Zihuatanejo Ixtapa: Countryside Tour

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots and get a real taste of local life in Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa, the Countryside Tour offers just that. For around $63 per person, you get five hours of intimate glimpses into traditional ways of living—visiting families engaged in coconut farming and brick making, all wrapped up with a seafood lunch at a charming fishing village. The tour is hosted by Ixtapa Day Trips & Transfers, rated 4.5 out of 5, which speaks to its reliability and value.

What we really loved about this experience is how personal it feels. Visiting familia Gonzales as they peel coconuts offered us a taste of daily life that’s hard to find in typical tourist spots. Plus, the fresh seafood lunch at Barra de Potosí is a highlight—simple, tasty, and right on the beach. We also appreciated that transportation in a well-kept air-conditioned vehicle keeps you comfortable, especially in Mexico’s warm climate.

A small drawback is that the tour can be quite focused on local craftsmanship and daily routines, so if you’re after major sightseeing landmarks or nightlife, this isn’t the trip for you. It’s a quiet, authentic experience meant for those curious about local traditions and lifestyles. And because the group size is limited to 5 participants, it feels more like a small gathering than a big tour—ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a genuine connection with local Mexican culture, enjoy discovering everyday life, and savor some excellent seafood without breaking the bank. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate hands-on experiences and don’t mind a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural insights: Visit local families and see their traditional activities up close.
• Comfortable transportation: Well-maintained air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey relaxing.
• Tasty seafood lunch: Enjoy a fresh, seaside meal at Barra de Potosí, with an optional boat ride.
• Small group size: Limited to 5 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible options: Tour can be booked without lunch if preferred.
• Live Spanish guide: Offers an authentic narration, with small group interaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Zihuatanejo Ixtapa Countryside Tour in Detail

An Authentic Glimpse into Rural Life

This five-hour tour gives you a chance to step into the daily routines of local families in the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo area. As you hop into your air-conditioned vehicle, your guide—likely a local with a passion for sharing their community—begins the journey through picturesque countryside. The tour is designed to connect you with authentic Mexican traditions, away from the hustle of tourist resorts.

Visiting Familia Gonzales at the Coconut Plantation

Your first stop is at the coconut plantation of Familia Gonzales, a family that still relies on traditional methods. Here, you’ll witness the process of peeling and opening coconuts, which offers a fascinating look at a staple crop in this region. We loved the personal touch—seeing the family work together and taste fresh coconuts right from the tree. It’s a simple activity but one that reveals the importance of coconuts in local life, from food to crafts.

Insight into Brick Making with Familia Rodriguez

Next, we visit Familia Rodriguez, who craft bricks and roof tiles through rustic, time-tested methods. Watching them mold and dry bricks by hand provides insight into the region’s construction traditions. It’s a reminder of how resourceful and self-sufficient these families are, often making their own building materials from local clay. This stop offers a stark contrast to modern construction methods, and you’ll come away with a new appreciation for manual craftsmanship.

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The Charming Fishing Village of Barra de Potosí

The final highlight is a visit to Barra de Potosí, a laid-back fishing village with a relaxed vibe. Here, you’ll indulge in a delicious seafood lunch directly on the beach—think fresh fish, shrimp, and other seaside delights. We found the setting unbeatable—dining right beside the water as boats bobbed nearby creates a perfect backdrop. For an extra thrill, there’s an option to take a boat ride on the lagoon (at additional cost), adding a splash of adventure to your day.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation is in a well-kept, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a boon considering the warm Mexican weather. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd and can ask plenty of questions. The tour guide, speaking Spanish, enriches your understanding with authentic narration, and the tour is flexible—can be booked with or without lunch.

One thing to note is that the focus is on traditional crafts and local life rather than sightseeing in a conventional sense. If you’re expecting grand monuments or nightlife, this is not your tour. However, if you love learning about local customs, trying genuine food, and enjoying laid-back scenery, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

Price and Value

At $63 per person, this tour offers solid value. It includes guided visits, transportation, and lunch (if you choose to have it). Considering how personalized and hands-on the experiences are, it’s a good deal for travelers wanting more than just photos of scenic views—here, you get insight and taste of everyday Mexican life.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the delicious seafood lunch as a real standout, with many mentioning it as a relaxing, flavorful way to end the day. One noted, “The food was simple but so tasty, right on the beach, and the view was unbeatable.” Others appreciated the small group atmosphere, saying it felt more like visiting friends than a tour.

Some feedback points out that the guide’s Spanish narration can be a barrier if you don’t speak the language, but most found it enriching rather than frustrating—especially when engaging with local families.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see authentic local life, enjoy fresh seafood, and learn about traditional crafts. It’s ideal if you prefer small-group tours and want a genuine, relaxed day away from bustling tourist zones. It’s also great for those interested in culture and who don’t mind a bit of Spanish language interaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the hands-on nature and cultural focus make it suitable for families with older kids who enjoy learning and exploring rural life.

Can I take the tour without the seafood lunch?
Yes. The tour can be booked without lunch, which might be preferable if you want a lighter or different meal afterward.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Transportation is in a well-kept, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride through the countryside.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The guide speaks Spanish, but the experience remains engaging for non-Spanish speakers, especially if you have a little familiarity or enjoy listening to authentic narration.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride on the lagoon is available at extra cost and not part of the standard five-hour itinerary. The duration of the ride isn’t specified, but it adds an optional element of fun.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a small group tour, limited to 5 participants, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. If you opt for the boat ride, bring appropriate attire or a change of clothes if desired.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

This Countryside Tour from Zihuatanejo offers a genuine taste of Mexican rural life, with a perfect mix of hands-on experiences, cultural insights, and relaxing seaside dining. It’s ideal for travelers who want a meaningful connection with local communities, enjoy authentic food, and value small-group intimacy. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply curious about life outside the tourist hubs, this tour delivers a memorable, enriching day.

You can check availability for your dates here: