Acapulco Mexico, a distinguished lady of tourism. Mexican Kaleidoscope: From Acapulco to Cancun

The city is located on the Pacific coast, 411 km away, in the picturesque bay of Acapulco, surrounded by mountains:

History

For many years, before the advent of Cancun, Acapulco with its long beaches, numerous bars and discos remained the tourist capital of Mexico. The mild climate, beautiful coastline, calm water and numerous entertainments made Acapulco a real gem of the Pacific coast. Famous actors, politicians, show business stars love to come here.

The word "acapulco" from the language nouatl is translated as "a place where a giant reed grows." Archaeologists have found evidence that by the time the Spaniards landed here in 1521, these places were inhabited for more than 2 thousand years. For 250 years of their rule, the Spaniards turned a small village into a city, which was an important transit point on the way of trade galleons from the Philippines to Spain.

Resort Acapulco

The rebirth of Acapulco occurred in 1927, when a highway was built that connected the city with Mexico City. Mexicans and then Americans began to come here to rest. In the fifties, Acapulco became the center of elite recreation, it was loved by Hollywood stars. At different times, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Elizabeth Taylor, Sylvester Stallone rested here. In Acapulco, John and Jackie Kennedy spent their honeymoon.

Sunset and rebirth

Too fast construction led to pollution of the bay and overcrowding, so foreign tourists chose to relax in and on. Only in the late nineties in Acapulco began the implementation of a large program to clean the bay. Now its waters have become clean, as before, but Acapulco has become a national resort, where for the most part the Mexicans rest. This is facilitated by the proximity to the capital.

Attractions Acapulco

Cliff of La Quebrada

The main tourist attraction in Acapulco - jumpers in the water from a cliff (La Quebrada). The difficulty of these jumps is not to touch neighboring ledges, fly along the correct path and crash into waves in a precisely calculated place. At nightfall, the cliff is highlighted, and some divers jump with lighted torches. This dangerous attraction amazes the audience since 1934, becoming a kind of visiting card of the city. Today, the 2nd and 3rd generation of divers are already jumping and they even have their own union.

Opposite the cliff there is the La Perla restaurant and bar, which offers excellent views of the jumpers. And next to it is the Sinfonia del Mar staircase, on the steps of which concerts often take place. But most often the staircase serves as a viewing platform for observing the sunset.

San Diego Fortress

Special attention deserves a tour of the historic city center. The pentagonal fortress of San Diego (Fuerte de San Diego), located on the main square of Zocalo (Zocalo), was built in 1616 to protect the Spanish ships from numerous English and Dutch pirates robbing ships with goods. Inside the fortress is the Museum of the History of Acapulco (Museo Historico de Acapulco).

Near the fortress there is a small but very curious Mask Museum (Casa de la Mascara), where you can see traditional masks from different regions of Mexico.

Cathedral

There, on Sokalo Square, is the Cathedral of Nuestra Senora de la Soledad (Catedral de Nuestra Senora de la Soledad, 1930), which is distinguished by unusual architecture in the Neo-Byzantine style.

There are many restaurants and bars in the square, as well as the largest handicraft market in the city. Here you can buy wooden masks, machetes, silver jewelry, varnished caskets, ceramics, sombrero, traditional Mexican costumes, etc. You should definitely try local sweets from coconut, mango, banana and tamarindo.

From Sokalo along the coast stretches Costera Miguel Aleman (Costera-Miguel-Aleman), which houses most restaurants, discos, hotels and bars.

Archaeological area

If you turn from Costera Miguel Aleman onto Aquiles Serdan and then Constituyentes to La Mona, you can find yourself in the Archaeological Zone of Petroglifos de Palma Sola. Cave paintings by unknown artists were found here between approximately 200 BC. and 600 AD The drawings depict scenes from everyday life, battle patterns and simply figures of people or animals. Placards with descriptions and explanations are placed next to the figures.

Other sights of Acapulco

The Playa Icacos beach on the Costera-Miguel-Aleman highway is home to the popular Cici Acapulco Magico water park with pools, slides, a large aquarium and a daily dolphin show.

Another interesting place is the Botanical Garden of Acapulco (Jardin Botanico de Acapulco), located on the territory of the University of Loyola del Pacifico (Universidad Loyola del Pacifico). Here is an impressive collection of plants and animals of the region.

Rocket Island

Fans of snorkeling and diving are best to go to (la Isla de la Roqueta). Boats depart from the island from Caleta Beach (Playa Caleta), located on the southern coast of the Peninsula de las Playas peninsula. The beach is connected to the city center by the Lopez Matieos highway (Lopez Mateos).

Starting in the 1950s, Acapulco became Mexico's main beach resort, until after three decades it was surpassed by Cancun. Acapulco still continues to be one of the most popular beach resorts in Mexico and a favorite destination for spring break students at American colleges. Being just four hours drive from Mexico City, the city receives many vacationers from the capital of the country. Despite its worldwide fame, today the majority of vacationers are Mexicans, not foreigners.

The 1950s marked the beginning of the golden age of Acapulco. The city has become a popular holiday destination for wealthy Mexicans, American writers, Hollywood stars and European millionaires. In those years, films were made about him, they sang songs and wrote stories. The splendor and glamor of those days are long gone.

The outbursts of violence in the fight against the drug mafia, the underfunding and poverty of some areas of this huge city forced many tourists to change it to the more glamorous Mexican resorts Cancun and Cabo San Lucas. But Acapulco continues to remain attractive, and his temptations are hard to resist. Tourists still rest on the sunlit beaches, brave divers continue to jump from high cliffs into the sea, and funny revelers dance all night long in night clubs. Acapulco has world-class guest houses, and they are often much cheaper than similar hotels elsewhere. The beautiful bay created by mother nature is the most popular place for recreation and entertainment.

Do not expect to see pristine beaches here, but expect to see the breathtaking bay panorama, quality service and reasonable prices. Acapulco is still the best choice for those who want to dance until dawn at a nightclub and soak up all day on the sunlit beach. Much more than just a seaside resort, Acapulco continues to be an internationally recognized synonym for relaxation and fun.

City planning

Tourist areas are conditionally divided into three zones along the bay. Thanks to the bay, Acapulco has become a famous resort in Mexico, and its beauty and grandeur has not disappeared over the years.

At the western end of the bay is " Old Acapulco" (Acapulco viejo) It was this part that attracted the first vacationers in the 1950s and 1960s.

"Golden Acapulkabout" ( Acapulco dorado) occupies the central part of the bay. This is the main tourist area with many hotels, night clubs, restaurants, shopping centers, beach bars. It stretches along the main promenade of Costera Miguel Alemán (or simply Costera) from the “Old Town” to the east. The cost of living in hotels usually decreases towards the "Old Acapulco" and rises in the opposite, east direction.

Upscale resorts are located in the new, " Diamond Acapulco" (Acapulco diamante) It starts where Costera Miguel Alemán Boulevard crosses the Carretera Escénica highway and continues on to the airport itself. The most luxurious hotels, extravagant villas, gourmet restaurants and nightclubs are built on the hillsides with magnificent views of the bay.

Interesting places Acapulco

Today, Acapulco is more famous for its nightclubs than for beaches. It is difficult to find any other place in the world that can compete on equal terms with the attractive nightclubs and restaurants of this city. When the sun sets, Acapulco gets a second wind. With an infinite number of clubs, bars and discos, taking into account all musical preferences and ages, you will never have time to visit them all. Nightlife has long been a major tourist attraction in the city. A list of the most popular nightclubs at the end of the article.

La cebrada

Another attraction of Acapulco - jumpers from the rocks of La Quebrada (La Quebrada). The tradition goes back to the 1930s when young people started a competition who dives from the highest point into the water. Jumping from the rocks attracted crowds of observers, over time, they began to demand money from them. The American company ABC popularized La Quebrada in the 1970s as one of the first extreme sports in the world. Today, official competitions in diving from the rocks are held here. Today, all jumpers are professional divers, they jump from a height of more than 30 meters into the bay with a width of only seven meters and a depth of four meters.

Divers jump from the cliff of La Quebrada every day at 13:00, 19:30, 20:30, 21:30 and 22:30 (in the dark with flaming torches.). Not a single visit to Acapulco can be considered complete without watching this show. To get there from the center, walk along La Cébrada (Calle La Quebrada) from the main Cathedral of the city (Zocalo). An observation deck is specially equipped for observing the jumps (entrance is paid). Another option is to watch from the El Mirador's bar.

Fort San Diego

Acapulco is the only port in the New World to receive Spanish galleons from the Philippines. The wealth of the city attracted the attention of Dutch and English pirates, for protection against which Fort San Diego (Fuerte de San Diego) was built in 1616. It was considered the most important Spanish fortress along the Pacific coast of America. After the destruction by Dutch pirates, the fort was rebuilt, but the earthquake of 1776 destroyed it again. The construction of the current fort with a massive, five-pointed labyrinth of ditches, walls and loopholes was completed in 1783. This is the only surviving historical monument in the city. Today it houses the Acapulco Historical Museum (Museo Histórico de Acapulco). 15 exhibition halls of the museum demonstrate the most important moments in the history of Acapulco and Mexico until it gained independence. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8am to 6pm. A beautiful panorama of the bay opens from the fortress walls of the fort.

