Things To Do
in Durango
Durango, Mexico is a city located in the north-central part of the country. Known for its rich cultural heritage and colonial architecture, it offers visitors a glimpse into Mexico's history. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and canyons, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Durango is also famous for its traditional Mexican cuisine, such as birria and machaca.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Naturaleza y Vida park for a refreshing walk. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and vibrant local flora.
Head over to the iconic Catedral Basílica Metropolitana for a dose of history and stunning architecture. Don't miss the nearby Plaza de Armas for some local cuisine.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant showcasing traditional Durangense dishes. Take a stroll around the plaza to soak up the lively atmosphere.
Visit the historic downtown area, beginning with the Museo de Durango. Learn about the city's rich cultural heritage and history.
Explore the old forts and the remnants of Durango's colonial architecture. Grab lunch at a café with an outdoor terrace for people-watching.
Dine at a restaurant that offers regional specialties while enjoying live traditional music. After dinner, explore the local nightlife and dance spots.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous historical sites and museums.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains and rivers ideal for outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many cities in the United States.
- Friendly and welcoming local population, making it easier for newcomers to acclimate.
- A growing expat community that can provide support and social connections.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, particularly for non-Spanish speakers.
- Public services, such as healthcare and transportation, may not be up to par with larger cities.
- High crime rates in certain areas, requiring caution and awareness.
- Extreme weather conditions, especially during summer months.
- Infrastructure may be lacking in some regions, leading to potential inconveniences.
Best Activities in Durango
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Durango through various hiking trails in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains.
Experience thrilling river rafting adventures on the Nazas River, known for its scenic landscapes and exciting rapids.
Visit the impressive Basaseachic Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Mexico, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Durango with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Durango
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the city and the valley
Cable car ride providing stunning views of the city and surrounding area
Recreates an old western town with picturesque settings perfect for photography
Food in Durango
Durango Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory stew made with marinated goat or mutton, slowly cooked with a blend of spices and chilies. Often served with onions, cilantro, lime, and tortillas.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup featuring tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and garbanzo beans, seasoned with local herbs and spices.
A unique delicacy of bull testicles, typically breaded and fried, offering a flavorful and surprisingly tender experience for the adventurous eater.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Durango better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest food markets in Durango, offering a wide array of local produce, meats, and spices. Visitors can also find street food stalls serving up tacos, tamales, and traditional snacks.
This bustling street is a hotspot for street food, with vendors selling an assortment of antojitos such as quesadillas, gorditas, and elote (grilled corn).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Durango, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles and greeting them with a handshake or a slight bow.
Being on time is highly valued in Durango, so it's important to make an effort to arrive punctually for social gatherings and meetings.
Respecting personal space is important in Durango, so it's best to avoid standing too close to others and to observe their boundaries.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Durango with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Durango
Ensure a smooth experience
In Durango, Mexico, it is customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not already included in the bill. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated as a gesture of gratitude.
Payments in Durango are commonly made in Mexican pesos. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets. It's a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Durango, Mexico, with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities
Expect warm weather and the possibility of occasional rain showers; ideal for outdoor adventures and festivals
Enjoy the mild temperatures, cultural festivals, and the stunning changing colors of the landscape
Experience cooler temperatures, occasional snowfall, and festive holiday celebrations
Durango at Night
Hiking in Durango
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain located near Monterrey, offering several hiking trails with stunning views.
A national park with diverse trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, featuring forests, canyons, and wildlife.
A popular spot for hiking that leads to beautiful waterfalls and scenic views, perfect for a day trip.
Offers a unique landscape with rock formations and various hiking paths, ideal for adventurous hikers.
A breathtaking canyon area with trails that provide stunning views of the cliffs and surrounding nature.
Aiports
How to reach Durango by plane.
The main international airport serving Durango, Mexico, located approximately 20 kilometers from the city center.
Located in Cienfuegos, this airport serves as an alternative close to Durango, offering limited international services.
Located in Chihuahua, this international airport is approximately 200 kilometers from Durango, providing a wider range of international connections.
This airport is situated in Mazatlán, about 300 kilometers from Durango, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located in Acapulco, approximately 400 kilometers from Durango, this airport connects with several international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Durango, comprising people of mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
Including groups such as the Nahua, Huichol, and Tepehuan, who maintain distinct cultural identities.
People of primarily European descent, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of Durango.
A smaller demographic with roots tracing back to African heritage, contributing to local culture and history.
Individuals from various other backgrounds, including recent immigrants and expatriates.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Durango, with many local teams and a strong following for national leagues.
Baseball has a rich history in Durango, featuring local leagues and a passionate fan base, especially for the professional Durango Generales.
Basketball is widely played at schools and community centers, with various amateur leagues and youth programs available.
Athletics, including running and track events, are popular in Durango, with many local competitions held throughout the year.
Volleyball is a popular recreational sport, particularly among youth and in beach settings, with many local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durango.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric dishes are prevalent, many restaurants and cafes in Durango offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as nopales (cactus), enfrijoladas (tortillas in bean sauce), and verdolagas (purslane). It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Individuals with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like ceviche, aguachile, and certain tacos that are made with corn tortillas. Always inquire about preparation methods to ensure gluten-free suitability.