Tour Details
Private Sierra Madre Villages and Old Town
Go off the beaten path with this exclusive private offer and visit the villages of Malpica, Villa Union, and the colonial town of Concordia, all nestled in the panoramic Sierra Madre Mountains. Return to Mazatlán and immerse yourself in the historic Old Town.
The Spanish name Sierra Madre means "mother mountains" in English and this major mountain range system of the North American Cordillera runs northwest - southeast through northwestern and western Mexico and along the Gulf of California. Visiting these quaint colorful villages will give you a glimpse into the daily life of the locals where you can observe natives carve wooden furniture by hand, make pottery, clay roof tiles and delicious pastries.
Your first stop will be at a rustic brick factory where bricks are to this day made by hand. This location is on the banks of the Presidio River just outside of the village of Villa Union. Continuing through the town of Villa Union and to the east you will stop in Malpica, a small community where two friendly families started their home businesses. One, a rustic oven bakery and the other a handmade artistic floor tile shop using a tile press that is over 100 years old and handed down through his family for generations.
Make your way next to the town of Concordia, founded in 1565 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Ibarra, who was the pioneer of the mining industry in the state of Sinaloa. This village is strategically settled near the silver and gold mining sites and is a very industrious town. The residents make their daily living working in furniture factories and potteries. Beautiful colonial architecture can be admired here, the most emblematic buildings are the San Sebastian pink stone temple, the French style city hall and the main plaza with a huge rocking chair.
After enjoying the scenic countryside in the Sierra Madre Mountains, return to Mazatlán to explore the historic Old Mazatlán where you will have the opportunity to stroll each area and to get a feel of the city. You will certainly love Mazatlán as it is a destination that contains the architectural richness of its historic downtown with details and finishes of neoclassical and French Baroque, which provide it with a unique beauty among Mexican tourist destinations. Points of interest include lookout hill where you will be amazed by the views of the city and the highest natural lighthouse "El Creston." You don't want to miss the chance to view the famous cliff divers and watch the brave divers plunge into a mere 8 feet of water from 45 feet above the water.
Travel next through time while going from the Historical Center with its narrow streets and quaint plaza to the center of downtown Mazatlán where you will find the Cathedral and main plaza, take your time here to enjoy the beauty of the "Immaculate Conception" church and maybe do some shopping at the central market, located only one block from the cathedral.
This private tour allows you to set the pace of the day and you can decide if you would like to stop for some delicious local cuisine in either Concordia before returning to the city, or once back in Mazatlán make a stop in a restaurant recommended by your local, knowledgeable guide (lunch is at your own expense and your discretion).
Please Note: Vehicles available for this tour accommodate groups of up to 10, 14, 18, or 40 guests maximum. Groups with more than 40 guests will need to book multiple vehicles. You will notice an increase in price for groups over 18 guests, as larger groups will be accommodated by a bus. You are welcome to split larger groups and book multiple smaller vehicles if you do not require your group to travel on one larger vehicle. Please consider this information when booking.
Duration: 6 hours
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Reference: Holland America Line, Koningsdam, Departing Sun, Dec 15, 2024
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More about this tour
Shore Excursion Size: Private
Shore Excursion Type: Scenic, Cultural, Historical
Shore Excursion Duration: 6
Shore Excursion Departs From: Cruise Ship Pier
Activity Level: Easy
Food/Beverage Provided: Beverages
Recommended Dress: We recommend wearing comfortable, weather appropriate clothing and walking shoes. We would also suggest a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Restrictions: Guests must be able to get in and out of transportation. This tour can accommodate a collapsible wheelchair.