During the 50th anniversary edition of Tianguis Turístico México 2026, the destination of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo stood out with a robust work agenda focused on connectivity, strategic promotion, and gastronomic positioning, reaffirming its leadership as one of the most comprehensive destinations on the Mexican Pacific coast.
During days of intense activity, the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo delegation forged key alliances, promoted its hotel and tourism infrastructure, and showcased its rich cultural and gastronomic offerings, while strengthening relationships with strategic partners in the national and international tourism industry.
Prior to the start of Tianguis Turístico México 2026, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo hosted a luncheon for the Union of Tourism Secretaries of Mexico (ASETUR), highlighting the importance of the destination’s presence at one of the country’s most important tourism events.
Under the theme “Land of Fishermen,” a culinary experience was offered that celebrated the flavors, traditions, and innovation of local gastronomy, reflecting the history and culture of Zihuatanejo, a designated Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town).
The meal took place at the iconic La Concha restaurant in the Hotel Las Brisas Acapulco, where renowned chefs offered an exceptional menu: Julio César Flores, Daniel Sánchez, Felipe Meneses, and Rodrigo Serna, the latter two hailing from Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.
They successfully conveyed the unique flavors of the destination through each dish. The event was supported by CANIRAC Guerrero and CANIRAC Zihuatanejo, and was attended by Mayor Lizette Tapia Castro and the president of the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo Hotel Association (AHIZ), Paola González Hernandez.
The event was enlivened by the talent of singer-songwriter Jossy Gallegos, who accompanied the experience with her music, creating a unique atmosphere that celebrated the identity, hospitality, and cultural richness of Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, solidifying its position as a leading gastronomic destination on the Mexican Pacific coast.
The activities within the framework of Tianguis Turístico began with the signing of an agreement with Mexicana de Aviación, ratifying the AIFA–Ixtapa Zihuatanejo route, strengthening air connectivity and facilitating the arrival of more visitors to the destination.
As part of the promotion of the region’s fishing heritage, a tuna was transported from Zihuatanejo to Acapulco. In this context, a remarkable tuna cutting demonstration was held, performed by Chef Daniel Sánchez, better known as El Dani Seafood. This event was a joint effort with the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (CANIRAC) Zihuatanejo, who offered a memorable gastronomic experience with his tuna chalupas, which delighted the attendees.
Additionally, an agreement was formalized for Ixtapa Zihuatanejo to host the Annual Convention of the Mexican Association of Women Executives in Tourism Companies (AFEET) in September 2026. This agreement, signed in conjunction with Claudia Esther González, AFEET’s national president, further solidifies the destination’s position as a key location for meetings tourism.
During the day, business meetings were held with Aeroméxico and Expedia partners, and interviews were conducted with prominent media outlets.
The second day began with the launch of the Estrella de Oro buses, which will travel various routes, one of them featuring an exclusive design showcasing Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, reinforcing the destination’s presence in the national market.
Regarding air connectivity, an agreement was signed with Volaris, announcing the new Puebla-Zihuatanejo route. Additionally, a letter of intent was signed with Volaris’ Ya Vas, with the aim of strengthening tourism promotion and generating new growth opportunities.
Gastronomy once again took center stage in the Guerrero culinary experience, showcasing iconic dishes such as the red and black octopus al pastor, prepared by Fernando Martínez of Simplicios in collaboration with CANIRAC Zihuatanejo. This event highlighted the diversity and richness of local cuisine, sharing its flavors with over a thousand attendees.
On the international front, a strategic meeting was held with representatives from Sunwing/WestJet to review the 2025–2026 season, emphasizing the arrival of more than 22,000 visitors from Vancouver and Calgary to Ixtapa Zihuatanejo.
Throughout the day, business meetings were held with various partners, including Civitatis, Volaris, Price Travel, Despegar, Tripadvisor, Euromundo, Autovías/Costaline, Travel Life, Charter Go, Click Operadora, and others. A busy media schedule also continued, covering the latest news and upcoming events in the destination.
At the closing of the event, Ixtapa Zihuatanejo was recognized by Aire Libre magazine for its successful gastronomic festival model, highlighting the integration of traditional, contemporary, and avant-garde cuisine as a key differentiator for the destination.
In addition, a strategic meeting was held with AS Deporte, with the aim of strengthening the attraction of sporting events that will further diversify the destination’s tourism offerings.
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo’s participation in this historic edition of the Tianguis Turístico México reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the comprehensive promotion of its hotel, tourist, natural, cultural, and gastronomic attractions. The alliances forged and agreements reached solidify the destination’s position as a competitive tourism benchmark at both the national and international levels.
The 50th edition of Tianguis Turístico México solidified its position as one of the most successful in the event’s history. According to official data from the Mexican Ministry of Tourism, more than 64,000 business appointments were registered, generating an economic impact exceeding one billion pesos. Furthermore, a 137% increase in sales was reported compared to previous editions, with participation from all 32 states of the country, more than 1,400 buyers, and nearly 4,000 exhibitors, reflecting the strength and dynamism of the tourism sector in Mexico.
In this context, Pedro Castelán Reyna, Executive Director of the Ixtapa Zihuatanejo Convention and Visitors Bureau, emphasized that: “Participating in the 50th edition of Tianguis Turístico México represents a historic moment for our destination. Ixtapa Zihuatanejo arrived with a solid, authentic, and highly competitive proposal, successfully forging strategic alliances in air connectivity, promotion, and meetings tourism that will strengthen our positioning both nationally and internationally. These types of platforms allow us to showcase the best of our essence: our people, our gastronomy, and the natural beauty that distinguishes us. Undoubtedly, the results obtained point to a clear path of growth and consolidation for the coming years.”
Tianguis Turístico México 2026 reaffirms Ixtapa Zihuatanejo as a destination that is evolving with determination on the most relevant stages of the industry. This dual paradise proudly projects its unique essence: the charm of a magical fishing village and the infrastructure of a world-class destination. The results obtained reflect a growing interest from both travelers and business partners, marking a clear path towards its consolidation as one of Mexico’s most emblematic and competitive beach destinations.
Source: revistaunica
