Guerrero Travel Guide

Explore the cultural, natural, and adventurous attractions of Guerrero, Mexico with our comprehensive tour guide. Plan your trip with our detailed itinerary and insider tips.


Introduction to Guerrero

Guerrero is a state located in the Pacific Coast region of Mexico, known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and outdoor adventures. It is filled with rich history and traditions, and offers visitors a unique glimpse into traditional Mexican life. From the vibrant markets of Acapulco to the tranquil colonial towns of Taxco and Iguala, Guerrero has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best places to visit in Guerrero, highlight its hiking and biking routes, list the best activities and tours, introduce you to the local food and drink scene, and provide insider tips on where to stay, what to buy, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Guerrero

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Regional de Guerrero: Located in Chilpancingo, this museum showcases the history and culture of Guerrero with exhibits on indigenous cultures, colonial development, and the Mexican War of Independence.

  • Museo de las Siete Regiones de Guerrero: Located in Acapulco, this museum represents the art and traditions of the indigenous people of Guerrero’s seven regions. It features both permanent and rotating exhibits.

  • Zocalo de Chilpancingo: The main square in Chilpancingo offers a great spot to enjoy the local culture, food, and music.

  • El Fuerte de San Diego: This 18th century fortress in Acapulco was built to defend the city against pirates. Today, it houses a museum that displays the city’s history.

  • Catedral de la Asunción: Built in 1933, this cathedral is located in Taxco and it is an architectural beauty of neoclassical style.

  • San Francisco Church: This magnificent church is located in Iguala, built during the Colonial period, it was finished in 1730, its barroque style, ornamentation, and location right in the heart of the city make it a magnificent sight to see.

Natural Attractions of Guerrero: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Las Brisas Beach: This secluded beach near Acapulco offers calm, turquoise waters and beautiful views of the bay.

  • Barra Vieja Beach: This is one of the hottest surf spots of the Pacific coast located in Acapulco.

  • Parque Nacional Grutas de Cacahuamilpa: Located in the northern part of Guerrero, these caves are home to a variety of speleothems and a unique underground river.

  • Ixtapa Island: This small island near Zihuatanejo offers beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and a variety of water sports.

  • La Quebrada: A hotspot where expert divers would jump to the Ocean from a cliff of 90ft in height, a unique and spectacular experience in Acapulco.

  • Puente del Marques: This is a stunning waterfall located in Chilpancingo.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guerrero

  • Parque Nacional Grutas de Cacahuamilpa: Among the activities you can do, there are different hiking routes, including one to the spectacular “Salón de la Luz”, where you can appreciate an incredible illuminated cave.

  • Montes and Valleys: A place located in the center part of Guerrero, featuring incredible landscapes of mountains, hills, and valleys. You can hike from small towns and temples to beautiful forests, that haven’t been explored by mass tourism yet.

  • Presa el Cerrito: A place located near Coyuca, offering trails for hiking, biking and outdoor activities. It also has a wakeboarding facility.

Best Things to Do in Guerrero: Activities and Tours

  • Lagoon Tour: Located in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, take a tour through the main lagoon and witness the biodiversity of flora and fauna of the region in one of the main infrastructures of Guerrero, learning about the local marsh and why it is important to nature conservation.

  • Silver Shopping Tour: Experience Taxco’s extensive silver industry and its wide variety of textiles, handicrafts, and traditional costumes that are sold for tourists in the markets of the village.

  • Mangrove Kayaking Tour: Located in Barra Vieja, Acapulco, experience the Mangrove in an ecotouristic way, discovering its diversity of ecosystems and wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guerrero

Day 1: Arrival in Acapulco - Stroll the Zocalo

Day 2: Las Brisas Beach and the Fuerte de San Diego

Day 3: La Quebrada and Cliff Diving Show

Day 4: Taxco day trip

Day 5: Lagoon Tour in Ixtapa

Day 6: Mangrove Kayaking Tour in Barra Vieja

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Guerrero

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pozole: A traditional soup made with hominy, pork, and chili peppers, usually eaten with lettuce, onion, radishes, and lemon juice.

  • Tamales: Corn dough wrapped around meat, vegetables, and chili peppers, then steamed in a banana leaf or corn husk.

  • Chilate: A chocolate-like drink made from cacao beans, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar, usually served hot or cold.

