Situated in a highland mountain valley and cradled by dramatic, copper-toned, mountain cliffs, Tepoztlán is one of Mexico’s most alluring and unique colonial towns.  With a breath-taking mountainous landscape, charming town center, rich echoes of ancient civilizations, and an interesting convergence of inhabitants, the town makes for one of the most remarkable mix of colonial and indigenous experiences in Mexico.

Tepoztlán is just 75 km (46 miles) south of Mexico City and 17 km (11 miles) northeast of the popular colonial town of Cuernavaca, making it an easy day-trip from the capital, although a couple night’s stay is strongly recommended to appreciate it fully.

At an altitude of 5,380 feet (1,640 meters) above sea-level, the town lies two thousand feet lower than the nearby capital, and its location in the region gives the town a divine climate, with warm spring-like temperatures most days of the year, mild winters, and long daylight hours through the seasons.

This region of Mexico is rich in natural energy sources—with nearby volcanoes, fertile vegetation, rivers and lakes, waterfalls, and springs of mineral water. It’s no wonder then that Tepoztlán is one of the top places in Mexico visited by people seeking alternative therapies, Aztec steam baths, healing, and health rejuvenation. It’s also well-known as the place in Mexico where most UFOs are sighted.

The central attractions of the town include the beautifully preserved colonial ex-convent, the traditional mercado which opens daily just off the main square, the lively artisans market which sets-up every weekend, and the mountain-top pyramid El Tepozteco—said to be a focal-point of mystical energy and a place of spiritual importance.

Tepoztlán has been designated as a ‘Pueblo Mágico‘ — a nationwide tourism program that seeks to highlight small towns with exceptional character. Tepoztlán offers visitors an excellent selection of hotels, B&Bs, and Spas to enjoy — including some of the country’s finest places to stay — as well as an ample selection of restaurants, eateries, cafés, and bars.

The town is a popular get-away destination for Chilangos seeking weekend entertainment and recreation. As a result of the this, the town is much busier at weekends, and is particularly lively over holiday weekends and during certain annual festivals.

This vibrant mountain town is one of the most unique places in Mexico’s colonial highlands: whether you come for the day, or stay for longer, you’ll encounter the natural beauty, the peace, tranquility, and sanguine atmosphere as you meander its bucolic streets and alleyways and relax in the beautiful gardens of one of its fine hotels.  Most people who visit remark on its tranquil serenity, and some speak glowingly about its mystic allure and how it compels them to keep returning.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

The Ex-Convento Dominico de La Natividad is the town center’s focal point; a beautifully preserved ex-convent and present-day Catholic church. Originally built as a convent and church by the Dominican order between 1560 and 1588 (you can still see the Dominican seals on the church’s façade), this grand building has been undergoing restoration, and is still used for church services and town celebrations. The principal points of interest in the complex include recently restored 16^th and 17^th century frescoes, a regional museum on the second floor, and an a charming gift and bookstore on the ground floor, near the exit. The monastery grounds include gardens to the front and this public area acts as the proxy for a town park; during the longer summer days families, friends, and couples can be seen passing time there. Particularly noteworthy is the main arched entryway to the monastery grounds: a mural composed of 60 varieties of seeds to form a pre-Hispanic scene which changes every September as part of the Festival of the Temple (see events, below).  The ex-convent is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., admission is free.

Museo Carlos Pellicer houses a modest collection of pre-Hispanic art and archaeological remains from various Mesoamerican cultures including the Maya, Olmec, Zapotec and Totonac.

The Traditional Town Market – Tepoztlán features a traditional market which opens every day of the week, situated adjacent to the town’s zocalo (main square) and municipal building. Besides the sale of fresh produce, meats, and dry-goods, you’ll also find a cornucopia of vendors offering all manner of general goods and supplies as the market is a principal shopping outlet for the towns’ residents.  Also inside the market, you’ll find a wide selection of comedores (food stalls) offering tasty and authentic, freshly prepared regional and national meals.

Weekend Artisan and Foods Market – Every weekend, Tepoztlán features an artisans’ market with stalls set-up along the town’s principal through-road, Avenida Revolución: the road is closed late on Friday and doesn’t re-open to traffic until Sunday night. This creates a pedestrianized zone for visitors and shoppers and provides an ideal opportunity to purchase genuine works of Mexican art and crafts, taste some local foods and, for the more adventurous, try a local specialty: Pulque—an ancient alcoholic beverage that is fermented from the sap of the Maguey (Agave) plant; while it’s related to Tequila, it has a milky color, thicker viscosity, and a sour —some might say acquired— taste.

