Mapimi Travel Guide (Durango (state)/Northern Mexico/Mexico/North America)

Introduction to Mapimi

Nestled in the heart of Durango, Mexico lies the charming and historic city of Mapimi. This quiet town is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of naturally scenic views, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures.

Often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Desert,’ Mapimi is a fascinating destination to visit with plenty of things to explore. From historic museums and charming shopping streets to exciting outdoor activities and scenic hiking trails, Mapimi is a paradise for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure enthusiasts.

In this comprehensive guide to Mapimi, we’ll take you through a list of must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, local cuisine, where to stay, and much more. So let’s begin!

List of Places to Visit in Mapimi

Mapimi’s rich history, natural landscape, and cultural heritage make the city a fascinating place to visit. Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Mapimi:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museo Francisco Sarabia: This museum showcases archaeological findings, including fossils and petroglyphs.
Templo y Ex Convento de San José de Mapimí: This 18th-century colonial church and convent is a marvel of architecture and history.
Museo Regional de la Laguna: This beautiful museum showcases the culture, art, and history of the region.
El Torreon: A stone fortress built in the 17th century that offers impressive views of the town and the surrounding desert.

Natural Attractions of Mapimi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

El Salto Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall is located near the Sierra de Mapimi and is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it an ideal place for hiking.
Ojuela Bridge: This historic suspension bridge dates back to the 19th century and offers breathtaking views of the natural landscape.
La Galera: This impressive rock formation is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.
La Cueva de la Burrona: This naturally occurring cave system is an excellent destination for rock climbing and caving enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mapimi

Mapimi is the perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Surrounded by the beautiful Sierra de Mapimi desert, visitors can choose from a range of scenic routes:

Sierra de Mapimi: A popular hiking destination with both easy and difficult routes.
El Gran Dune: An excellent destination for off-road bikers.
Ride the Revolution Trail: A challenging trail that’s perfect for mountain bikers.

Best Things to Do in Mapimi: Activities and Tours

Explore the Historic Center: Discover the charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and hidden courtyards of the old town centre.
Visit a Desert Museum: Learn about the local flora and fauna of the desert on a guided tour.
Go Hiking in the Sierra de Mapimi: Discover the beauty of Mapimi’s desert landscape.
Experience Local Culture: Attend a traditional festival or gather at a community event.
Take a Horseback Ride: Experience the beauty of Mapimi from the back of a horse.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mapimi

Day 1: Visit the Museo Francisco Sarabia and take a tour of the town center.

Day 2: Go hiking or off-roading in the Sierra de Mapimi.

Day 3: Visit the El Torreon and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.

Day 4: Take a guided tour of the La Burrona Cave System.

Day 5: Visit the Ojuela Bridge and explore the abandoned mining town of Ojuela.

Day 6: Experience the local culture at a community event or traditional festival.

Day 7: Relax and unwind with a horseback ride or visit to a local spa.

Food and Drink Scene of Mapimi

Mapimi’s cuisine is a blend of indigenous and Spanish flavors, with local ingredients taking center stage. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Cabrito: A flavorful goat meat dish that’s a regional specialty.
Enchiladas del Norte: A popular northern-style spin on traditional enchiladas.
Guajillo Chili Sauce: A staple ingredient in many local dishes and also served as a dip.

Local Beverages

Mezcal: A traditional Mexican liquor made from agave plants.
Cerveza Artesanal: Delicious local craft beer brewed in Durango.

Where to Stay in Mapimi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mapimi has a range of lodging options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are a few highly recommended options:

Hotel Real de Mapimi: This charming hotel blends colonial architecture with modern amenities.
Posada El Viajero: This cozy guesthouse offers friendly service and comfortable accommodations.
Hostal El Jaguar: A popular hostel that’s ideal for budget travelers and backpackers.

What to Buy in Mapimi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Buying souvenirs and local products is an excellent way to support the local economy and bring home a piece of Mapimi. Here are some must-buy items:

Handcrafted Pottery: Beautiful pottery is a staple item of Mapimi.
Turquoise Jewelry: The nearby Sierra de Mapimi is known for its turquoise mines.

Local Culture and Customs of Mapimi

Mapimi is a traditional and conservative town. Here are some cultural customs to keep in mind:

Appropriate dress is essential, especially when visiting religious sites.
It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and to use formal titles.
Public displays of affection are discouraged.

Best Time to Visit Mapimi

The best time to visit Mapimi is during the spring and autumn months from March to May and September to November. The weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mapimi

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions.
Try local food and beverages.
Explore the natural landscape and cultural heritage.

Don’t:

Cause any damage to natural or historic sites.
Engage in public displays of affection.
Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mapimi

Mapimi is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, it’s still important to take precautions:

Be vigilant of your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Take care when walking at night, and stick to well-lit areas.

Health in Mapimi

Visitors to Mapimi should be aware of the altitude and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.

Getting to Mapimi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mapimi is well-connected to other parts of Mexico. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Mapimi

The nearest airport to Mapimi is Francisco Sarabia International Airport in Torreon, which is around 130 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Mapimi

The closest bus station to Mapimi is located in Torreon, about a 3-hour ride away.

Other Options

A taxi, rental car, or shuttle service are all options for getting to Mapimi from surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Mapimi

The best way to get around Mapimi is by walking or biking. Taxis and rental cars are also available.

Where to Go Next from Mapimi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mapimi is well located for further exploration. Here are some nearby destinations:

Durango: Explore the colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage of Durango.
Zacatecas: Visit the historic city of Zacatecas, known for its beautiful colonial architecture and rich mining heritage.
Copper Canyon: Take a train ride through the famous canyons and explore the indigenous communities in Copper Canyon.

Conclusion

Mapimi is a charming destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to visit and explore the many attractions, the food and drink scene, and the local customs and traditions of Mapimi. Remember to take precautions and respect the local culture, and have a wonderful trip!

Mapimi Image Gallery

Ojuela suspension bridge.

Inside the Ojuela mine