Things To Do
in Colima
Colima is a small, relaxed capital city in western Mexico known for its pleasant climate, colonial architecture and proximity to dramatic volcanic landscapes. The city serves as a quiet base for exploring nearby Comala (a Pueblo Mágico), active volcano viewpoints and Pacific coast beaches in Manzanillo. Local life revolves around markets, plazas and coffee farms spread around the hills surrounding the valley.
Colima offers a mix of outdoor adventure, regional cuisine and friendly small-town hospitality without the crowds of larger tourist centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Plaza Principal, where the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Colima and the Government Palace surrounds you. Stroll through the vibrant streets, admiring the colonial-era buildings while stopping for a traditional Mexican breakfast at a local café. Don't forget to grab a fresh juice from a street vendor to energize you for the day ahead.
After lunch, visit the Regional Museum of History, which showcases artifacts from pre-Columbian times to modern history. Spend some time wandering through the surrounding gardens, where you can take in the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. End your afternoon with a visit to the Mercado de Colima, where you can shop for local crafts and taste delicious regional snacks.
As the sun sets, find a local restaurant to indulge in Colima's culinary delights, such as 'tortas ahogadas' or 'birria'. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the lively atmosphere created by locals and visitors alike. After dinner, take a leisurely walk back to the plaza to enjoy the night lights and perhaps catch a local performance or live music.
Rise early and prepare for a thrilling hike to the Volcán de Colima, one of Mexico's most active volcanoes. After a hearty breakfast, head to the trailhead where you can hire a local guide who will share insights about the flora and fauna along the way. The crisp morning air and stunning views promise an invigorating start to your adventure.
After a challenging morning ascent, reach the summit and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding region and the neighboring Nevado de Colima. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking up the scenery, and keep your camera ready for some stunning shots. As you begin your descent, take time to appreciate the diverse ecosystems you encounter along the trail.
Upon returning to Colima, treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some grilled meats or fresh seafood. Reflect on your hiking experience and share stories with fellow travelers or locals. If energy permits, take a stroll through the quiet streets of the city before resting your weary legs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1.50-3.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (in-town) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-90 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pleasant climate and manageable size — easy to explore on foot
- Close to dramatic volcano scenery, coffee country and Pacific beaches
- Authentic, uncrowded cultural experiences and lively local markets
- Good value for food, accommodation and activities
- Limited international flight options and fewer direct transport links than larger cities
- Nightlife and tourist infrastructure are quieter than major resort areas
- Rainy season can disrupt outdoor plans and produce higher humidity
- Volcanic activity can temporarily restrict access to key viewpoints
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias / Muchas gracias" - Thank you / Thank you very much
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
- "¿Me puede recomendar un platillo típico?" - Can you recommend a typical dish?
- "Perdón / Disculpe" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "¿Hay un cajero cerca?" - Is there an ATM nearby?
Places to Visit in Colima
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic colonial plaza framed by the cathedral and historic buildings — excellent for street scenes, architecture and evening lights.
Picturesque whitewashed streets, plazas and scenic viewpoints over the valley; ideal for golden-hour shots and cultural portraits.
Dramatic photos of the active Volcán de Colima from safe, designated viewpoints around the valley; weather and volcanic activity dictate visibility.
Snow-capped or cloud-topped peak depending on season — use lower trails and lookouts for landscape photography and seasonal flora.
Sunrise/sunset over Pacific beaches, fishing boats and seafood stands make for dynamic seascapes and lifestyle shots.
Vibrant colors, food stalls and local characters provide candid and cultural photography opportunities — always ask before photographing individuals up close.
Food in Colima
Colima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Coliman pork dish roasted in a spicy, aromatic sauce often served at family gatherings and local restaurants; try it in Comala or central markets.
Must-Try!
Grilled, seasoned fish popular along the coast (Manzanillo). Order on the shore for the freshest preparation: whole grilled fish, ceviche and shrimp dishes.