Around and Away from the Colonial Center

Piramide del Tepozteco is Tepoztlan’s landmark archaeological site. Built atop a mountain cliff that overlooks the town and the entire valley beyond, the temple was built circa 1130 AD in honor of Tepoztecatl, the Aztec god of harvest, fertility, and Pulque. The trail that leads to the top of the mountain ridge and the temple zone begins at the far end of an alley leading-off Avenida del Tepozteco.  The way is characterized by a steady ascent over stone steps and rocky-pathways with resting areas every few hundred meters.  Near the top is an iron staircase that leads straight up to the entrance of the archaeological zone, and where climbers are rewarded with stunning views of the town and valley in addition to the temple itself. There is a small store adjacent to the entrance offering bottled water and a range of sodas and snacks.

Hiking Trails exist across the mountain ranges that surround the town and the valley, but most are wild, unmarked, and not regularly maintained.  Ask locally for advice, or hire a local guide who knows the trails and can lead you on some of the more well-trodden paths to popular vantage points and natural attractions. During and shortly after the rainy season (June to October), paths can lead to little-known waterfalls and lagoons, providing a refreshing respite after a long hike.  If you hike independently in the mountains around here, start early, take plenty of water, and plan to get back before nightfall: when the sun sets, the trails can become totally obscured to the naked eye; some lead to cliff-edge walls with sheer drops.

Health, Well-being, and Alternative Therapies

The valley where Tepoztlán is situated has a long-held reputation for being a mystical location with natural energy and healing properties, and a small, thriving, cottage industry of health, well-being and alternative therapy services has become established here.

You will find an abundance of relaxing and healing therapies to choose from ranging from massage, corporal energy work such as Reiki, and other New Age services such astrological and tarot card readings.  The valley’s divine micro-climate, fresh mountain air, and spectacular scenery contribute to a general sense of well-being and serves as an ideal ambiance for receiving therapy. The town offers a number of higher-end comfortable hotels and spas offering these services, as well as traditional rustic spa and alternative therapy centers.

Walk-in massage treatments—In town you can readily find offers for massage treatments (and related Temazcal sessions – see below). The quality of these walk-in centers varies widely, and we recommend you ask locally (perhaps at your hotel, cafe, or a friend) for a recommendation to avoid disappointment.

Massage at spas—A range of massage treatments offered through local hotel spas where you should be able to find your preferred massage style such Swedish, hot stone, Thai, shiatsu, or reflexology; some establishments also offer facials, pedicures, manicures, and other aesthetic services. Some hotels also have Aztec steam baths on-site known as a Temazcal.

Temazcal—An Aztec steam bath, known as a Temazcal, is an ancient indigenous healing therapy that is offered in multiple places in and around Tepoztlán. Participating in a Temazcal session usually involves a group ritual where the participants enter into a low-lying dome structure (similar to an igloo) in which a fragrant steam bath is produced by pouring a mixture of mineral water, herbs, and natural oils over very hot stones. A traditional Temazcal is usually performed in small groups as a spiritual cleansing ceremony in addition to being a physical cleansing. Private sessions where only you, your partner, or your close friends or family are present can also be arranged.

Yoga—This traditional Indian-style meditative exercise has become popular world-wide and has been extensively practiced for decades in Tepoztlán. There are plenty of opportunities to participate in Yoga sessions at local independent body-art centers like ‘El Amate,’ as well as at hotels and spas situated in and around the town.

Wellness and therapy boutiques—Tepoztlán is well known for its wellness and therapy boutique stores, sprinkled across town and offering a range of lifestyle products and services.  Some, like Corazón Sonoro, offer a fusion of bistro, products shop, as well as hosting talks, musicians, and practical workshops about wellness and alternative lifestyles.  Some of the boutiques open all week, but most are only open between during the weekends when visitors fill the town.

Getting There & Around

By Air – The two nearest airports to Tepoztlán are Mexico City and Cuernavaca. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – First-class buses run regularly from Mexico City’s southern bus terminal (Taxqueña) directly to Tepoztlán between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. daily; the trip takes around an hour-and-a-quarter (depending on traffic). Buy tickets at the Pullman de Morelos kiosk at the bus terminal. Buses are signed to Yautepec or Cuautla and make their first stop at Tepoztlán.  If you don’t want to travel across Mexico City from the airport to the southern bus terminal, you can board a bus from Mexico City’s main airport directly to Tepoztlán—but note that this service is very limited, so a Uber or Cab ride to the southern bus terminal might be a better option. For detailed information about bus transportation read the Mexperience guide to Bus Travel in Mexico.

