Mazatlan

Learn more about Mazatlan

A Mexican city on the west coast, Mazatlan offers superb beaches and colourful authenticity. Lagoons with crystal-clear waters set against the mountains of the Sierra Madre form a dream setting in a tropical climate. With 650 000 inhabitants, the city is also the largest port on the Pacific coast. Fishing is a major activity here, with large quantities of shrimp, tuna and marlin, seafood that is then turned into delicious dishes. Located south of the historic centre, the tourist port is the starting point for boat trips and a multitude of water activities. This city in the State of Sinaloa has expanded greatly in recent years while preserving its historic centre, known as « Colonia Centro ». As its name suggests, most of the buildings date from the colonial era.

This historic centre is one of the places to visit, in particular the Piño Juárez central market, steeped in a very Mexican atmosphere. The heart of the city also has an art museum and a theatre where magnificent folk performances are held.

Located about ten kilometres from the historic centre, the « Zona Dorada » and the « Platinium zone » are the newest districts. In the 1950s, the 11 kilometres separating the old town from the Zona Dorada were developed, creating a magnificent seafront promenade. The Malecon is home to the famous annual carnival, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. It is in the Malecon or Zona Dorada areas that it is easiest to find a hotel in Mazatlan offering maximum comfort and quality services.

For a long time, Olas Altas beach was very popular with Hollywood stars, including John Wayne. This beach was indeed a place to relax between two Western scenes shot at the Durango studios.

Activities for all tastes

The activities on offer in Mazatlan are particularly numerous, some more sporty than others. Trimaran trips, snorkelling and big-game fishing offer alternatives to swimming. You can also explore the surrounding jungle aboard a small boat, giving you the opportunity to discover the richness of the fauna and flora.

For the less adventurous, excursions are organised to typical villages in the hinterland. This is an excellent opportunity to discover sublime mountain landscapes and to taste Mexico's most famous spirit: tequila.

A city that also lives at night

Like most cities in the tropical zone, the high daytime temperatures give rise to an intense nightlife. After a day of activities or lazing on the beach, a shower at your hotel in Mazatlan brings invigorating freshness, so you can enjoy an equally lively evening.

As soon as night falls, restaurants and bars fill up with locals and visitors in a naturally heated atmosphere. Street shows or an evening in the air-conditioned space of a nightclub: you are spoilt for choice for a great night out.