Cuch Holoch

Cuch Holoch is a fascinating little village in western Yucatan, almost on the very northern border with Campeche. People come today to witness the craft tradition of making jipijapa hats. Based even today on ancestral techniques passed down from generation to generation, the hats are made from the leaves of palm trees. Opened like a fan, after a meticulous process, they get transformed into elegant, cool, and durable head wear. Learning about the entire manufacturing process, guests can book a guided tour, and local artisans explain in detail how the leaf is transformed into a hat. Guests learn about the trees from which the leaves are harvested, appreciate their shape and texture, and learn about the process prior to the weaving.

Hats are actually woven inside a cave! The natural humidity of the environment makes handling the jipijapa strands a little easier. Inside the cave, participants witness the shaping of the crown, template, brim, and rim of the hat. You then get the chance to weave your own! There's no better way to understand the patient work that goes into every hat.

The tour ends in a machine room where the hat's structure is sealed in with a little heat to ensure its firmness and final shape. Guests can then visit the owners' home workshop to see a wide selection of finished hats in an outstanding variety of colors. The tour brings you closer to the living craft and lets every guest appreciate how traditional knowledge gets carried on.

The little town is just a few minutes south of Halacho, the municipal seat. It lies just about directly between the stations of Maxcanú (Yucatan) and Calkini in Campeche. Most guests will arrive from either of the two stations, although to friendly Halacho is not out of the question. 

Contacto: Ponciano Tzuc
Tel. (997) 973 9373