Jalisco

Located in western Mexico, the state of Jalisco is famous for the origin of tequila, mariachi, and ranchera music.  With its western boundary on the Pacific Ocean, Jalisco also borders the states of Michoacán, Colima, San Luis Potosi, Nayarit, Guanajuato, Zacatecas, and Aguascalientes.  In the center of Jalisco is Guadalajara, the capital.  Also, Jalisco remains a favorite destination with resort towns like Puerto Vallarta.  Its reputation as the home of the Mexican cowboy and sombrero remains well intact.  As a result, in cooperation with the indigenous people, Jalisco is one of the most growing regions.

Important Facts

Admitted as a Mexican state in 1823, Jalisco fills nearly 31,000 square miles.  With a population of 7,459,528, the state is one of Mexico’s most crowded.  Notably, the urban region of Guadalajara is second only in terms of population to Mexico City.  As such, the capital claims a pulsing economy based on manufacturing and information technology.  Consequently, many foreign corporations and firms settled in Guadalajara. 

Geography

With its beaches, tropical forests, temperate forests, lakes, and plains, Jalisco also lies on the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt.  Among the ecosystems of the state are cloud forests and mangroves.  There are protected beaches for marine turtles and savannas that slope toward the ocean.  Jalisco’s various rivers and streams head primarily to the Pacific.  Lake Chapala, the largest lake in the country, is located in Jalisco as well as Michoacán.  Wildlife includes such animals as armadillo, ocelot, iguana, rattlesnake, coral snake, parrot, and many other species.  The waters off the coast maintain snapper, wahoo, crab, lobster, octopus, and sea bass.

History

According to archeologists, people arrived in Jalisco nearly 15,000 years ago.  The pre-Columbian period in western Mexico witnessed its first settlements in the Jalisco region.  The earliest settlement to reach city proportions was at Ixtepete, which continues to impress historians with its tombs.  Meat lured many groups into the area around the tenth century A.D.  Tribes like the Cuyutlan and Coco left considerable evidence behind regarding their culture and civilization. 

Artifacts also reflect the influence of the Toltec and Teotihuacan peoples.  The P’urhepecha became the dominant group of the region by the early fourteenth century.  Jalisco’s colonial period began not long after the Aztec conquest.  Cortes sent explorers into the area by 1522.  The Spanish used brutal force to subdue local populations, but there were many uprisings throughout the colonial era as elsewhere in Mexico. 

Guadalajara was founded in 1542 and increased in importance over time as a trade center.  The city imported goods from the coast and made them available for other areas of the country.  During the War for Independence, Jalisco was the site of various battles and was a significant battleground area during the Mexican Revolution.  Today, the state is rich in history, culture, and a prosperous economy.

The Capital: Guadalajara

This business-friendly state is the 10th largest city in Latin America.  As a result, many companies from across the world have invested in the city’s economy.  Cultural attractions and historical landmarks dot the cityscape.  For example, the historic downtown is a picturesque area filled with the city’s oldest structures.  Also, the city is famous for its beautiful parks. 

Among Jalisco’s most popular sites are the Guadalajara Cathedral, and the Jalisco Regional Museum.  In addition, the Plaza Tapatia, Plaza de Armas, and the Palace of Justice are must-sees.  Monuments of historical and cultural significance are in various areas of the city.  Also, world-class hotels and restaurants are in this exciting capital city.

Tourism in Jalisco

The state’s most popular tourist centers include the capital, Puerto Vallarta, Lake Chapala, and the mountain regions.  The town of Tequila also attracts many visitors.  Puerto Vallarta is considered a resort town, situated on Banderas Bay. 

Things to See and Do in Jalisco

• Tapalpa

• Ciudad Guzman:  South of Guadalajara, Ciudad Guzman is home of the Zapotlan people. The city is nicknamed the “Athens of Jalisco” for its artist population.  
• Ajijic:  This village is on the northern shore of Lake Chapala.  A serene and relaxed landscape that counters the vibrancy and crowds of Puerto Vallarta. Below are photos from our trip (Charles Lundy) in Ajijic 2016.  See our article on Ajijic here which includes a street map.

• Marietas Islands: A popular day-trip from Puerto Vallarta.  These Pacific islands offer great snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking experiences.
• Puerto Vallarta: A gorgeous sea-side village with incredible food, 5 star resorts and activities galore

Conchas China Beach Puerto Vallarta Jalisco

• Museum of Huichol Indian Handicrafts:  This Guadalajara museum is a popular tourist destination and cultural venue with artifacts and handicrafts of Huichol.
• Tequila Express: This train ride is a luxury tour from Guadalajara to the town of Tequila.  It features enchanting scenic views until it reaches an old hacienda that showcases the traditional tequila-making process.

• Liberty Market:  Promoted as the largest covered market in Latin America, this Guadalajara venue is a must-see.  This market has it all..
• Barranca de Huentitan:  This region is north of the capital.  The landscape attracts backpackers, hikers, and campers to find its natural beauty.
• International Mariachi Festival:  This event draws a huge audience to honor the arts, culture, and music of the state.