Hola! I'm Angela 👋 a local certified Teotihuacan tour guide, and someone who's visited the pyramids more times than I can count!
One of the questions I get a LOT before tours...
"Angela, what should I wear to Teotihuacan?"
So if you're packing and not sure what to bring...
...you're in the right place!
The Short Answer
- ✅ Shoes: Closed-toe, comfortable walking shoes
- ✅ Clothing: It depends on the season, but when it's warm - light breathable layers, MAYBE shorts or lightweight pants if you're sensitive to the sun, t-shirt/light long sleeve shirt (to protect yourself from the sun), and a sweater for the morning... for winter you might want to bring a jacket.
- ✅ Sun protection: Hat with a brim, SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses
- ✅ Bag: Small daypack with 2+ liters of water, snacks, camera
- ❌ Don't wear: Sandals, flip-flops, heels, anything white you don't want getting dust on.
Now let me explain WHY for each one...
Why Wear Shoes Not Sandals At Teotihuacan
The site is NOT paved.
And The Avenue of the Dead, the pyramid steps, and the paths between structures are all uneven volcanic rock and compacted earth.
People in sandals make it, but it's not fun. And they slow everyone down on the stairs.
So, wear sneakers or light hiking shoes with rubber grip soles.
And AVOID sandals, flip-flops, and of course heels of any kind.
And if you're planning to climb the Pyramid of the Moon, grip matters. The steps are steep and worn smooth in places.
Clothing: Dress for Two Temperatures
On my tours, pickup starts at 6:30 AM. And at that hour, Mexico City and the road to Teotihuacan can be a little cool around 15 to18°C (about 59 to 64°F).
But by 10 AM on the site, you'll be taking layers off.
So I recommend:
- Light t-shirt or moisture-wicking top as your base
- Light jacket, zip-up, or sweater for the van ride and early morning
- Shorts or lightweight pants (linen or really anything that breathes)
What doesn't work:
- ❌ Jeans because they're heavy, hot, and restrictive on the pyramid steps
- ❌ Dark colors in summer because it gets HOT and is sunny at the pyramids.
- ❌ Anything you'd be upset about getting dusty or sweaty
For women specifically: tank tops, shorts, and athletic wear are all completely fine BUT make sure to bring sunscreen if you're going to use a tank top.
Sun Protection: This is CRITICAL!
There's basically NO shade at the Teotihuacan Pyramids.
So you really do need sunscreen (SPF 50), maybe some sunglasses, and ideally a hat of some kind too.
Because Teotihuacan is 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) in altitude. So the sun is intense even on overcast days.
(that's why on my tours, we pick you up at 6:30 AM and arrive at 8:00 AM... because the weather between 10 AM and 2 PM will end your visit early if you're not prepared)
What to Carry
A small daypack, bookbag, or crossbody bag is enough.
I'd Recommend:
- Water (at LEAST 2 liters per person). On my tours we stop in the morning to buy water and snacks.
- Snacks (my tours include lunch around noon too, but it's a long morning)
- Sunscreen
- Phone or camera
- Some extra cash (if you want to buy souvenirs, etc)
Leave behind: Your passport and anything valuable you don't need. No reason to bring them.
What to Wear for the Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon
If you're doing the hot air balloon tour, same rules apply — but with two additions:
Closed-toe shoes are required by balloon operators. No exceptions, no sandals.
An extra warm layer is essential. Because the pickup is before 5 AM, and the balloon flights depart around sunrise, and you're outside at 6:00 AM, open air, at altitude. So it can be cold especially in the winter months. I recommend a heavy sweatshirt or jacket, depending on the month.
People Also Ask
Is there a dress code for Teotihuacan?
No, there's no formal dress code at all. Wear what's practical and comfortable. Shorts, tank tops, athletic wear are all completely fine.
Can you bring a bag into Teotihuacan?
Yes! Bags go through a security check at the entrance.You can't bring alcohol or anything like that in, so don't try.
What should women wear to the pyramids?
Whatever is comfortable and practical... shorts, leggings, athletic wear, a sundress with good walking shoes. I'd recommend closed-toe shoes, sun protection, and breathable fabric.
How cold does it get at Teotihuacan in the morning?
Early morning (6:30–8:00 AM) typically ranges from 14 to 18°C (57 to 64°F) in the dry season. By midday it can reach 25 to 30°C (77 to 86°F) and the sun is HOT there. A packable jacket you can tie around your waist handles both without the bulk.
Anyways, I hope that answered your questions!
If you have any other questions about what to bring or about visiting Teotihuacan in general... let me know in the comments!
Happy travels,
Angela
P.S. If you DO want to join one of my tours, click here to book now! I'll personally make sure you have the best time and yes, I'll remind you to bring sunscreen 😄
