Villahermosa Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Villahermosa, Mexico with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health info, and more.


Villahermosa is a vibrant and bustling city located in the southeastern Mexican state of Tabasco. Known as the “emerald of the southeast,” Villahermosa is a blend of modern architecture, traditional culture, and natural beauty. This charming city boasts many museums, historic landmarks, outdoor activities, and a delicious food scene. Plan your trip to Villahermosa and explore all that this beautiful city has to offer with our comprehensive travel guide.

Introduction to Villahermosa

As the capital of Tabasco, Villahermosa is the largest city in the state and is situated alongside the Grijalva River. The city features a blend of modern architecture, traditional Mexican culture, and natural beauty. You can enjoy a charming mix of vibrant streets, parks, and historic landmarks, making it an excellent destination for travelers of all ages and interests. Villahermosa is also the gateway to several natural parks and archaeological sites in the nearby areas.

List of Places to Visit in Villahermosa

Villahermosa has a wide array of attractions where you can experience the local culture and learn about the city’s history. Here are some of the must-visit places to explore in Villahermosa:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • La Venta Museum-Park: The museum is known for its open-air exhibit of Olmec civilization sculpture. It houses 33 pieces of art, including colossal stone heads, thrones, and altars.
  • Carlos Pellicer Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and works of Carlos Pellicer, a famous Mexican poet born in Tabasco. It has an impressive collection of Mexican art, pre-Columbian artifacts, and temporary art exhibits.
  • Tabasco History Museum: This museum is located in the city center and showcases the history of Tabasco, from pre-Columbian times to the present. The museum has 12 exhibition halls that display artifacts, paintings, and photographs.
  • Yumka Ecological Reserve: This reserve is a combination of a zoo and botanical garden that has many exotic animals, plants, and practices sustainable tourism. You can also try several outdoor activities such as zip-lining, hiking, and more.

Natural Attractions of Villahermosa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Museo La Venta: This park is home to a fascinating collection of stone sculptures from the Olmec civilization. It is also a vast open space where you can enjoy walking, jogging, and picnicking amid a natural setting.
  • Centla Wetlands: Explore the dense mangrove forests and canals that host a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, manatees, and birds. Guided boat tours are a popular way to experience the area.
  • Comalcalco Archaeological Site: This ancient Mayan city is located just outside Villahermosa and boasts stunning brick architecture. The site is renowned for its unique use of burnt bricks in the construction of its pyramids and other structures.
  • Waterfalls of Villa Luz Ecological Park: This park is home to three waterfalls, Poza Reyna, El Suspiro, and Velo de Novia. You can also try out several adventure sports like rappelling under the stunning Velo de Novia waterfall, hiking in the lush forest, or swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Villahermosa

Villahermosa is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes that you can explore on foot or by bike. The trails highlighted below are just a few of the best routes that offer scenic views and a chance for outdoor adventure.

  • Malecón Carlos A. Madrazo: This is a park alongside River Grijalva with a paved promenade perfect for cycling. The trail boasts stunning views of the river, birdwatching, and several restaurants and markets.
  • Parque Tomás Garrido can be perfect for hiking trails with a cycling station. The park has an Olympic-sized pool, football pitches, bike trails, and a skating rink.
  • El Parque de la Choca is a new ecological park in the city. The park offers some excellent cycling and walking paths with lots of scenic spots.

Best Things to Do in Villahermosa: Activities and Tours

Villahermosa offers plenty of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Here are some under the essential experiences that you should include on your Villahermosa itinerary:

  • Take a food tour to taste the local delicacies and learn about the city’s food culture.
  • Visit Villahermosa’s many markets and try the delicious street food from the many vendors lining its streets.
  • Explore the impressive Olmec sculptures at the La Venta Museum-Park.
  • Discover the Tabasco history at the Tabasco History Museum, with interactive exhibits.
  • Take a guided boat tour through the Centla Wetlands and observe the local flora and fauna.
  • Try out the outdoor activities and zipline at Yumka Ecological Reserve.
  • Visit Comalcalco and see one of the ancient Mayan cities with unique burnt brick architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Villahermosa

Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan the perfect week-long trip to Villahermosa:

  • Day 1-2: Take a city tour and visit some of the main attractions, such as the La Venta Museum-Park, Tabasco History Museum, Carlos Pellicer Museum, and the downtown.
  • Day 3: Explore the natural beauty of the Centla Wetlands and take a guided boat tour of the region.
  • Day 4: Visit Comalcalco and discover its unique Mayan brick architecture. On the way back, check out the Waterfalls of Villa Luz Ecological Park.
  • Day 5: Take a trip to Yumka Ecological Reserve that combines a zoo and botanical garden, with several adventure sports options.
  • Day 6: Go on a food tour to taste the local delicacies and discover the city’s food culture.
  • Day 7: Visit Parque Museo La Venta, which is open till late at night to enjoy its light and sound show and end the day with a stroll at Malecón Carlos A. Madrazo.

