Things To Do
in Mascota
Mascota is a small colonial town in Jalisco set among the Sierra Madre mountains, known for its pastel-painted buildings and cobblestone streets. Surrounded by pine and oak forests, it serves as a gateway to nature with nearby waterfalls, viewpoints, and hiking trails. The town preserves traditional crafts and a relaxed, welcoming vibe that invites slow travel and authentic rural experiences.
Visitors can explore markets, plazas, and hilltop overlooks that reveal the region’s rustic charm and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming town of Mascota, nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains. Take some time to settle into your accommodations and sip a cup of local coffee while soaking in the picturesque surroundings. Stroll through the cobblestone streets to admire the colonial architecture and vibrant gardens.
Embark on a guided tour to the historic La Primavera Church, known for its beautiful altars and serene atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Mexican dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Afterward, visit the nearby art galleries showcasing local artisans and their crafts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy plaza to relax and mingle with locals. Taste the flavors of Mascota at a nearby eatery or enjoy a sunset picnic with local delicacies you picked up during the day. Cap the night with stargazing in the clear sky, perhaps with a glass of mezcal in hand.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out to the enchanting El Salto waterfall. The hike to the falls offers stunning views of lush landscapes and an opportunity to spot local wildlife. Upon arrival, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the waterfall.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch by the waterfall, surrounded by the beautiful sounds of nature. Afterward, venture back to Mascota and visit the nearby coffee plantations to learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy tastings. Engage with local farmers and discover the intricate details that go into producing high-quality coffee.
Return to town and join an evening cultural event or workshop showcasing local music and dance. Indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant known for its vibrant ambiance and traditional recipes. Wind down the evening with a stroll through the town’s vibrant nightlife, perhaps stopping at a local bar for a nightcap.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short trip) | $3-8 |
| 🧺Souvenir item | $2-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Mexican culture with warm hospitality
- Beautiful mountain scenery and easy access to nature
- Compact town center that's walkable and photogenic
- Relaxed pace ideal for slow travel
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Some facilities and services are basic outside the town center
- Roads to hiking spots can be rugged and require a careful driver
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
- "Me gustaría un poco de agua" - I’d like some water
- "¿Qué recomienda?" - What do you recommend?
- "Muchas gracias" - Thank you very much
- "Disculpe" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Mascota
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic colonial church with a distinctive façade; great for architectural shots and golden-hour portraits.
Colorful facades, flower-filled balconies, and cobblestone lanes ideal for street photography and candid moments.
A hilltop overlook offering sweeping views over Mascota and surrounding valleys, perfect for sunset photography.
Historic market exterior with textured walls and locals at work—great for lively, vibrant street scenes.
Food in Mascota
Mascota Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised goat meat in a chile-rich broth, often served with tortillas; commonly found in local fondas and weekend markets.
Must-Try!
A hominy-based stew with pork or chicken, chile, and aromatics, traditionally enjoyed with toppings like lettuce, onion, and lime.
Tamales made from masa filled with regional fillings and steamed in husks; a staple at family gatherings and markets.
Warm tortillas folded around cheese and seasonal vegetables or mushrooms, common in street stalls and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall offering fresh produce, cheeses, chiles, breads, and regional snacks; great for observing daily life and sampling street foods.
Casual vendors selling tortillas, tacos, sopes, and other street foods; look for best flavors during late afternoons and early evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hola' or 'buenos días'; a handshake or brief kiss on the cheek is common with acquaintances. The pace can be relaxed, especially in the afternoon; plan visits accordingly.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites and ask before photographing people or interiors.
Family and community ties are strong; exchanging pleasantries and showing courtesy goes far.
Safety
Tipping in Mascota
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and hotels, tipping 10–15% is customary if service isn’t included. Small tips for bellhops, guides, and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Cash in pesos is widely accepted; many shops and some restaurants also take cards. ATMs are available in Mascota and nearby towns; small vendors may only accept cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and warm days with pleasant evenings; carry sun protection and water. A few afternoon showers can occur in the higher elevations.
Frequent brief downpours; trails can be slippery, so wear sturdy footwear and carry a light rain jacket.
Cool to mild days with cooler nights; layering is recommended and fog in valleys is common in the early mornings.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Mascota at Night
Hiking in Mascota
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of forested trails with varying difficulty, offering viewpoints over the town and surrounding farms; guided hikes are recommended for interpretation and safety.
Several short drives connect to cascades where hikers can enjoy a refreshing dip and scenic photography.
Airports
How to reach Mascota by plane.
Main regional gateway; about 2.5–3 hours by road depending on route and traffic. Offers domestic and international flights.
Smaller regional airport in Nayarit; typically a few hours’ drive to Mascota, with some domestic services and connections.
Larger hub offering numerous domestic and international flights; longer drive to Mascota but useful for broader connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Mestizo with strong indigenous and regional cultural influences; families and farmers form the core community.
Tourists seeking authentic rural Mexico, nature lovers, hikers, and cultural enthusiasts from across Mexico and abroad.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region; informal games and local leagues are common in town and surrounding towns.
Horse riding, roping, and traditional equestrian events are part of rural life in the surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mascota.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes include meat, but you can find veggie-friendly options in markets and moderate restaurants. Look for plant-based stews, grilled vegetables, and cheese quesadillas; phrases like ‘sin carne’ (without meat) or ‘vegetariano/a’ help. If dining in markets, point to fresh produce and staple sides like beans, corn, and rice.