Get to know Atlatlahucan through its monastic heritage, local festivals, and the Corredor Biológico Chichinautzin, whose protected area also includes Atlatlahucan. These themes appeal to different interests: you can plan your stay around a festival date, historic buildings, or a planned activity in the protected area.
San Mateo and the Historic Center
The Convento de San Mateo Apóstol in Atlatlahucan is part of the UNESCO World Heritage ensemble of the first monasteries of the 16th century on the slopes of Popocatépetl. The Templo y Exconvento de San Mateo is in the center of Atlatlahucan; its atrium adjoins the main plaza. At the Ex-Convento, the buttresses give the building a fortress-like appearance. Popocatépetl is visible from the atrium; confirm current access conditions before your visit. The open chapel in the San Mateo complex contains a family tree of the Augustinians.
The Museo Histórico y Natural Calmécac also focuses on the monastery: its tour includes an explanation of the founding of the Convento de San Mateo Apóstol. This information provides context for a museum visit, but is not an indication of current opening hours. Check them before planning a visit. Atlatlahucan is also one of the eleven towns on the Ruta de los Conventos in Morelos, which is part of the state’s tourist offering.
Feria and Carnaval: Two Different Festivals
The Feria del Cuarto Viernes de Cuaresma is held annually in Atlatlahucan. In 2026, it was celebrated from March 4 to 16; individual program events may vary from year to year. The 2026 program included processions, Chinelo comparisons, music, traditional dances, Jaripeos, and the traditional Toro de Once. The Feria attracted families and visitors that year. Its activities took place around the Ex-Convento de San Mateo Apóstol, which was built by Augustinians in the 16th century and is considered one of Atlatlahucan’s most important historic landmarks.
The Carnaval de Atlatlahucan is a community festival associated with cultural identity and tourism activity in eastern Morelos. In the 2026 edition described, the comparsas Las Negras and los Tatais paraded through the streets of the municipality. The participation of local families and organizations keeps this tradition alive; which comparsas take part may change from one edition to another. The Carnaval attracts visitors and boosts local gastronomy, commerce, and tourism services. Visitor numbers may vary from one edition to another. If you want a festival to be the focus of your trip, check the dates and program for the year you plan to visit.
Monuments in the Municipality
A municipal monument inventory from 2001 lists the Los Reyes Chapel and the Templo de San Juan Evangelista in Texcalpan as architectural monuments of Atlatlahucan. Texcalpan is named as the temple’s location. As the inventory entry dates from 2001, check the current condition and access before visiting.
Nature Tourism in the Corredor Biológico Chichinautzin
Atlatlahucan includes part of the Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Corredor Biológico Chichinautzin; this part belongs to the eastern section of the protected area. Nature tourism activities such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, rappelling, and observing flora and fauna are possible in the Área de Protección de Flora y Fauna Corredor Biológico Chichinautzin. For specific plans, check local conditions and providers, and confirm where the activity you want to do takes place.
Getting There and Finding a Hotel
For orientation from Mexico City: Atlatlahucan can be reached near Federal Highway 115 México-Cuautla. At kilometer 88, take the turn toward Totolapan; Atlatlahucan is about 1.5 kilometers farther on. Road conditions may change, so it is advisable to check the route before setting out.
When comparing hotels in Atlatlahucan, tailor your search to the planned focus of your trip: the historic San Mateo area, a Feria, or nature tourism in the protected area. For a specific property, check its location and availability directly for your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Atlatlahucan, Emiliano Zapata, Jojutla, Tlaltizapán
Go to the main travel overview: Morelos.
