Tekax: Magical Town of Yucatán

The municipality of Tekax, also known as “Sultana of the Mountain" is located in the heart of southern Yucatán. Surrounded by valleys and hills, this newly announced Magical Town offers a wide variety of family activities for adventurers and nature lovers.  

With its rich culture and traditions, friendly and joyful people, ecotourism activities, and abundant flora and fauna, Tekax will not let you down. You can visit for a weekend or even stay for several days, using Tekax as the cornerstone to explore the region more extensively. Located in the heart of the Puuc biocultural state reserve, where the underworld of caves begins, Tekax awaits you to experience unique and authentic adventures.  

In Tekax, there are many experiences to choose from, depending on the level of adventure you seek. Whether you enjoy hiking, rappelling, off-road biking and ATV circuits, or bird watching within the mystical energy of the jungle, Tekax has something for you and your entire family. Your itinerary is easily customizable!  

We present you two tour options to fully enjoy this new Magical Town and its surroundings, with a multitude of activities that will create lasting memories.  

Benito Juárez Park

Transport yourself to the past by visiting the main park. Completely enclosed by French-style iron railings (the second of its kind in the state, after Valladolid), it features eight entrances, as well as benches and iron lampposts brought from Europe. It is easy to imagine how it used to be lit with kerosene lamps!

Right across the street, the Franciscan church (and former convent), built with stones from Mayan ruins, is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. On its facade, you can spot the coats of arms of the first families who inhabited Tekax.

The Church of San Juan Bautista

The monumental Church of San Juan Bautista in Tekax, built by the Franciscans in the 17th century, stands out as the second-largest in Yucatán and a historical pillar of the region.

This imposing, fortress-style temple features an austere yet majestic facade, crowned by two towering bell towers that dominate the landscape of the southern ridge. Upon visiting, its sober colonial architecture, massive wooden doors, and high-vaulted interior stand out, safeguarding centuries of fervor and history linked to the Caste War. Today, it stands as the cultural and spiritual heart of the municipality, captivating travelers with its mysticism and commanding colonial presence.

FB: Parroquia de San Juan Bautista Tekax

The Three-Story House

The three-story house in Tekax is a building of great interest and a key part of Yucatán's history. It is a gem of colonial civil architecture, unique in the Yucatán Peninsula for having been built with three levels back in the 16th century.

Originally constructed as the residence of a wealthy Spanish encomendero, this building acquired immense historical importance by serving as a strategic fort for white resistance during the violent Caste War.

When visiting, its striking carved stone facade with masonry details immediately catches the eye, preserving the mystical and defensive air of the era. Today, contemplating its unique structure invites travelers to journey back in time and relive the turbulent colonial past of the state's southern region.

The Alley of Murals

The new Alley of Murals (Callejón de los Murales), located behind City Hall in the historic center of Tekax, is a vibrant 472 sqm cultural attraction born from the collaboration between collectives, authorities, and 128 community members to capture their local identity.

While exploring this quiet street on foot, visitors can admire detailed artworks illustrating the municipality's flora, fauna, legends, and traditions—highlighting, in particular, the mural dedicated to the iconic Procession of San Diego de Alcalá. Thanks to the explanatory plaques accompanying each piece, this colorful alley offers an immersive experience that perfectly reflects the warmth, history, and festive spirit of the Tekax community.

Hermitage of San Diego de Alcalá

Right in the center, you will find La Ermita de San Diego de Alcalá, an 80-meter hill with a small church at the top (this is Yucatán, so I promise it won't be hard to find the hill). Climb the steps to enjoy the view of the town, discover the church, and let everyone explore on their own. Behind the church and to the left, you can walk a short distance toward the small Chac Xix Cave (Gruta Chac Xix), which is very easy to explore.

Learn the legend of San Diego de Alcalá, the church's patron saint, before visiting this important landmark in the city. If you are visiting Tekax in November, you can take part in the patronal festivals dedicated to San Diego.

Chacmultún, a Site That’s Full of Surprises

Located just 10 km from Tekax, it has a ballcourt and three groups of buildings you can visit: Chacmultún with its main palace and murals; Cabalpak with an open terrace; and X’ethpool, the tallest of all. It is well-known for its red-hued stones, columns, engravings, and Puuc-style decoration. The site is located on top of "hutz," or hills that are approximately 8 m high. The views are memorable. 

Caves and eco-parks

Tekax may not have the cenotes of other Yucatecan towns, but it more than makes up for this by having over 200 caves. In one weekend my family and I visited four of these caves. I wonder if it's possible to visit more in one weekend? In order to explore the caves, you'll need to visit one of the town's eco-parks because this way you get a guide, equipment, and access to other activities too. You need to book your visit to these eco-parks in advance, and should you wish them to feed you, let them know. These parks are relatively new and they are still ironing out some of their housekeeping.

Ecoparque Kaalmankal

Kaalmankal is a short drive outside of Tekax, and is a great place for you to explore together with your kids. Once you arrive at this small eco-park, the kids will just want to explore and run. You can sit and relax at the table while they go wild for a bit.

