Quetzalapan + Chignahuapan: visit the sphere factory and its surroundings

Explore Puebla State on a 10-Hour Journey for $129

This $129 tour offers a comprehensive experience of Puebla’s scenic and cultural treasures in a 10-hour excursion. Starting from The Angel of Independence, the trip takes you through Chignahuapan, renowned for its handcrafted Christmas spheres and colonial charm, as well as the lush surroundings of the Sierra Norte de Puebla.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its blend of nature, local traditions, and culinary delights. You’ll visit a sphere factory, a historic hacienda, and enjoy a scenic hike to the Quetzalapan waterfalls. This well-rounded experience is perfect for those interested in authentic Mexican craftsmanship, historic sites, and picturesque landscapes, giving an authentic taste of Puebla’s cultural richness.

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Key Points

• Includes transportation for a seamless day trip from Mexico City.
• Visit the famous sphere factory in Chignahuapan, known for handcrafted Christmas ornaments.
• Tour the Quetzalapan waterfalls, featuring a one-hour hike.
• Experience the historic Hacienda de Maguey, learning about traditional maguey cultivation.
• Taste local cuisine, including a Tlacoyos tasting.
• Visit the old hydroelectric plant for insight into Puebla’s industrial past.

Starting Point at The Angel of Independence

This tour departs from The Angel of Independence, making it easy to access from central Mexico City. The pick-up point is convenient, and travelers can reserve their spot with the flexibility of paying later. The experience begins early in the morning or in the evening, fitting various schedules and ensuring ample time at each stop.

The transportation provided is comfortable and designed for groups, making the long day manageable. The total duration of 10 hours includes all activities and travel, providing a complete day immersed in Puebla’s sights.

Discover the Charm of Chignahuapan’s Colonial Streets

Once in Chignahuapan, the town’s colonial architecture and hot springs create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. The highlight here is the sphere factory, where artisans craft Christmas ornaments by hand, showcasing Puebla’s craftsmanship. Visitors learn about the process of making these spheres, which have become a local specialty.

Beyond the factory, the town’s historic ambiance and local gastronomy add flavor to the experience. The town is also famous for its hot springs, providing a soothing backdrop after exploring the streets and shops.

Visiting the Quetzalapan Waterfalls and Hydro Plant

The tour includes entry to the Quetzalapan waterfalls, which involves a one-hour hike to enjoy the scenic beauty of this natural spot. The waterfalls are notable for their powerful flow and surrounding greenery. The hike is manageable for most, but comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended.

Next, visitors explore an old hydroelectric plant, offering a glimpse into Puebla’s industrial past. This site provides insight into the region’s engineering history and its role in local development.

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A Historic Hacienda and Maguey Cultivation

The Hacienda de Maguey is a focal point of the tour, where local experts guide visitors through the maguey cultivation process. Here, traditional methods of scraping maguey are demonstrated, an essential step in producing pulque, a well-known Mexican beverage.

The hacienda experience emphasizes ancestral techniques, connecting visitors with Puebla’s heritage of maguey farming. The site offers an authentic look at traditional Mexican agriculture and craftsmanship.

Culinary Highlights and Local Tastes

The tour includes a lunch box served onboard, making it convenient for travelers to enjoy a quick meal during the day. Plus, visitors get to taste Tlacoyos, traditional Mexican corn masa snacks filled with beans or cheese, providing a flavorful taste of local cuisine.

These culinary touches enrich the day, offering a taste of Puebla’s food culture amidst scenic and historic settings, without requiring an extensive sit-down meal.

Practical Details: Accessibility and Tips

This tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers, though it is not recommended for pregnant women or those over 95 years old. Participants should bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities.

The tour emphasizes safety and respect, with no smoking, alcohol, or drugs allowed during the trip. It’s important to remember that the package does not include a full meal, so planning for extra snacks or beverages is advised.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers peace of mind in adjusting their plans if needed. This makes it accessible for spontaneous trip planning or uncertain schedules.

Overall Experience and Suitability

This full-day tour offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and history. Its highlights are the sphere factory, Quetzalapan waterfalls, and the maguey hacienda, making it ideal for those interested in Mexican craftsmanship and rural landscapes.

While the tour involves some physical activity, such as the waterfall hike, it remains accessible and manageable. The comfortable transportation and comprehensive itinerary make it a good value for travelers wanting an authentic Puebla experience in just one day.

This tour is a great choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded exploration of Puebla’s artisanal and natural attractions with a relaxed pace and cultural depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from The Angel of Independence is included.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours.

What are the main stops?
Stops include the sphere factory, Quetzalapan waterfalls, old hydroelectric plant, and Hacienda de Maguey.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It is suitable for most, but not for pregnant women or those over 95 years old. Participants should be comfortable walking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activities and walking.

Are meals included?
No, but a lunch box and Tlacoyos tasting are included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English and Spanish.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking early is recommended, especially since the tour has flexible payment options.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby