A trip to Mexico is a bucket list item for many travelers. Mexico is a very versatile country that has something to offer everyone. The tropical beaches, authentic villages, mysterious cenotes, ancient Mayan ruins, pristine rainforests, Mexican cuisine, waterfalls, and national parks are just a few of the reasons why Mexico is so beloved by visitors from all over the world.
This is a guest post by Cynthia & Alexander from Travel Your Memories
Before you travel to Mexico, it is important to choose which region you want to visit. This article will show the unique places to visit in Mexico to determine your next destination. The sights are divided by region/province:
- Yucatan Peninsula
- Oaxaca
- Chiapas
Unique Places in the Yucatan Peninsula
The Yucatan Peninsula is the most touristic part of Mexico, and where you can see some of the most beautiful places in Mexico. If you are planning to travel to the regions of Yucatan and Quintana Roo in the Peninsula, you can use this Yucatan itinerary as a basis to plan your route. Unique places in Mexico such as Chitzen Itza, Isla Holbox, Bacalar, and the archaeological zone of Tulum should definitely be on your Mexico itinerary!
Chitzen Itza
Chitzen Itza is a Mayan archaeological site that is one of the seven wonders of the world. This complex is impressive because a lot of temples are well restored and the design of the main pyramid Kukulkán, also known as El Castillo, is mind-blowing. The Maya built the pyramid so that on the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun casts a shadow on the pyramid in such a way that a snake appears to slither up or down the huge steps.
Chitzen Itza is visited by more than 1.2 million people every year, and it is popular for good reason – although it can get very busy in peak times. It is possible to arrange day tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun and various other places in the region, but you can also visit independently, staying in the nearby town of Valladolid.
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There are many beautiful beaches and islands to be found in Mexico, but few surpass the beauty of Isla Holbox. Isla Holbox is unique in the Yucatan as you can still find places on this tropical island to enjoy all by yourself. Nowadays, these kinds of places are difficult to find, but in Isla Holbox, it is blissfully easy.
As well as enjoying the beautiful beaches on Isla Holbox, another advantage of visiting the island is the relaxed vibe and it’s very cosy because there aren’t large resorts here unlike most places on the Riviera Maya.
There are a lot of things to do in Isla Holbox and it is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks. As with any activity involving animals, make sure you choose a responsible tour provider and keep a safe distance from these magnificent creatures.
Bacalar Lagoon
Bacalar is located in the south of the Quintana Roo region of the Yucatan, close to the border with Belize. It is a small village that you can still call a hidden gem in Mexico as most travellers don’t make the journey this far south, but it is worth the trip!
At first glance, Bacalar looks like a normal village, but you soon discover that it is on the shores of the beautiful Bacalar lagoon. Because the water is so clear, you can see many different shades of blue that give the lake its nickname the Lake of Seven Colors – and it is often compared to the Maldives.
One of the most popular activities in Bacalar is to take a tour on a sailing boat or canoe out on the lake. During the trip, you will enjoy beautiful views, discover different spots of the lake and swim in the middle of the lake at several small islands, as well as enjoy the sunshine and the colors.
Tulum Archaeological Zone
Tulum is a beach town that is very popular among travelers because in Tulum you can visit the most beautiful archaeological zone in Mexico. The best thing about this place is that the ruins are on a cliff with the sea and beach next to them, making you feel like you are in a Pirates of the Caribbean scene.
Tip: visit the complex in the evening because of the high temperatures during the day.
Besides the Maya complex, there are many things to do in Tulum like swimming in cenotes and relaxing at the most beautiful beaches of Mexico.
Unique Places to Visit in Oaxaca
Oaxaca is located in the middle of Mexico and is a region where you can experience authentic Mexico. Here you will get to know the indigenous peoples and their traditions, discover the ruins and architecture, walk through magnificent nature and enjoy the surfing beaches of Puerto Escondido. It’s a wonderful region to explore because of the combination of culture, nature, and relaxation.
Oaxaca de Juarez
The most beautiful destination in the Oaxaca region is the city of Oaxaca de Juárez. Travelers who like to visit a typical Mexican city can indulge themselves here. The city has colorful buildings, cathedrals, and lively markets and the historic center is on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List.
Oaxaca is known as the culinary capital of Mexico, and you can enjoy delicious food and dining in many restaurants and small bars in the city.
Another nice thing about the city is that traditions and cultural characteristics are still clearly visible when you walk around. Be sure to visit local shops and where artists sell their work. From Oaxaca, you can do many activities that are listed below.
Monte Alban
If you want to see more ruins, Monte Albán is recommended to visit. This was the capital of the Zapotecs and is considered the most important ancient city of the state of Oaxaca. The city is located at an altitude of about 1950 meters and there is a beautiful view of the valley from the top.
