Geographical position and Climate of Tlaxcala
Tlaxcala is the smallest state in Mexico, located in East-Central Mexico. It is bordered to the west by the state of México and Hidalgo, to the north by Hidalgo, to the east by Puebla, and to the south by the State of Puebla.
The state enjoys a temperate climate with two main seasons:
Wet Season
- May to October: This period sees the majority of the annual rainfall, with cooler temperatures due to cloud cover and precipitation.
Dry Season
- November to April: These months are characterized by drier conditions and more sunshine, with colder temperatures, especially at night and in the early morning.
Due to its high altitude — most of the state is situated above 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) — Tlaxcala experiences cooler temperatures compared to other regions of Mexico. The climate can vary significantly within the state, with colder alpine conditions in the mountainous areas.
Snowfall can occur on the higher peaks during winter, while the valleys tend to have milder weather year-round. Overall, Tlaxcala’s climate is considered pleasant, with warm days and cool nights.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the State depends on your interests and the activities you plan to enjoy. Here are some considerations:
Cultural Festivals:
- Tlaxcala Fair (Feria de Tlaxcala): Held in late October to early November, this is the state’s largest festival with cultural events, bullfights, and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Carnival: Celebrated with parades and dances in February or March before Lent, it’s a colorful display of local customs and costumes.
Outdoor Activities:
- Dry Season (November to April): With less rain and clearer skies, this period is ideal for hiking, exploring archaeological sites, and enjoying the natural beauty of Tlaxcala’s parks and reserves.
Mild Weather:
- Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November): These transitional periods offer mild temperatures and less rainfall, making them comfortable times for general sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
To Avoid Crowds:
- Outside of major festivals and holiday periods, the state tends to be less crowded, providing a more relaxed experience.
Regardless of when you visit, Tlaxcala’s temperate climate makes it a year-round destination. Just remember that nights can be cool, especially during the dry season, so it’s wise to pack layers.
Travel to Tlaxcala
Getting to the State, the smallest state in Mexico, is relatively straightforward due to its proximity to major cities and transportation hubs. Here are the common ways to reach Tlaxcala:
By Air
Tlaxcala does not have a commercial airport, so the nearest airports are:
- Puebla International Airport (PBC): Located about 45 minutes from Tlaxcala, it offers domestic flights and some international connections.
- Mexico City International Airport (MEX): As one of Latin America’s major air hubs, it’s approximately two hours away by car or bus and provides extensive international and domestic service.
From these airports, you can continue your journey to the state by bus, rental car, or taxi.
By Bus
There are frequent and comfortable bus services from Mexico City, Puebla, and other surrounding cities to Tlaxcala. The main bus terminal in Tlaxcala, Terminal de Autobuses de Tlaxcala (TAT), receives buses from various companies like ADO, ATAH, and OCC.
By Car
Driving to Tlaxcala is quite easy, with well-maintained roads connecting it to nearby cities:
- From Mexico City, take the Mexico-Puebla highway (150D) and then the San Martín Texmelucan-Tlaxcala highway (117D).
- From Puebla, take the short drive on Federal Highway 117D directly to Tlaxcala.
By Train
While there is no passenger train service directly to the state, Mexico City’s extensive rail network can bring you close to the state, after which you can transfer to a bus or car for the final leg of the journey.
When planning your trip to the state, consider the time of day and traffic conditions, especially if traveling from or through Mexico City, as this can significantly affect travel times.
Places to visit in Tlaxcala
Important Information
Capital – Tlaxcala City
Largest City – San Pablo del Monte
Territory – 4,016 km2
Population – 1,342,977
Time Zone – UTC-6 (Central)