Veracruz City Tour with San Juan de Ulúa and Mandinga Boat

Veracruz , Mexico

Veracruz City Tour with San Juan de Ulúa and Mandinga Boat

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About this experience

This package is ideal to visit the places that you should not miss in Veracruz. We will begin with a visit to the fortress of San Juan de Ulúa, which was built on the orders of Hernán Cortés, as it protected Veracruz from the pirate and corsair attacks of the time. A guide will tell you all the history and legends that the oldest prison in Mexico houses. At the end of this visit, we will go to Mandinga, where we will enjoy a boat ride through the mangrove area and we will also have time to eat delicious freshly cooked seafood in Mandinga restaurants. To finish the tour, we will visit the historic center of Veracruz aboard a traditional tram, from where we will be able to observe the most important and beautiful sites of the city.

Available options

Veracruz City Tour with San Juan de Ulúa and Mandinga Boat

What's included

boat tour

Entrance to the fortress of San Juan de Ulúa

Guide in San Juan de Ulúa

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will get to know the most feared prison in America in a guided tour that will fascinate you. You will tour the fort built over 500 years ago. You will enjoy the view offered by the Tower of San Pedro, from where you will have the best photographs of the port. You will learn about the legend of Chucho “El Roto”, the thief who stole to help the poor. You will visit the cells where Chucho “el Roto” and the “Mulata de Córdoba” were imprisoned, two of the most famous legends of this place.

You will continue your tour in Mandinga, where you will observe the behavior of some birds in the different vegetation of the place, the mangroves make the walk a moment of reflection, the boat moves slowly when entering this ecosystem. There is a great variety of restaurants installed on the Mandinga riverbank, it is difficult to choose one, since they all offer delicious fish and seafood. Of course already on the site we give them our recommendation. You can order some delicacies such as: stuffed fish au gratin, fried mojarra, enchipotlado fillet, shrimp cocktail, arroz a la tumbada (with seafood) and delicious minila (crab) tostadas! For dessert order some flamed bananas. To drink, do not miss the famous bulls, a drink based on creams, cane alcohol and fruits such as soursop, coconut or guava. Also a beer applies for the heat.

Stop 3

There is no better way to get to know the historic center of Veracruz than, of course, on board a picturesque tourist tram; It is a 40-minute panoramic tour where the architecture, history and culture of the Port of Veracruz will surround you, passing through 21 historical monuments that were a fundamental part of our history.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Transportation from your hotel

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Inside Plaza Acuario, Local 45-C

Important notes

Go directly to local 45-C inside the square

About Veracruz

Veracruz is a vibrant port city on Mexico's Gulf coast, known for its rich history, Afro-Mexican culture, and lively atmosphere. It's a place where colonial architecture meets tropical beaches, offering a unique blend of experiences for travelers.

Top Attractions

Zocalo

The main square of Veracruz, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and street performers. It's the heart of the city and a great place to soak up the local atmosphere.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Acuario de Veracruz

One of the largest aquariums in Mexico, featuring a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, and sharks. It's a great place for families and marine life enthusiasts.

Nature/Educational 2-3 hours Moderate, around $150-200 MXN

Castillo de San Juan de Ulúa

A historic fortress and former prison located on an island in the harbor. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Veracruz's colonial past and maritime history.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate, around $50-70 MXN

Must-Try Local Dishes

Arroz a la Tumbada

A traditional Veracruz dish made with rice, seafood, and a rich, flavorful sauce.

Main dish Contains seafood, gluten-free

Chiles Rellenos

Poblano peppers stuffed with various fillings, such as cheese, meat, or seafood, and topped with a tomato sauce.

Main dish Vegetarian option available, gluten-free

Tostadas de Tinga

Crispy tortillas topped with shredded chicken in a chipotle tomato sauce, onions, and cheese.

Snack Contains gluten, can be made vegetarian

Café de Olla

A traditional Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar).

Drink Contains caffeine, can be made with alternative sweeteners

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Water sports in Tuxpan Eco-tours in the mangroves Beach relaxation in Boca del Río Spa treatments Strolling through the historic city center Visiting museums and historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with various festivals and events.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

CST (UTC -6)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Veracruz is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Be cautious with your belongings and stay alert to your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious with ATMs and avoid using them at night

Getting there

By air

Heriberto Jara International Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center

By bus

Terminal de Autobuses de Veracruz

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city. Buses are often crowded and can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Zona Centro Boca del Río Huasteca

Day trips

Xalapa

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Xalapa is a charming city nestled in the mountains, known for its colonial architecture, museums, and coffee plantations. It's a great escape from the coastal heat and offers a unique cultural experience.

Tuxpan

200 km (124 miles) • Full day

Tuxpan is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and eco-tourism opportunities. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Gulf coast.

Panuco

250 km (155 miles) • Full day or overnight

Panuco is a historic city with a rich colonial past and beautiful architecture. It's also a gateway to the nearby Sierra de Santa Martha, offering hiking and eco-tourism opportunities.

Festivals

Festival de la Huasteca • Mid-September Carnaval de Veracruz • February or March (before Lent) Fiesta de la Candelaria • February 2nd

Pro tips

Visit the Zocalo in the evening to enjoy live music and performances
Try local street food, such as tostadas and elote, for an authentic culinary experience
Take a guided tour of the Castillo de San Juan de Ulúa to learn about the city's rich history and maritime heritage
Explore the local markets, such as Mercado de Huasteca, for fresh produce, unique souvenirs, and delicious street food
Attend a local festival, such as the Festival de la Huasteca or Carnaval de Veracruz, for a vibrant and unforgettable cultural experience