Ciclopista Ixtapa
A stunning 25km paved bike path through lush jungle, connecting Ixtapa to Playa Linda, teeming with wildlife and ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Ciclopista Ixtapa
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 25km paved bike path through lush jungle, connecting Ixtapa to Playa Linda, teeming with wildlife and ocean views.
"It is said that the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo bike path is one of the most beautiful in the world."
Rent a Bike 🚲
Numerous rental shops available. Ask about guides for a richer experience.
Pack Water & Pesos 💧💰
Stay hydrated and have cash for snacks, drinks, or feeding iguanas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crocodile Habitat
Along the Ciclopista
Encounter crocodiles and other fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat. A truly unique and thrilling experience!
Playa Linda
End of the Ciclopista
Reach this beautiful beach at the end of your ride, perfect for a refreshing dip or enjoying local food.
Ocean Vistas
Various points along the path
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, especially from hidden mountain spots.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife Sightings
Bike Rentals & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent a Bike 🚲
Numerous rental shops available. Ask about guides for a richer experience.
Pack Water & Pesos 💧💰
Stay hydrated and have cash for snacks, drinks, or feeding iguanas.
Wildlife Spotting 🐊
Mornings & evenings are best for seeing crocodiles and birds.
Connects to Beaches 🏖️
The path links to beautiful beaches like Playa Linda.
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent a Bike 🚲
Numerous rental shops available. Ask about guides for a richer experience.
Pack Water & Pesos 💧💰
Stay hydrated and have cash for snacks, drinks, or feeding iguanas.
Wildlife Spotting 🐊
Mornings & evenings are best for seeing crocodiles and birds.
Connects to Beaches 🏖️
The path links to beautiful beaches like Playa Linda.
Enjoy the Scenery 🌴
Take your time to soak in the lush jungle and ocean views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ciclopista Ixtapa for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained paths, making it a top choice for cycling and nature exploration. Some found certain sections less scenic or a bit disappointing if they missed specific viewpoints, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"9.5km paves bike path. Everything from jungle travel, alligators, and coati. Head to La Palapa for drinks, food, and parasailing."
Jason Miles
"Wonderful experience!!! We rode the entire length of the trail - much to see and enjoy along the way including… crocodiles! Beautiful flowers, birds and butterflies everywhere, well maintained trails, and a joy to experience animals in their natural habitat"
Amber Amato de Guerrero
"There is an amazing deep forest bike ride from the town of Ixtapa to Playa Linda. Maybe 8km.There's a bike rental shop on the bike path next to the restaurant Soleiados near the Marina. You can rent bikes and ask for a guide if needed.. Leave from there, follow the bike path around to the left, up and down a few hills and at one point you will cross the street into the "Crocodile jungle". Take the path all the way to Playa Linda. Get off your bike at the natural Croc habitat and around the corner you can feed the iguanas some mangos from the mango cart. They are friendly. Definitely bring water & pesos."
Diyonne Raines
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ciclopista Ixtapa is easily accessible from the hotel zone in Ixtapa and connects to Zihuatanejo. Many visitors start their journey from the marina area where bike rentals are readily available.
While not directly on the Ciclopista, local buses and taxis can get you to the main access points in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, from where you can begin your cycling adventure.
Yes, there are parking areas near the marina and at Playa Linda, which serve as good starting or ending points for your ride.
Cycling is the most popular and recommended way to experience the Ciclopista. You can rent bikes at various points along the path.
Absolutely! The Ciclopista is also enjoyed by pedestrians and runners, offering a safe and scenic route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Ciclopista itself is a public path and does not require an entrance fee. You only pay for bike rentals or any activities at specific locations.
The Ciclopista is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to check with local rental shops for their specific operating hours.
Playa Linda is a public beach and typically free to access. Any costs would be for food, drinks, or parasailing at establishments there.
Yes, there are several bike rental shops conveniently located along the Ciclopista, especially near the marina.
Some bike rental shops offer guided tours, which can enhance your experience, especially if you want to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You have a good chance of spotting crocodiles, iguanas, various birds, and butterflies. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for wildlife viewing. +1
The Ciclopista is approximately 25 km (about 15.5 miles) long, connecting Ixtapa to Playa Linda and offering varied landscapes.
Many enjoy the stretch that goes through the jungle and leads to the crocodile habitat and Playa Linda. The views of the Pacific Ocean are also a highlight.
The Ciclopista is generally well-maintained, with paved paths making for a pleasant cycling experience.
Yes, there are restaurants and palapas along the route, particularly near Playa Linda, where you can enjoy refreshments and meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of wildlife like crocodiles and iguanas, lush jungle scenery, and panoramic ocean views. The golden hour light is particularly beautiful.
It's advisable to pull over to a safe spot before taking photos, especially if you're cycling. Be mindful of other users on the path.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes.
Look for elevated spots along the path that offer sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The route to Playa Linda provides many scenic opportunities.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance. The Ciclopista offers opportunities to observe them from the path or designated viewing areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Rent bikes with child seats or trailers if needed. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider an early morning ride to avoid the hottest part of the day and increase wildlife sighting opportunities. The relatively flat terrain in many sections makes it manageable for younger riders.
🚴♀️ Active Travelers & Cyclists
Recommendations: Rent a good quality bike from a reputable shop. Consider exploring the route towards Zihuatanejo for a more challenging ride, or focus on the path to Playa Linda for a mix of wildlife and beach access. Don't forget your helmet and cycling gear for maximum comfort and safety.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Wildlife Spotters
Best viewing times: Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the highest chance of spotting active wildlife. Bring binoculars if you have them to get a closer look at the birds. The sheer variety of life makes every ride a unique discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Ciclopista by Bike
+2Many visitors rave about the well-maintained trails and the immersive experience of cycling through such diverse environments. You can rent bikes from numerous shops located near the marina or along the path itself. Consider renting a bike for a few hours or even a full day to fully explore the different segments and enjoy the freedom of two wheels.
Key highlights of the cycling route include the chance to see exotic wildlife, enjoy stunning ocean vistas, and reach beautiful beaches like Playa Linda. It's an activity that appeals to both fitness enthusiasts and those looking for a leisurely exploration of Ixtapa's natural wonders.
+1Wildlife Encounters on the Ciclopista
Beyond reptiles, the Ciclopista is a haven for birdwatchers. You'll see a variety of tropical birds, from colorful parrots to water birds near the lagoons. The lush vegetation also attracts butterflies, adding to the vibrant scenery. Many visitors have shared their excitement about seeing these animals in their natural habitat, describing it as a 'joy to experience animals in their natural habitat.'
To maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, it's recommended to visit during the early morning or late afternoon. These cooler parts of the day are when animals are most active. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding the animals, though some areas might have vendors selling food for iguanas.
+1Connecting to Beaches and Local Life
Beyond Playa Linda, the Ciclopista also provides a scenic route to other areas, including the Cocodrilario Tamakún, a crocodile sanctuary where you can observe these fascinating creatures up close. The path's ability to weave through natural reserves and lead to recreational spots makes it a versatile attraction for both locals and tourists.
+1For those staying at resorts like the Holiday Inn Ixtapa, the Ciclopista offers a convenient way to explore the surroundings, including the beach and local dining options. It's a pathway that truly integrates the natural environment with accessible leisure activities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit