For a glimpse of Mexico’s rich, agricultural heartland, head to Tepic, the historic capital of Nayarit, where modern and Spanish-era buildings mingle with colourful murals. Explore the city’s leafy Plaza de Armas, filled with live music, cafés and buzzing street life, before pausing to admire the neo-Gothic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Step back in time with pre-Hispanic pottery and artifacts on display at the Museo Regional de Nayarit or take in regional art housed in a beautiful neoclassical mansion at the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo Emilia Ortiz.
Visit Tepic: get started
Get the most out of your all-inclusive vacation package to Tepic with a relaxing stroll through La Loma Park or head just outside the city to the Sierra de San Juan Biosphere Reserve for volcanic peaks, lush cloud forest and rare birds. Make sure to visit the emerald-hued Santa María del Oro Lagoon for a scenic kayak or boat ride, or visit the home of celebrated Mexican poet Amado Nervo, filled with his prized literary collections and personal mementos.
Tepic travel guide
Destination facts
Language
Predominantly Spanish, with indigenous languages like Cora, Nahuatl and Huichol also spoken.
When to visit
The dry season (November to April) offers pleasant weather for exploring.
What to bring back
Huichol art, hand-woven textiles, silver jewellery, leather goods and traditional sweets.
What to eat
Grilled fish, shrimp or pozole tamales, oyster soup, oyster quesadillas and tons of fresh fruit. You might also want to sample Raicilla, a local agave-based spirit.
Fun fact
The word Tepic is most likely derived from the Nahuatl language, meaning “the place of massive stones,” referring to the city’s surrounding volcanoes.
Important info
For more information on all necessary travel documents and more, check Air Canada’s Travel Requirements page and the Government of Canada’s Travel and Tourism website.