Food and Drink Scene of Villahermosa

Villahermosa has a vibrant food scene, with many traditional Mexican dishes and local specialties. Here’s an overview of what to eat and drink on your trip:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pescado a la talla: This is fish cooked on charcoal, marinated with a paste of chillies and other spices, a typical dish of the coastal regions in the state of Tabasco.
  • Tamales: This dish is made of corn dough stuffed with different kinds of meats, cheeses, and/or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
  • Chontalpa-style Cooked Banana: A technique of cooking bananas in a wood oven that produces a smoky and complex flavor that complements the sweet bananas.
  • Croquetas de plátano macho (Fried mashed plantain balls): This is a famous local recipe of plantain croquettes stuffed with cheese and other ingredients.
  • Pozol: A traditional maize drink mixed with cocoa, sugar, and achiote powder. Some like it hot as a winter evening drink, while others drink it cold.

Local Beverages

  • Cocktails made with the regional liquor of the state, Tabasco, such as bloody Mary.
  • Chocolate drinks like “Champurrado” or “Chocolate Maltode”, prepared with cocoa.
  • “Tejate,” made with fermented corn, cacao, and the “flor de cacao.” It is a sweet beverage with a slightly grainy texture.

Where to Stay in Villahermosa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Villahermosa has a wide range of accommodation options, from cozy hostels to luxurious hotels. It is best to stay in the city center, which is close to most of the attractions and restaurants.

Budget

  • Hostal La Chocolata
  • Hotel Olmeca Plaza
  • Hotel Báez Carrizal

Mid-Range

  • City Express Junior Villahermosa
  • Hotel Villa Margaritas Centro
  • Hotel & Suites Real del Lago

Luxury

  • Quinta Real Villahermosa
  • Hyatt Regency Villahermosa
  • Hotel Tabasco Palace

What to Buy in Villahermosa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Villahermosa offers many souvenirs and traditional products that you can take home as a memory of your trip, such as:

  • Chocolate from La Chocolatera Tabasco, produced using cocoa beans from the region.
  • Ceramics and pottery from the surrounding areas, and you can even take a pottery workshop and create your product.
  • Textiles, such as woven blankets, tablecloths, and hammocks, sold in the local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Villahermosa

Mexican culture is prevalent in Villahermosa, with significant influences from the Mayan and Olmec civilizations. The people in Villahermosa are friendly and welcoming, with a rich cultural heritage that’s vibrant in traditional music, dance, and festivals. Respectful and polite behavior is expected in all social settings, and tipping is customary for good service.

Best Time to Visit Villahermosa

Villahermosa has a tropical climate, and the best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is the most pleasant. During this period, the average temperature ranges from 23°C to 26°C. The rainy season lasts from May to October, with a greater incidence of rains in June, July, and September. If you plan to visit Villahermosa during these months, make sure to bring appropriate rain gear to enjoy the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Villahermosa

Here are some essential tips to remember when planning your trip to Villahermosa:

Do:

  • Try the local delicacies.
  • Learn about the local culture and customs and visit local markets and museums.
  • Be respectful towards the traditions and people.

Don’t:

  • Leave any luggage unattended or out of sight.
  • Walk alone in dark or remote areas of the city at night.
  • Disrespect public places, like parks or monuments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Villahermosa

Villahermosa is a relatively safe city, but like any other large city, it has its share of crime. It is essential to take precautions, especially at night. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and valuables, and be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid traveling alone in remote areas. If you plan on driving, obey traffic rules and be aware of the speed limits.

Health in Villahermosa

It is essential to take necessary precautions to prevent health hazards while traveling to Villahermosa. Make sure to bring any necessary medications and travel with adequate medical insurance. It is best to drink only bottled water and avoid eating street food that you’re unfamiliar with. The heat and humidity in the city can also cause dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids.

Getting to Villahermosa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Villahermosa

  • Carlos Rovirosa Pérez International Airport located just 23 km from the downtown area and can be accessed through either taxis or car rentals and public transportation.

Bus Stations Near Villahermosa

  • Villahermosa Central Bus Station serves the city’s needs to go to destinations like Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Merida, and coastal cities and towns in Tabasco that do not have an airport.

Other Options

  • Taxis are widely available and are a safe and convenient way to get around the city.
  • Car rentals are also available if you plan on exploring the nearby areas on your trip.

How to Get Around in Villahermosa

Getting around in Villahermosa is quite easy as the city has several public transportation options. The options include taxis, colectivos, and a reliable bus network. It is best to bring a map or use GPS to get around the area easily.

Where to Go Next from Villahermosa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Villahermosa is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. Here some destinations nearby that you can visit:

  • Palenque: Explore the stunning ancient Maya city located in the heart of the jungle.
  • San Cristóbal de las Casas: This colonial city is renowned for its vibrant indigenous heritage, architecture and is home to several museums, bilingual literature events, and culinary festivals.
  • Tabasco’s coast: Explore the stunning beaches and refined restaurants specializing in seafood dishes.

Conclusion

Villahermosa is a beautiful city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is an excellent destination for those interested in history, outdoor activities, and food. The city has plenty of attractions to suit the interests of everyone, and the friendly locals make the trip even more enjoyable. Hopefully, this guide has helped you plan your trip to Villahermosa and discover all that this city has to offer. Enjoy your trip!

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