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the history and culture of Mexico and its indigenous people. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll now be better equipped to plan your visit to Tuxtla Gutiérrez and take home precious memories of your visit.

Main drive Main drive View of the Saint Mark's Cathedral View of the Saint Mark's Cathedral