Mazatlán

Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán is one of the top tourist destinations in Sinaloa. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic downtown attract visitors from around the world.

The Malecon, a scenic boardwalk, offers breathtaking views of the ocean, while the Historic Center showcases beautiful colonial architecture and the iconic Angela Peralta Theater.

Mazatlán is also famous for its fresh seafood and exciting water sports.

Isla de la Piedra (Stone Island)

Accessible by a short ferry ride from Mazatlán, Isla de la Piedra is a tranquil island retreat with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Relax under the shade of a palm tree, swim in the warm ocean, or indulge in water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The island is also home to a small fishing village, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.

Culiacán

As the capital city of Sinaloa, Culiacán is a bustling metropolis that offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, visit the Regional History Museum, or stroll through the scenic Las Riberas Park along the banks of the Culiacán River.

Culiacán also hosts the International Film Festival and is a great place to experience the vibrant Sinaloan cuisine.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Culiacán Botanical Garden is a must.

Spanning over 40 hectares, this lush green oasis is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Explore the various themed gardens, walk along the tranquil trails, and marvel at the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers.

The garden also hosts educational programs and exhibitions, making it an ideal destination for families.

El Fuerte

Step back in time and visit El Fuerte, a charming colonial town that preserves its rich history. The Plaza de Armas, with its picturesque gardens and colonial architecture, is the heart of the town.

Explore the El Fuerte Museum, take a boat ride along the El Fuerte River, or hop on the famous Chepe train to experience the Copper Canyon, one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders.

Los Mochis

Situated in the northern part of Sinaloa, Los Mochis is the gateway to the Copper Canyon and an excellent base for exploring the region. Visit Topolobampo Bay, a picturesque port town known for its stunning beaches and seafood.

Take a day trip from Los Mochis to the charming village of El Fuerte or embark on a memorable adventure aboard the Chepe train, which winds its way through breathtaking canyons and mountainous landscapes.

Topolobampo

Located on the Gulf of California, Topolobampo is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the rugged beauty of the surrounding Sierra Madre Occidental mountains or embark on a boat tour to experience the stunning marine life and pristine beaches.

Don’t miss the chance to savor the fresh seafood delicacies that the region is renowned for.

Mocorito

Known as the “City of Flowers,” Mocorito is a charming colonial town renowned for its beautiful architecture and traditional charm.

Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the historic Hidalgo Plaza, and admire the picturesque colonial houses. Mocorito is also famous for its gastronomy, particularly its delicious pork dishes and artisanal sweets.

Navolato

Located just north of Culiacán, Navolato is a coastal town with stunning beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Relax on the golden sands of Altata Beach, take a boat ride through the picturesque estuaries, or sample the fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

Navolato is also known for its vibrant carnival celebrations, featuring colorful parades, music, and dancing.

 

The city was founded in 1563 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Ibarra, the first explorer of the lofty Sierra Madre Occidental mountains.

In 1610 a fort was built to ward off the fierce Zuaque and Tehueco Native Americans, who constantly harassed the Spaniards.

For years, El Fuerte served as the gateway to the vast frontiers of the northern territories of Sonora, Arizona and California, all of which were sparsely populated by unyielding tribes of native amerindians.

For nearly three centuries it was the most important commercial and agricultural center of the vast northwestern region of Mexico. El Fuerte was a chief trading post for silver miners and gold seekers from the Urique and Batopilas mines in the nearby mountains of the Sierra Madre Occidental and its branches.

In 1824, El Fuerte became the capital city of the newly created Mexican state of Sonora y Sinaloa (reaching up deep into modern-day Arizona). It remained the capital for several years until the split of this state into the states of Sinaloa and Sonora.

Tourism remains a major industry in town, although it has been diminished in recent years by tourists being wary of Mexican drug cartel violence in other parts of Sinaloa; however, violence declined by 2013 from a high in 2011.

El Fuerte has several holidays and local “Fiestas” which are celebrated with pageants, “Ferias” and the like.

Several hotels cater to hunters and fishermen, who hunt (deer, boar, wild hog, wild goat, rabbit, armadillo, a variety of snakes) in the foothills or fish in the nearby Rio Fuerte river which runs on the northwest part of the town’s commercial district.

There are also local petroglyphs a short distance from the downtown.

The city also serves as a gateway to the popular Barranca de Cobre (Copper Canyon) situated in the nearby state of Chihuahua. There are no easily travelled roads to the Copper Canyon from west of the Sierra Madre Occidental.

Visitors usually take the Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico railway, whose local station is a few miles south of town. The route is on the Chihuahua-Pacific Railroad, or ChePe, which passes through the scenic Copper Canyon, from Chihuahua, Chihuahua to the northeast, to Los Mochis, Sinaloa, near the Gulf of California, to the southwest.

The town is also served by El Fuerte Airport.

You can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.

Or dial the toll-free (in Mexico) number 01-800-006-8839.

You can also request information to the email correspondencia@sectur.gob.mx

MORE EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

General Information: 040 (not free)

SNational Emergency Service: 911

Radio Patrols: 066
Police (Emergency): 060
Civil Protection: +52(55)5683-2222
Anonymous Complaint: 089

Setravi (Transport Mobility): +52(55)5209-9913
Road Emergency: 074

Cruz Roja: 065 o +52(55)5557-5757
Firefighters: 068 o +52(55)5768-3700