PATZCUARO

The quaint colonial town of Pátzcuaro, located just 30 miles from Morelia, has been coined a "pueblo mágico" - a magical town. The gorgeous plazas, views of Lake Pátzcuaro, local artisans and traditional buildings make this place one of the gems of México.

Historic downtown Pátzcuaro is home to casual outdoor dining, street fairs, events, and a large market. Those living in Pátzcuaro become accustomed to the city center waking up, vendors setting up their stands of fresh, local fruits and vegetables, and the smells of amazing traditional street foods of Michoacán.

Pátzcuaro is located in the highlands of central Mexico, about halfway between Guadalajara and Mexico City.

Some prefer to live in smaller villages located near Pátzcuaro, such as Zirahuen, San Pedro, Erongarícuaro, Tzintzuntzan, and a number of other welcoming areas.

Just three hours from the beautiful Michoacán coast, 40 minutes from the colonial city Morelia, and 1 hour from Uruapan (the avocado capital of the world), Pátzcuaro is an ideal location for those interested in moving to Mexico.

Since there are a large number of English speakers in and around Pátzcuaro, many social groups have formed including weekly movies, breakfasts, and happy hours. Additionally, the strong interest in art and literature among both Mexicans and foreigners in Pátzcuaro has encouraged a rise in art exhibits and library events.

CLIMATE

Some people move to Pátzcuaro based on the climate alone! The average daily temperature is 70-75 degrees F (21-24 degrees C). Most days are clear and sunny.

The Michoacán highlands have a rainy season and a dry season. During the summer rainy months (June through August), expect mostly sunny days with thunderstorms and heavy rains during some afternoons and some evenings. Winter can get chilly at night, though all days are warm and filled with sunshine. During Autumn months, wildflowers fill the fields.

Patzcuaro highlights the varied local traditions and folklore for how much they have been preserved. The celebrations, rites and festivals date back to ancient times and merge with the customs of the colonial era.

The main festivals in the region are
The Day of the Dead, celebrated on November 1 and 2 and Holy Week, in addition to the Day of Our Lady of Health, official patron of the People, among many other festivities mainly of religious origin.

 

Pátzcuaro's location makes it easy for travel to the beach, mountain hiking trips, shopping, and exploring the highlands. Some destinations include:

Santa Clara del Cobre. A town specializing in sculptures, pots, and other crafts out of copper.

Janitzio. An incredible Purépecha island in Lake Pátzcuaro that welcomes visitors.

Morelia. A colonial city with a historic downtown center and cathedral, with art museums, shops, and monuments. Morelia is also home to very good medical services and shopping centers for imported goods. Morelia is located about 40 minutes from Pátzcuaro.

Uruapan. An urban city, one of the oldest cities in Mexico, known as the avocado capital of the world. Uruapan is also home to coffee farms, and is located about 1 hour from Pátzcuaro.

Tzintzuntzan. Ancient ruins, handmade pottery, and other crafts are found in Tzintzuntzan (which means place of the hummingbird).

Zirahuén. A lovely town and gorgeous Lake Zirahuen, perfect for swimming or kayaking and canoeing.

Numerous other villages including Ihuatzio, Quiroga, Oponguio, and Erongarícuaro are fine destinations for those living in Pátzcuaro.

The ocean - Michoacán coast - is just a short 3.5 hour trip from Pátzcuaro.

Hot springs - "Los Azufres" - are 2 hours from Pátzcuaro.

The Monarch Butterfly reserves are 2-3 hours from Pátzcuaro.

Festivities, including Day of the Dead, Los Reyes Magos, Semana Santa, and numerous other fun holidays are enjoyed in and around Pátzcuaro.