Visiting San Cristobal de las Casas in Mexico and looking to experience a traditional temazcal? This short guide recommends an authentic temazcal at Nahual-Ha, along with how you can prepare and what to expect from the experience.
Initially, I came across the term “temazcal” in conversations with friends at my coliving (shoutout to Co.404 Coliving). I was certain it was an experience I didn’t want to experience as they described it as one of the most challenging experiences of their life.
But as weeks progressed, it kept coming up in conversation, and I saw posters dotted about the city; I was intrigued and decided to give it a go. It’s safe to say I was feeling a little nervous when I reached the temazcal on a chilly Saturday morning, but I also felt mentally prepared.
What is temazcal?: a brief description
A temazcal is a traditional steam bath or sauna used for therapeutic and ritual purposes. Originating from indigenous cultures in Mexico and Central America, such as the Aztecs and Mayans, temazcal is typically a small, dome-shaped structure made of natural materials like stone, adobe, or wood.
Inside, heated volcanic stones are placed in a pit, and water is poured over them to produce steam. The person who leads the ceremony is called a shaman or healer.
The benefits? Well, temazcal is believed to have physical and spiritual benefits, including detoxification, relaxation, and purification.
where to Experience temazcal in san cristobal de las casas?
There are plenty of temazcal ceremonies to attend in San Cristobal de las Casas, all with their unique way of doing temazcal.
Temazcal Ceremonies in San Cristobal de las Casas:
- Every other Saturday at 12pm, Nahual-Ha, Alternative Medicine Center and Spa (we attended and 10/10 would recommend).
- Sundays 12pm, Montaña de Don Lauro. You can find more information on FB here – Don Lauro de la Cruz – Hombre Medicina.
-
Tuesdays, Puerta Vieja Hostel | explained in English but I think you need to be a guest. Pop in for more details!
We attended the temazcal ceremony at Nahual-ha which hosts a traditional Mayan temazcal every other Saturday. After speaking to other travellers about their experience with temazcal, I realised that our experience at Nahual-ha’s was more authentic and didn’t try to cater to tourists. Only Spanish and the local language, Tzotzil, were spoken in the ceremony.
We paid 200 pesos (€10) for a 2hr session, which I think is a fair and standard price.
What to expect from a temazcal ceremony in San Cristobal?
During the ceremony, you’ll sit inside a small dome-shaped traditional sweat lodge. In the centre of the dome, they’ll be a pit of hot volcanic rocks, called abuelas (grandmother stones) which the shaman will pour hot water over.
The ceremony has four parts. After each part (lasting around 20-30 minutes), you’ll have the opportunity to exit for some air or to stop entirely. At the start of each part, more stones are added to the centre, meaning the lodge will increase in temperature. By the final part of the ceremony, the heat will be very intense.
You’ll sing songs, chant, and meditate throughout the ceremony using drums and other percussion instruments. The ceremony will finish with a cold water cleanse followed by fruits and water. In total, it’ll be 2hrs.
The heat will be intense, but afterwards, if you manage to push through until the end, you’ll feel so fresh and truly humbled by the experience.
What to bring with you to a temazcal ceremony?
- Lots of water: drink lots of water the day before, during and after the temazcal ceremony. It’s really important to be hydrated going into it.
- Fruit: although many temazcal ceremonies offer fruit, bringing some for the group to share is polite.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes and bikini/trunks.
- Take out facial piercings: the temperature goes up to 100c. I don’t need to say anymore!
Ok, now its time for you to give it a try! Like I said, I was hesitant at first to attend a temazcal ceremony, but once I did, I was so appreciative of the unique experience.
As always, I’m here if you have any further questions about experiencing temazcal in San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico.