By Car – Driving to Tepoztlán is fast and efficient with the roads and toll roads that connect the region. Leave Mexico City on highway 95D (tolled) towards Cuernavaca and Acapulco, turn-off before Cuernavaca on road 115D signed to Oaxtepec, Cuautla and Tepoztlán.  See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads here on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico.

Taxis – Taxis in Tepoztlán are not metered, so agree your price beforehand. There are taxi ranks situated at the main bus stop, in the center of town, as well in all of the local neighborhoods.  Your hotel or B&B can call one of the local cab firms to arrange transportation for you.  There is currently no Uber service operating in Tepoztlán, but Uber services operating in nearby Cuernavaca will travel to drop-off passengers in Tepoztlán. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

Tepoztlán Essentials

Telephone: Tepoztlan’s telephone area code is 739. Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and a table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found in the downtown area of Tepoztlán. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in colonial towns and cities across Mexico and complementary WiFi is commonplace—from cafes, shops, and hotels. Tepoztlán also offers 3G and 4G mobile data services over various cellular networks.

Restaurants

Tepoztlán offers a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Undertake a Google Search for details, profiles, and the latest reviews from recent customers:

Search for Restaurants in Tepoztlán (Google)

What to Buy in Tepoztlán

Tepoztlán features an extensive street market at weekends offering a range of authentic Mexican arts and crafts.  The town is also host to a range of quaint boutique gift shops, situated in and around the center which sell higher-end arts, crafts and unusual gifts—most are only open between Friday and Sunday.

Pulque—an ancient alcoholic beverage that is fermented from the sap of the Maguey (Agave) plant—is popular here and you’ll see a number of street stalls offering the drink for sale at weekends.  See also: The difference between Tequila, Mezcal and Pulque

Local Climate

Tepoztlán enjoys a divine micro-climate that offers visitors and residents year-round mild and pleasant temperatures, and at least 10 hours of daylight every day of the year.  The climate is ideal for taking part in a variety of outdoor activities and enjoying outdoors living.  The rain season runs from June to October each year, with afternoon monsoon storms that drench the countryside, leaving the evenings dry and cooled off after the hotter summer days. Winter evenings and early mornings can be cool, so pack some warm pullovers if you’re visiting during the winter months.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Cuernavaca is today one of Mexico’s best-known colonial cities. The city has a history that dates back to at least 1200 AD, when the location was an important agricultural and artisan center. The city was conquered by the Aztecs around 1380 and, after the subsequent conquest by the Spanish, the city became an important agricultural center and popular get-away location for the well-heeled Spaniards living in the capital.

Today, more than 400 years later, during weekends and holidays, the highway from Mexico City to Cuernavaca becomes packed with capitalinos (Mexico City residents), heading out of the city to get away for a break.

The city’s original name, “Cuauhnahuac” (kwow-NAH’-wak) translates into ‘place of great trees’, although the Spanish renamed it to its present-day name, which sounds similar, but literally translated means ‘horn of the cow’.

A principal attraction of this colonial city is its year-round temperate climate. Alexander von Humboldt, a 19th Century naturalist, once described Cuernavaca as ‘The land of eternal spring’, a phrase that seems to have stuck as it’s still used extensively today when the city is described by journalists, long-standing residents and even the local government promotional signs.

Besides the principal colonial buildings and monuments in the historic center, for example, El Palacio de Cortes (lately renamed to Museo de Cuanahuac), Palacio de Gobierno, the Cathedral and Casa Maximiliano, much of Cuernavaca’s colonial-era elegance and charm is hidden away from view. Behind some of the tall walls are beautiful gardens and residences owned by wealthy local families, politicians and celebrities: houses and estates which host some marvelous scenes of colonial architecture and life.

Some of these colonial residences, dating back to the 15th century, have been converted into fine hotels, restaurants, spas and museums which give visitors an opportunity to get a glimpse into what lies beyond the protective stone walls; with scenes including cool green garden patios bursting with flora, stunningly preserved original colonial courtyards, elegant rooms and hallways with tall ceilings and original wood beams, and sub-tropical blossoms in quiet colonial gardens where birdsong echoes and water trickles down stone fountains.

