Ixcateopan

Guerrero, Mexico

Why visit Ixcateopan?

Ixcateopan de Cuauhtémoc is a small town of about 2,400 residents in the southwestern Mexican state of Guerrero . It is a place rich in indigenous traditions dating back to the town's founding in 350 AD as a Cohuixca and Chontal settlement. The town is alleged to be the final resting place of the Cuahtemoc , last emperor of the Aztecs. It is also the site of an archaeological site dating from 1350 AD. The town is one of Mexico's designated Pueblos Mágicos , though it really should not be since the town lacks the touristic infrastructure and support services that such a designation implies.

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How do you get there?

From Taxco , taxi is the easiest way to get to Ixcateopan. The trip is about 50 km and will cost about M$200 (one way).

Ixcateopan is best explored on foot if staying in the town centre, though a car is useful for reaching attractions in the surrounding area. Local taxi services and colectivos (shared vans) are available for shorter journeys. Colectivos are an affordable and authentic way to travel between nearby towns and attractions.

What are the things to do?

🌍 Ixcateopan Archaeological Site , Taxco - Ixcateopan 25, San Juan . W-Su 09:00 - 17:00, closed M-Tu . Mesoamerican site built between 1350-1450 AD. Used largely as a ceremonial site, it was also a commercial center that supplied cloth to the Aztec empire. The ruins include platforms, circular temple foundations, and marble stairways. The modern town is built on top of the historic town and there are additional, unexplored mounds on the town's fringe. M$95 . ( updated Oct 2024 ) 🌍 Recinto de Cuauhtemotzin ( Museum of Santa María de la Asunción ), Av. Gral. Vicente Guerrero 18, San Juan . The remains of Emperor Cuahtemoc were discovered buried below the altar in the historic 16th century Parroquia de Santa María de la Asunción church. The remains were excavated and the church turned into a museum showcasing Cuahtemoc's remains. Scientific examinations of the remains have since cast doubt on their authenticity, but locals remain convinced that the Emperor passed away in their town some 500 years ago. ( updated Oct 2024 )

Outdoor activities in the Ixcateopan area include hiking, exploring the natural landscape, and discovering local cultural sites. In season, look for local festivals and celebrations that showcase the traditions of Guerrero. Guided tours may be available through local operators or your accommodation.

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Where to eat?

🌍 Mariscos "Doña Chuy" , Motolinía, Colonia llanito , ☏ +52 736 366 2295 . Daily 09:00 - 20:00 . Local seafood restaurant serving traditional fish and shrimp dishes. M$250 . ( updated Oct 2024 )

Where to drink?

Local cantinas and bars in Ixcateopan serve Mexican beer, mezcal, tequila, and aguas frescas. Mexico has a vibrant craft beer scene that is growing in many regions. Pulque, a traditional fermented agave drink, may be available in central Mexico. Non-alcoholic options include excellent Mexican coffee, fresh fruit juices (jugos naturales), and horchata.

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Where to stay?

There is really only one option for lodging in town and since it lacks modern amenities, most travelers prefer to stay in the nearby city of Taxco , where a wider range of options is available. 🌍 Hotel Posada del Rey , General Vicente Guerrero Saldaña 14 , ☏ +52 736 366 9028 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . The only hotel in town is a rustic, bare bones budget lodge with minimal services. If you have a tent, they also offer space on the property for overnight camping. M$600 . ( updated Oct 2024 )

What should you buy?

Tianguis - Sunday is the traditional market day in Ixcateopan, when fruit and vegetable producers from throughout the region come to set stands near the town square

Where to go next?

Taxco Chilpancingo Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park This article is issued from Wikivoyage . The text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 unless otherwise noted. Additional terms may apply for the media files.

Nearby in Guerrero

More places to explore around Ixcateopan.

Guide content as of June 2026. Portions adapted from Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0.

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