Located 84 km (52 miles) south of Mexico City, in the neighboring state of Morelos with a population of 338,706, an altitude of 1542 meters (5060 feet) above sea level; a climate ranging from moderate to semitropical, a year round temperature of approximately 25C (77F), and a raining season from the end of May until September; Cuernavaca has long played host to wealthy residents of Mexico City seeking a weekend retreat.
Cuernavaca is a city thriving with life--especially on weekends, when cars and visitors sometimes swell to unsightly numbers. You will find the majority of the city's activity concentrated around the main Plaza de la Constitucion, Handi craft shops, sidewalk cafes, and miscellaneous vendors fill the streets, plus free concerts are given in the Jardin Juarez every Sunday afternoon.
If instead of a busy city you seek a secluded retreat, don't let the thought of crowds turn you away; resting at a much lower altitude than the capital, this town enjoys a lush, semitropical environment with balmy spring-like temperatures, which makes it an ideal resort for Mexicans and foreigners alike seeking a refuge of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Beyond the festive heart of the city center, lie some of the most renowned spas and restorative retreats in all of Mexico. Many of the city's most faithful visitors flock not to its center but rather to these sites of ultimate pampering and pleasure.
As night falls, Cuernavaca awakens with the sounds and lights of nightlife, discotheques, live music clubs and other night spots. Start your evening off with dinner in one of the finest restaurants which offer a colorful variety of international and national cuisine. Choose from exquisite Mexican, Italian, Japanese, Lebanese, German or Chinese cuisine. And if all this wasn't enough, only 48 km south of Cuernavaca, you will find Tequesquitengo Lake.
This weekend community is a preferred vacation spot for many, as it offers many eco-activities such as water skiing, diving, jet skiing, boat rides, as well as parachuting and ultra-light gliders. Tequesquitengo offers a variety of tourism services such as hotels, villas and beach clubs.
The state of Morelos which prior to the conquest was "Tlahuica" territory has one of the richest archaeological zones in Mexico. You can visit any of these wonderful sites such as Teopanzolco, Teotihuacan, Tepoztlan, Xochicalco and Tequesquitengo Lake; to name just a few of the 800 discovered archeological zones in Morelos. All within 10 to 60 minutes away (All depending on your location). Along with archeology, Cuernavaca offers much to the botanical field.
With a varied selection of gardens, (apart from the poinsettia, which is the flower symbol of Cuernavaca, bougainvillea is found everywhere) there are several botanical tours offered for your enjoyment of nature. Cuernavaca not only has beautiful lush gardens, but they are also renowned for education.
Cuernavaca has been established as an international learning center for Mexico's language, culture and history. At present there are 10 Spanish schools which form part of a prestigious association; devoted to the high academic standards and strict ethical code of teaching Spanish, art and culture from Mexico and Latin America to foreigners. Finally...whether you visit Mexico for education, or entertainment...Cuernavaca is the place you want to be.
TRANSPORTATION
Once you get to Mexico City, the easiest way to get to Cuernavaca if by bus. The Pullman de Morelos buses are comfortable and inexpensive way to travel (tickets are about $7.00 USD). They take you straight from the airport to the Casino de la Selva terminal in Cuernavaca. The buses leave every half hour. Once you are in Cuernavaca taxis are a great way to get around. Or if you prefer there are several companies who will pick you up at the airport in Mexico City, with prices ranging from $100-$200 USD.
