Ahuacatlán

What Makes It Magical

Ahuacatlán is a tiny town located in the southern region of Nayarit, just an hour down the road from Tepic, the state capital. It was founded by the Nahua tribe on its journey towards the center of the Anáhuac highlands. This is a destination replete with historic buildings and wrapped in natural wonders. Until the mid-19^th century, Ahuacatlán was one of the most important population centers in the south of Nayarit. For many years its inhabitants were traders, mule drivers, and farmers, since the great Camino Real (Royal Road) connecting Guadalajara with the port of San Blas ran through the heart of this destination.

From its majestic church of San Francisco de Asís to the idyllic scenery in Las Tinajas, Ahuacatlán is a beautiful secret waiting to be discovered.

Why You Should Go

The Templo de San Francisco de Asís. Dating from the 17^th century, the clock on this church named for Saint Francis of Assisi was donated by President Álvaro Obregón.

At the Very Least

• In the surrounding area you will find several waterparks, such as Las Tinajas with spring-fed pools in the middle of the woods.
• Other buildings you should see are the Palacio Municipal (town hall), Casa de la Cultura (cultural center), and Inmaculada Concepción church.

Don’t Miss

1. Visit the historic churches of San Francisco de Asís and the Inmaculada Concepción.
2. Don’t pass up your chance to try the scrumptious caramelized milk candies, the town’s traditional treat. The most famous ones are mango flavored, a local delicacy.
3. Explore the ruins of the Templo de San Juan Evangelista, a former church.
4. Cool off in the Tetitlán, Chiltes, Agua Caliente, Ermitaño, and Minas streams.