Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico

MAZATLAN : Overview

OVERVIEW

Mazatlan, a popular tourist destination for handicap accessible travel, offers activities for people of all abilities. It is definitely worth visiting the city and accessible transportation is available to explore what Mazatlan has to offer on your disabled holiday. The city offers exciting performances from the local cliff divers, exquisite seafood harvested from local waters, and beautiful architecture in various states of restoration to original beauty. If you’re a sponge for culture and history, Mazatlan has a lot to offer.

LANGUAGE

The official language of Mexico is Spanish.

CURRENCY

The official currency of Mexico is the Peso.

QUICKLINKS

LOGISTICS: Air – Water – Ground
ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotels – Resorts
ENTERTAINMENT: Tours – Activities – Restaurants & Nightlife
EMERGENCY SERVICES: Hospitals – Medical Equipment
ABILITYTIPS: Precautions

MAZATLAN : Logistics

AIR TRANSPORTATION/AIRPORT

Mazatlan International Airport: The Mazatlan International Airport, also known as General Rafael Buelna International Airport, is wheelchair accessible. The airport has elevators, escalators, accessible parking, and restrooms. Airport officials advise that travelers who utilize a wheelchair or need assistance should call and make arrangements with airlines well in advance of a visit. 

“Be advised that not all planes have a gateway that connects with the plane. Some have stairs that are rolled to the plane. There are men who will carry you down the stairs in the plane’s aisle chair, but they normally don’t speak English. Once at the bottom of the stairs, you will need to ask someone to bring you your wheelchair. It may take a little while, and the combination of sun and pavement could be quite hot. Plan ahead and find out these details from your airlines.” P, 8/2/2010

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GROUND TRANSPORTATION

Wheelchair accessible transportation in Mazatlan is limited, so accommodations should be secured well in advance of a visit.

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TAXI

In Mazatlan, a network of taxis is present; unfortunately, they are not wheelchair accessible.  The taxis found in Mazatlan resemble a cross between a golf cart and Volkswagen beetle.  They are convertible, so theoretically it could be possible to transfer into the vehicle and stash a small chair or walker somewhere.  However, it may be extremely difficult to get into the back seat, and again, the vehicles are so small that there may be no room for even a small wheelchair. 

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RENTAL VEHICLE (Accessible Van)

Tailor Made Tours: Tailor Made Tours are available for booking by the hour and include a driver/guide. The vehicle is a full sized van with rear wheelchair lift. The van can accommodate one individual in a wheelchair plus an additional 6 guests. The company can also provide a car seat upon request if children are in the group. Note that users of large motorized wheelchairs or individuals that are tall should check with Tailor Made Tours in advance to ensure the van can accommodate.  The van has a standard height rate ceiling, so it may be necessary to recline to get through the rear door.

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SHUTTLE

Trolley shuttle: There is an open air trolley located at the cruise ship dock that is wheelchair accessible via ramp. The trolley will take passengers directly from the ship through a restricted cargo area to a drop-off point at the terminal. This is the only mode for passengers to get to the terminal unless there is prearranged transportation waiting at the dock.

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BUS

Buses in Mazatlan are not currently wheelchair accessible.

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TRAIN (Light Rail)

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FERRY

“The ferry to Stone Island is not wheelchair accessible. The ramp leading to the boats is narrow and worn, and the boats are small. It is better to take the long way around in your own car to reach Stone Island – skip the ferry if wheelchair bound.” P, 8/2/2010

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MAZATLAN : Accommodations

HOTELS

“There are many hotels that are accessible. We stayed at the Marina El Cid which had an elevator to some floors. Check in advance because not all buildings are accessible. The restaurant was on the second floor without an elevator. They can either carry a manual wheelchair upstairs, or make alternative accommodations at the bar downstairs. The beds are on permanent frames, but they made arrangements for a special bed to be brought in for us. Most places try to accommodate guests the best they can.” p, 8/2/2010

Melville Boutique Hotel: “located in Mazatlan’s old town (Centro Historico), has reasonably accessible rooms on the ground floor. Nicely restored 19th century building, no A.C., elegant but funky. About 4 blocks from the beach and two blocks from Plaza Machado. I enjoyed it.” Steve, 4/3/2011

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MAZATLAN : Entertainment

SIGHTSEEING TOURS

Tailor Made Tours: Tailor Made Tours are available for booking by the hour and include a driver/guide. The vehicle is a full sized van with rear wheelchair lift. The van can accommodate one individual in a wheelchair plus an additional 6 guests. The company can also provide a car seat upon request if children are in the group. Note that users of large motorized wheelchairs or individuals that are tall should check with Tailor Made Tours in advance to ensure the van can accommodate.  The van has a standard height rate ceiling, so it may be necessary to recline to get through the rear door.