For peace and quiet that is open to the public, visit the Jardin de Borda that is a short walk from the center of town; or the Chapultepec Park and the San Anton waterfall which are situated away from the city center but well inside the city limits.

Semi-precious stones from the surrounding mountains, said to give off energy, are sold in various typical markets all over Cuernavaca. In fact, this whole area is said to be surrounded by natural energy sources including springs, rocks and volcanoes, and it’s one of the reasons why there are a number of top quality spas located here. See the Mexico Spas guide on Mexperience for more information about how you can enjoy a wonderful experience at one of the country’s top spas situated here in Cuernavaca.

As a reward for his endeavors, Hernan Cortes was given what the Spanish Crown then termed as the ‘Valle de Oaxaca‘, an enormous expanse of land south of Mexico City encompassing some 22 towns, including Cuernavaca. Cortes retired here and you can visit his old estate, including the Palacio de Cortes (recently renamed to Museo de Cuauhnahuac, although most people continue to refer to it by its former name). Maximilian and Carlotta had a weekend retreat in Cuernavaca—it too, is an important museum open to the public. And one of Mexico’s oldest churches, built in 1592, can be seen here in Cuernavaca.

A large community of foreign expatriates live here, part-time or full-time. Many relocated to Cuernavaca to enjoy the great climate and access to modern facilities, while others find it convenient being so close and well-connected to Mexico City which is just fifty-six miles north east of the city and connected to the capital by a modern four-lane highway. Cuernavaca has an airport situated on the southern perimeter of the city, and there is also a direct, two-way, bus service from Cuernavaca to Mexico City’s international airport.

Cuernavaca is known as one of the country’s major Spanish language study centers, boasting over fifty Spanish language schools. Many foreigners come here to study or improve their Spanish language skills. For more details connect to our section about Learning Spanish.

You can enjoy Cuernavaca as a day trip from Mexico City, but you’ll get much more from a visit to the area by staying at least a couple of nights at one of the local hotels. The city offers some very comfortable hotels, including restored colonial-era residences and haciendas, so your accommodation can become an experience in its own right.

Organized tours of Mexican colonial cities usually include a stop-over in Cuernavaca. Some people stay here for a week or more, making it a base from which to explore and discover more of Mexico’s southern colonial region, or as a stop-over on the way to the nearby colonial city of Taxco and the world-famous port city of Acapulco.

Cuernavaca offers an abundance of attractions and activities to visitors. It’s a good place to visit for a day, but’s it’s a better place to stay and relax for a weekend or longer.

Key Attractions

Colonial Center

If you drive here, leave your car parked and walk around the colonial center, or take one of the official guided tours.

Key attractions include the Cathedral, Catedral de la Asunción de María, one of the oldest churches in Mexico; started in 1529 and completed in 1552. The city Zocalo (Main Plaza) hosts some magnificent colonial architecture— including the Plaza de Armas and Palacio de Gobierno— leading on from here is also the Palacio de Cortez, now also known as Museo Cuauhnahuac (see note above). This is the only Zocalo in Mexico that does not feature a Cathedral.

In 1987, the Gardens at Jardín Borda, were completely restored after years of decay. The house and gardens were originally commissioned by a wealthy silver magnate in the 1700’s and this place was also host to Maximilian and Carlotta during the French reign in Mexico.

If you like art, go to the Museo Casa Robert Brady, which is actually a private house turned into a magnificent art gallery. Here, you’ll find a permanent collection on display which includes works by Rufino Tamayo and a self portrait by Frida Kahlo. The house and collection belonged to Robert Brady, an American who resided in Cuernavaca from 1962 to 1986.

Art lovers may also enjoy a tour to the workshop (taller) at the Taller de Alfaro Siquieros, a very famous Mexican Muralist, which is also found here in Cuernavaca’s colonial center.

Away from the Colonial Center

There are two main attractions to bring to your attention a couple of miles outside of the City’s colonial center. The first is the Salto de San Antón, which is a small village hosting a magnificent waterfall. You can walk behind it and picnic there. The second is Casa Maximiliano (Maximilian’s House), which was built in 1866 and also hosts the Museo de Medicina Tradicional (Traditional Medicine Museum) and a Herb Garden.

