The long, thin desert state of Sinaloa is bordered on one side by the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and the other by high mountains. Within its scrubby, rocky landscape there are dotted pristine beaches and Mazatlan, the ‘Pearl of the Pacific’. It’s a major tourist destination and one of the most beautiful cities in the state. It’s famed for its friendly locals and for hosting a huge carnival event each year, the second biggest in Latin America. To the north you’ll find the cities of Los Mochis and El Fuerte, a colonial treasure trove. And there’s also the starting point of the Copper Canyon railway, one of the most beautiful lines in the world.
Where to Stay in Sinaloa
Mazatlan - A stunning beach resort with great hotel and location of a huge annual carnival. Check out the historic center with its colonial feel and the Zona Dorada, where you’ll find the beach and best restaurants.
El Fuerte - This small but beautiful colonial city is well worth a booking a hotel in. A one time important trading post and state capital, it sits at the head of the Rio Fuerte Valley.
Cosala - Another charming town that has been nicknamed the Pueblo Magico, or Magic Town.
Los Mochis - The gateway to the Copper Canyon Railway, an incredible railway line that runs north through some of the most dramatic scenery in the world.
Culiacan - An underrated destination and the state capital of Sinaloa, this is the place to book a hotel in and experience the Sinaloense culture at its most vibrant.
How to Make the Most of Your Hotel in Sinaloa
Explore the Sinaloa coastline, looking out into the colossal Gulf of California. Discover tourist friendly beaches at Mazatlan and the coastal towns, or be a bit more adventurous and discover pristine beaches all along the coast where you’ll be the only visitor for miles around. Visit Mazatlan during Mardi Gras and see the city explode in a burst of colour and music, at one of the biggest carnivals in the world. Catch a night ferry over to Baja California, one of Mexico’s least populated states or head north to the desert and mountains.
The Copper Canyon Railway is an absolute must, one of the world’s great railway adventures and true bucket list stuff. Experience real Sinaloa culture in Culiacan, the state capital - about as far from the tourist trail as you can get. Wander the colonial gem that is El Fuerte and see the Nahuatl Petroglyphs - stone carvings on the rocks. At Mazatlan, as well as soaking up the sun on the beach and dining out on incredible Mexican cuisine, you can also try out some watersports, including jet skis. Plus, all up the long coastline you’ll find surf schools and some pretty deserted waves for you to try.
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