  • Mole: A sauce made with chili peppers, chocolate, nuts, and spices, typically served over chicken or beef.

  • Birria: A spicy meat stew typically made with goat meat and served with tortillas and lime wedges.

Local Beverages

  • Tequila: A world-renowned Mexican spirit made from blue agave, distilled in Jalisco, Michoacán, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, and Nayarit.

  • Mezcal: An alcoholic drink made from the agave plant, produced mostly in Oaxaca and Guerrero regions.

  • Horchata: A refreshing drink made from rice, cinnamon, and vanilla.

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

Acapulco

  • Las Brisas: A stunning hotel offering breathtaking views, exclusive access to a private beach, and a variety of amenities.

  • Hotel Boca Chica: An upscale, boutique hotel perfect for travelers who appreciate design, food, and music.

  • Hostel Surf Acapulco: A great hostel for budget travelers seeking a social atmosphere and easy access to the beach.

Zihuatanejo

  • La Casa Que Canta: A romantic retreat featuring 25 luxurious accommodations, a world-class restaurant, and stunning views of Zihuatanejo Bay.

  • Hotel Irma: A charming, family-owned hotel located just steps away from La Ropa Beach.

  • Hostel Casa Sun & Moon: A budget-friendly hostel located in the town of Zihuatanejo, featuring a pool, bar, and comfortable dorms.

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

  • Silver Jewelry: Taxco is renowned for its silver industry, and offers a wide variety of artisan-made jewelry.

  • Handwoven Textiles: Guerrero is known for its colorful, woven textiles that are sold in markets throughout the region.

  • Mezcal: A unique and high-quality mezcal is produced in Guerrero, and is a great souvenir to bring home.

  • Huipiles: Traditional, embroidered tunics worn by indigenous women, can be found in various marketplaces throughout Guerrero.

Local Culture and Customs of Guerrero

Guerrero is a state rich in culture and tradition, including religious festivals, indigenous ceremonies, and regional cuisine. The state is known for its music, including son jarocho and banda, and its traditional dances, such as the Chilena and the Malinche.

Best Time to Visit Guerrero

The best time to visit Guerrero is from November to April, when temperatures are comfortable, and rain is minimal. The shoulder seasons (May to June and September to October) can also be a good time to visit, as crowds and prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guerrero

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.

  • Do visit the indigenous markets, festivals, and cultural events.

  • Do respect the customs and traditions of the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water.

  • Don’t leave your belongings unattended on the beach.

  • Don’t wander into areas that fall outside tourist areas without proper guidance.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guerrero

While Guerrero has seen some unrest in recent years, tourist areas are generally safe, and visitors can take steps to stay safe while visiting. Accessing reliable safety updates and working with credible tour operators are good precautions.

Health in Guerrero

Visitors traveling to Guerrero are recommended to get up-to-date on their vaccines before departing their home country, including typhoid, hepatitis A, and tetanus. Visitors should only drink bottled water.

Getting to Guerrero: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Guerrero

  • Acapulco International Airport: Located in Acapulco, offers direct flights from many destinations throughout Mexico and the US.

  • Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport: Located in Zihuatanejo, offers direct flights from many destinations throughout Mexico, the US, and Canada.

Bus Stations Near Guerrero

Visitors can take a bus from Mexico City, Oaxaca, and surrounding states to Chilpancingo, Guerrero’s capital city.

Other Options

Taxis, rental cars, and private car transfers are available to and from any city in the state.

How to Get Around in Guerrero

Taxis, colectivos (shared taxis), and buses are the most common modes of transportation within Guerrero. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the state on their own.

Where to Go Next from Guerrero: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Oaxaca: A state known for its cultural heritage and vibrant markets.

  • Puebla: A colonial city famous for its mole and pottery production.

  • Mexico City: A cosmopolitan city brimming with cultural attractions and historical landmarks.

Conclusion

Guerrero is a state full of opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. From its white sandy beaches to its deep-rooted cultural traditions, you will never be at a loss for things to see and do. When visiting Guerrero, be sure to take advantage of the amazing food, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture while keeping in mind our insider tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Santa Prisca church in Taxco Santa Prisca church in Taxco Acapulco Bay Acapulco Bay Xochipala Xochipala


    Acapulco
    Cuajinicuilapa
    Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park
    Taxco
    Zihuatanejo