Learn Spanish in Cuernavaca

There’s no better way to learn Spanish than by becoming immersed in it at a language school in Mexico. Cuernavaca is well-known as a cultural and language center and there are number of fine language schools here. Read our guide to Learning Spanish in Mexico for more details and to find a language school in Cuernavaca.

Spas in Cuernavaca

Cuernavaca is host to some the best spas in Mexico. For more information about spas, and how to benefit from a magnificent health spa experience in Mexico, connect to the Mexperience guide to Mexico Spas.

Getting There & Around

By Air – There’s a small airport here, which receives some domestic flights although most people drive or take the bus from Mexico City. Ground transportation is available from the airport to the center of town. For detailed information about flights and flying, see the Mexperience guide to Air Travel in Mexico.

By Bus – You can travel to Cuernavaca on a first-class bus from Mexico City— the trip takes between 60 and 90 minutes — depending on the weight of traffic in and out of the capital. Buses are frequent and this is the most common way of getting to Cuernavaca from Mexico City besides driving a car. Buses can be boarded at the southern bus terminal (Central de Autobuses del Sur) , and now also directly from the airport in Mexico City. Connect to the Mexperience Travel Center for National Buses.

By Car – Driving to Cuernavaca is very fast and efficient with a six-lane toll highway direct to Cuernavaca from Mexico City. See additional information about Driving in Mexico and Mexico’s Toll Roads on Mexperience.

Car Rental – To explore Mexico’s colonial towns and cities, consider renting a car for your visit. Having your own car will give you more flexibility than using public transport options and, in some cases, offer you access to places which are otherwise difficult to visit without the use of a car. Read our guide to Car Rental in Mexico to learn what you need to know about car rental in Mexico.

Taxis – Taxis in most of Mexico’s colonial towns and cities are not metered, so agree your price before you get in. Taxi travel is very affordable in Mexico, in comparison to the USA, Canada and Europe, and so provides a viable means of public transportation in Mexico. Your hotel can arrange taxis for you; some post their rates on a board in the lobby; taxi hotel rates are usually higher than cabs you hail off the street. If you speak Spanish, you will have a distinct advantage and be able to negotiate a price with the driver. For detailed information, read the Mexperience guide to Taxi Travel in Mexico.

Cuernavaca Essentials

Telephone: Connect to the guide about Communications in Mexico on Mexperience for detailed information about keeping in touch and the latest table of national dialing codes.

Exchanging Currency: Banks with ATM machines are found throughout the downtown area of Cuernavaca. During business hours, they and the local Casas de Cambio will buy traveler’s checks and cash from you as well. For detailed information about exchanging and managing your money, read the Mexperience guide to Money in Mexico.

Travel Insurance: We recommend that you are adequately covered with travel medical insurance and/or travel assistance insurance when you are visiting Mexico. Read the Mexperience guide to Travel Insurance in Mexico for full details and links to specialist insurance suppliers.

Internet Access: Internet cafes can be easily found in towns and cities across Mexico and WiFi is increasingly commonplace–from cafes, shops, hotels, and some cities even offer free WiFi in some defined public spaces.

Busy Times in Cuernavaca: All weekends are busy in Cuernavaca, and if you want to stay at one of the hotels, it’s best to book ahead of time. Cuernavaca gets especially busy during Holiday weekends, and in particular, at Easter and during the Independence Day celebrations around September 16th. The roads out of Mexico City towards Cuernavaca get particularly heavy during long holiday weekends in Mexico, during school holidays, and during the Easter, Christmas and Independence Day periods. The roads from Cuernavaca back into Mexico City get jam-packed on the last days before the holiday period ends. If you can, avoid ‘traveling with the crowds’ by leaving earlier and returning later or vice-versa.

Local Climate

Cuernavaca’s climate is temperate and very comfortable all year-round, although the summers can get quite hot in the center and south of the city.  The areas north of the center are more temperate year-round, and areas in the far north are temperate in summer and can get cool or cold in the winter months.  It’s a city situated approximately 1,530 meters (just over 5,000 feet) above sea level, and during the winter months, early mornings and later evenings can get cool, and cold in the northern parts of the city, so pack layers of warmer clothes if you visit during the late fall and winter months.

Weather & Climates in Mexico

Learn more about the weather and climates through the seasons and regions by connecting to the Mexperience guide about Weather and Climates in Mexico

Modern Spas in Mexico offer a wealth and variety of services that will help you to re-establish a sense of balance and well-being, helping you to feel refreshed and revived…

Spas in Mexico

A spa is place to go when you want to get away from your normal life routine and experience an environment and treatments that will help your body and mind to unwind and feel revitalized.