Coffee from nearby highland farms is fragrant and often enjoyed with freshly baked conchas or other pan dulce found in cafés and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main market in Colima city — excellent for tacos, tamales, regional stews, fresh produce and observing daily life. Great place to try inexpensive local dishes.
Smaller market where you can try regional snacks, sweets and coffee; street stalls in Manzanillo offer seafood tostadas and fried snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are important — a warm 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a handshake in formal situations are common. Use titles (Señor/Señora) when appropriate.
Colima has strong Catholic traditions; be respectful at churches, festivals and family-run businesses. Dress modestly in religious sites and observe local customs during public celebrations.
Always ask permission before photographing people up close, especially in markets, churches and small towns. A small tip or purchasing from a vendor is a polite way to thank someone you photograph.
Life in Colima is generally relaxed — be patient, avoid loud or rushed behavior in plazas and shops, and expect friendly, conversational interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Colima
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants tip around 10–15% for good service; leave small change for street vendors or round up cab fares. Hotel porters and housekeeping typically receive a small tip (price dependent).
Cash (Mexican pesos) is widely used, especially at markets and small businesses. Credit/debit cards are accepted at larger restaurants, hotels and shops; have cash for taxis, buses and rural places. ATMs are available in Colima city and larger towns — check for bank network fees.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to September is the rainy season — expect afternoon/evening thunderstorms, lush landscapes and higher humidity. Road conditions can be affected during heavy rains and the coast may be impacted by tropical storms or hurricanes occasionally.
October and November bring drier weather and pleasant temperatures, good visibility for volcano and landscape photography; shoulder season crowds and travel costs are moderate.
December to February is mild and dry in the valley (cooler at night), with crisp mornings — ideal for hiking and town exploration. Higher elevations can be chilly; pack layers.
March to May are warm and mostly dry, with flowering landscapes and good conditions for outdoor activities before the summer rains begin.
Colima at Night
Hiking in Colima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails around the Nevado offer forested hikes, high-elevation flora and wide views of the valley; acclimatize and use official trails and guides for higher routes.
Shorter, accessible trails and lookouts provide safe viewpoints for observing Volcán de Colima from a distance — follow signage and local regulations regarding access.
Gentle walks through coffee farms and rural lanes around Comala are perfect for experiencing agricultural landscapes, birdlife and local culture.
Several short hikes lead to waterfalls or rivers near the valley and surrounding hills; these are best attempted in the dry season for safer footing and clearer trails.
Airports
How to reach Colima by plane.
Small regional airport serving Colima with domestic flights; convenient for quick access to the city but with limited routes — check current schedules.
The main coastal airport for Manzanillo, offering more frequent domestic flights and some seasonal connections. It’s about 1–2 hours from Colima by road depending on traffic.
Major international airport (Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla) with many domestic and international connections — about a 3–4 hour drive from Colima, often used for international travelers or those seeking more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents identify as mestizo — a blend of Indigenous and Spanish heritage — reflected in local culture and traditions.
There are smaller indigenous communities in the state with distinct cultural practices and languages; cultural events and artisan crafts may reflect these influences.
Population centers include the inland capital Colima (administration, education) and coastal towns like Manzanillo (port, tourism, fishing), each with different livelihoods and lifestyles.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport — local matches and informal games are common in parks and neighborhoods.
Baseball has a strong following, especially along the coast where local leagues and community teams play regularly.
On the coastal side (Manzanillo) surfing and sport fishing are popular — the Pacific offers seasonal surf breaks and good fishing opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in markets (vegetable tacos, quesadillas, soups) and some cafés; ask for 'sin carne' or request egg/cheese dishes. Larger restaurants in the city center and tourist spots can accommodate vegetarian requests.
Vegan choices are more limited but possible at health-focused cafés and markets; bring snacks if you have strict requirements and learn phrases like 'sin productos de origen animal'.
Corn-based foods (tortillas, tamales) are naturally gluten-free, but always ask about cross-contamination in kitchens and avoid breaded items. Explain 'sin gluten' when ordering.