Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
ShowingFilter 1-20 of 291 listings.
Azteca Stadium
Soccer—or fútbol as it’s called in Spanish—is an integral part of Mexican culture. For the country’s people, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca), which is the largest stadium in Mexico, is the heart of the sport. Home to the professional soccer team Club América and the Mexican national team, the 84,000-seat stadium is the first venue to host two FIFA World Cup finals, and it will welcome a third in 2026.
The Basics
Its name a tribute to Mexico City’s Aztec heritage, Azteca Stadium (Estadio Azteca) opened its doors in 1966 and continues to draw throngs of fans every year. In addition to the World Cups in 1970 and 1986, the stadium hosted the 1986 quarter-final match between Argentina and England, where both the memorable “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” were scored.
Besides scoring tickets to a match, die-hard soccer fans can get their fix with a behind-the-scenes tour of the venue, which usually includes a look at the inner workings, such as a visit to the locker rooms, press room, and bench area, plus a walk onto the legendary field.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The stadium is a popular attraction, so tours may sell out; book early to avoid missing it.
- There are no tours on match days or the day before a home match.
- Match tickets can be purchased at the gates on game day or online ahead of time.
How to Get There
In the Santa Ursula neighborhood of Mexico City and about nine miles (15 kilometers) from the historic center, the stadium is accessible via the Azteca station on the Xochimilco Light Rail line, which connects to the city’s metro system at the Tasqueña station. (The light rail and metro require two different tickets.) It’s also about a 30- to 40-minute car ride from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
The Mexican football league system (Club América is part of the Liga MX division) divides its season into two: Apertura (opening season) and Clausura (closing season), each with its own tournament and champion. If you want to catch a match, visit Azteca Stadium from July to December (Apertura) and from January to May (Clausura).
Tips for Attending a Match at Azteca Stadium
Like with most sporting events, you’ll have to contend with traffic, security, and unruly football fans on match day. Some things to keep in mind
- Be sure to head to the stadium early, especially if you still need to purchase tickets.
- Don’t wear a belt because it will most likely be confiscated by security (although there are vendors who will babysit it during the match for a fee).
- Carry some extra pesos in your pocket to give to the bathroom attendants in exchange for toilet paper.
Address: Calz de Tlalpan 3465, Santa Ursula Coapa, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, D.F. Mexico 04650, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Agua Azul
A multi-tiered waterfall of fast-flowing waters tumbling down a series of natural limestone steps, the Agua Azul (Blue Water) waterfall stands in striking contrast to the lone cascade of the nearby Misol Ha Waterfall and is often combined with a tour of Palenque. Named for its startling turquoise-blue waters created by minerals in the limestone bed, the waterfalls make a popular photo spot, but be aware that if you visit during the rainy season (June through October) the excess flow and silt can result in a rather less-appealing murky-brown shade.
At the foot of the falls, a series of pools and bathing holes make an ideal spot for swimming and during the weekends the area is filled with both locals and tourists, picnicking by the waterside, buying food and handicrafts from the cluster of market stalls set up nearby and cooling off in the shallow waters.
Practical Info
The Agua Azul waterfall is located off the Highway 199, 35 kilometers south of Palenque and is open daily during daylight hours. Admission is 25 pesos.
Address: Agua Azul Waterfalls, Chiapas, Mexico
Hours: Daily during daylight hours.
Admission: 25 pesos
From $ 25
Banderas Bay (Bahia de Banderas)
Located near Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Banderas Bay (Bahía de Banderas) is famous for its 42-mile (68-kilometer) stretch of picturesque coast. Jungle, sandy beaches, and rich aquatic life define this area, which is ideal for watersports and land adventures alike.
The Basics
Most tours exploring Banderas Bay’s terrestrial and aquatic offerings leave from Puerto Vallarta. Explore the bay’s waters on a snorkeling excursion, some of which also include kayaking and a visit to Marietas Islands National Park. If you’re a certified diver, you can opt for a scuba diving tour to explore undersea tunnels, hidden caves, and reefs brimming with tropical fish. Sailing tours are another option for experiencing the picturesque bay. On land, you can pedal along the coastline on a biking tour, delve into local culture on a taco-tasting tour, or explore the jungle on a day trip to nearby Las Caletas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banderas Bay is a must-see for nature and beach lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water for outdoor excursions.
- Proof of PADI certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb aquatic or terrestrial wildlife.
