On June 9th, my wife and I went on the Horseback riding excursion, and Oscar was once again our amazing guide. I have to tell everyone, he felt more like our cousin back home. He was very personable, and we were able to cut up with one another. He has a great sense of humor as well. He even helped us with our Spanish. When we arrived at the ranch, Eduardo “Lolo” was waiting for us. The horses were well fed and cared for, which made our hearts feel good because we knew they were cared for. We took a beautiful ride along the shoreline, talked, and laughed with Eduardo and Oscar. We were very thankful that Enrique was able to reschedule our excursion from the previous day because of the storm. OSCAR, we want to say, muchas gracias, mi amigo.
Xihuacan Archaeological Site
Travel back more than 3,000 years as you explore Xihuacan, one of Guerrero’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Discover ancient pyramids, an impressive Mesoamerican ball court, unique construction techniques, and artifacts that reveal the region’s rich cultural heritage. A fascinating journey through the history and traditions of ancient Mexico.
Overview
Discover one of Guerrero’s most fascinating archaeological treasures and journey through more than 3,000 years of history at Xihuacan, an ancient ceremonial and cultural center that offers a remarkable glimpse into Mexico’s ancestral past.
As you explore the site, you’ll walk among pyramids, plazas, and ancient structures that reveal the importance Xihuacan once held in the region. Over the centuries, different cultures inhabited this area and maintained connections with major Mesoamerican civilizations, leaving behind artifacts, architectural remains, and traditions that continue to tell their story today.
Among the highlights of the visit is its impressive ball court, one of the largest discovered in Mesoamerica, as well as monumental structures built using distinctive red clay construction techniques. You’ll also learn about archaeological pieces recovered from the site and the ongoing discoveries that have helped researchers better understand the people who once lived, traded, worshiped, and gathered here.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll hear stories, archaeological interpretations, and fascinating details that bring the ancient city to life. Rather than simply observing ruins, the experience invites you to imagine the ceremonies, daily life, and cultural exchanges that once took place in this important pre-Hispanic center.
Ideal for history lovers, families, and curious travelers, Xihuacan offers a meaningful opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of Guerrero and discover a lesser-known but extraordinary chapter of Mexico’s ancient history.
What's Included
- Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Admission ticket to the Xihuacán archaeological zone
- Guided tour with a local history expert
- Tour of the site museum and excavation areas
- Free time to explore or take photos
- Food and drinks included
Not Included
- Gratuities for the guide or driver (optional)
- Souvenirs or shopping at the museum/nearby shops
Recommendations
- What to bring:
- Hat or cap
- Biodegradable sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable shoes for walking on dirt and stone
- Camera or phone with a fully charged battery
- Water bottle
- Light backpack
- Cash for handicrafts or souvenirs
- Tips:
- Listen carefully to your guide to better connect with the site
- Arrive on time to make the most of your visit
Important Information
Restrictions:
Not suitable for people with severe mobility limitations
Alcoholic beverages are not allowed
Climbing archaeological structures is not permitted
Do not touch artifacts or areas marked by INAH
Not recommended for people with respiratory or heart conditions without medical clearance
Caution advised for infants or people sensitive to heat due to lack of shade
Drone use is not allowed unless special permission is granted by INAH
Meeting / Pickup Information
Hotel Lobby
1. Select Date
2. Select Time
3. Select Your Units
4. Your Details
The Experience Speaks for Itself
Real feedback from travelers who trusted Sunnyside DMC with their journeys across Mexico.
Muy buen servicio del personal y camionetas prácticamente nuevas y en excelentes condiciones, tour tomado a chichén. 100% Recomendado
Amazing tour to Ixtapa Island! The staff was very friendly and attentive, and everything was perfectly organized. The beaches and crystal-clear water are a true paradise. We got to swim, snorkel, and enjoy every corner of the island. Definitely an experience that exceeded our expectations. We’ll be back for sure!
100% recomendados para planificar vacaciones y recorridos familiares. Tienen mucha experiencia en el sector turístico
5-star rating on Google.
My name is Heidi and I live in Victoria, British Columbia (BC), Canada. Rate 5 star! January 2026 I went to Ixtapa for two weeks and stayed at Posada Real Hotel. Fernando was the Sunnyside representative in our hotel lobby. He was friendly, informative and spoke English very well. We did three excursions with Sunnyside. The tour to Ixtapa Island included a delicious hot lunch on the beach and I paid extra for a snorkelling guided tour. I was able to snorkel by myself after the introduction to the area and sea life. Our guide Mariella took great care to make sure we had the most enjoyable experience. The sunset cruise was so much fun, we celebrated my birthday that day. The crew of the catamaran Picante were amazing! They made sure that everyone was having a good time and provided entertainment that had everyone laughing. The food and drinks were good. The captain spoke English very well and told us about the sights along the way, we even saw humpback whales! The crew put out fishing rods and I reeled in a Spanish mackerel! (I am a fisherperson back home) The turtle release was a highlight for me as I have never done this before. We drove to a remote beach were a family works to conserve the turtle population. Our guide educated us on the endangered turtles and what they are doing to increase the population of green turtles specifically. It was an amazing feeling to dig up the baby turtles, hold them and then release then into the ocean surf. I highly recommend Sunnyside for excursions and will certainly book more with them the next time I am in Ixtapa. Thanks Fernando for making me feel special.
On June 5, 2026, my husband and I went on the City Tour, and Oscar was our guide. He was very knowledgeable about the areas around Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa. When we visited the La Ropa area, we stopped at the beach, where there were various restaurants and shops where you could make purchases. We stopped and saw various bird species, crocodiles, and iguanas. We grabbed a bite to eat at Chekos for lunch, and it was delicious, and the customer service was great. They were very friendly people. Afterward, we opted not to go to the downtown marketplace and instead went to the Parthenon. The view was breathtaking, and the artwork was beautiful. Even though the story behind the place sounds horrible, I am glad the government was able to turn it into something that could benefit its citizens. Thank you, Oscar, for making our excursion memorable, and thank you to Sunnyside for an amazing tour.