Pie de la Cuesta

Pie de la Cuesta - a narrow strip of land about 6 km from the northwestern outskirts of Acapulco, on the one hand washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean, on the other - the freshwater lagoon Cuyoca. Tourists are not recommended to swim on the beach from the Pacific because of very large waves. The lagoon is very calm, it rides jet skis and visits two islands: Isla de Los Pajaros, which is home to many birds, and Isla Montosa, which has a restaurant, its owner contains several crocodiles. Pie de la Cuesta attracts vacationers with low prices (compared to Acapulco) and a wide selection of resorts.

Pie de la Cuesta can be reached by bus. If you are standing along Costera Boulevard from the bay, look at the bus with the sign Pie de la Cuesta PLAYA LUCES. This bus goes to Pie de la Cuesta.

Isla de la roqueta

Roqueta Island is a popular vacation spot for Acapulco residents. There is a good shallow beach, beautiful places for scuba diving, you can walk to the lighthouse, visit a small zoo, dine in the cafe. Wrecks, underwater caves and rocks near the island attract diving enthusiasts. In 1958, a statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patroness of Mexico, was erected near the coast of the island in memory of a group of divers who died here.

Glass bottom boats and water taxis to Roqueta Island leave every 15-20 minutes from 9am to 5:30 pm from Playa Caletilla Beach.

Beaches Playa Caletilla and Playa Caleta

Roqueta Island protects the beaches of Playa Caletilla and Playa Caleta from the Pacific Ocean, so the waves are small and the sand is soft and pleasant. These beaches face the open ocean, so the water is more clear and transparent. Many small palapa restaurants offer seafood, fish specialties, boat trips, jet skis. Aquarium Mágico Mundo Marino is located on a small island between Playa Caleta and Playa Caletilla (pictured). The aquarium's entertainment program includes a show of sea lions, feeding crocodiles, turtles and piranhas, there are swimming pools and water slides. From Playa Caletilla beach to Isla de la Roqueta, boats and water taxis regularly depart.

Most Acapulco beaches are located in the bay adjacent to the main boulevard "Costera". Other popular beaches: Playa Hornos, Playa Papagayo, Playa Tamarindos and Playa Icacos. Underwater currents take several lives each year, so pay attention to warning flags. Red or black warn you not to enter the water, yellow - be careful, white or green - swim calmly.

Archaeological Area of \u200b\u200bPalm Sola

On the outskirts of the city in the direction of the capital of the country is the archaeological site of Palma Sola - the most accessible of all 12 rock paintings in the Acapulco area. Palm Sola has 18 petroglyphs dating back to 200 BC. - 600 AD Drawings range from simple figures to stories from early life. From there, the path rises uphill to a height of 400 meters and ends with a platform from which a panoramic view of the Gulf of Acapulco opens.

Chapel La Capilla de la Paz

The small chapel of La Capilla de la Paz is located on top of a high hill. Here they relax on the benches in the garden and enjoy the beautiful panorama of Acapulco Bay. The giant white cross of the chapel is visible from all parts of the city. Sunset is the best time to visit, tourists are trying to capture the setting sun against the backdrop of a sculpture with clenched hands.

Papagayo Park

This large park opposite Playa Hornitos Beach is a popular holiday destination for young Mexican families. There is a lake with catamarans, a children's train, a restaurant, aviary, a small zoo. The 1.2 km long hiking trail is a good place to walk.

Puerto marquez

Puerto Marquez is part of the tourist area known as the Acapulco Diamante. It is located in the southeastern part and is connected to the rest of the city by a single road. Puerto Marquez is famous for its bay and beaches. Unlike most beaches in the city, the waves here are calm, and the territory is built up mainly by expensive hotels and mansions.

Botanical Garden Acapulco

The Acapulco Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico de Acapulco) is another popular holiday destination for locals and tourists. The Botanical Garden is located at Av Heróico Colegio Militar s / n, www.acapulcobotanico.org.

Sokalo

Every evening, the main square of Acapulco comes to life with mariachi songs, and street cafes are full of visitors. The area is especially popular on Sunday evening. Near Sokalo are the beaches of Playa Tlacopanocha and Playa Manzanillo, from where boats and yachts go on cruises along the bay and coast. Cruises can be booked day and night. They range from glass boats to multi-deck yachts. You can book such cruises directly at the pier with the captains of yachts or make reservations through travel agencies or hotel administration.

