Cerro del Crestón Natural Reserve
Hike to the highest natural lighthouse in the Americas for breathtaking panoramic views of Mazatlán and the Pacific.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shaded stairs & sunset views
Cerro del Crestón Natural Reserve
Best Time
Shaded stairs & sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the highest natural lighthouse in the Americas for breathtaking panoramic views of Mazatlán and the Pacific.
"Amazing views walking up and at the top. You need to be a little fit maybe don’t take your elderly parents."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for the hike and stairs. Leave the flip-flops at home!
💧 Bring or Buy Water
Stay hydrated! Water is available for purchase at the top, but bringing your own is wise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Top of Cerro del Crestón
Experience breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Mazatlán, the harbor, and surrounding islands.
The Iconic Lighthouse (El Faro)
Summit
Stand atop the highest natural lighthouse in the Americas, a truly impressive landmark.
Glass Viewpoint
Near the summit
Dare to step onto the glass floor for a thrilling perspective of the heights below.
The Mega Zipline
From Lighthouse to Vigía Hill
Soar across the landscape on one of Latin America's longest ziplines for an adrenaline rush.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Fitness & Footwear
Timing is Everything: Beat the Heat & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for the hike and stairs. Leave the flip-flops at home!
💧 Bring or Buy Water
Stay hydrated! Water is available for purchase at the top, but bringing your own is wise.
⏰ Time Your Visit
Aim for late afternoon for sunset views and shaded stairs, or early morning for cooler temps.
💰 Free Entry, Paid Restrooms
Admission is free, but restrooms at the top incur a small fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy shoes are a must for the hike and stairs. Leave the flip-flops at home!
💧 Bring or Buy Water
Stay hydrated! Water is available for purchase at the top, but bringing your own is wise.
⏰ Time Your Visit
Aim for late afternoon for sunset views and shaded stairs, or early morning for cooler temps.
💰 Free Entry, Paid Restrooms
Admission is free, but restrooms at the top incur a small fee.
📸 Capture the Views
The photo opportunities are endless, especially from the glass viewpoint and summit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning panoramic views from the top of Cerro del Crestón, calling the hike a rewarding experience despite the effort. The free entry is a significant draw, though some find the glass viewpoint an unnecessary extra cost. The zipline offers an exciting alternative for thrill-seekers.
"Amazing views walking up and at the top. You need to be a little fit maybe don’t take your elderly parents. Don’t really need to do the deck I feel.
If you are coming from a cruise: pretty easy to get a uber there. Cost about 40 MXN or $2ish USD. Coming back we had to wait about 15 min for an uber, there are some local drivers with the golf carts who hang around who offered $10 USD to take us back to the terminal. So we waited."
Jimmy H
"This is quite the hike! I’m 67 so it’s probably easier for younger people. We made it to the top and were rewarded with some spectacular 360 degree views of Mazatlan, Stone Island, the harbor etc. I would recommend proper shoes and some water, although water is available for purchase at the top (25 pesos). You can zip line directly to the Observatory from here! Several benches and lookouts offer rest and photo opportunities. You also get great views of the old water/treatment facilities on the way up."
Christoffel Van Dijk
"If you plan to clim El Faro i highly recommend waiting until closing time before 5:45pm. Not only are the views great at sunset, but the stairs to the top are completely shaded from the sun. You will definitely be sweaty when you get to the top, but views are amazing all the way up.
Its free as well! But they only have paid bathrooms at the entrance and not at the top."
J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Uber is a convenient and affordable option from the cruise port, costing around 40 MXN ($2 USD). Be prepared for a potential wait for an Uber on your return, or consider local golf cart taxis.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, arriving by Uber or taxi is common. If driving, research local parking options near the base of the trail.
Yes, it's accessible from the Malecón, but it involves a significant uphill walk and stairs. It's a good option if you enjoy a longer trek.
The primary access is via the hiking trail and stairs. There isn't a direct vehicle access to the lighthouse itself.
While Uber is popular, local buses might serve areas near the base of the hill. It's advisable to check local transport routes upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the lighthouse and the hiking trail is free! However, there's a fee for the glass viewpoint and restrooms at the top.
No advance tickets are needed for the lighthouse itself. You can purchase tickets for the glass viewpoint upon arrival.
The lighthouse is generally accessible until around 5:45 PM, especially popular for sunset views. It's best to confirm exact closing times locally.
Yes, there is a ticket booth at the entrance where you can purchase access to the glass viewpoint.
There are no specific age restrictions for entry, but the hike requires a moderate level of fitness.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The summit offers incredible 360-degree views. The glass viewpoint provides a unique, thrilling perspective. Don't miss the scenic overlooks on the way up.
Many visitors find the glass viewpoint thrilling and a great photo opportunity, though some feel the overall views are sufficient without it.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A phone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but consider a camera with good low-light performance for sunset.
Generally, photography is encouraged. However, be mindful of other visitors, especially at crowded viewpoints like the glass floor.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
At a slow pace, the hike to the top takes about 25-30 minutes, involving a long ramp and approximately 350 steps.
The zipline is one of the longest in Latin America, stretching from the Faro to Vigía Hill, offering an exhilarating ride with stunning aerial views.
Yes, there are several benches and lookouts along the path that offer opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery.
At the summit, you'll find restrooms (paid), water for purchase, and various viewpoints. The zipline also departs from near the lighthouse.
The hike involves significant inclines and stairs, making it challenging for some elderly individuals or those with mobility issues. It's recommended to assess personal fitness levels.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key Considerations: The glass viewpoint can be thrilling for kids, but ensure they are comfortable with heights. The zipline is an option for older, adventurous children (check age/weight restrictions). The free entry is a big plus for budget-conscious families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Cost-Saving Tips: Opt for an Uber from the cruise port or city center, which is very affordable. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices at the top. While the glass viewpoint has a fee, the panoramic views from the summit are spectacular and free.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Enhance Your Hike: Wear your best hiking shoes, bring a camera to capture the evolving vistas, and consider timing your visit for sunset for a truly magical experience. The zipline offers an additional thrill for the truly adventurous.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cerro del Crestón Hike: A Journey to the Top
Community Advice for the Hike: Travelers strongly advise wearing comfortable, athletic shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and the stairs demanding. Bringing water is crucial, though it can be purchased at the summit. Some visitors suggest that the stairs are more shaded in the late afternoon, making the climb more comfortable as the sun begins to set.
Fitness Considerations: While rewarding, the hike is not for the faint of heart. It requires a moderate level of fitness. Those with significant mobility issues or who are not accustomed to inclines may find it challenging. It's a good idea to assess your personal fitness before committing to the climb.
The Lighthouse and Its Surroundings: More Than Just a View
The Glass Viewpoint Experience: A notable attraction near the summit is the glass viewpoint. This platform allows visitors to stand on a transparent floor, offering a thrilling, albeit potentially vertigo-inducing, perspective directly down the cliff face. It's a popular spot for photos, but be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak times.
The Mega Zipline: For the adventurous, a significant attraction is the mega zipline that connects the lighthouse area to Vigía Hill. Touted as one of the longest in Latin America, it provides an adrenaline-pumping ride with spectacular aerial views of the coastline and the city.
Environmental Concerns and Community Impact
Balancing Tourism and Conservation: While tourism brings economic benefits, there's an ongoing discussion about how to balance development with the preservation of the natural environment. Visitors can contribute by respecting the area, properly disposing of trash, and being mindful of the ecosystem.
Community Voices: Social media discussions highlight a mix of excitement for new attractions and apprehension about their environmental footprint. This reflects a broader conversation about sustainable tourism practices in popular destinations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit