From Mexico City: Magic town Metepec and Toluca

Explore Toluca, Metepec, and San Mateo Atenco in a Day

This 12-hour tour from Mexico City offers a well-rounded glimpse into the State of Mexico, visiting Toluca’s botanical garden and stained glass, the magical clay town of Metepec, and the famous footwear markets of San Mateo Atenco. Priced at $170 per person, the tour balances cultural highlights with hands-on experiences, perfect for those eager to see authentic local crafts and traditions.

Operated by MEXITOURS, which holds a 4.2 rating, this guided journey is ideal for travelers interested in local arts, architecture, and commerce. The tour features a comfortable van transfer, guided commentary in English and Spanish, and includes visits to key sights and workshops. While the full itinerary is paced to ensure ample exploration, the day involves some walking and limited free time at each stop.

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Key Points

• Visit Toluca’s impressive botanical garden and stained glass “Cosmovitral” building
• Walk through Metepec Magical Town, famed for its clay handicrafts and iconic Tree of Life
• Participate in a clay workshop to create your own piece with expert artisans
• See San Mateo Atenco’s renowned leather footwear markets
• Enjoy a full-day guided experience with transportation included for $170

From Mexico City to Toluca’s Botanical Garden and “Cosmovitral”

The tour begins with a van ride from Mexico City, lasting approximately one hour. The first major stop is Toluca’s botanical garden, which is housed in a striking Art Nouveau building that was once a local market. Inside, travelers marvel at the “Cosmovitral”, a monumental stained-glass wall depicting the human race and the universe.

More than 400 plant species from around the world flourish in this botanical space. The stained glass art, decorated with glass mosaics, makes this a captivating spot for photos and appreciation of local craftsmanship. This stop provides a peaceful contrast to the more craft-focused visits later in the day.

Metepec: The Clay Town with a Cultural Heart

Next, the tour heads to Metepec’s Magical Town, celebrated for its clay handicrafts. The town’s “Tree of Life” and Catrinas are iconic symbols of Metepec, representing its long-held tradition of clay art and sculpture. Visitors get to see local artisans at work, and one of the highlights is a visit to a clay workshop run by the family credited with creating the famous “Tree of Life”.

In this workshop, travelers are invited to make their own clay piece. With the guidance of an expert craftsperson, everyone can mold and decorate a small sculpture or object, gaining a hands-on understanding of this craft. The town also offers free time for relaxing, sightseeing, or shopping for souvenirs, including more clay figures and local crafts.

San Mateo Atenco’s Footwear Market and Leather Production

The final major stop is San Mateo Atenco, widely recognized for its large-scale footwear production. Famous for its leather shoes, belts, purses, and clothes, this town has roots dating back to the Mexican Revolution. Visitors can explore the outlet markets where hundreds of vendors sell affordable leather goods.

The vibrant streets and shops of San Mateo Atenco provide a lively and colorful backdrop for shopping. This stop offers the chance to browse quality leather products at competitive prices, often compared to those in more touristy markets but with an authentic local flavor.

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Transportation and Meeting Details

The experience begins at Av. de la República 154, where the guide meets travelers near the Monumento a la Revolución, behind the Barceló Hotel. The group transfers by van, with the entire day’s activities designed to optimize sightseeing without excessive rushing.

The van ride between stops lasts approximately 20 minutes each, creating a smooth flow from one location to the next. This setup ensures comfortable transitions and allows for some rest during the day’s journey. The entire day wraps up back at the original meeting point around 6 PM.

Included Activities and Highlights

The tour price includes all transportation, a professional guide fluent in English and Spanish, and access to key attractions like the botanical garden and Cosmovitral. Visitors also enjoy a visit to Metepec’s clay workshop, where they see artisans at work and create their own sculpture. The footwear shopping in San Mateo Atenco is free for browsing and purchasing.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not explicitly included, so travelers should plan to bring cash for meals or snacks during the free time segments. Also, the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as some walking and standing are involved.

Practical Tips for the Day Trip

Travelers should remember to bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen for outdoor parts of the tour. Since the tour involves outdoor exploration, dressing in comfortable clothes is recommended. Cash is advised for local shopping and any additional purchases.

The tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive day of culture, crafts, and local markets. The full-day schedule makes it suitable for travelers with a flexible schedule and an interest in authentic Mexican crafts and architecture.

Flexibility and Booking Policy

The tour offers a “reserve now & pay later” option, providing flexibility in planning. Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk choice for spontaneous or carefully planned trips. The live guide ensures that questions about each stop are answered in English or Spanish.

Why Choose This Tour from Mexico City?

This guided day trip provides a balanced mix of nature, art, and commerce. The combination of visiting Toluca’s botanical garden and stained-glass art, creating clay artwork in Metepec, and shopping for leather footwear in San Mateo Atenco offers a broad view of local traditions.

The well-organized itinerary and inclusive transport make for a smooth experience, especially for those interested in artisanal crafts and authentic markets. While the tour may not suit those with mobility issues, it is a valuable culture for most visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $170 per person, including transportation, guide, and entrance fees to major sites.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Av. de la República 154, near the Monumento a la Revolución.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a van transports travelers between all stops throughout the day.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Toluca’s botanical garden and Cosmovitral, Metepec’s clay workshop, and San Mateo Atenco’s footwear markets.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included, but free time allows for lunch or snacks, and travelers should bring cash.

Can I participate in activities like making my own clay sculpture?
Yes, a clay workshop is part of the tour, where you can create your own piece under expert guidance.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users due to walking and outdoor activities.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English and Spanish to accommodate different travelers.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking can be made with full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.

This tour delivers a full-day exploration of some of Mexico State’s most iconic sights, making it a practical option for travelers eager to experience local art, nature, and crafts without the hassle of organizing transportation or guides themselves.

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