What to do, tours of local operators

SISI Waterpark

SISI Water Park (Parque Acuático el CICI) is located on the eastern side of Acapulco Bay. It offers vacationers pools with artificial waves, water slides, cafes. The park is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Paid entry includes access to dolphin shows (weekdays at 14:00 and weekends at 16:00 and 18:00). The dolphin swimming program includes 30 minutes of introduction and from half an hour to one hour of swimming. To get there, take any bus that runs along the promenade of the street (Costera) with the words "CICI", or "Puerto Marqués". Water park address: La Costera 101, website www.cici.com.mx

Fish-r-us

Tour operator Fish-R-Us offers fishing on various types of boats. Fishing for marlin, tuna and dorado. Departure time: 06:00, 12:30 (tour duration 5 hours) and 20:00 (4 hours). The tours involve no more than 6 participants, transportation from the hotel and back for a small additional fee. All tours on board the yacht with cabins, kitchen, telephone and television. Operator address: La Costera 100, website www.fish-r-us.com, conditions of tours, see this page

Acapulco divers in the evening

A trip to Acapulco cannot be considered complete without observing the diving from the cliff of La Quebrada. Divers daily risk their lives by jumping from a height of more than 30 meters at a time when the current brings high waves. Watching divers from La Perla restaurant, the tour includes round-trip transportation from the hotel, lunch. See tour details on this page.

Rafting on the Papagayo River

Papagayo (Pio Papagayo) is considered one of the cleanest rivers in Mexico, in the rating system is rated II class. River swimming amidst beautiful cliffs, tropical plants and exotic wildlife. The tour includes a trip from Acapulco to the village of Pueblo Bravo (about 40 minutes), an additional 10 minutes to the Papagayo River. Then about 8 km of swimming on a rubber raft downstream of the seething water. At the end of the rafting, return to the village of Pueblo Bravo and lunch. Note: This tour is only valid from June to December, depending on the water level in the river. See tour details on this page.

Skydive acapulco

After 20 minutes of training, you will take a plane to an altitude of 3,000 meters above the city. Then jump from an airplane in tandem with an instructor and approximately 45 seconds of free fall. The instructor will open the parachute and allow you to control the descent. No experience required. Landing on one of the beaches of Acapulco. Booking a tour is easy, you need to call, send an email or come to the office. SKYDIVE ACAPULCO address: Costera Miguel Aleman 130. local 4. Tour conditions see on this page

Paradise bungy

The tall, 50 meter bungee tower at Paradise Bungy is easy to spot from Costera. From the platform of the tower, those who wish jump down. Address: La Costera 107.

Trip to Taxco from Acapulco

City tour by bus

A city tour visits the most interesting historical places of Acapulco, including the main square of Sokalo and the Hotel Zone. From a high hill, tour participants will have the opportunity to take photos of the beautiful Acapulco Bay. Then visit the Hotel Princess and walk through its tropical garden. Another stop near the market for the purchase of souvenirs. The tour ends near the famous cliffs of La Quebrada, where famous divers risk their lives daily in daytime and evening shows. Tour Terms

Acapulco in the evening

This tour includes dinner at the Kookaburra Restaurant on a high hillside with beautiful panoramic views of the bay and the city. After lunch, drive to La Perla Restaurant and watch divers jump from La Quebrada cliffs. Divers jump from a cliff into the sea, holding burning torches in their hands. Tour Terms

Koyuk Lagoon Cruise

Coyuca Lagoon is one of the most picturesque outskirts of Acapulco. Here took place the shooting of the Hollywood film Rambo II with Sylvester Stallone. Viator offers a boat cruise along the lagoon, which is home to more than 250 species of birds. Then a visit to the beach restaurant and lunch with an open bar (free drinks). After lunch, walk along the beach or relax in a hammock. Tour details on this page

Diving

Acapulco does not have a reputation as a scuba diving center, but there are also good places for diving. The Swiss Divers Association offers diving twice a day. Address: Cerro San Martín 325 Hotel Caleta, website www.swissdivers.com. Similar tours are offered by the Acapulco Scuba Center. His address: Paseo del Pescador 13 & 14, website www.acapulcoscuba.com

The most popular night clubs

El alebrije  - One of the largest nightclubs in Latin America, it is able to receive more than 5,000 visitors. Most of the club's customers are young people aged 18-25. a foam party takes place weekly on Fridays. Entrance fees are 400 pesos for men and 350 pesos for women, admission includes a free bar until 5 in the morning. If you plan to drink, do not click on the tip, otherwise it will take a very long time to wait for the next order. Website www.alebrijeacapulco.com

Palladium  - Another huge night club Acapulco. It is located on the slope of the high mountain of Las Brisas. The large panoramic glass wall of the club with a view of the bay is impressive (there is a dance floor in this room). Entrance fees are approximately $ 30 for women and $ 40 for men. The entrance fee includes an open bar (free drinks). Address: Carretera Escénica s / n, website www.palladium.com.mx

Mandara. This is a smaller version of Palladium, the night club is owned by the same owners, instead of electronic music, music in the style of hip-hop and reggae sounds. Entrance fees start at $ 30 for women and $ 40 for men, and include an open bar. The dance floor offers a panoramic view of the night Acapulco. In the same building is Syboney, a stylish piano bar where the best singers of the city sing. The club opens at 22:30. Address: Carretera Escénica, between Los Rancheros Restaurant and La Vista Shopping Center, www.acapulcomandara.com

Baby "O is unfadingly popular in Acapulco. Today it is the most expensive nightclub in the city. Be prepared to pay at least 600 pesos for an entrance ticket. This nightclub attracts the wealthiest people. Opens at 22:30, website www. babyo.com.mx

Climate

Acapulco is always hot or very hot. The city is characterized by high humidity. From June to October, the rainy season. Tropical showers are short-lived, but sometimes rainfall continues for several days, filling the streets in the city center. Tropical storms and hurricanes occur from May to November.

spring Break

More than 100,000 students from American and Canadian colleges annually go to Mexico's resort areas during spring break. The main reason for this is Mexico's 18-year-old age for drinking alcohol (versus 21 in the United States). Such trips gained popularity in the 1990s.

Until the beginning of 2000, Cancun was the most popular spring break destination. Then the local authorities took a series of strict measures to curb the reckless behavior of young people, and many of them drew attention to Acapulco, although the flight here is longer and more expensive than in Cancun. The youth, first of all, was attracted by the famous nightlife of the city.

international Airport

General Juan N. Álvarez International Airport, better known as Acapulco International Airport, is 22 km southeast of Acapulco. It is one of Mexico's 15 largest airports in terms of international flights and passenger traffic. The airport has two terminals. A taxi ride from the airport to the Costera main tourist area takes approximately 35 minutes.

Taxi

Taxis in Acapulco will cost you a little if you move around the city center. If you are staying in the Golden or Diamond Acapulco area, the cost of a taxi will automatically increase. Booking a taxi at a hotel can cost three times more than a taxi driver stopped on the street. Night trips are also more expensive. Always pre-negotiate the price with the driver, otherwise at the end you will get the space price.

Bus

Using city buses is easy and inexpensive. Bus directions are indicated on the windshield. Not necessarily at the bus stop to board the bus. Just wave your hand or even look at the driver, and that will be enough. He will stop and invite passengers to the cabin. Drivers often slow down and offer passersby to ride with them if they are moving in the same direction as the bus. All buses to Acapulco are privatized and privately owned. Drivers decorate them as they want. Buses often run with loud sounding music, lounges are decorated with posters and inscriptions. Drivers try to overtake each other before each bus stop (the struggle for the money of passengers), so they drive in the city quickly and not quite safely.

Cities nearest to Acapulco

The capital of Mexico is 366 km from Acapulco. A modern road (Autopista del Sol) connects both cities. Travel time is four hours. The road passes through Cuernavaca and Chilpancingo.

The silver city of Taxco is at a distance of 272 km on the way from Acapulco to Toluca.

A divine place where nature itself ordered to create a magnificent resort. An amazing corner of the Pacific coast attracts with warm and transparent waves, clean beaches, emerald palm trees, turquoise lagoons, hills, gentle sun and eternal summer. This is all Acapulco, Mexico. Today this city is visited not only due to its unique health and recreational opportunities. Luxury villas, fashionable hotels, fantastic restaurants, crowded nightclubs and casinos attract those who are young in soul and body.

Acapulco (Mexico) is a million tourists annually. Here you can often see pop stars, show business and cinema, intending to spend a relaxing holiday in paradise. High season falls on December-January, when the weather is dry all the time. Parasailing, diving, fishing, water skiing - this is not all activities available off the coast of the Pacific Ocean.

Acapulco (photos confirm this) is an amazingly beautiful city. And even if it does not contain traces of the mysterious and ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations, there are many sights. The Spaniards founded the future resort as a transit point on the way to Southeast Asia. In the old part of the city you can still see the once main Municipal Square Sokalo, the fortress of the beginning of the eighteenth century. The fort today houses a historical museum with a dozen exhibition halls, a library and a cafe. Among the interesting buildings of Acapulco, a special place is occupied by the Iglesia de la Catedral temple, built in 1930. This is a real Mecca for lovers, since a marriage concluded within the walls of this church is doomed to good luck. Weddings are held here every Saturday for a year.

