In the southern area of Yucatán, a city rises before the Yucatecan hills. It’s Tekax, lovingly known as “La Sultana de la Sierra” (the Sultana of the Ridge): a colonial jewel known to be the Yucatecan capital of adventure. And today, they have a dream and a goal: to be crowned as one of México’s Pueblos Mágicos, or magical towns.
This year, Tekax added a new attraction that highlights the city’s creative charm, history, and culture: el Callejón de Los Murales (the Mural Alley). You’ll find it on a peaceful street (53 x 50), behind City Hall, in the very heart of its historic Centro. Through vibrant colors and shapes, the murals show Tekax’s cultural identity. This was made possible through a coordinated endeavor between Colectivo Tomate, Comex por un México Bien Hecho, the Mayor’s Office, and the Yucatán Department for Touristic Development. In addition, 128 people from the community contributed their views to determine the “representative elements in their culture.”
Over 472 sq m of color, you’ll discover traditions, flora and fauna in high detail, iconic celebrities from Tekax, legends, and never-ending details that mirror the community’s warm nature and joyful spirit. One of the most captivating pieces is the colorful mural depicting San Diego’s procession (pictured on our cover), happening every year from November 8 to 13.
Walk down the street to appreciate each mural; you really should. Besides, each mural has a plaque with information that gives a wider context. You’ll want to throw some activities in the mix; for example, Tekax Adventours’ ATV tour, Parque Ecoturístico Kaalmankal (they have an infinite swing!), and a visit to Gruta Chocantes (where you’ll see white mineral formations over a roughly-two-hour expedition). If you’re up for a less demanding grotto, Las Sartenejas II has a more family-friendly option (chill…very chill).
And to end the day, you can’t leave without trying their delicious food! Chef’s kiss for the traditional cooks. If you’re visiting with enough time to enjoy Tekax, book in advance your visit to the Maya village of San Marcelino. Besides eating a very Yucatecan dish, you’ll learn about the daily life of the community (they live isolated in the hills). In a rush? Visit Doña Mirna (at Cocina Mirna) and enjoy like a true Tekaxeño.
What do you say? Would you join us for the next adventure?
Editorial by Olivia Camarena Cervera
Yucatecan communicologist. Your favorite Assistant Editor. Writer, blogger, and bookstagrammer in her spare time. She also experiments with TikTok.
Gruta Chocantes
Cel. 997 117 2756 (Pedro Cervera)
FB: Gruta chocantes
Everyday. 9 am – 3 pm
Activities: hiking, visiting the viewpoint, Gruta del Toro, Chocantes zip-lines, descent into the Chocantes grotto
Grutas Las Sartenejas II
FB: Grutas Las Sartenejas II
Cel. 997 122 0054
Mon. – Fri. 9 am – 5 pm, Sat. and Sun. 8 am – 5 pm
Parque Ecoturístico Kaalmankal
WhatsApp: 997 134 2326
FB: Parque Ecoturístico Kaalmankal Tekax
Wed. – Sun. 9 am – 4 pm
ATV Tour – Tekax Adventours
Reservations: Tel. 997 973 4372
IG & FB: Tekax Adventours
Multiple options
Aldea Maya San Marcelino
FB: Aldea Maya San Marcelino
Cel. 813 511 2324
Make your reservation at least one day in advance
Cocina Tradicional con Doña Mirna
FB: Cocina Mirna Tekax, Yuc.
Everyday. 9 am – 5 pm
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