Kaalmankal has one of Tekax's many caves; it isn't deep or scary, but the kids will feel very grown up as they put on their caving gloves, knee-protectors, and helmets (we were asked to use the adult-sized equipment on our kids as they hadn't any child-sized equipment). Older kids and adults can rappel down into the cave, while younger kids and those less keen can walk down the steps. Once in the cave your guide will be happy to do a little exercise in stillness with your kids (if they can manage it. Mine couldn't...sigh...), to explain what you can see and some of the history of the cave.

After exploring the cave, it's time to head outside for some zip-lining and Tarzan swinging. These are safe for most kids. (All four kids we had with us (ages 5 to 7 years old) were big enough for the zip-line and Tarzan swing.) After some discussion, it was decided that all were big enough to rappel too, as long as they were controlled from both the top and bottom.  There is also a hiking trail at the back of the eco-park and a quad-bike available for use. For full day access to activities, including food and drink you need to tell them in advance that you want to eat. The food is fresh and very tasty.

FB: Parque Ecoturístico Kaalmankal Tekax

Las Sartenejas II

If you're more interested in caving than rope-based activities, Las Sartenejas II may well be right up your street. There are four caves on the property of this harder to reach eco-park (it's just over 1 km off the main road on a rocky path). With our small kids in tow they immediately recommended an hour and a half tour that took us to two caves.

When we told them that we had four brave kids they said we were welcome to try the bigger cave that requires a rappel down. We opted for the two easy access caves because we were tired and hungry at this point, but if we go back we will certainly try the deeper cave.

We visited Grutas Trincheras and Murciélagos. We had an absolute blast and the kids thought the caving experience was super exciting because we crawled through a couple of small tunnels and at one point our guide took all the children through a tiny tunnel no adult fancied trying! The kids felt so grown-up and special that they'd been allowed to do this. It was a lovely touch.

There aren't any other activities available on site, but the kids will enjoy looking at the animals, and if you order a meal, you won't be disappointed, as the food is very tasty here. 

FB: Grutas Las Sartenejas II

Gruta Chocantes

Known as the crystal caves, this site is known for its impressive calcium carbonate cascades. You can zoom by on their 200 m long zipline or look down 170 m from their viewpoint.

FB: Gruta Chocantes

A weekend in Tekax

Friday

Friday is for exploring the most traditional part of Tekax on a tour suitable for all ages. Begin your adventure by visiting the Centro Histórico (Downtown). Take some pictures at the iconic Tekax letters and continue with a visit to its church, the second largest in Yucatán after the Mérida Cathedral. Take a stroll through the alley of murals, another must-visit place in Downtown Tekax. Its 10 beautiful murals depict the history and culture of the municipality and are so breathtaking that you won't be able to resist taking hundreds of photos.  

If you wish, you can stop by the tourism office located in the lower level of the City Hall (open Monday to Sunday, 8 am - 3 pm and 5 pm - 8 pm). Their friendly staff will be ready to provide guidance and descriptions about the places you can visit. There is also a small display of artisanal products available for purchase to support the Maya communities that produce them.

While you're here, you can go up to the City Hall’s balcony, visit the photography room, and enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of Downtown Tekax, the church, the park, and, in the distance, the Ermita that you will visit later.  

Later, take some time to visit (under previous reservation) Caricoa, an artisanal chocolate producer. They’ll show you the entire production process and also offer you tastings! Both kids and adults will enjoy the experience from start to finish.  In the afternoon, treat yourself to one of the delectable street food delicacies from Yucatán: the Marquesita.

The main park, with its French-style ironwork, is a fabulous place to sit and watch the world go by. As a cultural tidbit, there are only two parks of this style in the state: this one, and the one in Valladolid, another Magical Town of Yucatán.  

To finish the day, climb up to the Ermita, the star of the "Sultana of the Mountain". You can enter the chapel, where you will find Saint Didacus of Alcalá, the city's patron saint, and the murals depicting his miracles. The view from the observatory will fill you with peace and joy. Then, cross the wooden bridge that leads to the gazebo, which offers spectacular views of the city.  

If you crave something sweet by the end, head to Krepi Krepa and enjoy a Nutella and Edam cheese crepe at a table overlooking the Centro Histórico.  

Saturday

Start your day by having breakfast at El Bistró: delicious regional and international cuisine, with tasty coffees and frappes. The old colonial mansion gives it a unique touch!  

This is the perfect moment to decide your level of adventure. For an exciting yet less intense experience, you can choose Kaalmankal Park, with its pendulum, swing with an infinite view, and cave. Both kids and adults will enjoy trying their hand at a small rappel, which will surely vanish any fears and invite them to relive the experience over and over again.   

For a higher adrenaline tour, choose the Gruta Chocantes park: venture on the highest zipline in the state before or after exploring its cave, where you can see its impressive calcium carbonate waterfalls. If you're the type who doesn't want to leave any stone unturned, it's better to choose an ATV tour with Tekax Adventours and participate in both experiences.  

Have lunch at Doña Mirna's kitchen in Centro, with a delicious authentic homemade regional food menu, and then take some time to rest and refresh; no matter which version of the tour you have chosen, you will likely feel that you need it.  

