An Afternoon in Copala, Mexico

Day Trips from Mazatlán

Looking for excursions from Mazatlán? Consider the tiny little town of Copala, also in Sinaloa state like Mazatlán is. Travelers concerned about the little issue of overtourism—where historical monuments and other must-sees suffer greater wear-and-tear simply because so many people make them a destination—need have no such worries in Copala, Mexico. With a population of 600, the streets of this quiet town in the foothills of the Sierra Madre are mostly empty save for a stray dog or two and some young kids hawking souvenirs.

Step into the Past in Copala

Why bother stopping by such a small place if there’s not much going on? Because visitors step back in time when they enter this colonial town, founded in 1565 by Spanish conquistador Francisco de Ibarra. A one-time mining town named for a mythical golden city, Copala remains known for its colorful, centuries-old adobe homes topped with red-tiled roofs and often surrounded by bougainvillea plantings. Electricity supposedly did not arrive until 1979. Before that, residents used gas lights.

Must-Sees in Copala

Dusty, cobblestone streets lead to Copala’s plaza, or square. On a sunny day, my group explores the church, San Jose, which was built in 1748. The French came through in 1865, burning down the civil registry and destroying records. The invasion reminds visitors of today just how much Mexico went through to achieve independent nationhood.

Also notable is the Museo Minero, or Mining Museum, housed in what a stone building at times used as a jail. We do a little souvenir shopping at the showroom of artist Alejandro Rodriguez, who makes intriguing leather masks. He also owns Alexander’s Restaurant in the heart of the town.

It does not take long to walk Copala’s uneven streets. Imagine whether you could live in a small, dusty place like this, especially when it did not have running water or electricity. Imagine if you could live here today given how small and quiet the town is. At the very least, savor a taste of real, unadorned Mexico.

When You Go to Copala

• Wear sensible shoes! Those cobblestones are not evenly placed.
• Be prepared to see free-range dogs about town.
• Dining options are limited, so bring refreshment.

—Lori Tripoli

Disclosure: The author’s trip was hosted by the Estrella del Mar resort in Mazatlán.

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Considering a vacation in Mexico? You might like these posts:

• Copala Memories Then and Now
• Chichen Itza, Top to Bottom
• Mayan Bloodletting at Chichen Itza
• Cancun for the Convenience

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Where is Copala, Mexico?

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What is your favorite day trip from Mazatlán?