· MX

Colima

Colima, Colima, Mexico

Discover Colima: A Charming Mexican Escape Nestled between towering volcanoes and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Colima, the capital of Colima state, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, and vibran…

#Mexico#Pacific Coast#Volcanoes#Historic Architecture#Tropical Climate

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Colima.

Top Hotels in Colima

Top Flights to Colima

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Colima.

Tours

Historic Downtown Colima Walk

Stroll through Colima's historic downtown, featuring colonial architecture and vibrant culture.

Comala Magical Town Visit

Visit the picturesque town of Comala, known for its beautiful white buildings and charming atmosphere.

La Campana Archaeological Site

Explore ancient ruins at La Campana, a significant archaeological site in Colima.

Shopping

Shopping at Plaza San Fernando

Enjoy a day of shopping at one of Colima's largest malls, offering a mix of local and international brands.

Outdoor

Colima Volcano Tour

An adventurous day exploring the Colima Volcano, one of Mexico's most active volcanoes. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Beach Day at Manzanillo

Relax at one of Colima's most famous beaches, Playa Miramar in Manzanillo.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Colima.

Currency

$ | MXN | Mexican Peso

Population

146965.0

Languages

Spanish, Spanish

Average weather

Colima

Jan

30°18°

Feb

31°18°

Mar

32°19°

Apr

33°20°

May

33°22°

Jun

31°23°

Jul

30°23°

Aug

30°23°

Sep

30°23°

Oct

31°22°

Nov

31°20°

Dec

30°19°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Colima.

What people love

Colima, located in the state of Colima, Mexico, offers a unique travel experience with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the pros of traveling to Colima include:

Natural Beauty: Colima is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the active Volcán de Colima (also known as Volcán de Fuego) and the nearby Nevado de Colima National Park. Visitors can explore lush forests, volcanic terrain, and beautiful scenery.
Cultural Heritage: The city of Colima is rich in history and culture, with several museums, historic sites, and archaeological ruins to explore. The Colima Regional History Museum and the Colima Cathedral are popular attractions that showcase the region's heritage.
Authentic Cuisine: Colima is famous for its traditional Mexican cuisine, with local dishes such as pozole, tamales, and seafood specialties. Visitors can experience authentic flavors and culinary delights at local restaurants and markets.
Outdoor Activities: Colima offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, including hiking, mountain biking, and bird-watching. The region's diverse landscapes provide opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Warm Hospitality: Visitors to Colima can expect to be greeted with warm hospitality and friendly locals who are eager to share their culture and traditions. The welcoming atmosphere adds to the overall travel experience in the region.

Overall, traveling to Colima offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, authentic cuisine, outdoor activities, and warm hospitality, making it a destination worth exploring.

Enjoy your trip to Colima!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Colima, Mexico, include:

Natural Disasters: Colima is located in an area prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic activity. The Colima Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico, is located nearby and can pose a potential risk to travelers.
Safety Concerns: Like many parts of Mexico, Colima has experienced issues with crime and violence, particularly related to drug trafficking. Travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding walking alone at night and being vigilant of their surroundings.
Limited Tourist Infrastructure: Compared to more popular tourist destinations in Mexico, Colima may have a more limited tourist infrastructure, including fewer accommodations, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Travelers seeking a more developed tourist experience may be disappointed.
Language Barrier: While many people in Colima may speak some English, the primary language spoken is Spanish. Travelers who do not speak Spanish may encounter challenges in communication, particularly in more remote areas.
Weather: Colima has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity. Travelers who are not accustomed to hot weather may find it uncomfortable, especially during the summer months.

Overall, while Colima has much to offer in terms of natural beauty and cultural attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential cons and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Colima, located in western Mexico, is both a city and the capital of the state of Colima. Its rich history dates back to pre-Columbian times and continues through the colonial period to modern day.

Pre-Columbian Period

Colima's history begins with its indigenous peoples, primarily the Nahuatl-speaking tribes, such as the Colimas, who inhabited the area. The region was known for its advanced pottery and the shaft tomb tradition, where the deceased were buried in deep vertical shafts.

Spanish Conquest and Colonial Period

The Spanish colonization began in the early 16th century. In 1523, Gonzalo de Sandoval, a lieutenant of Hernán Cortés, founded the Villa de Colima, making it one of the earliest Spanish settlements in the region. The city was officially established on July 25, 1527, and the original site was moved several times due to volcanic activity and indigenous resistance before settling in its current location.

Significant Events

1810s: During the Mexican War of Independence, Colima played a role as part of the broader movement against Spanish rule. The city was captured by the insurgents led by Miguel Hidalgo’s forces.
1857: Colima was declared a state of the Mexican Republic, separating from the state of Jalisco.
20th Century: Colima's development continued with the establishment of infrastructure, educational institutions, and cultural centers.

Historical Figures

Miguel de la Madrid: Born in Colima, he served as the President of Mexico from 1982 to 1988, playing a crucial role in economic reforms and modernization efforts during his presidency.

Important Landmarks

Cathedral Basilica Menor: This cathedral, located in the main square, is a prime example of neoclassical architecture and serves as a central place of worship and a historical landmark.
Government Palace: This building houses the state government offices and is known for its impressive murals depicting Colima's history and culture.
Nunez Garden: A historic garden offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past with its beautiful landscaping and colonial-style architecture surrounding it.
Volcán de Colima: Also known as the Colima Volcano, it is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico and serves as a significant natural landmark.

Modern Day

Today, Colima is known for its high quality of life, cultural richness, and educational institutions. It remains a vital part of Mexico's cultural and historical tapestry, blending its indigenous roots with its colonial heritage.

Colima, with its vibrant history and cultural significance, continues to be a prominent city in Mexico, attracting tourists and historians alike with its rich past and dynamic present.