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| Sinaloa Travel Guide |
Version Español |
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| Hotels, restaurants, travel services, tourist attractions, videos, maps, climate, etc. |
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| SINALOA TOURIST INFORMATION / TOURISM IN SINALOA |
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As the capital of the state that is also known as "the granary of Mexico" for its agricultural production, Culiacan is considered the commercial, political, and social center of the state. The city is bathed by three rivers, two of which are the Humaya and the Tamazula, meet within the urban area and form the Culiacan River.
With well irrigated lands, it is not surprising that Culiacan is so fertile. Its privileged location in the center of Sinaloa gives it the advantage of being almost equidistant from two of the most important urban centers in the state: Los Mochis to the north and Mazatlan to the south.
Culiacan's hydrological richness is administered by way important dams such as the Adolfo Lopez Mateos and the Sanalona, which is also a recreational spot for fishing and other relaxing activities. The city also has, as a distinctive feature, an active cultural and artistic lifestyle, with numerous museums, theaters and concert halls.
Featuring a past that dates back to the indigenous groups that inhabited the region from pre-Columbian times, the city presents an outstanding ethnic diversity due to the variety of foreign groups that arrived to the state after the Colonial period. There is an evident and truly remarkable influence of these groups in local cuisine and the arts.
Although the first phases of the foundation of the city date back to the 16th century, after the arrival of the Spaniards to Mexico, Culiacan began to acquire its urban character in 1823, when by decree it was granted the status of city and was made the capital of Sinaloa. Architecturally, most of the monumental buildings were constructed between 1890 and 1911. However, some of the old colonial structures still exist and are very well preserved, thus being a popular attraction for tourists and locals.
The exceptional warmth of the "Culichi" (as the locals like to be called) becomes evident in the numerous festivities and celebrations that take place in the city, including age-old traditions and typical dances accompanied by the "tambora", the most representative rhythm of the local folklore.
The city is situated in the heart of a highly productive and prosperous agricultural area that is known worldwide for its rich valley. This is why agriculture plays a fundamental role in Culiacan's economy. Since the construction of a strong hydraulic infrastructure, the city created a bond with international markets through the export of tomato, pumpkin, chili, cucumber, potato, melon, watermelon and mango. The city also supplies the national market with sugar and grains, like beans and corn.
The climate of the city is mainly hot with a high level of humidity, especially during summer, thus featuring a perfect temperature for agriculture. Likewise, there is a growing manufacturing industry in Culiacan, with food production as well as several textile-manufacturing plants and bottling factories. Fishing and livestock breeding are also important economic activities of the city.
The beauty of its territory and its surroundings are complemented by its abundant natural resources and the warm hospitality of the locals, which proudly state, ''in Culiacan, besides fruits and vegetables, we harvest smiles!"
The city's commercial lifestyle becomes evident not only in its large number of shopping malls and supermarkets, but also in the volume of operations in the automotive market (in fact, Culiacan is one of the cities with more cars per capita in the world.)
A large number of companies, mainly national, have their headquarters in Culiacan, including restaurant chains, medical conglomerates, manufacturing companies, department stores, etc.
For the last several years, Culiacan has become an ideal venue for international groups and conventions. For that reason, the city features excellent logistic and promotional services that guarantee excellent organization and implementation for any kind of event. The city's fast, socioeconomic development makes it a paradise also for private enterprises to invest, becoming an ideal destination for vacationing and doing business.
A myriad of national and international events are held in Culiacan, like expositions, conventions and fairs of every kind, including academic, sports, cultural, religious, commercial, scientific, artistic, philanthropic, etc. For example, the city holds annually an international expo on agricultural food activities, which is considered the foremost event of its kind in the world.
