In recent years, the state of Guanajuato has become one of the references of our country when it comes to Tourism.
The above is not surprising, if we take into account that Guanajuato has a host of attractions, such as a city declared a World Heritage Site (without forgetting that San Miguel de Allende was designated number one city in the world by Travel + Leisure), several magical towns, breath taking scenarios for adventure tourism, archaeological sites, business centers and more.
But why is Guanajuato so important for the tourism of our country?
An exponential growth
In the last five years, its tourism industry has grown remarkably, recording an increase of more than 0.05% in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the state (it went from 8.7% in 2012 to 9.4% at the end of 2017 ). Considered the most important colonial tourist destination in Mexico, Guanajuato is the sixth most visited state in Mexico.
According to Fernando Olivera Rocha, state secretary of Tourism, Guanajuato receives about 28 million visitors a year, which generate around 90 billion pesos (4.5 billion USD).
One of the aspects that has allowed this development is the diversification that the tourism sector has had in Guanajuato. Although it is traditionally considered the state of cultural tourism par excellence, the impulse that the local government has given to other branches of this industry such as gastronomy, adventure, ecotourism or business is bearing fruit.
In the 2018 edition of the Tourism Tianguis, which was held in Mazatlan from April 16 to 19, Guanajuato completed more than 351 thousand business appointments. In its stand “The cultural destiny of Mexico” showcased the best of the culture, gastronomy and natural attractions of the state.
Guanajuato, a city that charms visitors
One of the great strongholds of this state in terms of tourism, without a doubt, is the city of Guanajuato, which in 2008 was named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Guanajuato City (Getty)
It has 20 museums and sites of important historical significance such as the Alhondiga de Granaditas, where the first battle of the Mexican Independence war was fought.
Other of its unmissable attractions are the University of Guanajuato, the Juárez Theater, the Callejón del Beso, the Union Garden, the Pípila Panoramic Funicular, and of course, the famous Mummies of Guanajuato (just to name a few).
Special mention deserves the celebration of the International Festival Cervantino (considered the most important cultural and artistic festival in all Latin America), consisting of multiple cultural events that take place not only in Guanajuato, but in different parts of the country, and each year receives thousands of visitors. In addition, the traditional nocturnal alleyways make of every evening a unique experience.
Guanajuato was included in the top ten of the best cities in the world to visit in 2018 according to Loney Planet magazine:
- 1. Seville, Spain
- 2. Detroit, EU
- 3. Canberra, Australia
- 4. Hamburg, Germany
- 5. Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- 6. Antwerp, Belgium
- 7. Matera, Italy
- 8. San Juan, Puerto Rico
- 9. Guanajuato, Mexico
- 10. Oslo, Norway
According to this publication, Guanajuato stands out for its colonial and architectural beauty, which can be found in squares, gardens, baroque churches and houses.
The good work done by the current Guanajuato administration has not gone unnoticed by a gret number of agencies and tour operators worldwide.
Last year, during the World Tourism Forum held in Lucerne, Switzerland, Secretary Olivera Rocha received the Tourism Star Award 2017, an award given in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization, as a recognition for his passion, commitment , enthusiasm and inspiration to generate a positive impact in the industry.
Guanajuato is a destination with such a vast tourist offer, that it practically has options for all tastes. It boasts such a wide array of attractions, that make it simlpy irresistible to visitors.
Mining
Guanajuato produces 20% of silver worldwide, so for 250 years this industry is one of the most important in the country.
Ecotourism
The natural scenery of Guanajuato has placed it as one of the favorite states for lovers of extreme adventure sports. Cerro de la Bufa or Cañada de la Virgen, to name a few, are ideal places to practice activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing or paragliding.
Due to its geographical position, Guanajuato has an average temperature ranging from 11 to 24ºC, throughout the year. with semi-dry, mild and semi-warm climates.
International events
In addition to the Cervantino Festival, Guanajuato is also famous for the celebration of world class events such as the Balloon Festival in León or the WRC Rally.
(Photo: noticieros.televisa.com)
Source: noticieros.televisa.com
