Guide to Mexico's Central Highlands

Zacatecas

Zacatecas is one of Mexico’s colonial gems - some would say the finest in the country - yet few international tourists discover its charms. It is true that its relatively isolated position in the north of the country, at an altitude of 8,200 feet, may discourage some visitors; but it is still only one hour’s flight away from Mexico City, or half a day by bus from Guadalajara. more...

Guanajuato

Lively Guanajuato is another colonial city that owes its prosperity to the gold and silver mines of the area. Opulent mansions line the main roads curving through the gorge in which it lies, whilst simpler but colorful dwellings sit almost one upon the other on the hillsides. more...

San Miguel de Allende

This pretty town has a near-perfect climate and a high proportion of foreign residents, including many artists. It has some fine colonial buildings, quaint cobbled streets and lovely churches. San Miguel de Allende is host to many colorful fiestas and has some excellent restaurants, art galleries and charming boutiques.

Morelia

The colonial city of Morelia is located in the beautiful state of Michoacan, to the Northwest of Mexico City. Morelia is an ideal base from which to visit the Monarch butterflies sanctuary, to witness the Day of the Dead celebrations and to tour the surrounding villages for handicraft shopping direct from the source. With the new highway now complete, it's also an easy half day's drive from Zihuatanejo.

Patzcuaro

Quaint Patzcuaro is just one hour from Morelia and is the scene of the most fervent celebrations of the "Day of the Dead". The town is incredibly crowded around this time, so we recommend visiting at other times of the year to enjoy the tranquility of the location. There's plenty to see in the historic town and the neighboring villages, and this is also a good place to try Michoacan's wonderful cuisine.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second biggest city in Mexico and many visitors are initially put off by the urban sprawl that surrounds the historic center. But the city is also the home of many of Mexico's greatest traditions, including mariachi music and tequila, and has a cultural richness that belies the initial appearances.

Fiestas

If you'd like to experience a traditional Mexican fiesta, this is the perfect region to choose. Our favorites include any of the fiestas in San Miguel de Allende (particularly the September festival of San Miguel, or Santa Semana), the Feria de Zacatecas in September (good for rodeos and bullfights) and "la Morisma" (a re-enactment of the battles between the Christians and the Moors) also in Zacatecas, in August.

Monarch Butterflies

Memorable tours to the Monarch Butterfly sanctuary, where thousands of colorful butterflies spend the winter each year, can be arranged from Morelia or Patzcuaro. The tours usually operate between mid-November and mid-March.

Shopping

Our favorite shopping destinations are the small villages around Patzcuaro and Morelia, where you can watch the artisans at work and buy goods direct from the source. Santa Clara del Cobre, for example, specializes in copperware. Beautiful and unique pieces can be purchased here. San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato are also good places to browse in handicraft stores, whilst the serious shopper may want to head to Guadalajara and visit the suburbs of Tlaquepaque and Tonala.

Day of the Dead Festivities

This is a major festival in Mexico, celebrated on October 31st and November 1st. The biggest (and busiest) celebrations are held on Janitzio Island near Patzcuaro, but nowadays we suggest that it's nicer to see the more authentic smaller celebrations that take place in the villages nearby. Group tours and private tours can be arranged at our recommended hotels in Morelia and Patzcuaro.

Cervantino Festival

An annual celebration of worldwide music and dance, the Cervantino Festival takes place in Guanajuato around the month of October. It's a hugely popular event with visitors from many countries across the world. Reservations must be made months in advance if you want to stay in Guanajuato for the festival dates.