When to Get There
April through June is the best time to visit Banderas Bay, when rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists. January through March is the best time for whale watching, although the area tends to be crowded during this time.
How to Get There
Part of the Pacific Ocean, Banderas Bay borders Puerto Vallarta and stretches between Punta Mita in the north and Cape Corrientes in the south. Puerto Vallarta is the main jumping-off point for tours and activities in the area. The closest international airport is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, located roughly three miles (five kilometers) from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Whale Watching in Banderas Bay
Among the most popular outdoor activities in Banderas Bay, whale watching tours provide an opportunity to see humpback whales, which travel to the bay in early December for mating and calving. Most of these excursions leave from Marina Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta.
Address: Malecon, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 32
Angela Peralta Theater
This pride and joy of the historic district of Mazatlan has been through a tumultuous history. Built in the late 1800s, it was named after a famous singer who contracted yellow fever upon traveling here to perform and died. After a period of glory the building served as a movie theater, boxing arena, and eventually an abandoned ruin. Renovated and restored to its former glory, it reopened in 1992. You can tour the neoclassical structure for a nominal fee with a guide or catch a performance at night. Except for big-name concerts, the ticket charges are nearly always a bargain and this is a center for student performances of dance, music, or theater.
An art gallery near the entrance shows off temporary exhibitions by local and international artists. Tours also visit a museum upstairs shows the building in ruins and at different stages of restoration.
An art gallery near the entrance shows off temporary exhibitions by local and international artists. Tours also visit a museum upstairs shows the building in ruins and at different stages of restoration.
Address: Carnival 1024, Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico
Hours: Tours: Mon-Sun 9am-6pm
Admission: $1.25 for tours, performance prices vary
From $ 30
Aquaventuras Park
With a host adrenaline-fueled activities both in and out of the water, swimming areas suitable for all ages, and a dolphin and sea lion park, there’s something for the whole family to get excited about at the Aquaventuras Park. Just minutes from the beach in Neuvo Vallarta, the park centers around a gigantic swimming area, equipped with 10 thrilling water slides and toboggans, a rafting river, and a children’s play zone with a pirate ship, paddling pools, and mini slides.
After making a splash at the aqua park, visitors can also tackle Mexico’s tallest climbing wall, pick up speed on the zip-line course, or take on the ‘Challenge’ obstacle course. Poolside sunbeds and lounge areas, plus a restaurant, cafe, and snack bar are also available.
Practical Info
Aquaventuras Park is located in Nuevo Vallarta, around 5 miles (8 km) from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, and is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Adult admission is $25 and youth admission is $19.
Although Viator tours do not include this activity, Aquaventuras Park also offers opportunities to swim with dolphins or sea lions for an additional fee. Prices start from $99 for adults and $89 for children, and reservations are required.
Address: Carretera a Tepic Kilómetro 155, Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
Hours: Daily 10am–5pm
Admission: Adult: $25; Child: $19
From $ 25
Arena Mexico
Came to Mexico City in search of some adventure? Look no further than Arena Mexico. This hard-hitting lucha libre (Mexican Wrestler) playground is known to wage epic battles of good versus evil in full luchador splendor.
Built in 1968 to hold 16,500 spectators, this was once the largest stadium ever built for professional wrestling – proving what a following the sport has in Mexico City, which is a little different from its American counterpart. In Mexico, the lucha libre match is a fight not just of contestants, but of good vs. evil, and the crowd (of all ages) gets behind the event to cheer for their favorite wrestler in whatever his particular plight might be. Beer is served, the rules are announced (though loosely adhered to), and then all bets are off, so to speak. Truly an event unique to Mexico, if you’re the type of traveler who wants to do how the Romans do, you must attend an event at Arena Mexico and see the tight-masked wrestlers do their thing.
Practical Info
Arena Mexico is located in the Colonia Doctores district of Mexico City at 189 Calle Drive. Ticket prices vary per event.
Address: 189 Calle Drive, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 35
Avenida Kukulkan
Avenida Kukulkan, also known as Cancun’s Hotel Zone, is a pulsing thoroughfare lined with oceanfront resorts that separate the Caribbean Sea from the Nichupte Lagoon. This long, flat strip is home to some of Cancun’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife. From Avenida Kukulkan, various paths lead out to a limitless stretch of white sand.
The Basics
If you’re vacationing in Cancun, chances are you’ll end up at one of the resorts along Avenida Kukulkan. There’s lots to see and do here, including shopping, surfing, and more. After dark, visitors flock to Party Center, right in the middle of the Hotel Zone, to drink and dance the night away at Cancun’s hottest clubs.