The city of Acapulco (Mexico) breathes a rich cultural life. Fairs, concerts, exhibitions, seminars are regularly held at the Convention Center, in the territory of which there are several famous theaters, unique museums, a tropical plant garden and the Aztec square. The resort houses the Peace Chapel, an old castle on the highest mountain of Las Brisas. Next to it stands a cross, 42 meters high, which keeps Acapulco from misfortune, and below it is an observation deck.

Acapulco (hotels confirm this) is a very hospitable city. Guests are welcomed here with open arms, bread and salt. Restaurants are available for different tastes and purses. At the reception you can order unique excursions: walking, land or water. A boat with a transparent bottom will take you to a grandiose zoo on the island of Rocket. In the northeast of Acapulco, you can visit the archaeological site of Palm Sola with the ancient ritual center of the Yones people. And the caves of Kakahuamilla will surprise you with a fabulous underground world.

Entertainment from dawn to dawn promises tourists to Acapulco, Mexico. A city where life always boils and where they never sleep, beckons with neon lights, inviting rhythms and club smoke. The La Quebrada show will tickle the nerves of brave daredevils, and the water center will help relieve tension. And having met the new year in this crazy city, you can never forget it! Walking along the wide avenues, you will hum the words of Laima Vaikule, an incomparable hit: “Acapulco, ay-ay-ay” and enjoy the sounds

8 days / 7 nights

The Mexican Kaleidoscope tour includes all the diversity of Mexico from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean. Wildlife, a unique symbiosis of pre-Hispanic and colonial cultures, a mixture of bright flavors and ethnic diversity - all this will open during this fascinating tour.

Route:  Mexico City - Acapulco - Taxco - Puebla - Cholula - Villahermosa - La Venta - Palenque - Gulf of Mexico - Merida - Cenote - Chichen Itza - Cancun / Riviera Maya

The tour price includes:

• Transport (depending on the number of people in the group: minivan, sprinter or bus).
• Entrance fees to all archaeological zones and reserves specified in the program.
• Accommodation in hotels of category not lower than 4 *. Buffet breakfast or American breakfast included.
• Services of a Russian-speaking guide.
• Group transfer from the Cancun / Riviera Maya hotel to the airport on the day of departure.

The tour price does not include:

• Lunches and dinners along the route.
• Tips for guide and driver.
• Accommodation in hotels after the end of the route.

We reserve the right to adjust the program due to unforeseen and independent circumstances: weather, strikes, road conditions, force majeure, health problems, etc. These changes can only be made for the good and safety of customers.
It is recommended to combine the program with a beach holiday in Cancun or on the Mayan Riviera.

Acapulco is the port city of Mexico, which in the mid-20th century became a favorite resort of Hollywood stars.

Along with the growing popularity, new hotels began to appear like mushrooms after the rain, casinos were built and closed beaches expanded. As a legacy from his golden years, he received many elite restaurants, nightclubs, large gambling establishments and the world fame of another city that never sleeps. Here to this day, movie stars of the first echelon rest, but more and more wealthy Mexicans and tourists from all over the world come here. The most popular beaches of the resort are located in the bay of the same name, which, thanks to the white sands and blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, is among the best in the world.

In the history of Acapulco, it is often referred to as the second port city of New Spain, located at the intersection of the main trade routes of the colonialists. Before the expansion of Mexico by the conquistadors, there was a settlement of Indians from the Yopi tribe, and even then the city bore its current name, which came from the name of the hero of one of the Indian legends. Once upon a time there lived a young man Akatl (in translation - “sugar cane”), he was the son of one of the leaders of the tribe. Fate played a cruel joke with him - once in a campaign he saw a girl and fell in love with her at first sight. He later found out that her name was Quitil (translated as “rain, hurricane”), and that she was the princess of a hostile tribe. Of course, they were not given to be together.

The heartbroken young man went to the pier and wept so bitterly that his tears were enough for a whole pond. The girl also suffered for a long time and became a cloud. Once, flying over the place where her lover lived, she found out about his death. Quitl was furious and fell upon the settlement with a hurricane, completely destroying it, but when she reached the bay, she calmed down and disappeared - the souls of her lovers were finally reunited. So the name Acapulco appeared - "the place of the destroyed reed."

By the way, few people know, but this Mexican city is home to the popular Margarita cocktail.

According to the story, once a wealthy lady from Texas by the name of Margarita Sames organized a party here in her villa, where she called the most famous guests. The highlight of the evening was Mrs. Sames's signature tequila-based cocktail. Among the guests of the party was Tommy Hilton, the owner of the hotel chain of the same name, who realized that the new cocktail has great potential, and less than a year later Margarita became the best seller of all the pubs on the southern coast of the continent.

