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Things to Do in Taxco

Things to Do in Taxco

Taxco South Of Mexico City, Mexico Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Taxco's mountainous setting makes for active exploration, specifically focused on its unique geological features.

Hiking & Trekking

Within Taxco

Simply walking the streets of Taxco is an activity itself. Due to steep inclines and cobblestones, exploring the town can be a moderate to strenuous "urban hike."

Near Taxco

Formal, marked hiking trails are not abundant directly around Taxco, but some local guides might offer short treks into surrounding hills for scenic viewpoints.

Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

Exploring these caves a significant amount of walking. The main guided tour covers approximately 2 km each way on paved paths, which can be tiring.

Water Sports & Adventure

  • Pozas Azules de Atzala: Natural pools with clear blue water, 45-60 minutes drive from Taxco. A beautiful, less-touristy spot for swimming.
  • Zip-lining at Grutas de Cacahuamilpa: For adrenaline seekers, a long zip-line is near the cave entrance, with panoramic views. Book this experience here.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Taxco is not a main wildlife viewing destination. Surrounding mountains have some biodiversity, but not organized tours.
  • Cycling/Mountain Biking: Not recommended within Taxco due to extremely steep, narrow, cobblestone streets. No developed cycling infrastructure.

Teleférico Ride

  • Scenic journey to Monte Taxco Hotel.
  • Unparalleled panoramic views of town.
  • Especially stunning at sunset.
  • A relaxed way to see the town's layout.

Pozas Azules

  • Natural pools with clear blue water.
  • A refreshing swimming spot.
  • Located in a tranquil, natural setting.
  • A good option for a relaxing escape.

Zip-lining

  • Near Grutas de Cacahuamilpa entrance.
  • A thrilling descent experience.
  • Panoramic views of the national park.
  • Suitable for adrenaline seekers.

Important Advisory for Outdoor Activities

Always verify the safety and conditions of any informal trails or activities with local guides or authorities before venturing out.

Cultural Immersion

Deepen your understanding of Taxco's heritage through engaging cultural experiences.

Workshops & Classes

  • Silver Workshops: Some silver shops or artisans offer short demonstrations or workshops on silver making.
  • Inquire at local silver shops or the tourist information office for opportunities.
  • Cooking Classes: Informal cooking classes on regional Mexican or Guerrero cuisine may be available via hotels or private guides.
  • These experiences have hands-on engagement with local ingredients and recipes.

Cultural Performances & Ceremonies

Folkloric Dances

Occasionally found performed in the Zócalo or at hotels, especially during festivals or holidays.

Religious Ceremonies

Attend mass at Santa Prisca Church to observe local religious practices and appreciate its spiritual significance. Holy Week processions are elaborate and culturally deep.

Community-Based Tourism

Support local artisans directly at the silver market, buy from family-run businesses, and eat at local fondas to contribute to the local economy.

Language Learning

No formal language schools directly in Taxco. Practice Spanish with locals; they are generally friendly and patient. A Spanish phrasebook is useful.

Cultural Festivals

Semana Santa (Holy Week): Major annual event, usually March/April, with elaborate religious processions. Jornadas de Plata (Silver Days): Celebrates silver heritage, typically November. Feria Nacional de la Plata (National Silver Fair): November/December, showing Mexican silver craftsmanship.

Book Experiences

For various activities and cultural experiences, consider booking through platforms like GetYourGuide to secure your spot and find local options.

Relaxation & Wellness

After exploring Taxco's hills, take time to relax and rejuvenate.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Some higher-end hotels, like Hotel Montetaxco, have spa services (massages, body treatments).
  • Independent massage therapists might also be locally available. Inquire at your hotel for recommendations.
  • No significant hot springs are directly in Taxco.
  • Other parts of Guerrero state feature hot springs, but not a main attraction in Taxco itself.

Yoga, Meditation & Traditional Healing

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Taxco is not a common focus for dedicated yoga or meditation retreats. Travelers seeking these experiences might find more options in other regions of Mexico.

Traditional Healing Practices

Formal traditional healing practices are limited for tourists in Taxco, but some local herbalists or traditional healers (Curanderos) might exist. These are typically part of local community life.

Beach and Pool Clubs

Several hotels in Taxco have pools for guest use. The Monte Taxco Hotel features a remarkable pool area with panoramic views, a relaxing spot with stunning scenery.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

Some restaurants and bars around the Zócalo have live music, often traditional Mexican or Latin genres, notably on weekends. Look for signs or listen as you pass by.

Theater and Performance Spaces

Casa Borda occasionally hosts cultural performances, including plays or dance recitals. Check their schedule for current events.

Nightclubs and Dancing

Taxco's nightlife is generally low-. Some bars may have music and dancing, but it is not a major clubbing destination. Focus is more on relaxed social gatherings.

Shopping & Markets

Taxco is renowned for its silver, but other crafts and local goods are also available.

Traditional Markets & Bazaars

  • Mercado de Plata (Silver Market): The most famous market, a multi-level maze of stalls selling a vast array of silver items.
  • You will find jewelry, decorative pieces, and unique designs. This market is part of Taxco's identity.
  • Mercado Tetitlán: The main local market for fresh produce, everyday goods, and some prepared food.
  • A glimpse into authentic local life away from tourist-focused silver shops.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Beyond Silver

Find other Mexican crafts in various shops, including Talavera pottery, textile goods, and local candies.

Independent Silver Workshops

Seek out independent workshops away from main tourist streets to see artisans work, observe traditional processes, and buy unique pieces directly from creators.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Buy silver from reputable shops or directly from artisans. Look for the ".925" sterling silver stamp. Prioritize buying from local artisans and family-owned businesses to support the local economy.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Silver Jewelry: World-renowned, look for ".925" stamp.
  • Silverware & Decorative Items: Frames, sculptures, tableware.
  • Guerrero Crafts: Regional textiles, wood carvings, pottery.
  • Local Candies: Traditional Mexican sweets.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Several high-end silver boutiques.
  • Unique and designer silver pieces.
  • More artistic and contemporary designs.
  • Often different from market stalls.

Ethical Shopping Practices

  • Be wary of extremely low prices for "pure silver".
  • It might be alpaca (nickel silver) or low-grade.
  • Directly engaging with the producer often guarantees a fair exchange.
  • Keep all receipts as proof of purchase.

Shipping and Customs Information

Shipping Purchases Home
  • Many larger silver shops arrange international shipping.
  • Acquire proper documentation for your purchase.
  • Discuss insurance options for valuable items.
Customs Regulations
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for precious metals.
  • For US travelers, duty-free allowances for goods purchased abroad often exist.
  • Keep all receipts as proof of purchase.

Shopping Tip

Bargaining is common in markets for non-silver items, but less so for high-end silver shops.

Activity Planning Summary

What to Experience

  • Explore Taxco's steep streets by foot for an urban hike.
  • Visit silver workshops to observe artisans and buy unique pieces.
  • Attend local festivals like Semana Santa or the National Silver Fair.
  • Engage with locals in markets and small eateries for authentic immersion.

Considerations for Activities

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the hilly, cobblestone streets.
  • Book accommodations well in advance for peak festival times.
  • A basic Spanish phrasebook might enhance local interactions.
  • Taxis are useful for uphill journeys and can be found at the Zócalo.