Party-goers who want to avoid the hassle of planning transport can opt for a skip-the-line nightlife tour that includes unlimited drinks plus hotel pickup and drop-off.
Things to Know Before You Go
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the tourist areas.
- Paths leading out to the beach are easy to spot from Avenida Kukulkan.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water, as the strip and beaches offer little shade.
- Get a taste of Maya culture at the Cancun Maya Museum and San Miguelito.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Avenida Kukulkan, located just minutes from downtown. Most visitors arrive by airport transfer, taxi, or public transport—the R1 or R2 buses travel the length of the Hotel Zone. If you’re driving, head eastbound on Avenida Coba and continue straight through the intersection with Avenida Bonampak.
When to Get There
Cancun can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, and the weeks before and after Easter are also some of the busiest. Other times of year are less crowded. From May to October, expect higher-than-average humidity and a chance of wet weather.
Cancun Maya Museum
While it may not be the most authentic corner of the Yucatan Peninsula, Avenida Kukulkan does offer pockets of culture. At Km 16.5, the Maya Museum showcases centuries-old artifacts from ancient Maya sites throughout the Yucatan region. The museum sits alongside a patch of jungle with a small group of well-preserved Maya ruins known as San Miguelito.
Address: Blvd. Kukulcán, Cancún, Q.R. Mexico 77500, Mexico
From $ 39
Boca de Tomatlan
Tucked into the corner of the Bahia de Banderas of the Pacific Ocean is the quiet fishing village of Boca de Tomatlan. A wonderful throwback to a simpler way of life, this charming seaside town is sandwiched between the Horcones River, Boca Bay and the mountains of Puerto Vallarta. Popular among divers and Caribbean escape artists alike, this little slice of tranquility lies just 10 miles south of downtown Puerto Vallarta and is the idyllic retreat for all who dream of tropical beaches, rich forest jungle, peace and quiet.
Practical Info
The town of Boca de Tomatlan is located 10 miles south of Puerto Vallarta off of Highway 200 in the Mexican state of Jalisco.
Address: Boca de Tomatlan, Mexico
From $ 119
Bahia de Cabo San Lucas
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas is the cape’s hub for water sports and beach activities.
Rent jet skis and kayaks at Medano Beach, or hang out at the resorts lining the long stretch of sand overlooking the bay.
Take an underwater snorkel tour of the bay and nearby Sea of Cortez, or go diving off the Chileno reef or Cabo Pulmo Marine Park.
There are charter boats for sports fishing in the world’s marlin capital, or more gentle cruising in a glass-bottom boat on the bay at sunset. For youngsters, what could be better than a cruise aboard a pirate buccaneer’s cruise, me hearties.
Practical Info
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas washes east of the marina and north along Cabo San Lucas’ many swimming beaches.
Address: Lazaro Cardenas, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Benito Juarez Market
Benito Juarez Market takes up two blocks in central Oaxaca, Mexico, and is located a short walk from Zocalo, Oaxaca’s main plaza. The market offers a variety of food and handicrafts.
You’ll encounter many different types of food when walking through Benito Juarez Market. Dine on the Oaxaca delicacy, Chapulines while you’re at the market…a fancy way of saying you’ll be eating grasshoppers. There is also fresh seafood and hanging cuts of meat you can purchase to prepare back at your accommodations if you have a kitchen or grill. Get some fresh tortillas from the market as well and turn your dinner into tacos.
In addition to heaping baskets of grasshoppers and produce, you can also find artisan products ranging from weaved purses to clothing to ceramics. You may find similar products at each stall, so don’t be afraid to browse first and then barter.
Practical Info
Benito Juarez Market is located in the city center of Oaxaca at the cross streets of Flores Magon and Las Casas, less than two blocks south of Zocalo, with a brick arched entrance off of Las Casas. The market is covered and has lots of different lanes making it a fun place to lose track of time in and just browse and converse with the vendors and other locals.
Address: Flores Magon and Las Casas, Oaxaca, Mexico
From $ 22
Acapulco Cruise Port
With a rich nautical history dating back to the sixteenth century, Acapulco’s port is located in a deep semi-circular bay. The city stretches five miles along the beach, dotted with marinas hosting yachts and other small watercrafts.
How to Get to Acapulco
The main square of Acapulco is a five-minute walk from the cruise terminal. Access between the town and inland is via a four-lane road through a tunnel and over the mountains bordering Acapulco.
