Things To Do
in Coquimatlán
Coquimatlán is a small but inviting municipality in Colima, Mexico, set against lush valleys and rolling foothills. The town blends agricultural heritage with a growing sense of local culture, offering markets, plazas, and friendly eateries that showcase regional flavors. It serves as a tranquil base for excursions into nearby natural areas and nearby towns within Colima, while maintaining a relaxed pace that makes day trips enjoyable.
Visitors encounter warm hospitality, vibrant street life, and a gateway feel to the broader Colima region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a visit to the main square, where you can admire the beautiful church and enjoy a local breakfast at one of the small cafes. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant market, filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and friendly vendors. Capture the essence of the locale as you immerse yourself in the morning hustle and bustle.
After a delightful lunch featuring traditional Mexican cuisine, head to the nearby ecological park for a refreshing hike amidst lush greenery. Engage with nature as you explore the trails and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Relax by the serene river at the park, taking in the picturesque views.
As nighttime falls, enjoy dinner at a local eatery, sampling regional specialties while mingling with friendly locals. Afterward, take a casual walk through the town to enjoy the colorful lights adorning the streets. End your day with a quiet moment by the church, admiring the architecture illuminated in the evening glow.
Visit the Coquimatlán Museum to dive deep into the rich history and culture of the region. The exhibits showcase local artifacts and offer insight into the traditions of the area. Spend your morning appreciating the artistry and craftsmanship that defines the community.
Savor a local lunch at a nearby restaurant, then embark on a guided tour of local artisan workshops to see how traditional crafts are made. Engage with the artisans, gaining appreciation for their skills and the significance of their work. Consider purchasing some unique handmade souvenirs to take home with you.
As the day winds down, attend a cultural performance if available, showcasing traditional music and dance. Share a meal with fellow travelers or locals to exchange stories and experiences. Reflect on the day's discoveries under the stars, perhaps at a cozy outdoor café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚎Public transport or taxi start | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, approachable locals and a relaxed pace
- Strong agricultural and culinary traditions with fresh markets
- Good base for exploring Colima’s natural landscapes and smaller towns
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Public transport options can be infrequent outside town centers
- Occasional heat and humidity, especially in summer
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
Places to Visit in Coquimatlán
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial facades, a lively central plaza, and a sense of everyday life that makes for candid and architectural photography.
Elevated spots along the town’s edges offer sweeping views of green hills, farmland, and distant mountains at sunrise or golden hour.
Vibrant stalls, produce displays, and local textures—great for street photography and to capture daily routines.
Historic church façade and narrow, bustling streets provide opportunities for architectural and street-life shots.
Food in Coquimatlán
Coquimatlán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed corn dough stuffed with savory fillings like pork or chicken, wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves.
Must-Try!
A hominy-based stew with pork or chicken, garnished with lettuce, radish, onion, and lime.
Slow-cooked beef in a rich chiles-based sauce, often served with onions, cilantro, and tortillas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering fresh produce, regional snacks, and homemade salsas.
Sun-warmed street food spots serving tostadas, sopes, and tamales—perfect for a quick bite.
Fresh, fruit-based drinks such as jamaica, tamarind, and horchata to stay refreshed in the heat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and a handshake or brief abrazo, especially with people you know.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; speak calmly and avoid raising your voice in crowded places.
Safety
Tipping in Coquimatlán
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 10-15% is customary if service is good; rounding up the bill is common in casual spots. For taxi rides, rounding up to the nearest peso is appreciated.
Cash (MXN) is widely accepted in markets and small eateries; most urban businesses also take cards (Visa/Mastercard). ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with moderate humidity; pleasant for outdoor strolling and market visits; occasional light showers may occur.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers or thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade, especially mid-day.
Warm days and cooler nights; good conditions for hiking and outdoor photography; markets remain lively.
Milder days with cooler evenings; generally comfortable for exploring the town and nearby countryside; occasional crisp mornings.
Coquimatlán at Night
Hiking in Coquimatlán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trail offering forested sections and panoramic valley views; suitable for a couple of hours’ hike.
A ridge route with sweeping views of the agricultural valley and distant towns; best at sunrise or late afternoon.
A gentle riverside path with a small natural pool; pleasant for a light excursion.
Airports
How to reach Coquimatlán by plane.
Closest international gateway with regional and some international flights; drive is roughly 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic.
Major international hub with many flight options; longer drive but good for connections to other parts of Mexico and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Mestizo communities with strong agricultural traditions and family-centered culture.
People who work in farming and small-scale trades, contributing to the town’s market life.
Young residents and families who participate in local events, markets, and weekend outings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local leagues and spontaneous games in plazas and schools.
Another widely followed sport with local teams and school-level competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coquimatlán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Focus on plant-based dishes like beans, rice, corn-based items, and vegetable stews. Ask for cheese or crema on the side, and request meat-free options when available.