There are different types of spa, which will be discussed in more detail later in this guide. Whichever kind of spa you choose, they will all have a common goal: to help you re-balance yourself, revitalize your mind and body and to give you a sense of wellness.

Consider a spa experience if you want a different kind of vacation in Mexico, or if you want part of your vacation to include a time for relaxing, reflection or revitalization.

A vacation that focuses exclusively on engaging with spa services is different from a traditional one: the usual excesses which accompany a “fancy free” get-away are often put aside, especially at Destination Spas, which are dedicated to providing a positive health experience for guests.

At spas which are part of a fine hotel or resort, you may combine a traditional vacation with some spa experiences and treatments. This arrangement may be ideal if you are traveling with your family or members in a group who want to enjoy different activities as part of their vacation.

Mexican spas offer a wealth and variety of services that can help you to regain a sense of calm and wellness and re-establish a sense of balance in your life.

For example, you may want a total relaxation experience, or you may want the exhilaration of participating in sports to get or stay fit. The type of spa you choose will depend on what kind of experience you are looking for: the next section will help you to better understand the different types of spas, and the possibilities they offer…

Destination and Resort-Hotel Spas

There are two kinds of spa in Mexico: Destination Spas and Resort-Hotel Spas. This section explains the difference between the two types:

Destination Spas

These are spas which have been created to provide spa services and nothing else. They are often located in quiet, serene areas. Some accept children, others have minimum age limits, e.g. 13 years, 18 years, etc. Destination Spas sometimes specialize in a particular area; for example:

Holistic – Focus on an experience that will harmonize the mind, body and spirit. Activities such as meditation, yoga and acupuncture will be common.

Weight Loss – Some centers focus on exercise, aerobics, diet and nutrition

Sports – Some spas will provide facilities to play particular sports (e.g. Golf course, Tennis courts) and focus on services that facilitate the development of your skills and body muscles to enable you to participate in these better.

Some centers provide a choice, and you can elect one, or none of these and just choose to relax and be pampered for your stay or visit.

Destination Spas are residential – They provide all of your accommodation and food, which can be prepared by top chefs whose aim is to provide a well-balanced diet for your needs.

Some destination spas are quiet and relaxed; others have parties at night and are quite energetic places; you can choose what kind you’d like to go to; there’s something to suit everyone!

Advantages – Enables you to get away from it all; all your needs are catered for, and its hassle-free. You don’t have to worry about anything: your accommodation is provided, three meals a day are prepared and served to you, and you will get to experience a complete change from your normal routine. The best practitioners are often based at these centers, and you will receive a more focused approach to the health spa concept.

Disadvantages – The main disadvantage, perhaps, is that you or your partner or family may not want an all-engaging spa experience and want to just sit on a beach, or take part in some other vacation activity some of time as well. In these cases, a Resort Spa will be a better option for you.

Resort-Hotel Spas

Resort Spas are based at vacation resorts, or fine hotels. Instead of being an all-encompassing spa experience of the type offered by Destination Spas, the Resort-Hotel spas are just one segment of the facilities the resort or the hotel offers: in effect, the spa is a walk-in center that you choose to engage with as part of your stay, or avoid altogether.

The services and facilities offered at resort spas will vary depending on the individual location.

In recent years, good quality hotels have invested millions of dollars creating spa-centers inside their resorts and fine hotels. The quality of many of these centers is extremely high, offering a wide range of spa services (including many of the services traditionally offered only by destination spas) diligently delivered by professional staffed, trained to take proper care of spa guests.

The resort spas advertise the services they offer, so you’ll know beforehand what to expect. Universally, all tend to offer pools, steam and sauna rooms, massage, beauty treatments, facials and a gym. More specialist services, in particular those around holistic therapies (yoga, meditation, acupuncture, aromatherapy, etc.) may only be available at more up-scale resorts, or those which have these services included as a unique service proposition for clients.

Advantages – Because they are part of a resort, the services they offer may be bought on a “per use” basis, so you only pay for what you’ll use (although most Destination Spas offer this a-la-carte option, too, in addition to fixed-price packages).

Resort Spas tend to work out less expensive than Destination Spas. Your accommodation will have already been provided as part of your hotel or resort accommodation, and your food will be provided by the hotel/resort hotels, or elsewhere locally if you choose.

