IMPORTANT FACTS
Admitted as a state in 1824, Tamaulipas has an area of 30,956 square miles. It is home to a population of 3,324,823 people. Noted for its manufacturing industry, the state also boasts a great deal of agriculture. The state is divided into forty-three municipalities. The Tropic of Cancer traverses the state as it crosses through the northern region of the capital. Aside from Victoria and Reynosa, other important cities in Tamaulipas include Matamoros, Tampico, and Nuevo Laredo.
GEOGRAPHY AND LANDSCAPE
As one of the larger states of Mexico, Tamaulipas features a diverse topography characterized by various ecosystems. The coastal areas are dominated by pasturelands as well as some dry flatlands that are home to many cactus plants. Mountain lions, ocelots, and badgers can be found in this part of the state. The Southeastern portion of the state is characterized by peaks and valleys of the Sierra Madre range. Major rivers of Tamaulipas include the Rio Grande, Purificacion, and Guayalejo. Most of Tamaulipas boasts a semi-dry to dry climate; however, the region surrounding the Huasteca Mountains is known for its hot and humid climate. Moreover, Tamaulipas boasts rich natural beauty that makes it a picturesque backdrop for vacationers who desire a more eco-friendly experience.
TOURISM
Tamaulipas has extraordinary natural and cultural attractions. As a border state, it receives many visitors from the U.S. From eco-activities to hunting lands, to Gulf Coast beaches, the state is well-known for its tourist destinations. Both city and state attractions add to the many charms of this region. Hotels, museums, restaurants, and exciting activities make the state a great place to vacation.
The capital is located in western-central Tamaulipas and lies slightly to the north of the Tropic of Cancer. The city is noted as a bird watcher’s paradise; there are some 400 species of migratory birds that visit the area of the capital. Many adventuresome tourists base their Tamaulipas visit in Victoria because of its proximity to great fishing, hunting, and hiking grounds.
REYNOSA
One of the fastest-growing cities in Mexico and the largest metropolitan area of Tamaulipas, Reynosa is a border city situated on the Rio Grande located directly across from Hidalgo, Texas. Hallmarks of the city include its banda music and corridos, delicious grilled cuisine, and shopping promenades. The city celebrates many popular attractions including the Reynosa Cathedral, Plaza of the Republic, and Reynosa History Museum.
TAMPICO
This southeastern port city is one of the state’s most vibrant and important destinations. The city boasts notable architecture, especially its many New Orleans-style terraces and balconies and plenty of fresh seafood. As a city of international repute well known for its tourist activities like fishing and water sports, Tampico is a sunny destination that regularly greets visitors from all over the world.
OTHER THINGS TO SEE AND DO
The Tamaulipas region has a wealth of things to offer, from well-traveled tourist sites to hidden gems that are known to the locals but largely unknown to anyone else. If you work hard enough, you can uncover those hidden treasures, as well as the warmth and welcoming nature of the Mexican people. Here are some of the upcoming events in the Tamaulipas region, so you can start planning your Mexican getaway right now.
EL CIELO BIOSPHERE
El Cielo Biosphere Ecological Reserve: Regarded as one of the nation’s hidden gems, this reserve boasts four separate ecological systems and attracts eco-tourists with its myriad of flora and fauna. The landscape is famous for its cascades, caverns, and sinkholes.
SOMBRERO FESTIVAL
Even if you know nothing about Mexico and its culture, you will surely recognize this iconic hat. Now you can attend the annual Sombrero festival, held every February in the twin border cities of Matamoros< Mexico and Brownsville, Texas. And while the sombrero may provide the impetus, this celebration is more about fostering friendship and exploring cross-border cultural opportunities. Whether you are traveling in Mexico for a month, a week, or just a day, this annual celebration is well worth your time.
CHARRO DAYS
With so many things to see and do, the Tamaulipas is a rich vein of fun for any traveler. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Mexico or have been there dozens of times, you will surely have a great time.
If you think that cowboys and Indian culture are just about the American West, you have another thing coming. Every resident of Mexico knows that cowboy culture thrived south of the border. And talents like riding and roping have not gone out of style in the 21st century. When you visit the Tamaulipas region, you can enjoy the best cowboy culture on both sides of the border. All of this is courtesy of the annual Charro Days celebration. Part rodeo, part parade, and all fun, you and your traveling companions are sure to have a great time.
- Casamata Museum: Located in Matamoros, this museum showcases the turbulent history of both the city and state.
- Turtles of Playa Tesoro: This beach is famous for its population of sea turtles. Locals have created a nursery to assist migrating turtles during the breeding season.
- Sport Fishing: Many people visit Tamaulipas for its fine sport fishing. With its seaside cities and towns, there are many places to consider. The most popular municipalities feature freshwater fishing opportunities as well as excursions out into the Gulf.
- Matamoros: Situated on the Mexican-American border, this vibrant city is filled with many historic monuments and cultural attractions. Its cathedral and theater are among its most important historical sites.
- Hunting Grounds: Hunting is immensely popular in Tamaulipas. Although seriously regulated, there are many ranches and grounds throughout the state where hunting is a popular tourist activity.
- Gulf of Mexico Beaches: Tamaulipas has over 250 miles of coastline, so it isn’t surprising that is beaches are popular tourist draws to the state. Some favorite beaches among tourists include Miramar and Bagdad. Beach areas also tend to boast popular markets where traditional handcrafts are sold.
- Nuevo Laredo: An important border city, Nuevo Laredo is celebrated for its arts and crafts available at its many markets and shops. It’s also famous for its hunting tours and Mexican rodeos.
Plan a trip to Tamulipas
Medical service (24) ($) •Room service (24hrs) • Free parking • etc