Acapulco today is the capital of Mexico's entertainment with a paradise climate and amazing landscapes, where millions of tourists from all over the world come annually, eager for relaxation and fun.

Cathedral of Lady of Solitude

The Cathedral of Nuestra Senora de la Soledad is the main religious building of Acapulco, which is located on the central square of Sokalo, in the old town.

It is hard to believe, but at the beginning of the 20th century the building began to be built as a cinema, and only later, after laying the foundation, the project was changed. By 1930, the Cathedral of the Madonna Soledad, "Our Lady of Solitude", was already ready for opening. The people of the building received a simple name - the Cathedral of Lady of Solitude.

The architecture of the temple is remarkable for the interweaving of the styles of classicism, Gothic and shades of modernism. The listed features are expressed in blue and white trim, gilded stained glass windows, the main portal decorated with the image of the sun and towers on the sides of the facade.

Today the Cathedral of Nuestra Senora de la Soledad is the center of the Archdiocese of Acapulco, which includes the dioceses of Tlapa, Ciudad Altamirano and Chilpancingo Cilapa.

Fort San Diego

Since Acapulco is a border city, it simply needed to have protective structures, in which case to repulse the ill-wishers.

An exemplary building of the defense type is Fort San Diego, which regularly served the city from the beginning of the 7th to the 19th centuries. It was designed by Adrian Buto, who before that managed to erect a similar structure in Veracurs.

The only time the walls of San Diego could not withstand the onslaught of enemies was the assault of Jose Maria Morelos in 1813. They say that it was after the battle that the national hero uttered the famous words: "Long live Spain - a sister, but not the mistress of America."

In the middle of the 20th century, the fort was seriously damaged by the earthquake, after which it was restored for a long time and thoroughly. During the restoration work, it was possible to recreate the architectural and engineering features.

Today it is one of the oldest architectural monuments of Acapulco. It houses a museum, the main exhibit of which is the Spanish galleon of the 17th century.

Papagayo Park

A peculiar attraction of Acapulco is the Ignacio Manuel Altamirano Park, or simply Papagayo, one of the largest conservation land in Mexico with an area of \u200b\u200b218,000 hectares. In its urban part there are a lot of objects for which tourists constantly flock here: the Spanish galleon, a copy of the first reusable space shuttle Columbia and, of course, a lot of all kinds of plants, birds and animals.

Among them are rare species such as white heron, large toucan and flamingos. As the name suggests, the main inhabitants of Papagayo Park are parrots. For the comfortable existence of animals and plants, ecologists have created special conditions close to the natural habitat. In a separate part of the park, near the entrance, there is an alley on which pedestrians will meet monuments dedicated to the outstanding natives of Acapulco.

Rock of La Quebrada

La Quebrada is a sheer cliff 35 meters high, from which specially trained people make dizzying dives.

Large crowds of onlookers have long been gathering to look at the extreme antics of young men. Jumping from La Cebarda for a long time has become a kind of visiting card of Acapulco.

Such a leap of faith is a deadly affair. Not only that, the height is 35 meters and the width is 9, so while flying you need to manage not to touch the sharp ledges of the cliff, and not to crash in the water on the rocky bottom, to which only 3 meters depth! It is not surprising that at some point it occurred to someone to start collecting money from the audience, and to award extremals with the title of Hero of Acapulka. The first, by the way, who received the award for jumping from Quebrada in 1932 was Rigo Berto Arac.

He laid the foundation for an unusual tradition, which today is an extreme sport.

It is noteworthy that the nature of the origin of the cliff is artificial - in 1930, in order to activate the flow of fresh air to Acapulco, the authorities decided to blow dynamite to one of the rocks of the bay.

Monument to the Capella Submarine

Another unusual local attraction is the Monument to the Chapel of the Submarine, which is a statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe, which is located on the seabed. A bronze statue was installed here in 1958 in memory of the dead divers.

The Holy Virgin Mary of Guadalupe is the patroness of all of Mexico, and many still believe that only thanks to the help of the Virgin the Mexicans managed to win the War of Independence. There are two ways to see the monument: the first is to sail, following the coordinates, to the right place in the sea on a boat with a transparent bottom, the second is to dive towards it with special diving equipment. In the second case, you will get much more impressions, since at the same time you will have a chance to get acquainted with the local marine inhabitants, who often scurry around next to the statue.

For both cases, boats sail daily from Caltail Beach to the monument.

The most popular day of visiting the statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe is December 12 - the day of the Virgin. The city celebrates two days, hundreds of residents dive to the statue and leave wreaths and flowers there.

Leisure

The main types of leisure in Acapulco are somehow connected with the bay: either relaxing on a snow-white beach, or swimming in clear and warm water, or diving or underwater fishing.

But the city itself also has fascinating places, for example, the Museum of Archeology, which contains a large collection of objects of ancient Indian tribes. For a family holiday, a walk in Papagayo Park or a visit to the Magiko Mundo Marino Aquarium. You will also probably be advised to sail to the La Roqueta islands with a glass bottom boat, making a stop along the way where the statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe is located in the sea.

On the island you can plunge into the thick of rainforests or visit the local zoo, which is inhabited by crocodiles, lions, tigers, giraffes, turtles, monkeys and even deer.

At night in Acapulco entertainment is no less than in the afternoon. Especially a lot of discos are held in clubs and in the open. The biggest holiday in the city is the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Despite the fact that the holiday is completely Christian, in all of Mexico, Indians are not shy about remembering their gods on this day, so do not be surprised if you see monks in a cassock and dancing Indians in traditional costumes near the temple on December 12.

The main events of the Virgin Mary's Day are a large city fair and grandiose fireworks in the late evening.

How to get there

Acapulco Juan Alvarez Airport comes with both international flights from America and local.

From Europe, they usually first fly to Mexico City, and only then get there by bus or car within 4-6 hours. The most convenient way to Acapulco from Moscow with a change at Cancun Airport - so the flight duration will be only 13 hours.

Transport

In Acapulco, public transport is well developed, as there are many bus routes in the city.

Traveling by local transport costs 1 MXP, you can buy a ticket at special kiosks or at the driver's entrance. According to experienced tourists, the best transport here is yellow buses. The fare in them is 5.5 MXP.

No less popular form of transport is a taxi. Typically, drivers do not give change, so they need to agree on a price in advance, even if the car has a meter. The fare depends on the distance. 1 kilometer costs 5 MXP. Taxi for the whole day will cost 1,000 MXP. At night, rates increase by 10%.

Hotels

Acapuolco is the most popular hotel of the resort of the same name, which is located a 15-minute walk from a private beach on the bay. Each air-conditioned room here has a TV and an internet access point. Most of them have a private balcony, a work desk and a minibar; the bathrooms always have a set of bath accessories and a hairdryer. Other amenities include work at the hotel's pool and hot tubs.

A good option for families is the Departamento en Diamante Lakes, located in the vicinity of the city. Clients of the institution will have at their disposal apartments that have a separate bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and more. Each bungalow features a seasonal pool, a golf course, free parking and a terrace with garden or ocean views.

There is also a restaurant on site that serves a buffet breakfast every morning.

Banyan Tree Cabo Marques is a five star hotel, one of the most luxurious in Acapulco. It is located on top of a cliff, which offers excellent views of the Pacific Ocean. This place boasts a wide selection of spa services, 3 restaurants and villas with a pool by each. Each villa has panoramic windows, a private terrace, a TV and other household appliances that people use every day. The facility is located 20 minutes from Acapulco International Airport.

Restaurants

The El Cabrito restaurant has two large halls and an open veranda, which are suitable for both company gatherings and business meetings. The menu is mainly represented by Mexican dishes such as fajitos, burritos, tacos, nachos with sauces and more.

It also contains the names of traditional European pizza, pastas and salads.

100% Natural - This restaurant specializes in vegetarian cuisine. The institution's features include an unusual interior with oriental motifs and an abundance of green. Visitors note a high level of service and prices that are above the city average - 30-35 USD. Here you can order shrimp in pineapple, pasta with seafood, fish stuffed with cream cheese, salad with caramelized pecans and goat cheese, as well as juices and soft drinks. If desired, some dishes can be packed with you.

Su Casa is an institution whose full potential is revealed in the evening, with the advent of darkness.

Here, of course, candles are not lit and orchestras do not play, but nevertheless the atmosphere of romance reigns. The restaurant is located on the roof of the building, which offers a beautiful view of the city, which, like a Christmas tree, is full of colorful lights. The menu is represented by European dishes (grilled fish fillet with lemon sauce, specialty shrimp, etc.). Average bill is 25 USD.

Shopping

The essence of shopping in Acapulno is fully reflected in the words "a mixture of exotic and luxury." Here, quite often you can see the neighborhood of neighborhoods with souvenir shops and large shopping centers, where fashionable boutiques are located. The largest retail outlet in the city is The Golden Zone Shopping and Entertainment Center. It has enough shops of every possible orientation, so that everyone can quench their passion for shopping.

TOP souvenirs from Acapulco are all sorts of miniature attributes of Mayan and Aztec cultures, for example, the famous Mayan disc calendar or figures of Aztec and Native American gods like Quetzalcoatl. Also traditional Mexican souvenirs are sombrero, poncho, tequila and maracas. Some take home authentic Mexican sauces.