Things to do in Sinaloa

All about Sinaloa

When to visit

The temperatures in Sinaloa stay warm along the coastline and grow colder as you climb into the mountains. November is an ideal month to visit—you’ll skip the rainy summer season and avoid the height of the tourist season as the province starts to prepare for more visitors with markets, festivals, and concerts. In November, temperatures stay warm with highs of 89°F (32°C) and lows of 65°F (18°C.)

Getting around

Buses run between Sinaloa’s major towns and cities, but if you plan to explore smaller villages or attractions, you should either rent a car or join a guided tour. Sinaloa is also home to two stops on the gorgeous Copper Canyon railway, which is an attraction all of its own. Ride the Chepe Express train from the city of Los Mochis to El Fuerte for dramatic views and comfortable amenities, including an excellent restaurant car.

Traveler tips

Thanks to its access to the ocean, Sinaloa has fantastic seafood. For something unique, head to Ranch Roll Sushi in Mazatlán for Sinaloan sushi and a menu that makes you want to try everything. Reportedly originated in Culiacán, the style of sushi rolls here dispenses with wasabi in favor of chipotle, blistered chiles toreados, and jalapenos. Most rolls will also include cream cheese to cut the heat from the spices.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sinaloa most known for?

Sinaloa is known for its agricultural industry and historic towns. It’s also the birthplace of banda music; influenced by European big-band music and the traditional music of the Yoreme people, banda features wind and percussion instruments.

What is the biggest city in Sinaloa?

Culiacán is the largest city in the state, located in a valley below the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range. Its historic churches and buildings have begun to blend with modern development, and the city has worked to preserve green areas on the peaceful Orabá Island and at Culiacán Botanical Garden.

Is it safe to go to Sinaloa?

Sinaloa has experienced high amounts of drug- and gang-based violence, and the Sinaloa Cartel is one of the largest in Mexico. Their home base is in Culiacán, but both Los Mochis and Mazatlán have seen decreasing crime rates in recent years. You should always check travel advisories and exercise caution in foreign countries.

Is Mazatlan or Puerto Vallarta better?

Both cities have their benefits and drawbacks. Mazatlán is more under the radar than Puerto Vallarta, so you’ll find fewer tourists and lower costs without the concentrated tourist center. With carefully swept streets and less air pollution, Mazatlán also tends to be a cleaner city.

Is Mazatlan a walkable city?

Yes, as an older city, Mazatlán was designed for foot traffic. The historic center, located on a peninsula, is compact and easy to walk, but you’ll need to hop on a bus, rent a car, or join a guided tour if you want to explore the outskirts. The waterfront malecón also encourages walking; it’s lined with shops and restaurants, and in the evenings, families walk and enjoy the sunsets together.

What’s a fun fact about Sinaloa?

Sinaloa is home to one of the oldest sports in the world. Played with a rubber ball, Ulama is the current form of a Mesoamerican ball game dating back to at least 1600 BC. The game is being revived in communities in Sinaloa, and you’ll often catch demonstrations at cultural festivals and events.

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