Whatever the reasons of your visit to Culiacan are, your stay will be so pleasant and successful that you are very likely to fall in love with this city and its people. Visit Culiacan and discover why it is said that here, doing business is a pleasure! |
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- HOTELS
- ATTRACTIONS
- RESTAURANTS
- NIGHTLIFE
- SHOPPING
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Hotel Posada del Hidalgo Sinaloa 
Address: Hidalgo y 5 de Mayo Centro. Los Mochis, Sinaloa
Location: Sinaloa | Map View |
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Hotel Fiesta Inn Culiacan
Address: J. Diego Valadez 1676 Pte, Desarrollo Urbano Tres RÃos, Culiacá
Location: Sinaloa | Map View |
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Hotel Executivo Culiacan
Address: Bulevar Francisco I. Madero, Culiacán
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Hotel Monterreal Culiacan
Address: Cristobal Colon 970 OTE, Las Vegas. Culiacán, Sinalo
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Hotel San Marcos Culiacan
Address: Av Alvaro Obregón 51 Norte, Culiacán
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Hotel Los Tres Rios Culiacan
Address: Blvd. Jose Limon 910 Norte, Desarrollo 3 Rios. Culiacán, Sinaloa
Location: Sinaloa | Map View |
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Hotel Lucerna Culiacán
Address: Blvr Diego Valadéz #99, Desarrollo Tres RÃos, Culiacán
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Hotel Microtel Inn & Suites Culiacan
Address: Blvr Pedro Infante #2525 Pte, Culiacán
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Hotel Ramada Hola Culiacan
Address: Juan Carrasco 606 norte, esq Rosales, Culiacán
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Hotel San Luis Lindavista Culiacan
Address: Rio Sinaloa #1, Guadalupe. Culiacán
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Hotel Zar Culiacan 
Address: Blvr Jesús Kumate RodrÃguez 4700 Sur, Col Ejido Las Flores, Culiacán
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| TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SINALOA / PLACES TO VISIT IN SINALOA |
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Culiacan Cathedral
The cathedral's construction began in 1842, but it wasn't completed until 1885. This enormous structure exhibits an eclectic style, including both neoclassic and baroque features.
A statue of Saint Michael the Archangel stands above the clock on the beautiful crest of the main facade. This Cathedral, located beside the Main Square, is the city's most important religious building.
Genaro Estrada Cultural Center
In the mid 1960's, the state created this center to promote cultural activities such as dance, cinema and literature. It houses a colossal theater, which boasts the most advanced technical equipment in Mexico and is used by several theater, dance and musical companies from all over the country.
This Center is also home to an art school, a huge library, a movie theater, a gallery that includes Diego Rivera murals and an open-air performance space.
Science Center of Sinaloa
The Science Center of Sinaloa, in Culiacan, allows you to discover many different roads that lead to technological and scientific knowledge. It offers an adventure full of surprises, where you can find fascinating answers to the most interesting questions. Enjoy the experience of seeing, hearing, touching, experimenting, discussing, and questioning as well as interacting with technology.
Here you can find the fifth biggest meteorite in the world, learn to read the time on an equatorial sundial, take an imaginary trip to the stars in the planetarium or be amazed by a giant whale skeleton. Inside the Science Center of Sinaloa, visit the regular library as well as the video library. Browse through the gift shop and eat at the charming restaurant that offers delicious breakfasts, lunches and desserts. Get ready to discover the amazing world of science and technology!
Guadalupe Sanctuary
The Guadalupe Sanctuary Temple, best known as "La Lomita," was built in the 19th century but it was remodeled about the middle of the 20th century to become the great edifice we know today. The temple's interior is adorned with five beautiful stained glass windows featuring images of Our Lady of Guadalupe. From the temple's handrails, you will be able to behold a magnificent view of Culiacan, a postcard image to keep in your memory.
Sinaloa Art Museum
Built in Culiacan in the early 19th century, this property was originally the City Hall and later became the city's police department. This neoclassic building was restored in 1991 and then transformed into an outstanding art museum that exhibits works by Diego Rivera, Jose Clemente Orozco, Atanasio Vargas, Gerardo Murillo "Dr. Atl", Francisco Toledo and Rufino Tamayo, among others.
Nuevo Altata
Nuevo Altata is a recently developed tourist destination located about 40 minutes from Culiacan, on the shores of the Sea of Cortez. With more than 20 kilometers of beautiful beaches, Nuevo Altata is a world-class resort where you can enjoy a perfect day of leisure, rest, fun and revel in delicious dishes. Here you can find an excellent beach club, restaurant, swimming pools, water sports, and recreational activities for both kids and adults.
Hunting
In recent years, the city has experienced a boom in hunting tourism, now being an internationally renowned destination for the hunting of duck, quail and dove.
The hunting season in Culiacan goes from November to the first weeks of March. Not far from the city, you can find excellent hunting clubs like Patolandia and La Pichiguila, which offer first-class services to hunters from Mexico and around the world. The natural beauty of the region allows the fans of this sport to enjoy an exclusive hunting experience, in an atmosphere that would please even the most discerning hunter.
Imala-Sanalona Ecotourist Corridor
Located about 20 minutes from Culiacan, Imala is a small town famous for an area with hot springs, regional dining options and a spa that offers several relaxing treatments. Due to its location near the city and its family atmosphere, it is an excellent choice for spending time in a natural setting. Since it is located near the Sanalona Dam, it is easy to go fishing or enjoy a peaceful boat ride here.
