State: Guerrero

Population: 3,100,000
Size: 24,614 square miles
Location: southwest Mexico
Borders: Pacific Ocean and the states of Michoacan, Morelos, Mexico, Puebla and Oaxaca
Important cities/sites within the state: Acapulco, Chilpancingo (capital), Grutas de Cachuamilpa, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Laguna de Coyuca and Taxco
Major airports: Juan Alvarez International Airport (ACA) in Acapulco, Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo International Airport (ZIH)
Time zone: Central Standard Time
Web site: www.guerrero.gob.mx

Guerrero is one of the most beautiful states in the country, bordering Mexico, Morelos, Puebla, Oaxaca, Michoacan and the Pacific coastline. It was formerly occupied by the Nahua, Mixtec, Tlapanec and Amazugo indigenous groups and later colonized by the Spaniards.

The state’s tropical climates and mountainous regions serve as ideal settings for some of the country’s colorful fiestas that mix rituals with legends and religion. Guerrero also houses one of the most internationally renowned bays in Mexico, Acapulco, as well as charming colonial cities like Taxco, impressive caverns in Cocahuamilpa and first-class beach resorts in Ixtapa and Zihuatanjeo. Its residents are mainly skilled craftspeople and its cuisine combines fresh seafood with fruits from its lush vegetation.

Acapulco is the largest tourist destination on the Mexican Pacific, with stunning beaches, lush vegetation and pleasant climate. Founded in 1566 as a trade route with the Far East, the city was repeatedly attacked by prowling pirates looking to steal the goods. To protect the city against these attacks, the Fort of San Diego was built – a structure that has been well-preserved over the years and now houses the Historical Museum of Acapulco. Today, Acapulco is the most popular holiday resort for tourists from all over Latin America, offering contemporary infrastructures and tourist facilities nestled in a wonderfully preserved natural surrounding. From beautiful beaches to delightful international and local cuisine, Acapulco is one of Guerrero´s treasured jewels.

The picturesque fishing village of Zihuatanejo is also part of the state of Guerrero. Located in the heart of the Mexican Pacific, the city is surrounded by mountains, tropical forests and nearly three kilometers of beach, equipped with top-quality tourist facilities. Formerly known as Cihuatlan – “place of women” – the city served as the monarch’s favorite place of retreat in the 1500s. Today, although much of the city has been modernized, it has managed to keep its village ambiance.

Five miles outside Zihuatanejo lies the modern tourist complex of Ixtapa (meaning “Place of White Sands” in Nahuatl, which, together with Zihuatanejo, forms what is known as the Dorado Pacifico or "Golden Pacific."

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo has managed to preserve all the attractions that have made it so highly sought after; virtually unspoiled beaches, year-round sun, a calm, clean sea, exuberant vegetation and exotic birds. It also has a first-rate infrastructure, hotels and restaurants to suit every budget, golf course and above all, facilities for water sports, excursions and walks.

Taxco, known as the "silver city," is located in the northern part of the state and is one of Mexico's most famous colonial cities, just a few hours' drive from Mexico City to the west and Acapulco to the east. With approximately 100,000 inhabitants, Taxco has a small-town feel and to this day, remains loyal to its silver mining past. Its cobble-stone streets, cable-car rides, silver shops and numerous outdoor activities are only a few of the reasons travelers are taken by Taxco.

As one of the loveliest states in Mexico, Guerrero is the ideal destination for travelers interested in natural diversity and comfort.