Nestled amid the rugged hills of central Mexico, the UNESCO-listed city of Guanajuato captivates visitors with its labyrinthine alleys, vividly coloured colonial architecture, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that reflects its storied past as a silver mining powerhouse, all while offering a uniquely atmospheric charm that effortlessly intertwines historical grandeur with a vibrant contemporary arts scene.
Mexico: Guanajuato – The Mummy Museum
After yesterday’s slow and somewhat soggy affair, we agreed we needed to be a little more deliberate about making the most of today. It felt important to do something – anything – that didn’t involve sitting indoors watching the rain fall sideways.
The weather had changed dramatically – blue skies, warm sun, and that particular kind of air that makes you feel like it would be wrong to waste a minute of it indoors. So, we left the house and headed into town, walking through the pedestrianised part of Guanajuato’s historic centre towards our destination: the Mummy Museum.
As soon as I’d heard the name, I was intrigued. How could you not be? “Mummy Museum” practically demands curiosity. But our journey was slightly delayed – no sooner had we started than we were lured into a local bakery. We picked up some pastries and had a quick coffee. A sugar-laden breakfast isn’t usually our thing, but today it gave us the little boost we needed.
The Museo de las Momias, once we arrived, was something else entirely. We paid our entry, receiving a discount for being older, or as the woman at the desk jokingly put it, “closer to the exhibits.” The museum is quite small – four main rooms, each holding several upright mummified remains. Most were still in their burial clothes. The natural mummification process here is due to Guanajuato’s dry climate and unique soil conditions, though later research showed that some of the bodies had been partially embalmed as well.
Between 1870 and 1958, a local law required families to pay a tax for “perpetual” burial. If the tax wasn’t paid, the remains were removed. Those in the best condition were stored, and eventually began drawing curious visitors. The museum officially opened in 1969. Today, about 59 mummies are on display, out of a larger collection of 111.
The most disturbing aspect of the mummies was their expressions. With jaws hanging open, they looked as if they were mid-scream. One room contained five mummified infants, still dressed in their burial clothes. It was haunting – grotesque, but undeniably fascinating.
At the end of the main exhibit, we paid a little extra to access the old crypt. This space was darker, cooler, and far quieter. We were the only ones there, and it added to the atmosphere. Beneath thick glass panels in the floor, you could see skeletal remains below. It was morbid, but also oddly peaceful.
Planning your visit to the Mummy Museum
If you’re heading to Guanajuato and looking for something truly unforgettable, a visit to the Mummy Museum (Museo de las Momias) is an absolute must. With its eerie yet fascinating collection of naturally mummified bodies, it’s one of Mexico’s most unique attractions—offering a powerful insight into local history, culture, and the unexpected ways nature works. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit:
The Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato is one of Mexico’s most unique and haunting attractions, showcasing a collection of naturally preserved mummies exhumed from local cemeteries. Here’s everything you need to plan your visit:
📍 Address
Museo de las Momias de Guanajuato
Explanada del Panteón Municipal s/n
Centro, Guanajuato, Gto., C.P. 36000
Mexico
🌐 Website
https://momiasdeguanajuato.guanajuatocapital.gob.mx/
momias@guanajuatocapital.gob.mx
📞 Telephone
+52 473 732 0639
🕒 Opening Hours
Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Special Hours:
December 24 & 31: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
January 1 & December 25: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entry Fees
General Admission: $97 MXN
Students with valid ID & Children (6–12 years): $56 MXN
🚍 Getting There
The museum is accessible via public transportation. Buses stop near the intersection of Tepetapa and Calzada del Panteón, close to the museum entrance.
Getting to and around Guanajuato
✈️ Fly to Mexico
Book a flight from the UK (usually from London Heathrow).
Fly to Mexico City (MEX) or León (BJX) – both are international airports.
✈️ London → Mexico City or London → León
🚌 From Mexico City to Guanajuato
If you land in Mexico City:
Take a bus from the North Bus Terminal (Terminal Norte).
Choose a reliable company like ETN or Primera Plus.
The trip takes around 5–6 hours.
🚌 Mexico City → Guanajuato (by coach)
🚕 From León to Guanajuato
If you land in León (BJX airport):
Take a taxi or shuttle directly to Guanajuato.
It’s about a 30-minute drive.
🚕 León → Guanajuato
🥾 Walking
Guanajuato is a very walkable city, especially in the historic centre, which is mostly pedestrianised. Be prepared for:
Steep hills and lots of steps
Narrow alleyways (many are too tight for cars)
Uneven, cobbled streets – comfy shoes are a must
Walking is often the best way to explore, as many attractions are close together but not accessible by vehicle.
🚕 Taxis & Ubers
Taxis are available, but Uber is generally easier and cheaper.
Ubers are reliable and available in most parts of the city
You may need to walk to a main road or meeting point if you’re staying up a hill or down a narrow lane
Always double-check your pickup spot and be ready to walk a bit to meet your driver
🚌 Local Buses
There are local buses, but they’re more commonly used by residents than tourists. They run:
Along major roads and between neighbourhoods
Mainly above ground (although many main roads in the centre are underground tunnels!)
If you speak some Spanish and are up for a challenge, they can be very cheap, but not always the easiest option for first-time visitors.
🚠 Funicular
The funicular railway is a short but handy ride:
🚉 Goes up to El Pípila viewpoint (great for panoramic photos!)
🎟️ Tickets are affordable and it’s much easier than climbing dozens of stairs
A good option if you want to avoid a strenuous walk uphill.
🚗 Driving
Not recommended unless you’re very confident. Guanajuato:
Has many one-way streets, tight corners, and tunnel roads
Parking can be hard to find
Much of the old town is off-limits to cars
The best time to visit Guanajuato
☀️ Spring (March – May)
Best overall time to visit
Weather: Warm days, cool evenings, low chance of rain
Vibe: Lively but not overcrowded
Why go: Flowers are blooming, the city is colourful, and it’s a great time for walking and sightseeing
🌸 Top Tip: Bring layers – mornings and evenings can still be chilly
☀️⛅ Summer (June – August)
Warmest time of year
Weather: Hot during the day, with afternoon rain showers quite common
Vibe: Busier with local tourists and some festivals
Why go: Everything is green and vibrant after the rain, and the city feels festive
🌧️ Top Tip: Pack a light raincoat or umbrella just in case
🍁 Autumn (September – November)
Great for culture lovers
Weather: Pleasant temperatures, especially October and November
Vibe: Cultural events, including Festival Internacional Cervantino in October
Why go: The city comes alive with music, art, and theatre
🎭 Top Tip: Book accommodation early if visiting in October – it gets busy
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Quietest and coolest time
Weather: Crisp mornings and evenings, with mild days
Vibe: More relaxed, fewer crowds
Why go: Good for budget travellers, and festive decorations in December are charming
Where to stay in Guanajuato
1. Luxury – Hotel Ex-Hacienda San Xavier
2. Mid-Range – Hotel de la Paz
3. Budget – Hotel Dos Rios
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