The Imala-Sanalona Ecotourist Corridor is, in short, a perfect option to enjoy a picnic in the surrounding area of Culiacan.
Botanical Garden
This is one of the attractions you can not miss out on while in Culiacan. The Botanical Garden features a large selection of plants of all kinds so you can take a stroll around the lush greenery, breathing pure air and enjoying a relaxing moment in a place full of life and magic. Due to its extensive variety of species, the Botanical Garden of Culiacan is one of the most important of its kind in the country, featuring plant life from almost every corner of Mexico.
You can find some extraordinary flora, such as the "walking" tree, the "bleeding" plant and other exotic species from different climates, from the rainforest to the desert. The garden also offers different kinds of guided tours, so you can become acquainted with the flora living in this 25-acre garden.
City Zoo
The Zoo of Culiacan is a fascinating attraction for all the people visiting the city, specially the little ones. There is a great variety of animals here, including some endangered species. There are also guided tours available and a charming child-sized train as well as a soda fountain and other services.
The Zoo is located within an enormous park called Constitucion Civic Center, where there are several recreational options, including a museum, an amphitheater, swimming pools and sports center.
Parks of Culiacan
Culiacan features a large number of parks and green areas that are perfect for tourists and locals to spend a relaxing time. Some of these parks are very large, such as the Parque Ernesto Millan Escalante, also known as Culiacan 87. This park offers countless activities and services within its facilities, including swimming pools, gardens, sports center, amusement park rides and an artificial lake where you can enjoy a boat ride. This recreational area also has a huge water slide considered the longest in northern Mexico, as well as an outdoor theater.
Other parks you can visit in the city include the Parque Revolucion and the Constitucion Civic Center, which houses the city zoo. With a great number of activities and recreational facilities, the parks of Culiacan are a fun choice for kids and a relaxing getaway for adults.
Water Parks
A few minutes from the city you can find oases to spend a wonderful time either alone or accompanied. Since Culiacan features hot weather and sunny, cloudless skies during most of the year, the city has excellent water parks in its surrounding areas, just a few minutes from the urban area.
These parks offer swimming pools with water slides, playgrounds, green areas, gardens to hold events, eating facilities and gift shops, everything surrounded by lush, beautiful greenery. During your visit to Culiacan, the water parks of the city are a refreshing option to have fun, especially when traveling with kids.
Tram Rides
Next to the Cathedral, on several occasions during the day and even during part of the night, you can enjoy an entertaining city tour on a traditional vehicle that visits the most representative tourist attractions in Culiacan.
During the tour, you will receive interesting explanations about different places, events, and dates as well as important facts about the city. Enjoying a tour around the city is a fun, special way to see more of the tourist attractions of Culiacan. |
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| RESTAURANTS IN SINALOA / PLACES TO EAT IN SINALOA |
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El Farallon
El Farallon, which means ''the outcrop'', is Mexican seafood at its best. Since 1961, it has been a firm favorite in northern Sinaloa and now they also have another restaurant in the city of Los Mochis. El Farallon is renowned for its tender scallops, octopus cocktails, shrimp topped with a Thai almond sauce, the ''Zarandeado'' fish dishes, and the supreme Tokio stuffed squid, among many other dishes.
Italianni's
Decorated to recreate an old Italian family restaurant, Italianni's is a restaurant where the colors of the dark wood, the checked table cloths and the soft lighting create a sense of culture, traditions and heritage typical of the Italian people. Be ready to share generous portions and enjoy the authentic ''homemade'' flavor of the best traditional recipes of Italy, in Culiacan. At Italianni's, every meal is a celebration of life!
La Mariposa Amarilla
The name means ''yellow butterfly'' and this charming restaurant is well known in Culiacan as the restaurant with Sinaloan grandmothers' kitchen flair, because it still serves the best traditional cuisine in the state.
La Mariposa Amarilla is located in a wonderful rural area, and there is even a stream running by where entire families of ducks swim and bathe in the sun without worry because they know the main dishes of the restaurant are made of beef and fish, accompanied by tasty fresh salads. Whether for a family lunch or a gathering of friends this restaurant is ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy authentic regional cuisine and a natural, relaxing environment.
Los Arcos
Los Arcos' history began in 1977, with the establishment of its first restaurant in Culiacan. Nowadays, Los Arcos has branches throughout the whole country, the majority being in northern Mexico.
