All the way up from CDMX: Teotihuacan, El Tajin und Chachalacas

Teothiuacan and its surroundings

Teotihuacan, the ancient city just outside Mexico City, is a place of mystery and wonder. From its towering pyramids to its intricate carvings and vibrant murals, it offers a glimpse into Mexico’s rich archaeological heritage. As we explored its sprawling plazas and sacred spaces, we were transported back in time to an era of ritual and reverence. With each discovery, we felt a sense of awe at the skill and artistry of the ancient craftsmen who built these structures. Our experience was heightened by the fact that due to jetlag, we were the first tourists there, allowing us to enjoy the site in a rare moment of solitude. Teotihuacan is not just a place of history, but a journey through time, where the echoes of the past whisper secrets of a bygone era.

Teotihuacan

Our journey to explore the ancient city of Teotihuacan and its surroundings began with anticipation for the adventures that awaited us. Our first stop was the majestic pyramids of Teotihuacan, where we marveled at the towering structures that stood as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations.

Despite our early arrival, the site was already buzzing with activity, yet we were grateful for the opportunity to experience its wonders in a rare moment of solitude, thanks to our jetlag-induced early rise.

Lunch at Mezcaleria Conejo en la Luna

When the heat hit, we picked Mezcaleria Conejo en la Luna as a target lunch place. It is a family-friendly cafe where parents could unwind while children frolicked in the playground. Here, we indulged in refreshing fresh juices and tantalizing fish dishes, with the option to sample unique delicacies like grasshoppers and chili worms. Of course, no visit to Mezcaleria Conejo en la Luna would be complete without trying their specialty mezcal-based cocktails, adding a spirited touch to our culinary adventure.

Breakfast at La Gruta

The next day, our exploratory journey (and jetlag) led us to La Gruta for an early breakfast (starting at 8 am). La gruta is a charming breakfast spot nestled in a natural grotto, where we savored traditional Mexican dishes amidst the enchanting surroundings. As we concluded our meal, we were invited to light a candle against the grotto walls, adding a touch of warmth and spirituality to our dining experience.

El Reino Animal

Our journey culminated in a visit to El Reino Animal, where we embarked on a thrilling safari adventure through the park’s diverse habitats. With the opportunity to feed giraffes, zebras, and buffalo, our safari experience was truly unforgettable, offering a glimpse into the wonders of the animal kingdom.

El Tajin and Poza Rica

El Tajin

El Tajin, an ancient archaeological site located in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Mesoamerican civilization. Renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and lush surroundings, El Tajin stands as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of its creators. From the towering pyramids to the vibrant market square, each aspect of the site tells a story of a thriving ancient city. With its rich history and captivating beauty, El Tajin invites travelers to embark on a journey through time, exploring the mysteries of the past while marveling at the enduring legacy of Mesoamerican culture.
Entrance fee is 95 pesos per person, with parking available for 20 pesos. The site is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Upon our arrival around 9:30 am, we were greeted by crowds of people eager to explore the premises, indicating the popularity of visiting the pyramids before the heat sets in.

In contrast to Teotihuacan, I found El Tajin’s complex more appealing. Its lush green surroundings provided ample opportunities to relax on the grass and seek shade from the trees.

Adjacent to the entrance, a towering pole marks the spot where the “voladores” – “The fliers” – perform a show.

The complex is also surrounded by a bustling market offering a variety of goods, including clothing, souvenirs, snacks, and drinks, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the site.

Poza Rica

While Poza Rica may not have boasted remarkable attractions, our stay in the city was not without its merits. Serving as a functional base for our visit to El Tajin, Poza Rica offered a decent array of amenities and activities. Despite its unassuming nature, we found moments of enjoyment exploring its markets, underroad parks, and juice shops (I can recommend Jugos Chey), adding a touch of local flavor to our overall experience. I even risked to savor a seafood cocktail at Mariscos Pepe and liked it a lot!

Chachalacas: A Slice of Paradise

During our stay in Chachalacas, we opted for the family-friendly comforts of Artisan Family Hotels and Resort Collection Playa Esmeralda. While we enjoyed the amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, we advise caution regarding the restaurant after a bout of food poisoning.

Venturing out into the village, we encountered the region’s extreme temperatures, reaching a scorching 37°C, which felt even hotter according to our temperature app. Thankfully, our hotel provided respite from the heat, with shaded sunbeds ensuring our comfort.

Despite the heat, Chachalacas offered a plethora of activities to keep us entertained. Adventurers can climb the iconic dunes, with sandboarding an exhilarating option for the brave. For history buffs, the Zempoala archaeological site provides a glimpse into the region’s past.

While quadrocycling is a popular pastime, we opted out due to our young children’s limitations. Instead, we soaked up the sun at the beach, though swimming was challenging due to high waves. Nevertheless, we found joy in playing in the surf and reveling in the tranquil mornings, when the beach was at its most idyllic.

Chachalacas may be small, but its natural beauty and array of activities make it a nice seaside destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and adventure.