
There are an extensive variety of activities and attractions to be enjoyed in Los Mochis, such as the beach, the sun and also many other eco-touristic pursuits, but it is also a city with a rich historic past and a fascinating cultural legacy. For many years the people of Los Mochis have spent countless hours on the restoration and preservation of the stunning historic buildings that fill this wonderful city.
Topolobampo Bay
This important touristic and industrial port is located in Topolobampo bay, about 14 miles from Los Mochis, beside the Gulf of California. ''Topo'' as the port is commonly known, has yacht clubs and it is also the place where you can take the ferry to La Paz in Baja California. Topolobampo and the surrounding area are popular with fishermen because of the variety of fish that can be found in the Gulf, such as marlin and wahoo among others. Renowned fishing competitions are also held here. Fishing is the main economic activity in the area and there are many restaurants offering delicious traditional dishes created using the freshest seafood and fish.
El Maviri Beach
After a pleasant 45 minute boat ride from the Topolobampo bay you will arrive at El Maviri Beach, a long stretch of pristine coastline that exudes tranquility and peace. Thatched roofed restaurants that line the shore are the perfect places to relax awhile and sample the delicious regional specialty, the zarandeado fish (fish split in half and char-grilled, served with rice and vegetables), or alternatively try a large fresh seafood cocktail or fish cooked to your liking.
Sinaloa Park and Botanical Garden
For those who enjoy eco-touristic pursuits there are lots of places to visit in the city, such as the Sinaloa Park with its beautiful botanical gardens, which used to be the private garden of the Johnston family residence, called Casa Grande. Today it is home to an incredible variety of birds and the botanical gardens. Exotic plants from India, Indonesia, Africa and Australia are all cultivated here and some of them are very rare in Latin America, such as the Ficus Benghalensis, also known as the Banyan, the majestic tree from India, considered the sacred tree of the god Krishna by the Indians. It also has a many different types of palm trees and lots of local flora as well. Many people visit on a daily basis for early morning walks or to jog and enjoy the fresh air.
The Village of San Miguel
A 15 minute drive from Los Mochis will get you to this ancient ceremonial centre and important Mayo dwelling. The most significant celebrations held here are during Easter when the locals dress up in traditional costumes comprised of a blanket, handicraft masks and dried butterfly cocoons decorated with little stones, which they then wrap around their legs to help synchronize their dance rhythm. Whatever time of year you visit San Miguel, you simply have to sample the delicious empanadas stuffed with pumpkin that are produced locally in rustic earthenware ovens.El Chepe
This train, which travels from Los Mochis all the way to Chihuahua City, is a stunning feat of engineering. The 406 miles of railroad has 86 tunnels and 37 bridges. This world famous train, known as "Chihuahua al Pacifico" starts at sea level in Los Mochis and rises to an altitude of around 8,200 feet before descending into Chihuahua City at around 2,640 feet. Through your window you will be able to marvel at cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views of the canyons. Along the way you can visit natural wonders and rustic villages, where you will be charmed by the shy but warm Tarahumara people, the native inhabitants of Copper Canyon.
El Fuerte
Located 80 kilometers away from Los Mochis is the beautiful colonial city of El Fuerte. The city was founded in 1564, on the bank of the river with the same name. A visit here will give you a glimpse into the areas rich history, as you observe the colonial buildings, walk through the cobblestone streets, visit the Plaza de las Armas, and explore the old houses with huge interior courtyards and beautifully maintained gardens.
You should also take the time to visit the recently refurbished ''Fuerte'' museum, take a walk down the pier, admire the cities very well preserved buildings, and finally relax and eat one of the local specialties served at the quaint restaurants by the river bank or in the city. Highly recommended are the dishes made with river shrimp, river lobster, quail, dove and bass, all cooked in a variety of delicious ways.
Copper Canyon
Los Mochis is the gateway to the Copper Canyon and it is where the famous ''Chepe'' (Chihuahua - Pacific Railroad) starts its journey before heading through the spectacular Tarahumara Sierra. This stunning area is one of the most diverse places in the world. The vegetation consists primarily of pine and oak forests, located at over 6500 feet above sea level in regions where there are heavy snowfalls in winter. Down in the canyons, at around 1300 feet above sea level, the flora changes dramatically with plants of a semi-tropical nature and fruits, such as mangos, oranges, plum-leaf figs, mammee apples and many others, growing in abundance. There is also a wide diversity of fauna, including mammals, birds, reptiles and freshwater fish.