Best experiences / Blog articles
Short description: Mexico is an unparalleled country where lively Latin American culture mixes with modern cosmopolitan cities. With almost 90 different indigenous languages the country assures that the visitors will be treated to unmatched diversity in traditions, architecture, cuisine, crafts, clothing and livelihoods. In addition, the country’s rich historical past can be experienced through its plentiful majestic pre-Hispanic archaeological sites and in charmingly colorful colonial towns. Beside cultural experiences, visitors can also enjoy wildlife spotting in the deep jungle or relax on the abundant white sand beaches while spoiling their taste-buds with chili-infused dishes or the over-the-top sugary treats.
Best photos: check out our favourite photos from Mexico
Best time to visit: any time, except during the hurricane season (occurs from July to October)
Best experiences
- pre-Columbian empires – It is estimated that over sixty different civilizations lived in Mexico at one point or another. The best known are the Aztec empire, once the largest in the Western hemisphere, and the Maya empire, which flourished in the southern parts of Mexico. However, other civilizations also achieved impressive feats and their archeological remains are well worth visiting. The numerous ruins of these mighty empires are scattered throughout the country (with plenty still to be discovered). It is impossible to visit all of them, but for a flavor of just how diverse these civilizations were one should not miss the remains of Tenochtitlan (Templo Mayor is the only visible site of this former capital of the Aztec empire), Teotihuacan (built by the Teotihuacan civilization, known as the place where humans become gods), Palenque and Chichén Itzá (one of the largest Maya cities in Mexico) and the archeological sites of Mitla and Monte Alban in Oaxaca (where Zapotecs and Mixtecs built unique architecture). For those short on time but still wishing to visit a couple archaeological sites, the Puuc route in Yucatan which includes cities of Uxmal, Kabah, and Labna provides a concentrated example of Mayan architecture.
- brightly-coloured colonial cities – There is no shortage of charm in Mexico’s colonial towns which are spread throughout the country. The most colorful and interesting ones are listed under the Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns) programme, which includes more than 100 unique villages and towns. Our recommended choices from the list would include: Taxco (the gateway to silver mines and once a major source of silver for the Spanish empire), Malinalco (combining a long-time-secret sanctuary for the Aztec Eagle and Jaguar warriors with stunning colonial history), San Miguel de Allende (a quaint, colorful town with a beautiful pink-stone church and numerous restaurants that is popular with expats), Guanajuato (a town with colorful, narrow cobblestone streets that was once an important player in the fight for independence) and San Cristobal de las Casas (a hill town offering cool relief from the jungle, full of handicraft markets, boutique stores and restaurants).
- the vast and diverse capital of Mexico City – One of the largest cities in the world, Mexico City is quite chaotic (as any big city would be) but also astonishing in what it offers. The historic centre is a must-see and offers a quick introduction to the history of the country- from the Templo Mayor ruins which are the last remains of Tenochtitlan, to the grid-design of the roads and architecture imposed by the Spaniards, and finally, to the modern sky-scrapers. Beside exploring the little streets and numerous markets, it is worth to stop in a museum or two or a few more, as Mexico City features more museums than any other city in the world. A few that should not be missed include the Museum of Anthropology (an excellent overview of the ethnic diversity of the country), Frida Kahlo’s house (for all the art lovers) and the Castillo de Chapultepec (for the history buffs). For a one-of-a-kind experience, board one of the colorful boats in Xochimilco and take a ride among the canals and floating gardens, the last remains of the ancient lake on which Mexico City was built.
- explore the jungles of Chiapas – Although every state in Mexico offers plenty of adventures to the visitors, the State of Chiapas state might be the most extraordinary. It is one of Mexico’s most rugged states and does not receive many tourists. It combines cultural heritage with other-worldly lush landscapes. The green and vast Lacandon Jungle, numerous refreshing waterfalls (such as Agua Azul and Misol Há), imposing Maya ruins (the cities of Palenque, Yaxchilan and Bonampak or the numerous smaller only partially excavated sites), and the enormous Sumidero Canyon are only some of the highlights. In addition, Chiapas is home to one of the largest indigenous Maya populations, which is reflected in the local clothing, traditions and festivals.
- relax on the beaches – With more than 9,000 km of coastline, there are plenty of beach options in Mexico, both on the Caribbean side and the Pacific coast. Aside from the popular resort destinations of Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, there are also other less visited (and even more beautiful) options. Some of the best beaches are on Isla Holbox (an island, a few hours away from Cancun) and in the States of Oaxaca and Yucatan.
- traditional festivals – The highlight of the Mexican experience is the joyous soul of the people – Mexicans do not need an excuse to party and will celebrate every major occasion with festivals that are exceedingly rich in colour, music, and food. Two festivals that are definitely worth seeing are the colorful Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations all over the country between 31st October and 2nd November, and the Guelaguetza costume dancing and cultural festival in Oaxaca in July.
- a culinary delight – The world-famous Mexican cuisine is more than just tacos and quesadillas; it’s complexity can satisfy even the most demanding gourmands. The cuisine is based on native Mexican ingredients infused with Spanish character, and is constantly evolving with the additions of newer international influences. More and more high-end restaurants featuring unique Mexican ingredients (such as huitlacoche or corn smut – a fungus that grows on blue corn) are popping up, especially in Mexico City. However, the street food is equally mouth-watering with tlacoyos (filled, oval shaped snacks), gorditas (stuffed pastries made with corn), and sweet churros as some of the numerous available options.