You may also elect to have a “Spa Experience” for a couple of days, a whole week, or not at all. If your partner and/or family don’t want to participate, they don’t have to and can still enjoy a great vacation using the the resort’s other services and facilities. If you don’t want a spa experience, they can participate— it’s flexible.

Disadvantages – You are unlikely to get a totally focused Spa Experience at a Resort Spa; although as mentioned earlier, in recent years the range and quality of services being delivered at resort spas has increased exponentially, as a direct result of significant new investments by the resort-hotels.

The practitioners at some of the lower budget resort spas may not be as experienced as those working in the Destination Spas, and some Spas may lack some the more specialist services such as yoga, meditation and alternative therapies.

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Types of Resort-Hotel Spa in Mexico

Spas situated at resorts and hotels can be sub-divided into different types, depending on the type of hotel and the hotel’s location.

We’ve categorized Resort Spas into four different types, to help you browse and choose a spa experience to suit your needs and personal preferences:

Oceanside Resort-Hotel Spas

Oceanside resort spas are located at hotel resorts situated in Mexican towns and cities alongside the ocean; usually the Pacific or the Mexican Caribbean. These spas offer ocean views, some offer water sports and, where practical, these spas offer services on the beach (e.g. massage).

Colonial Spas

Colonial Spas are those situated at fine hotels located in or on the outskirts of one of Mexico’s beautiful colonial cities. These hotels offer their spa services amidst grand historic settings—the old properties these hotels now inhabit. Some colonial spas are situated in colonial-style hotels out in the country, a few miles from the closest town, surrounded by nature.

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Services Provided by Spas in Mexico

Different spas will provide different selections of services. Some are more comprehensive than others.

Most spas offer a ‘universal’ basic set of services that will include a pool, whirlpool, steam and sauna rooms, gym, massage and beauty care—much alike a good quality health or country club.

Listed below, are the types of services you can expect to find at spas in Mexico. The Mexperience Directory will indicate which of these services are provided for the spas that have elected to have their detailed descriptions listed on Mexperience.

Universal Services Offered at Most Spas

• Swimming Pool
• Gymnasium
• Whirlpool
• Sauna
• Steam Room
• Basic Massage
• Basic Beauty Care (e.g. Hairdressing, Manicure)

Additional Facilities

• Resistance Swimming Pool
• Aerobic Exercise Machines
• Multiple Massage Techniques
• Comprehensive Beauty Care
• Natural Hot Springs
• Mud Baths / Mud Wraps
• Seaweed Wraps

Holistic Spa Services

• Meditation
• Yoga
• Stress Release / Management
• Tai Chi

Alternative Therapies at Spas

• Aromatherapy
• Reflexology
• Herbal Therapies
• Acupuncture
• Acupressure
• Water Therapies

Specialist Spa Services

• Lifestyle Counseling (Note: You may need to speak Spanish for this kind of service!)
• Nutritional Programs

Professional Staff Working at Spas

• Very well trained Masseurs
• Experienced Practitioners of Alternative Therapies
• Chiropractors (very limited No. offer these)
• Nutritionists (limited No. offer these)

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How to Choose a Spa in Mexico

When considering what kind of spa to choose in Mexico, it will help you to keep in mind the following four factors:

1. Focus

How focused do you want your spa experience to be? Do you want to to focus solely on spa-based activities, perhaps linked with a sport (e.g. Golf, Hiking) or do you want to see other things, and enjoy a resort holiday as well? If you want focus, choose a Destination Spa, if you want a mix (or your partner and family want to do other things), choose a Resort-type Spa.

2. Environment

What kind of environment do you want? Do you want to achieve a specific goal (e.g. lose weight, undertake a specific activity like yoga or golf, get fit, improve your diet, relax, de-stress, etc), or are you looking for a mix of things? Will children be traveling with you, and if they are, what age restrictions apply (if any)? Do you want a relaxed and serene experience, or do you you want a center that is more lively, vibrant and energetic? Choose a spa that will provide you with the type of environment you’re seeking.

3. Activities

Do you have specific treatments in mind, or a specific sport or activity you want to take part in? Spiritual spas that offer healing, meditation, Yoga and Tai-Chi are extremely popular, and are some of the most sought after spas by clients. Perhaps you feel you want to experience the benefits of acupuncture after a friend of yours told you about it. You may need to choose your spa based on your specific requirements, if they are not part of the services generally commonly provided.