The main goal of the restaurant is to provide high quality, great tasting regional cuisine. Los Arcos' menu is based around seafood and it is distinguished by its high quality, freshness and variety. Friends and clients of Los Arcos say that it is the best Mexican food in the country. Without a doubt, it is a fantastic dining option in Culiacan.
Mezzosole
Located in the Lucerna Culiacan Hotel, Mezzosole is well known as one of the best restaurants in the city. Mezzosole offers delicious international cuisine in an exclusive atmosphere with professional attentive service.
Although the restaurant specializes in Italian cuisine, it also serves regional dishes, which can be accompanied by the superb variety of beverages available at the Mezzosole Bar. Elegant and sophisticated, this restaurant is the ideal place to have a romantic dinner and their wine list really is second to none.
Palomar de los Pobres
With an emphasis on meat dishes, Palomar de los Pobres is one of the most traditional restaurants in Culiacan. The name means "dovecote of the poor" because when the restaurant opened over 40 years ago in a humble house, anyone in need could ask for a free, hot bean soup. Currently, this family-run restaurant chain still features that distinctive specialty. In fact, all meals are served with a bean soup that is carried to the tables in a ceramic pot to keep it hot. Along with the beans, you will get some crispy, golden tortillas that 'crackle' with every bite. Simply irresistible!
Panama Restaurant and Bakery
With more than 30 years of experience in Culiacan, this family run business offers a great assortment of dishes, authentic homemade-flavor and friendly efficient service, which has distinguished them since the very beginning. The restaurant also features an extensive assortment of sweet bread from the bakery, the tastiest sandwiches and a huge variety of exquisite French pies with exotic flavors.
Thanks to the excellent flavors, the casual atmosphere and its long established tradition, the Panama Restaurant and Bakery is always packed with loyal clients. Fortunately, there are several of these restaurants around the city, so for sure you can stop by one during your visit to Culiacan, no matter where you are staying in the city.
QuinMart
QuinMart is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Culiacan. The owners have several branches and a great reputation for serving delicious, reasonably priced food that has made it one of the favorites among the locals. They serve exquisite home-style breakfasts, lunches and dinners as well as an incredible selection of delectable desserts. You have to try their curd tamales and chocolate donuts, delicious!
Tai Pak
This is one of the best Chinese restaurants in Culiacan, serving traditional specialties seasoned to perfection. Enjoy from classic dishes like spring rolls and stir-fry to sweet and sour chicken wings and Cantonese specialties.
Whatever your choice may be, Tai Pak always prepares each dish to order using the freshest ingredients. Excellent service and a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere await you at any of this restaurant's branches. Discover why Tai Pak is synonymous with distinctive authentic Chinese flavor!
Sushi Factory
With several branches in Culiacan and other cities in Mexico, this successful chain of Japanese restaurants offers a variety of creatively presented tasty dishes prepared with high quality ingredients.
Besides offering the classic sushi rolls and the all time favorite Japanese specialties, Sushi Factory has also created special dishes to meet the whims of the locals, including the "Guamuchilito" roll, which includes octopus, shrimp, crab, a sauce made of eel and a special seasoning called Guamuchilito; it's a real taste sensation! |
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| NIGHTLIFE IN SINALOA / BARS & CLUBS |
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The Dancing Fountain
If you are out in Culiacan for the evening, then make sure you take the time to watch the incredible dancing fountain. When the music starts, some spectators dance while others just enjoy the show.
There is a comfortable outdoor area that accommodates 300 people, where you can sit on benches or artificial rocks. Once the water is flying, you will be amazed by the sudden changes in the musical rhythm and the images you see and you'll probably find yourself wondering how this system works. What we can say is that these fountains use a hydraulic system, computers, lights and audio software to create perfect synchrony. There are only four fountains like this in the world, located in Las Vegas, Santiago, Geneva and Culiacan.
O' Lydia Discoteque
With over 10 years as the biggest discotheque in northwest Mexico, known as ''The Pyramid of Everlasting Fun'' and with a capacity for up to 1200 people, O' Lydia Discoteque is still the most popular nightclub, in Culiacan. The decor features details that resemble the pyramid of the Goddess Keops, creating an atmosphere that transports you to an Egypt of old. The DJ mixes are excellent not only for dancing but also for singing along to, and partying at O' Lydia Discoteque is so popular with the locals that it gets really packed every weekend. Don't forget to make a reservation!
Penthouse Klub
One of the most amazing places in Culiacan is called the Penthouse Klub, which is always packed with the 'beautiful' people of Culiacan. The light show is spectacular, the DJs are outstanding and the atmosphere is out of this world. Go at the weekend and discover what makes this place so special. You will be amazed!