It is a lovely destination for people who want to see more ruins in Mexico and get to know the culture and history better. You can visit Monte Alban easily when you stay in Oaxaca, taking a bus or taxi from downtown Oaxaca.
Hierve el Agua
The bizarre natural phenomenon Hierve el Agua should not be missed when you are in Oaxaca. Hierve el Agua is a petrified waterfall with many water sources. From a distance, it looks like a waterfall, but when you get closer you see many pools. You can see these pools bubbling because of the heat, and you can even swim in one of the heated pools yourself.
You can take a tour to see it or ask at your accommodation what the best way is to travel from Oaxaca to Hierve el Agua. Normally you need to travel first to the town of Milta, then take a transfer to Hierve el Agua.
Puerto Escondido
Do you want to surf in one of the best places in Mexico? If so, you need to visit Puerto Escondido. Here you will find wonderful beaches behind the mountains of Oaxaca. It is above all a destination to completely relax.
You can also take a boat tour during your stay where you have the chance to see whales, dolphins, turtles and other animals. During turtle season you can help to release baby turtles at the beach and volunteer at one of the turtle rescue centers.
Unique Places in Chiapas
Like Oaxaca, Chiapas is also a region where you can experience authentic Mexico. In Chiapas you will find the colorful city of San Cristóbal de las Casas and beautiful natural landscapes such as Cañón del Sumidero. There is a lot to see in Chiapas, the attractions below are all definitely worth a visit when you are in Chiapas.
Palenque
In Palenque, you will find one of the most beautiful Mayan cities in Central America. This is because it is hidden in the rainforest. It is a beautiful complex to walk through and climbing some of the temples gives you incredible views over the rainforest.
Stay at Hotel La Aldea del Halach Huinic which is located next to the park.
San Cristobal de las Casas
San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of the nicest cities in Mexico. The center has colorful houses, there are local markets, old churches, and a couple of atmospheric squares where you can find nice restaurants and cafes.
The Mayan market is the best thing to visit here. At this market, Tzotzil and Tzeltal indigenous people sell their products. If you climb the steps of the church Iglesia de Guadelupe you will be treated with a beautiful view. San Cristóbal de las Casas can also be used as a base to visit do some more nature activities in the area.
Misol-Ha and Cascadas de Agua Azul
If you are traveling from Palenque and San Cristóbal de las Casas you can visit these two unique places in Mexico. Misol-Ha is a waterfall of 35 meters and the water comes down which such a speed that it makes a lot of noise. The best thing about this place is that you can swim in the pool with the waterfall at your side.
Agua Azul is also a waterfall, only here the pools merge into each other. The colors of the turquoise water are beautiful to see. First, you need to walk to the top to enjoy the view. After this activity, you can swim at the bottom of the waterfalls to get some refreshment.
Lagos de Montebello & El Chiflon
At Lagos de Montebello there are more than fifty lakes that are worth a visit. The lakes vary in color from turquoise to green. It is wonderful to walk here because you are always surprised by the view. This region has many mountains and forests which are great for exploring.
From Lagos de Montebello you can visit the waterfall El Chiflón. During the hike, you can visit a museum that explains the history. You can also see iguanas here. Before you reach the 120-meter waterfall, you first pass a couple of small waterfalls. It is hard not to be surprised by the beauty of nature during the walk.
Cañón del Sumidero
Visiting Cañón del Sumidero (Sumodero Canyon) is one of the best day tours you can do from San Cristóbal. Here you can visit a kilometer-long gorge by boat. During a trip on the boat, you see high rock walls, untouched nature, waterfalls, and one of the largest dams in the country.
If you are lucky you might spot crocodiles along the banks and countless birds flying over. This is definitely a tour that will make a nature lover’s heart beat faster.
San Juan Chamula & Zinacantán
From San Cristóbal you can visit San Juan Chamula, a unique village for its spirituality, superstitions, and rituals. Here you will still find indigenous inhabitants of the Maya called the Tzotzil. You can attend a ritual which is an interesting and special event. If you want to learn more about the culture of Mexico, this activity is for you.
You can also visit the village of Zinacantán where you can see how the locals traditionally make clothes. It is one of the most authentic villages that can be found in Mexico.
Travel Costs for Mexico
How much does a trip to Mexico cost now? This is an important question for many, of course, you want to know how much you need to save each month to make your trip to Mexico. The amount of this depends on many factors.
If you travel with a backpack, a budget of $30 to $40 per day can be sufficient for a budget traveler. However, a more realistic budget is between $40 – $80 per day. Read more about Mexico travel costs and budget here.
About the Authors
This article was written by Cynthia & Alexander, adventure travel bloggers from Travel your Memories. They travel the world and share all the tips to inspire and help you plan your trips. You can also find them on Instagram and Pinterest.
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