El Veladero National Park
Destinations 14/07/2026
Acapulco is known for many things: its Pacific Ocean beaches, its cliff diving at La Quebrada, and even its coastal nightlife. However, today we're here to talk about its great green lung, an essential jewel of the city: the El Veladero National Park. This is a protected natural area in Guerrero, a place with abundant pre-Hispanic roots.
Exploring El Veladero is to delve into the spirit of Acapulco. This park offers a completely different perspective of the destination, ideal for travelers seeking to connect with the region's natural environment. Below are the 3 must-do activities if you visit El Veladero National Park.
The Palma Sola archaeological zone consists of eighteen granite rocks with ancient engravings at the foot of the hill. These petroglyphs in Acapulco tell the story of the Yope culture, a civilization that inhabited the region between 200 BC and 600 AD. Through these lines carved in stone, messages about astrology, geography, and even beliefs about creation were conveyed. It's a fascinating story! The Palma Sola trail is beautifully landscaped, allowing you to enjoy the scenery.
If you're looking to hike in Acapulco, El Veladero National Park is the place for you. Be aware that part of the trail involves uphill sections, so come prepared. Throughout the hike, El Veladero's rich flora and fauna add a vibrant touch to the experience. From ceiba and parota trees to the flight of endemic birds like ospreys, colorful parakeets, and lizards camouflaged among the rocks. At the end of the trail, you'll find the El Veladero Lookout, a spot with a 360-degree panoramic view of Santa Lucía Bay and the Coyuca and Tres Palos lagoons.
In addition to its ecological and archaeological value, this hill holds a fundamental historical significance for the nation. During the War of Independence, General José María Morelos y Pavón established his military camp here. From here, the "Servant of the Nation" and his troops monitored the movements of the royalist army and planned the historic siege and subsequent capture of Fort San Diego in 1813. Walking these trails means retracing the steps of Mexico's freedom.
Planning your trip is easy if you know the main routes and access points to avoid any problems during your visit.
The park is located in the upper part of the city. If you are traveling by car, take Avenida Constituyentes and head towards the bay's amphitheater, following the signs to Palma Sola. By public transportation, you can take buses or shared taxis (colectivos) that go to the Primero de Mayo or Palma Sola neighborhoods from downtown Acapulco.
The best time to start your hike is between 8:00 and 10:00 AM. Due to the humidity of the tropical climate, it is important to avoid the hours of intense sunlight. Also, if you enjoy birdwatching, the birds are more active at these times.
Here are some recommendations to help you avoid any mishaps and enjoy your experience:
Wear comfortable shoes with good traction.
Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.
Stay on the marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Bring water to stay hydrated.
Access to the petroglyph zone is managed by INAH and has a very affordable entrance fee. Students, teachers, and senior citizens with valid ID are exempt from payment. Entrance is usually free for Mexican nationals on Sundays.
Visiting El Veladero Park is safe. The area has security and personnel. However, it is recommended to visit during daylight hours. Avoid carrying valuables.
A standard visit to explore the petroglyphs, take photos at the viewpoints, and enjoy a leisurely walk takes between 2 and 3 hours. If you plan on longer hikes, set aside half a day of your itinerary.
Enjoy Acapulco and El Velero National Park with Park Royal Beach Acapulco. After an intense day hiking trails, discovering ancient ruins, and climbing mountains under the Guerrero sun, you deserve the best rest. Located in the Playa Guitarrón area, it offers direct access to a tranquil private beach with gentle waves, ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle.
What to see and do in El Veladero?
Exploring El Veladero is to delve into the spirit of Acapulco. This park offers a completely different perspective of the destination, ideal for travelers seeking to connect with the region's natural environment. Below are the 3 must-do activities if you visit El Veladero National Park.
Palma Sola: The archaeological treasure in the jungle
The Palma Sola archaeological zone consists of eighteen granite rocks with ancient engravings at the foot of the hill. These petroglyphs in Acapulco tell the story of the Yope culture, a civilization that inhabited the region between 200 BC and 600 AD. Through these lines carved in stone, messages about astrology, geography, and even beliefs about creation were conveyed. It's a fascinating story! The Palma Sola trail is beautifully landscaped, allowing you to enjoy the scenery.
Hiking, Birdwatching, and Landscape Photography
If you're looking to hike in Acapulco, El Veladero National Park is the place for you. Be aware that part of the trail involves uphill sections, so come prepared. Throughout the hike, El Veladero's rich flora and fauna add a vibrant touch to the experience. From ceiba and parota trees to the flight of endemic birds like ospreys, colorful parakeets, and lizards camouflaged among the rocks. At the end of the trail, you'll find the El Veladero Lookout, a spot with a 360-degree panoramic view of Santa Lucía Bay and the Coyuca and Tres Palos lagoons.
The Footprint of José María Morelos y Pavón
In addition to its ecological and archaeological value, this hill holds a fundamental historical significance for the nation. During the War of Independence, General José María Morelos y Pavón established his military camp here. From here, the "Servant of the Nation" and his troops monitored the movements of the royalist army and planned the historic siege and subsequent capture of Fort San Diego in 1813. Walking these trails means retracing the steps of Mexico's freedom.
Access and Transportation to El Veladero National Park
Planning your trip is easy if you know the main routes and access points to avoid any problems during your visit.
How to Get to Palma Sola and El Veladero
The park is located in the upper part of the city. If you are traveling by car, take Avenida Constituyentes and head towards the bay's amphitheater, following the signs to Palma Sola. By public transportation, you can take buses or shared taxis (colectivos) that go to the Primero de Mayo or Palma Sola neighborhoods from downtown Acapulco.
What is the best time to go up to El Veladero?
The best time to start your hike is between 8:00 and 10:00 AM. Due to the humidity of the tropical climate, it is important to avoid the hours of intense sunlight. Also, if you enjoy birdwatching, the birds are more active at these times.
Safety Tips and Recommendations for Visiting Veladero
Here are some recommendations to help you avoid any mishaps and enjoy your experience:
Wear comfortable shoes with good traction.
Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.
Stay on the marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Bring water to stay hydrated.
Frequently Asked Questions about El Veladero (FAQ)
Is there an entrance fee to Palma Sola?
Access to the petroglyph zone is managed by INAH and has a very affordable entrance fee. Students, teachers, and senior citizens with valid ID are exempt from payment. Entrance is usually free for Mexican nationals on Sundays.
Is it safe to visit El Veladero Park?
Visiting El Veladero Park is safe. The area has security and personnel. However, it is recommended to visit during daylight hours. Avoid carrying valuables.
How much time is needed to visit El Veladero?
A standard visit to explore the petroglyphs, take photos at the viewpoints, and enjoy a leisurely walk takes between 2 and 3 hours. If you plan on longer hikes, set aside half a day of your itinerary.
Your Bay Haven: Stay at Park Royal Beach Acapulco
Enjoy Acapulco and El Velero National Park with Park Royal Beach Acapulco. After an intense day hiking trails, discovering ancient ruins, and climbing mountains under the Guerrero sun, you deserve the best rest. Located in the Playa Guitarrón area, it offers direct access to a tranquil private beach with gentle waves, ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle.