“We booked a four hour city tour. Our driver/tour guide, Rene, drove our group all around Mazatlan to explore the city. We visited many sites that were wheelchair accessible. Rene is bilingual, and shares a lot of history about Mazatlan with his guests. He’s very familiar with the needs of people who utilize a wheelchair and recommends the perfect stops around Mazatlan.” – Christopher, 5/4/10

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ACTIVITIES

Boardwalk: The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible at most parts, and is the longest boardwalk in the world. The curb is high, but there are random curb cuts and ramps throughout.

Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception: The cathedral is wheelchair accessible via ramps. At the front gate there is a steep, narrow ramp, which gives access to the plaza outside the cathedral. To access the cathedral, there is a portable ramp. There is plenty of room inside the cathedral to maneuver around and view the fascinating architecture and relics. The cathedral is the only Catholic Church that has the Star of David embedded in 28 stain glass windows. Make sure to dress respectfully and remove hats when visiting the cathedral.

Cliff Divers: The cliff divers are an amazing spectacle to see. The divers perform by hurling themselves off a 50 foot high natural rock formation into a shallow ocean tide. The divers perform about every 15 minutes, whenever tour buses show up. The show is free, however tips are appreciated.

Devils Cave: The devils cave is located on the mountain side across the street from the Boardwalk (near the lighthouse). Visitors can’t walk up to the cave or explore the interior, as it is sealed by gate. Historically, the cave was used for storing dynamite, which emitted a sulfur smell. Thus, the cave was named Devil’s Cave, due to the odor.

Golden Zone (Zona Dorada): The Golden Zone is the newer zone in town (in terms of building construction) and is known for shopping and restaurants.  It is also where the majority of hotels are located.

Flower Market: The flower market is an interesting place, filled with vibrant flowers lining the sidewalks. It’s a relatively small area. Not all of the area is wheelchair accessible, but the flowers can be seen from the sidewalk/street.

Mazatlan’s Lighthouse: The lighthouse is not wheelchair accessible, however, it can be seen from many parts of Mazatlan. The lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in the world (it rests at the top of a large mountain).  Individuals can hike up the mountain trail that leads to the lighthouse, but it is not wheelchair accessible.

Historic Mazatlan: Historic Mazatlan is a wonderful area to tour. The architecture in the Historic Mazatlan district is vibrant. The city has been in the process of restoring Old Mazatlan. In fact, when a business owner buys or opens a new restaurant or store, they must restore the building to its original character. Accessibility can be tough in the area due to its historic nature, but accessible establishments can be found.

Plaza Machando: In this area there are many sidewalk cafes and musical events taking place. It’s a very charming area to spend the afternoon or evening. Again, accessibility can be challenging, but there are many outdoor cafes to choose from.

Shopping: There are some great shopping areas in Mazatlan. Travelers can find just the experience they are looking for, from mall to local shops to flea market.

“Our tour guide, Rene, knew exactly where to take us to find fantastic deals. We bought a “Molcajete” (an ancient Mesoamerican grinding bowl), which is used to make guacamole, to grind spices, and prepare salsa or warm Mexican dishes, such as shrimp and beans, for a great price.” – Christopher,  5/4/10

Shrimp Market: Mazatlan is a major supplier of shrimp for consumers around the world. The shrimp market is a fun tour stop as one can see all the varieties of shrimp for sale. The streets are lined with buckets of shrimp ready to be bought up by local restaurants and people.

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RESTAURANTS/NIGHTLIFE

There are fabulous dining options all over Mazatlan. One of the most popular hot spots is the Golden Zone. 

Chili’s Pepper: Chili’s Pepper is a beachfront restaurant in the Golden Zone, and is wheelchair accessible in the dining area, but it can be tricky finding the ramp because the restaurant is located in the back of a plaza.  Note that bathrooms and beach are not accessible. Outdoor dining in the open breeze creates a wonderful setting for sampling the local seafood and cerveza.

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MAZATLAN : Emergency Services

MEDICAL SERVICES/HOSPITAL

Balboa Hospital

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MEDICAL EQUIPMENT RENTALS

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MAZATLAN : AbilityTips

PRECAUTIONS

Accessibility in Mazatlan can be difficult due to the fact that it’s an older city and ADA laws do not apply like in the United States. Curb cuts are in random places, ramps are steep, and wheelchair accessible bathrooms are difficult to find as well. For wheelchair accessible bathrooms your best bet is to find a modern hotel, or fast food restaurant such as McDonalds or a Starbucks. 

Mazatlan can get extremely hot. Travel with bottled water and a spray bottle to cool down. 

Only drink filtered and bottled water while visiting Mazatlan, Mexico. 

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OTHER USELFUL LINKS:

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