Monumento al Pípila
Iconic monument offering breathtaking panoramic views of Guanajuato's colorful colonial cityscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical city lights appear
Monumento al Pípila
Best Time
Magical city lights appear
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic monument offering breathtaking panoramic views of Guanajuato's colorful colonial cityscape.
"What a view!!! If you are visiting Guanajuato you must make the trip up to this statute."
Funicular Up, Walk Down
Take the funicular up for ease, then enjoy a scenic walk down through charming alleys. :athletic_shoe:
Sunset is a Must-See
The view at sunset is unforgettable, with the city lighting up below. :city_sunset:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Top of the monument
Witness Guanajuato's colorful colonial architecture spread out below. A truly breathtaking vista.
The Monument Itself
Summit
A striking tribute to a hero of Mexican Independence, standing proudly against the sky.
Sunset Spectacle
Viewing platforms
Watch the city transform as day turns to night, with lights twinkling below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting to the Monument: Funicular vs. Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Funicular Up, Walk Down
Take the funicular up for ease, then enjoy a scenic walk down through charming alleys. :athletic_shoe:
Sunset is a Must-See
The view at sunset is unforgettable, with the city lighting up below. :city_sunset:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Whether you hike or walk down, comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
GPS Can Be Tricky
Navigating Guanajuato's maze-like streets can be challenging; embrace getting a little lost! :compass:
Tips
from all over the internet
Funicular Up, Walk Down
Take the funicular up for ease, then enjoy a scenic walk down through charming alleys. :athletic_shoe:
Sunset is a Must-See
The view at sunset is unforgettable, with the city lighting up below. :city_sunset:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Whether you hike or walk down, comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
GPS Can Be Tricky
Navigating Guanajuato's maze-like streets can be challenging; embrace getting a little lost! :compass:
Grab a Drink or Snack
There are spots at the top to relax with a refreshing drink and enjoy the scenery. :tropical_drink:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Monumento al Pípila for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Guanajuato, calling it a must-visit. The sunset experience is particularly highlighted as magical. Some find the walk up challenging, recommending the funicular, and a few mention that while the views are great, they don't encompass the entire city.
"What a view!!! If you are visiting Guanajuato you must make the trip up to this statute. It's a monument to a hero of the Mexican revolution but more than that it's location affords a commanding view of the city and mountains. While you can take the tram both up and down, I suggest just taking it up. The walk down is much easier than I would have expected."
Carlos Yanez
"Great spot and a delightful view of El Centro, the downtown city center and the river of commerce that flows through its base. You can see a big chunk of this historic city from here but certainly not the whole thing, you need to visit La Buffa to see it all and that's a hike, like an actual hike with a bit of amateur rock climbing required. Bring a hiking stick if you go up there, it's like a third leg.
But back to Pipila. There is a short funicular ride up for $40MX pesos. A steal compared to the heart attack you might have trying to take the path and steps which are not marked well, if at all. It doesn't look very far away or up and maybe technically it isn't but you aren't walking a ladder up to it so it's a pretty circuitous route. I recommend hitching a ride up on said funicular and then walking down from there.
Behave like water here and you will never be lost. Just keep going downhill until you can't and you will be at the basin of the river of commerce and everything leads from there. Behave opposite of water and you will find little treasures off the beaten path. Better food and charming shops. You cannot get lost because if you don't know where you are you only need behave like water and soon enough you'll splash into the river of commerce again. This place was built up by geological forces and carved out by millennia of floods and monsoon rains. Don't fight it. Get lost. Be water. Be found. Find a bench. Find yourself."
Maté “BringOutTheGringo” De Noel
"Awesome view of the City, with great scenery. Good to hang out and have some food or a refreshing drink."
Teo Dominguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Monumento al Pípila by taking the funicular from near the Jardín de la Unión, or by walking up through the city's charming, albeit steep, alleys. Many visitors opt for the funicular for the ascent and enjoy the walk down. :ticket: The funicular costs around 40 MXN pesos per direction. +1
The walk up can be steep and winding, with steps and narrow paths. While it's a great way to experience the city's character, it requires good stamina. The funicular is a much easier alternative.
Driving directly to the monument is generally not recommended due to Guanajuato's narrow, maze-like streets and limited parking. It's best to park in the city center and use the funicular or walk.
Guanajuato's historic center is a labyrinth of alleys and tunnels. While GPS can be unreliable, embracing the 'get lost' philosophy and always heading downhill will eventually lead you to the main riverbed, making it easier to find your bearings.
While the funicular is the most popular public transport option, some local buses may pass near the base of the hill, but walking or the funicular are the most direct and recommended methods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the monument grounds is generally free. However, there is a fee for the funicular ride, which is approximately 40 MXN pesos per person, per direction.
The monument is typically accessible during daylight hours, offering stunning views throughout the day. The funicular operates on a schedule, usually from morning until early evening. It's advisable to check current operating hours before your visit.
Tickets for the funicular can usually be purchased on-site at the station. It's not typically necessary to book in advance, but during peak tourist seasons, it might be wise to arrive a bit earlier to avoid queues.
No, the Monumento al Pípila itself does not have an entrance fee. The cost is associated with the funicular ride if you choose to use it for transportation.
While the monument structure is visible at night, the funicular may have limited operating hours. Visiting at sunset is highly recommended for the best experience as the city lights up.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire viewing platform offers incredible photo opportunities. The best spots are along the railings for unobstructed views of the city, especially during sunset. Don't forget to capture the monument itself! +1
Drone photography might be restricted in certain areas or require permits. While some videos show drone footage, it's always best to check local regulations before flying a drone in tourist areas.
Sunset is magical for capturing the city lights. However, mornings offer clearer skies and fewer crowds, providing a different, equally beautiful perspective.
Absolutely! The monument provides a dramatic backdrop for selfies. Many visitors capture themselves with the statue and the sprawling city behind them. +1
Look for the wider viewing areas that encompass both the monument and a significant portion of the city. The edges of the viewing platform offer the most expansive shots.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the breathtaking panoramic views of Guanajuato. You can also learn about the monument's historical significance, relax at the viewpoints, and take memorable photos.
Yes, there are vendors and small establishments at the monument offering refreshments and snacks, perfect for enjoying while taking in the view.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours here, allowing time to soak in the views, take photos, and perhaps enjoy a drink. If you walk down, factor in extra time for exploration.
The funicular offers an accessible way to reach the top. The viewing platforms are generally flat, but navigating the surrounding streets to reach the funicular or monument might present challenges.
The monument commemorates El Pípila, a hero of the Mexican War of Independence who played a crucial role in the siege of Guanajuato by setting fire to the granary where royalist troops had taken refuge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Funicular: A Scenic Ascent
Tickets are typically purchased at the station, and the cost is quite reasonable, making it an accessible option for most travelers. Many visitors find it a worthwhile experience, especially for those who prefer not to tackle the strenuous uphill walk. It's a popular choice for both locals and tourists looking for a convenient way to access the iconic viewpoint.
Navigating Guanajuato's Labyrinthine Streets
As one Reddit user wisely put it, 'Behave like water here and you will never be lost. Just keep going downhill until you can't and you will be at the basin of the river of commerce and everything leads from there.'
The Historical Significance of El Pípila
During the siege, royalist forces took refuge in the Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a fortified granary. El Pípila, armed with a paving stone tied to his back for protection against musket fire, bravely advanced towards the building and set fire to its heavy wooden doors. This act of courage allowed the insurgent forces to breach the defenses, leading to a significant victory for the independence movement. The monument commemorates his bravery and his crucial role in securing Guanajuato for the revolutionaries.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit