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If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Papantla.
Nestled amongst the lush landscapes of the Veracruz state, Papantla is a radiant gem of Mexican culture.
Revered as the “City of Flowers,” this charming town is filled with vibrant experiences waiting to be discovered.
From soaring through the skies on a voladores ritual to indulging in traditional cuisine, Papantla offers an array of enchanting activities that one can’t help but fall in love with.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Papantla:
1. El Tajín Archaeological Zone
El Tajín is an ancient Mesoamerican city and archaeological site located in the north of the Mexican state of Veracruz.
It was the cultural and political center of the Totonac civilization, and it is known for its impressive architecture, sculptures, and ballgame courts.
What to see or do: Visitors to El Tajín can explore the many well-preserved structures, including the Pyramid of the Niches, the Temple of the Columns, and the ballcourt.
The site also contains numerous carved reliefs and sculptures, including the famous “Dancers” that depict Totonac performers.
Don’t miss: The Papantla Flyers ceremony is a must-see if you visit El Tajín.
It is a traditional ritual that involves dancers climbing a tall pole, tying themselves to it, and then spinning down to the ground while playing flutes and drums.
It is an impressive display of bravery and skill that has been performed for centuries and is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
The nearby town of Papantla is a great place to buy souvenirs and try traditional Totonac cuisine, including vanilla and mole sauces.
2. Papantla Flyers Ceremony
The Papantla Flyers Ceremony is a traditional ritual dance that dates back to pre-Hispanic times. It is performed in the town of Papantla, located in the state of Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: The ceremony involves five men, known as “voladores” or flyers.
They climb up a tall pole, and once they reach the top, they tie themselves to ropes and begin to spin down to the ground, mimicking the flight of birds.
Meanwhile, a fifth performer, known as the “caporal,” plays a flute and drum as he dances on a small wooden platform at the top of the pole.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the ceremony is the moment when the flyers launch themselves from the top of the pole, performing a stunning display of acrobatics as they twist and turn through the air.
Insider travel tips: – The Papantla Flyers Ceremony is typically performed on weekends and holidays, so plan your visit accordingly.
3. Museo del Totonacapan
The Museo del Totonacapan is a museum located in Papantla, Veracruz, focused on the Totonac culture.
What to see or do: The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts that showcase the Totonac people’s history, art, and daily life. Visitors can enjoy exhibits of traditional clothing and headdresses, musical instruments, pottery, and sculptures.
A highlight of the museum is the Hall of the Flyers, where visitors can witness a live performance of the voladores, a traditional ritual where men dressed in colorful clothing fly around a tall pole.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the impressive replica of a Totonac pyramid on display in the museum’s courtyard. Also, be sure to visit the gift shop, where you can find handcrafted souvenirs and traditional sweets.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the museum is during the Papantla Flyers Festival, which takes place during the last week of March and the first week of April.
During this time, the voladores perform daily, and the museum hosts additional cultural events. Additionally, hiring a guide is recommended to fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the exhibits.
4. Cristo Redentor Monument
The Cristo Redentor Monument is a stunning statue of Jesus Christ located in the city of Papantla, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the incredible statue of Jesus Christ, which stands at over 60 feet tall.
From the top of the hill where the monument is located, there are also stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take some time to appreciate the intricate details of the statue, which was crafted by local artisans. Also, check out the smaller statues of the twelve apostles at the base of the hill.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
5. Parque Temático Takilhsukut
Parque Temático Takilhsukut is an indigenous-themed amusement park located in Papantla, Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: The park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
Experience the thrill of zip-lining over the treetops, watch traditional Papantla flyers perform their breathtaking aerial dance, learn about the region’s rich indigenous culture and history at the interactive museum, and enjoy delicious regional cuisine at the park’s restaurant.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch the live performances of Papantla flyers, who climb a 30-meter pole and then fly upside down attached by only their ankles.
It’s an awe-inspiring sight you won’t want to miss.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as the park covers a large area and involves a fair amount of walking.
6. Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
A historic church located in the town of Papantla in the state of Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive architecture of the church which combines Baroque, Neoclassical and Mudejar styles. Step inside to see the beautiful interior with its intricate altarpieces and artwork.
Don’t miss: The chance to witness the Danza de los Voladores, a traditional ritual performance where performers spin from a tall pole with ropes tied to their feet.
The ceremony takes place in the square outside the church.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get a more intimate experience of the church. Wear comfortable shoes as there are steep steps leading up to the entrance.
Look out for other cultural events and festivals taking place in the plaza, especially during the nearby Carnival of Papantla.
7. Parque de la Geografía
Parque de la Geografía is an outdoor garden located in the heart of Papantla, Mexico, dedicated to geographical education and conservation.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the park’s numerous exhibits, including a scale model of the Gulf of Mexico, a replica of a volcano, and a replica of the hydrological cycle.
The park also features a butterfly garden, walking paths, and a playground for children.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the park’s main attraction, the “Reloj del Tiempo” or “Clock of Time”, a beautiful monument with a clock face that shows the Aztec calendar, along with images of important geological events that have taken place throughout history.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds.
8. Puente Cabeza Olmeca
A unique bridge in Papantla, Veracruz that resembles the head of an Olmec figure.
What to see or do: Take a walk across the bridge to enjoy views of the Papantla River and the town’s architecture.
Don’t miss: The chance to take great photos with the bridge as your backdrop.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the bridge can be a bit steep in some areas.
Additionally, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for your photos.
9. Mirador del Cerro de la Carpintera
A scenic viewpoint located on top of Cerro de la Carpintera, offering breathtaking views of Papantla and its surroundings.
What to see or do: Take in the stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes from the top of the hill. Explore the nearby cave system and enjoy a scenic hike through the surrounding natural areas.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunset views over Papantla.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the climb to the top can be steep and challenging. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful views from the top.
Avoid visiting during the rainy season as the trails can become muddy and slippery.
10. Museo de la Evolución del Hombre
The Museo de la Evolución del Hombre is a fascinating museum located in the charming town of Papantla, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum will enjoy exploring the many exhibits that highlight the evolution of humans from primitive societies to modern civilizations.
The museum has a wide variety of artifacts, from ancient tools to modern technology, that help to tell the story of human history.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the exhibits on ancient Mesoamerican cultures, including the Aztecs and the Mayans. The museum has an impressive display of artwork and artifacts that are sure to captivate visitors.
Insider travel tips: If possible, try to visit the museum during the week.
The crowds are much smaller, and you’ll have a better chance of getting a detailed tour from one of the knowledgeable guides.
Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the museum can be quite extensive to navigate.
11. Parque de los Dinosaurios
Parque de los Dinosaurios is a dinosaur-themed park located in Papantla, Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore life-sized and animatronic dinosaurs, engage in interactive experiences, and learn about the prehistoric era through exhibits, activities, and workshops.
The park also has a playground, an outdoor theater, and a terrace overlooking the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided tour or participate in the park’s activities, such as digging up fossils or riding a dinosaur.
Insider travel tips: – Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and water as the park is spread over a large area and can get hot.
12. Casa de la Cultura de Papantla
A cultural center located in the heart of Papantla, Mexico, dedicated to promoting and preserving the traditions and heritage of the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can participate in a variety of cultural activities such as dance and music performances, art exhibits, and traditional craft workshops.
The center also offers language classes in Totonac, the indigenous language of the area.
Don’t miss: The famous Papantla Flyers performance, a traditional ritual in which five men dressed in indigenous clothing climb a 30-meter pole and slowly descend while spinning around the pole.
This thrilling display of athleticism and bravery is a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Visit the center during the annual Cumbre Tajín festival, which celebrates the cultural heritage of the region.
Also, be sure to try the local specialty dish, “voladores,” which consists of corn tortillas filled with beans and topped with chicken, mole sauce, and cheese.
13. Mercado Municipal de Papantla
A popular Mexican marketplace located in Papantla, Veracruz.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various stalls and vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, meats, and handicrafts. The market is also known for its famous vanilla beans, which are grown in the nearby region.
Be sure to take a stroll through the market’s colorful aisles and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling marketplace.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to sample some of the local cuisine, including delicious tamales and regional dishes like camarones al coco (coconut shrimp).
Visitors can also watch as vendors expertly prepare típicas (traditional papanteca snacks made from masa and filled with beans, cheese, or meat).
Insider travel tips: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with vendors, as many of them are willing to haggle. The market is busiest early in the morning, so plan to arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds.
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of the region, be sure to visit the nearby Museo del Totonacapan.
14. Mercado de Artesanías de Papantla
Mercado de Artesanías de Papantla is a craft market located in the city of Papantla, Veracruz, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can browse and purchase a variety of traditional handcrafted items such as textiles, pottery, wooden figurines, baskets, and jewelry. The market also offers local food and drinks, as well as live music and dance performances.
Don’t miss: The voladores, or “flying dancers,” who perform a traditional ritual that involves climbing a pole and then launching themselves off while attached to ropes.
This mesmerizing spectacle is a unique cultural experience that should not be missed.
Insider travel tips: Bargaining is expected in the market, so be sure to negotiate prices.
It is also recommended to visit the market during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and take advantage of the cooler temperatures.
15. Museo del Café
The Museo del Café in Papantla, Mexico is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of coffee in the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the museum and learn about the process of growing and roasting coffee beans. The museum also offers tastings of locally produced coffee.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on trying the delicious coffee made using traditional methods by the knowledgeable staff, who are happy to answer any questions guests may have.
Insider travel tips: If you are interested in learning more about Mexican coffee culture, be sure to take the time to visit the nearby coffee plantations.
Visitors can take tours and witness the entire coffee-making process firsthand.