Sayula, Pueblo Mágico
Recognized as a Pueblo Mágico since 2023, Sayula is one of the oldest towns in Jalisco with extraordinary cultural, historical and gastronomic heritage.
One of the Oldest Towns in Jalisco
Sayula is one of the oldest towns in Jalisco. Its name comes from the Hispanicized word "Sotyolmet", meaning "Place of flies" in indigenous language. Since pre-Hispanic times, it was a coveted land for its salt.
In 1521, the Spanish arrived and on December 22, 1522, Alonso de Ávalos founded the City of Sayula as the capital of the Province of Ávalos. It was formally established as a municipality in 1547, making it the second oldest municipality in Jalisco.
Sayula was officially recognized as a Pueblo Mágico on June 26, 2023, being one of the 12 Pueblos Mágicos in the state of Jalisco.
Birthplace of the Celebrated Writer
Sayula is the birthplace of the celebrated writer Juan Rulfo, considered one of the most important writers of 20th century Latin American literature, author of Pedro Páramo and El Llano en Llamas.
The Juan Rulfo Cultural Center, housed in a historic colonial mansion, showcases aspects of the author's life and literary work. His magical realism narratives were inspired by the stories and landscapes of Sayula and its surroundings.
Exceptional Gastronomy
Burnt milk cajeta
The most emblematic product of Sayula. Made from cow milk, the cajeteros obtained a Guinness Record with a 1,615.5 kg cajeta.
Cuachala
Traditional chicken stew with cuachalo chili.
Birria
Typical Jalisco dish with a strong presence in Sayula.
Sopitos
Fried tortilla with chicken meat, served soft.
Pomegranate punch
Traditional regional beverage, also available in tamarind or blackberry.
Tejuino
Fermented corn drink with ice and lime juice.
Traditional Festivities
Sayula Carnival
With over 100 years of history, celebrated in mid-February. It begins with the traditional "burial of bad humor" and includes bullfighting rings, artistic and sporting events, and parades.
Festival of Souls
From October 26 to November 2. Includes mojiganga parades, catrina contests, nighttime "callejoneada" and "legend nights" at the cemetery.
Municipal Fair of Ramos
Commercial and artisan event.
The Legend of the Soul of Sayula
A picaresque poem written by Teófilo Pedroza in 1871 that tells how rag-picker Apolonio Aguilar searches for a wandering soul to obtain riches. The work is considered the mother of Mexican double-entendre humor. Today, nighttime tram tours culminate with theatrical performances under the moon.
What to Visit
In Sayula
Main Plaza
Town center surrounded by historic buildings.
Los Portales
Moorish-style arcades with food and crafts.
Temple of the Immaculate Conception
Built in pink cantera stone, colonial style.
Juan Rulfo Cultural Center
Space dedicated to the writer in a historic colonial mansion.
Ojeda Knife Workshop
Family with 14 generations of blacksmiths crafting knives, blades and fine cutlery.
Artisan Cajeta Factories
Visits to traditional production workshops.
Nearby
Sayula Lagoon
Body of water surrounded by mountains, ideal for birdwatching, hiking and boat rides.
La Fortuna Viewpoint
Spectacular views of the Zapotlan el Grande Lagoon and Nevado de Colima.
Tapalpa
Las Piedrotas, Salto del Nogal Waterfall (105 meters) and Las Pilas de Tapalpa.
Nevado de Colima Volcano National Park
National park with trails and impressive views.