Tantima is a municipality situated in the montane central zone of the Mexican state of Veracruz. Located at coordinates 21°20′N 97°50′W, it lies approximately 220 km from the state capital, Xalapa. The municipality covers a total surface area of 267.32 km2.
The settlement is described as an ancient Huasteco village. Its name is derived from the production of trees that yield fruits commonly known as sacuates or jícaras. While the municipality previously encompassed a much larger territory, it was reduced in size during the late 19th century following the creation of the municipalities of Citlaltépetl in 1872 and Tamalín in 1875.