Mazanillo

Not only is Manzanillo a well-known resort destination, but Manzanillo port was the first shipping yard to open in Latin America in 1531 and today, it’s the most important commercial seaport in Mexico. Located along the central Pacific Coast of Mexico overlooking the twin bays of Manzanillo and Santiago, Manzanillo is situated in a region with diverse natural landscapes. It’s a favorite destination for beach activities, ecotourism and adventure sports.

The Weather

The weather in Manzanillo is pleasant year-round, and Manzanillo beach sees an average of 350 days of sunshine each year. Manzanillo’s close proximity to the Sierra Madre Mountains helps to keep temperatures slightly cooler than many of the other well-known resort destinations located up and down the Pacific Coast. The best time to visit Manzanillo is during the winter months from November to April. The summer rainy season lasts from June to October when afternoon rainstorms turn the entire region a lush, tropical shade of green.

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The diverse landscape of the region surrounding Manzanillo offers numerous opportunities for the adventure sports enthusiast. Combining ecotourism with adventure travel is of the most popular Manzanillo activities and adventure tours throughout the area’s vast natural landscapes are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Local guides are available to lead you on ecotourism adventure tours and they can often be easily contacted through Manzanillo hotels and resorts.

El Salto Waterfall: Located within the Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra de Manantlan (Manantlan Biosphere Reserve), the El Salto waterfall towers more than 100ft overhead. The waterfall is formed by the joining of the Minantitlan and Marabasco Rivers. Swimming is a popular activity in the pools at the base of the falls. In addition to visiting the falls, active travelers to the Manantlan Biopshere Reserve can go hiking, canyoneering, mountain-biking and abseiling, all favorite Manzanillo activities.

Parque Nacional Volcan Nevado de Colima (Colima Volcano National Park): This national park is home to Mexico’s most active volcano, the Volcan de Fuego, and the dormant Volcan Nevado de Colima. Here you can hike the trails that lead through the national park, visit the crater lake and spot wildlife. The Volcan Nevado de Colima can be climbed, and the best time to go is December to May.

Peña Blanca: Off-roading adventures and ATV tours are a popular activitiy along the rugged jungle trails and sparsely populated beaches at Peña Blanca, one of the region’s lesser-visited and off-the-beaten-path destinations. You’ll want to be sure to check before you plan your trip, as the beach is closed during certain times of the year to accommodate the sea turtles who come ashore to lay their eggs.

You can also enjoy camping and hiking throughout the region. Hike along the scenic coastline of Manzanillo to arrive at La Cruz (The Cross), a cliff-top lookout point offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area. Camping is not permitted on the beaches, but there are several designated ecotourism and nature camps in the area where you can pitch a tent