Kuwa
Kuwa is much more than an excellent club with superb music. What makes Kuwa so special is that they constantly have live music by popular Latin singers and bands. Events that attract famous people from Culiacan are also held here. Do not forget to go to Kuwa when visiting the fantastic city!
Dolce
Culiacan night clubsThis is one of the newest nightclubs in Culiacan. It has modern sound and lighting systems and it is decorated in an original, avant-garde style with an atmosphere comparable to the best clubs in the world. For those reasons, Dolce is one of the most popular clubs in Culiacan with the hundreds of locals that gather here each weekend to have fun and enjoy the atmosphere. Nightlife has never been better!
Bilbao
Bilbao is one of the largest, most popular clubs in Culiacan. This cool club ensures an exciting night out if dancing and partying with friends is what you are after. Bilbao has excellent beverages and regularly offers different promos like 'open bar' or 'no cover', to draw in the crowds. Many events are held here as well, such as the International DJ Festival.
Shooter's Ultra Lounge
Shooter's is a club ideal for those who want a more relaxing evening out. It features soft background music that allows people to enjoy a drink while still being able to have a good conversation. It has a relaxed lounge style atmosphere and often has a live band play. Shooter's is a great place for anyone searching for a quieter night out.
Casa Trova
This bar is one of the favorites with the residents of Culiacan. People of all ages visit Casa Trova for an entertaining evening; the adults relaxing with a few beers and enjoying the fun filled atmosphere as the live band play a great selection of music. Come and discover why Casa Trova has such a great reputation in Culiacan. |
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| SHOPPING IN SINALOA / WHERE TO BUY IN SINALOA |
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Mercado Garmendia
A visit to the colorful markets of Culiacan, such as Garmendia Market, an architectural jewel in itself, is like an open window to the culture of the community. Here you will find the most unique items ranging from handicrafts, clothes and footwear to delicious traditional food. This will definitely be an experience to remember.
Plaza Comercial Forum
In the newest part of the city, Plaza Comercial Forum is considered one of the most beautiful and important buildings in the state of Sinaloa. In fact, this shopping mall helps make Culiacan one of the 15 most important metropolitan areas in the whole of Mexico.
At the Plaza's main entrance, an imposing fountain 12 meters high and covered with a Venetian mosaic welcomes the visitors, while outdoors extensive gardens provide beautiful scenery and fresh air for a relaxing walk. Inside the mall, fine stores display the latest trends in fashion.
Cocomex
Cocomex is the first crocodile farm established in northwest Mexico and it is considered the largest and most modern farm of its kind in the country. Cocomex is dedicated to breeding crocodiles and the sale of products, including decorative items and leather goods such as purses, belts and wallets.
You can also buy crocodile meat, an exotic dish with less fat and cholesterol than chicken, as well as crocodile oil, a strong protection against respiratory diseases. But if what you want is to keep a ''living'' memory of Culiacan and the Cocomex farm, you can buy a small crocodile as a pet. Along with the animal, you will receive all the documentation and permits that prove that the crocodile comes from a legally established farm.
If you visit the farm, which is located less than 13 miles from Culiacan, between October and April you will have the opportunity to take a guided tour around the facilities and learn more about the crocodile's life and the activities carried out in the farm.
Cocomex has over 25,000 crocodiles bred in captivity, in a setting that simulates their natural environment. An annual percentage of the crocodiles are sent to areas in the world where they are endangered, thus helping contribute to the conservation of the species.
Plaza Cinepolis
Plaza Cinepolis is a modern shopping mall with excellent recreational options for families. Although it is relatively small it has everything you need for a great day out. You can dine in wonderful restaurants, shop for luxurious brands in the many boutiques or see a movie in the state of the art theaters. If you are traveling with kids, Plaza Cinepolis has videogames and other entertainment activities, ensuring everyone has a great time.
Plaza Culiacan
This traditional shopping mall features a supermarket, a multiplex movie theater, banks and many clothing and shoe stores, thus it is one of the favorite shopping malls of the locals. Plaza Culiacan also has delicious regional dining options, so you can try traditional specialties and enjoy a truly ''Mexican'' atmosphere.
La tienda de Tomito
Located in the Science Center of Sinaloa, La Tiendita de Tomito is an interesting store that helps improve the quality of education in the city by offering didactic toys for kids and educational tools for teachers, parents and students. You can also buy charming souvenirs relating to the amazing world of science and technology. |
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