4. Cost

How much can you afford to spend? Most spas offer all-inclusive package prices that provide specific activities or schedules for a set price over a number of nights and provide you with great value for money; some charge extra for niche services, should you want them. Prices for budget destination spas can be very low—as low as a moderate hotel room. Luxury spas can cost considerably more. Generally speaking, the more you pay, the more you get in terms of facilities provided, level of service (ratio of guests to staff will be lower at more expensive spas) and more experienced staff. If your budget is very tight, you may get better value from a Resort spa, although see “Focus”, above.

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Benefits of a Spa Experience in Mexico

The benefits offered by spas may be grouped into four main areas which are summarized below.

Although benefits may be more strongly felt at the more focused Destination Spas than at the Resort Spas, in recent years some Resort Spas have really raised their game and the best ones can be nearly as focused as a Destination Spa.

1. Mind

Spas are great mind stimulants and mind relaxants. People who walk away from a spa experience feel more at ease in their own mind, less stressed, and better prepared intellectually and emotionally for the return to their daily lives.

2. Body

A spa experience will help to cleanse your body, and if its at a comprehensive center, it will include a healthy, balanced diet as well. Sports, fitness exercise, hot natural spa mineral waters, massage, alternative therapies, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and a range of other services and facilities are all designed to help your body recover from the stresses and wear that our everyday lives put upon it.

3. Spirit

By combining the services and ambience of the spa, to stimulate the mind and cleanse the body, people who take part in a spa experience report that they feel they experience a stronger spiritual sense than they had when they first arrived.

4. Balance and Rejuvenation

A spa experience is about leaving your daily grind behind you and making a choice to create a positive impact on your whole self. The spa facilities, services and staff will help you to unwind, relieve any anxieties and stress you may be carrying, help you to cleanse your body, stimulate your mind and provide balance and equilibrium to your lifestyle. When the time comes to leave the spa, you should feel rejuvenated and carry with you a sense of relaxation and confidence that will help you to approach your daily life back home in a more assertive and progressive way.

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Length of Stay at a Mexican Spa

The length of your stay at a spa will depend on your personal goals, the time available to you, and your budget.

People who know spas and return regularly to enjoy the benefits of attending a spa in Mexico, tend to reserve a ‘block’ of time to spend there—even if it’s at a Resort Spa—to ensure focus and continuity and to get the maximum benefit from the services and facilities on offer.

If you’re going to go to a Destination Spa, it’s probably best to stay a minimum of three nights.

Three and four-night packages are usually the shortest time available, although six-nights and longer are also available. With a three-night spa package, you could sandwich in a Mexican spa experience between other activities while you’re in Mexico—even perhaps, if you’re traveling to Mexico for business.

If you’re attending a Resort Spa, you may want to commit a set number of days to your spa experience as part of your vacation.

Some people choose to take two or three weeks out at a Destination Spa, if they want to become totally immersed, or perhaps after a particularly busy and/or stressful period in their life situation.

Most Destination Spas offer worthwhile discounts for those staying a month or more. Spa fanatics, who have the resources and time, may stay for between six and eight weeks, but they are usually people who know the spa, have been there before, and who are working to accomplish specific goals.

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Price of Spas in Mexico

Prices for spas vary, and they are usually in direct proportion to the facilities on offer, the level of service and the experience of the staff.

See Also: Tipping Etiquette at Spas

Budget Price Spas

Budget Spas cost from around US$90 per person, per night (may include breakfast). This will include basic (but clean and comfortable) accommodation.   Facilities are likely to be limited in some areas, and staff may not be as experienced as those in the more expensive spas.

Moderate Price Spas

Moderate Spas cost from around US$150 per person per night (including some meals) and is likely to include comfortable accommodation, good facilities (some specialist facilities may be lacking) and experienced staff.

Luxury Spas

Luxury Spas cost from US$200 per person, per night, and will have top accommodation, high levels of service (the ratio of guests to staff will be low) excellent facilities, specialist services and the most experienced staff. This price level may not include meals, which is often prepared on site by gourmet chef, although some package deals are available where food is included. Luxury Spas which are most likely to provide specialist services not available elsewhere, although some moderately priced Spas may offer these too—check if you’re looking for something in particular.

A Note About Specialized Services at Spas

Specialized or unique services are usually charged as extras to the prices quoted above. The staff at the more expensive spas are oftentimes more highly experienced.

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