In the evening, Downtown Tekax offers various options for dinner. If you're looking for traditional options, nothing beats a delicious lime soup or some Panuchos and Salbutes at Lonchería Gorocica, located at the entrance of Tekax.  

Sunday

Experience a culinary adventure at the temporary municipal market and purchase the finest quality fruits and vegetables to bring back with you or carry on with your journey. For breakfast, try the legendary Tacos de Us; I assure you that less than three won't be enough.  

Complete your adventure in Tekax at the eastern end of the Puuc region: the archaeological site of Chacmultún. Its murals and Grand Ball Court bear witness to the city's importance during the Maya Postclassic period. To get there, you have to pass through several Maya communities such as Canek, San Marcos, and Kancab; don't miss the opportunity to get to know them and interact with the locals, who are always delighted to receive visitors and show you their homes, workshops, traditional kitchens, and much more.  

As we mentioned earlier, if your itinerary has a few extra days, Tekax is also an excellent base for exploring the region. The Magical Town of Maní, for example, is only a 35-minute drive away and it’s another place that is definitely worth including in your plans.   

What is not up for debate is how much this new Magical Town has to offer to anyone who visits it, as you have read, both young and old are guaranteed unique moments. So if adventure is something you have been waiting for, Tekax is the perfect place to start.  

The Tekax Fair

From November 8th to 13th, the village honors its Patron Saint during the San Diego de Alcalá fair. During this village fiesta, you will see masses, parades, bullfights, fireworks, dances, and mechanical rides.

Tekax Artisans

Andrea Creaciones

Calle 61 #234 x 56 y 60 Tekax

Tel. 999 747 9135

Bordados Amalia

María Amalia Can Chulim

Local 17 Mercado municipal

Calle 44 x 68 y 70 Col. San Francisco

Cel. 997 110 4458

FB: Bordados Amalia

Creaciones Chary

Rosario del S. Sierra Carrillo

Calle 54 #198-A x 51 y 49 Centro, Tekax

Cel. 997 122 6504

Creaciones Mary’s

Cel. 997 100 7118

FB: Creaciones Mary’s

Hilda Creaciones

Sra. Hilda María Basto Manzanilla

Calle 60 x 49 y 51 Col. San Francisco, Tekax

Cel. 997 107 3156

FB: Hilda Creaciones

Raíz Maya

Nidia Basto

Cel. 997 120 0007

Where to eat in Tekax

Cocina Mirna
Calle 55 #243 x 60 y 62, San Francisco
Tel. 997 974 0564
FB: Cocina Mirna Tekax, Yuc.  

Restaurante bar El Huinic de la Ermita
Boulevard 61 #201 x 50, Col. Ermita
Tel. 997 974 0312
FB: El Huinic de la Ermita  

Cafetería y restaurante El Bistró
Calle 50 x 45 y 47, Centro
Tel. 997 979 3621
FB: El Bistró Tekax Restaurante  

Restaurante bar La Sultana 
Calle 52 x 53 y 55, Centro
Tel. 997 155 8850
FB: Sultana Restaurante  

Lonchería Gorocica D’Martin
Calle 51 x 72 y 74, Col. Chobenche
Tel. 997 134 0179
FB: Loncheria Gorocica D'Martin  

Tacos de Us
Calle 51 x 48 y 50, Centro
Tel. 997 103 2154  

Where to stay in Tekax

Hotel Cielo y Selva 
Calle 51 x 102 y 104, Col. Chobenche
Tel. 997 979 0010
IG: cieloyselvatekax
FB: Hotel Cielo y Selva Tekax  

Hotel El Sultán de la Sierra
Calle 50 #211 x 55 y 57, Centro
Tel. 997 974 2169
FB: Hotel "El Sultán de la Sierra"  

Posada Marielena
Calle 52 #202 x 53 y 55, Centro
Tel. 997 116 5398
FB: Posada MARIA ELENA

How to get to Tekax from Mérida?

By car: On the Periférico (ring road), take the exit for Highway 180 toward Cancún, and then take the detour toward Chetumal. Continue until you reach Teabo. Drive on the highway toward Peto for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, then take the detour toward Tekax at the intersection with Tixméhuac, and drive the final 20 minutes.

By public transportation:

• By bus: At the ADO TAME station (69th Street between 68th and 70th).
• By shared van (combi): Next to San Juan Park (64th Street between 69th and 71st).

Fun Facts About Tekax

• Tekax was once a major production region for sugarcane liquor.
• It is the birthplace of troubadour Ricardo Palmerín, composer of the music for "Peregrina," a song dedicated to Alma Reed.
• The Church of San Juan Bautista is the second-largest in the state, surpassed only by the San Ildefonso Cathedral in Mérida.
• At the three-story house, you can still see machete gashes on the main door, bringing you face-to-face with the era of the Caste War.
• Make sure to try the famous tacos de Us, Cochinita del Alacrán Torres, and the local snack Waj tu kit (also known as Kiwiwuaj), which is a soft tortilla stuffed with beans and served with tomato sauce.