Best of Guanajuato

Hidden in the rocky highlands north of Mexico City, enormous mines of silver and gold brought staggering wealth to early Spanish prospectors. Much of the largesse was showered on Guanajuato, an opulent colonial city that emerged in the boom days of the late 1500s. Set with cobblestone lanes that wind up and through its colorful hillside neighborhoods, Guanajuato is a joy for pedestrian exploring. The city is also an epicenter of the arts, home to grand museums, century-old theaters and a dynamic performance scene. 

Make the most of a visit by exploring both the UNESCO World Heritage city center and the fascinating surprises of Guanajuato state. Previous kimkim travelers have explored the nearby mountains on horseback rides and bicycling tours. The rugged landscape just north of the city contains the historic mining towns of Mineral de Santa Ana, Llanos de Santa Ana, and Mineral de la Luz. A guided tour by vehicle takes in fine scenery while providing insight into the past. You can also go beyond the highlights in Guanajuato on a specialized tour of the culturally rich Presa de la Olla neighborhood, home to one of the most important engineering works of the 18th century and a frequent host of the city’s major festivals.