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written by
Ties Lagraauw
updated 07.12.2023
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey to experience the solar eclipse in Mazatlán, a magical event where the moon gracefully obscures the sun, painting the sky with a celestial dance. This guide will teach you all about the solar eclipse in Mazatlan in 2024. Discover tips on the perfect timing, safety measures for eclipse viewing, and local customs to enhance your experience.
Created by local experts
Do you want to experience the solar eclipse in Mazatlan in 2024? Make sure to read this article!
April 8, 2024 is the time to be here. Mazatlan, a picturesque colonial beach town located in Mexico, will be directly within the path of the total solar eclipse. This occurrence will be a part of the highly anticipated Great American Eclipse trip. The other one is an annular solar eclipse from Oregon to Texas on October 14, 2023.
It's truly a spectacle to behold, where the day momentarily slips into night and then reemerges into day, all within a span of about 4 minutes and 27 seconds. This is an eclipse trip happening, guaranteeing an astounding 100% view of the celestial event. The sought-after experience will add another layer of charm to this Mexican beach town.
In Mazatlan, the total solar eclipse will be visible from virtually anywhere with a clear view of the sky. Lucky for us, Mazatlan is about 15 miles north of the centerline, so the event's duration could be an approximate 20 seconds shorter, but no less mesmerizing. Now, onto some top places along the pacific coast to witness the breathtaking occurrence:
Remember, the closer you are to the centerline, the most dramatic view you'll get, so plan for a spot that falls under this path.
© Shutterstock
On eclipse day, you'll witness a breathtaking spectacle in the sky. This day is an exceptional display of eclipse astronomy. It will commence with a partial solar eclipse, where the moon begins its trajectory over the sun, giving an impression of a 'bite' extracted from it, covering about one-fifth of the sun's disk; data courtesy of NASA research. This will progressively intensify until the moon wholly shrouds the sun, a stage renowned as totality in astronomy.
During totality, you'll observe the silhouette of the moon, encased by the sun's fringe atmosphere, known as the corona, marking a halo effect. In this stage enabled by nature's disk magic, stars, and planets will become distinctly visible in the temporarily dimmed sky. Be sure to use certified eye protection or "eclipse glasses" during this event, especially when any part of the sun's disk is visible to shield your eyes against potential damage.
This celestial event is set to unfurl on April 8, 2024, with the total eclipse in Mazatlan slated to commence just prior to 11:07:30am MST. Aspects like your exact location in Mazatlan may cause a slight fluctuation in the eclipse times, and considering the widespread discontinuation of Daylight Saving Time in most of Mexico, cross-verifying with the local time is crucial for accurate viewing. Furthermore, note that Mazatlan is approximately 15 miles north of the centerline which can result in a shortened duration of the event, making the spectacle as brief as 20 seconds less.
As time passes, over a span of a few hours, the sky will gradually darken as the moon positions itself in front of the sun. As the eclipse approaches its complete stage, the light will adopt an unsettling and twilight-like characteristic that is distinct from the typical illumination seen in the early morning or late evening.
Around the horizon, you may witness a 360-degree sunset-like glow and get a glimpse of the earth's real-time shadow.
Mazatlan Golden Zone (Zona Dorada), famous touristic beach resort zone © Shutterstock
Observing a solar eclipse is a rare and thrilling experience. To maximise your experience and take the necessary precautions, please consider these tips:
A total solar eclipse goes through five main stages:
Remember, the length of each phase varies. Notably, totality, being the briefest phase, will last approximately 4 minutes and 26 seconds during the 2024 eclipse in Mazatlan.
During a solar eclipse, you'll notice some cool changes outside. The most obvious change is it gets colder. .
Birds might go back to their nests, and night animals like bats might come out, thinking it's night. Even some flowers that like sunlight might close up too early.
Lots of people feel a strange quietness during the eclipse. It's like nature is pausing because of the weird light.
But when the sun comes back, everything goes back to normal fast. Nature picks up where it left off, and colors look normal again. So, in just a few hours, you get to see a super quick version of evening and morning. It's really something you won't forget.Travel and accommodations in Mazatlan.
Mazatlan panoramic view from the lighthouse El Faro © Shutterstock
Planning a trip to witness the breathtaking solar eclipse in Mazatlan in 2024? Let our team of experts craft the perfect itinerary for you. With our in-depth knowledge of the area and the event, we'll ensure you have an unforgettable experience. From finding the best viewing spots to arranging comfortable accommodations and local excursions, we've got you covered. Contact us or one of our travel experts to start planning your once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse adventure in Mazatlan, Mexico!
When planning your visit to Mazatlán for the 2024 solar eclipse, choosing the right accommodation can enhance your experience. Whether you're a solo traveler or part of a larger group, you have a myriad of options to choose from.
Given the high demand for rooms during the eclipse, our best advice would be to secure your accommodation as early as possible.
Getting to Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico is relatively convenient, given it is a popular tourist destination:
By air: The Mazatlán International Airport (MZT) is well connected with many U. S. and Canadian cities. Flights are routine from major cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, Phoenix, and others. If you're traveling from within Mexico, you'll find regular flights from Mexico City, Guadalajara, and more.
By road: Mazatlán is connected by Highway 15 and is a popular road trip destination from places like Nogales on the USA/Mexico border or even from within Mexico.
By Sea: If you're the adventurous kind, you can opt for a ferry journey from La Paz in Baja California Sur to Mazatlán. It's an overnight trip but offers an interesting angle to your journey.
However you choose to reach, do account for crowds due to the solar eclipse, as many will flock to the city around the time. Make sure to plan well in advance.
Olas altas beach in Mazatlan, Mexico © Shutterstock
The total solar eclipse can be viewed from any clear spot in Mazatlan as the city lies directly within the central path of the eclipse. Mazatlan is very close to the centerline of the eclipse's path, maximizing the totality of the event. However, some excellent viewing spots include:
Protecting your eyes during a solar eclipse is crucial. Here are a few guidelines:
Remember, your safety is paramount. Never take a chance with your eyesight. Eclipse glasses are usually easily available online or at local astronomical stores.
written by
Ties Lagraauw
updated 07.12.2023
Ties is a true world explorer - whether it be for work or leisure! As Content Manager at RoughGuides, and the owner of Dutch travel platform Reis-Expert.nl, Ties is constantly on the move, always looking for new destinations to discover.
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