Acámbaro was the first village to be established in the territory encompassing what is now Guanajuato state, the town’s extensive history has given rise to a profound tangible and intangible cultural heritage.
Uncover the enigmas hidden within the walls of the town’s museums, connect with nature while exploring the green and dense outskirts of the Los Agustinos Sierra, or simply spend a day unwinding in the refreshing waters of natural springs at one of the many exciting waterparks in Acámbaro.
As you stroll through the heart of the town’s center, let the sweet aroma of fresh-out-of-the-oven buns guide you to one of the local bakeries. Acámbaro’s bread is famous across the state for its distinct flavor, so be sure not to miss out on it!
Visit Acámbaro and experience the enchanting ambiance of The Town Where Guanajuato Was Born!
Tourist Attractions
Historic City Center and Landmarks
While exploring the city center, visitors will immediately be captivated by the 18th-century Baroque-style architecture of the San Francisco de Asís Church and the Santa María de Gracia Nunnery. This architectural ensemble houses a beautiful shrine that honors San Francisco de Asís, alongside the altar of Our Lady, Refuge of Sinners. This virgin saint is believed to have interceded to rid the city from a cholera epidemic. Additionally, there are twelve wooden carvings on display, portraying religious figures, a testament to the devotion of Acambaro’s society.
The church’s cloister features an arcade spanning sixteen arches and a courtyard adorned with a Baroque-style limestone font.
Completing this architectural ensemble, the Templo del Hospital Church boasts a harmonic fusion of Tequitqui architecture with elements of Plateresque design. The facade of this church is embellished with limestone carvings depicting the earth, the sky, the stars, and the árbol de la vida (tree of life), which are symbols of profound religious significance for the indigenous artisans who participated in the construction of this church.
Las Cruces Church
The design of this church was inspired by the architectural marvel that is the Taj Mahal. Its facade is adorned with beautiful pink limestone cladding. The annual patronal festival, celebrated on December 28, brings the community together for a day of joyful festivities.
Las Cruces church is an architectural gem, offering a great backdrop for your photography needs!
José Cardoso Téllez Railway History Museum
The Railway History Museum occupies the historic premises of Acámbaro’s former train station. The museum displays a collection of items that recount the town’s impact on Mexico’s railway history, including a full-scale locomotive, photographs, documents and dioramas.
In the factories that were established in the city, ingenious Mexican mechanics manufactured the renowned 296-model locomotive. The city of Acámbaro made history by being the only one in Latin America that manufactured this machine. Affectionately nicknamed La Fidelita, this iron horse left its mark in the heart of Acambaro’s people.
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El Zapotito Eco-Park
El Zapotito is a fun option for a family weekend getaway, where you can enjoy a leisurely day with a picnic by the shoreline of the Solís Dam, amid a dense green landscape. The park is prepared to welcome visitors with amenities like public grills, well-equipped bathrooms, and food stalls offering culinary delights on Sundays.
At El Zapotito Eco-Park, you can enjoy green spaces, music, and food. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to relax and unwind in nature.
Sierra Los Agustinos Eco-Park
The park is found within the vast expanse of Los Agustinos nature reserve. The lush forest invites visitors to embark on an exploration journey while enjoying amenities such as a camping area, cabins, public grills and more.
Sierra Los Agustinos offers the highest terrain elevation in the entire state, which creates a natural mirador to take in the panoramic views of its vibrant scenery.
The Museum Route
Journey through time in the top four museums in Acámbaro, learn everything there is to know about the town’s history, and let your imagination be transported to a bygone era full of interesting characters.
- Doctor Luis Mota Maciel Museum: The museum offers optional guided tours; visitors can delve into Acambaro’s history and admire archaeological artifacts of Chupícuaro origin. Phone: 4171722802
- Waldemar Julsrud Museum: In this museum, the personal collection of German archeologist Waldemar Robert Ludwin Julsrud Walden is on display. The pieces, discovered on the outskirts of Toro Hill, were crafted from clay and depict animal forms, some of which bear a striking resemblance to dinosaurs. Visit the museum to unveil the mysteries surrounding these intriguing figurines.
- Railway History Museum: The museum displays a collection of items that recount the town’s impact on Mexico’s railway history, some of these include: a full-scale locomotive, photographs, documents and dioramas.
- Chupícuaro Museum: Dedicated entirely to the Chupícuaro culture, the museum serves as a window into the lives and history of this pre-Hispanic society. This modern building owes its existence to the efforts of the community, who take great pride in showcasing their heritage.
Tour Operators
- Acoatl Kayaks
Email: acoatlkayaks@gmail.com
Mobile phone: 171027621
Location: Acámbaro, Guanajuato.
Services offered: Kayak rides and guided tours.
- Paraíso Andánari
Email: yanidethzuritatrejo@gmail.com
Mobile phone: 4171806718
Location: Comunidad de La Encarnación
Services offered: relaxing massages, facials, guided tours through La Encarnación community, inflatable water balls.
- Akambarhu
Mobile phone: 4171108984
Contact: Visit our Facebook page.
Location: Acámbaro, Guanajuato.
Services offered: Guided tours, touristic packages.