One Day in Acapulco
To get the most out of your time in Acapulco, try a City Tour. You’ll learn about Acapulco’s colorful history as a go-to spot for many of the world’s elite. Or experience the acrobatic feats of Acapulco’s famous and fearless Cliff Divers from the comfort of the luxurious La Perla Restaurant. Nature appreciators will love the Coyuca Lagoon. Its lush vegetation and picturesque views have inspired its feature in many famous films.
Port Information
The official language of Mexico is Spanish, though most tourist-oriented businesses in Acapulco will have English interpreters. The official currency is the Peso, though many shops will accept US Dollars. A plethora of international ATM’s are conveniently located. The Acapulco cruise terminal is notoriously ugly, but don’t let that discourage you. Once outside, there is plenty to see and do!
Address: Port of Acapulco, Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico
From $ 16
Beach of the Dead (Playa de los Muertos)
For an authentic and lively Puerto Vallarta beach experience, the Beach of the Dead (Playa de los Muertos) can’t be beat. Located just south of Olas Altas Beach in the Romantic Zone, this gay-friendly stretch of sand fronts a pier and is lined with bars and restaurants. Locals and families also love this beach and its diverse crowd.
The Basics
Playa de los Muertos is the Romantic Zone’s top attraction and crowded compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta’s beaches. The water can be good for swimming, and out of the water the ambiance and people watching will keep you entertained. Come evening, the beachfront restaurants serve gourmet cuisine against the backdrop of romantic Vallarta sunsets.
You can visit the Beach of the Dead independently or as part of a beach-hopping tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Beach of the Dead is ideal for all beachgoers. Families may prefer to be near the pier, where swimming can be better for children.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent.
How to Get There
Playa de los Muertos is located in the south of Puerto Vallarta, across the bridge over the Cuale River from the north side. Take the bus that says Centro (downtown) or a taxi; if you’re driving, follow Highway 200.
When to Get There
As with all of Puerto Vallarta, the Beach of the Dead is lovely pretty much year-round. Winter sees large numbers of visitors; during this time, plan to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and take advantage of the beach’s limited street parking.
Romantic Zone Highlights
No visit to Playa de los Muertos is complete without a stroll along the winding cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone (Old Town). With artisan shops, farmers markets, and street-side taco stands, this area of Vallarta maintains a more traditional, laid-back feel than the rest of the city. Don’t miss a walk along the newly reconstructed pier.
Address: El Centro, Puerto Vallarta 48300, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 310
Amatitan
One of the principal tequila-producing towns of Jalisco’s UNESCO-listed Tequila Country, Amatitán has long proclaimed itself the ‘birthplace of tequila’. Many connoisseurs agree that, despite owing its name to the neighboring town of Tequila, the fiery spirit likely found its origins closer to Amatitán, but whatever you believe, there’s no doubting Amatitán’s importance on the region’s well-trodden Tequila Trail.
The small town is home to dozens of tequila distilleries, churning out a vast quantity of mescal, mixto and 100% agave tequilas, including well-known brands like Cabo Wabo Tequila, El Jimador, Partida Tequila and Don Eduardo. Many visitors to Amatitán arrive on the historic Tequila Express railway from Guadalajara, combined with a tour and tequila tasting at the town’s legendary Casa Herradura Distillery.
Address: Amatitán, Mexico
From $ 64
Balankanche Caves
Balankanche Caves are some of the most famous Mayan cave sites in the world, not far from Chichen Itza. An underground network of dry tunnels called ‘grutas,’ they are similar to the cenotes but without water. The many caverns are filled with interesting rock formations, including stalagmites and stalactites formed from the dripping of mineral rich water over thousands of years.
Translated ‘Balankache’ means ‘hidden sacred throne’ or altar. Balankanche has long been the site of Mayan ritual and ceremony, with special significance due to a formation that resembles the holy Ceiba tree. It is not uncommon to encounter offerings and relics left here in honor of the structure or in tribute to the Mayan rain god Chaac. There is a light and sound show that narrates the history and culture of this particular place, as well as a museum and botanical garden near the entrance to the cave.
Practical Info
Though underground, the caves can get rather hot in temperature. It is recommended to bring water, flashlights, and of course, a guide. The Balankanche Caves are located 6 kilometers from the World Heritage Site of Chichen Itza, with an entrance fee of 105 pesos.
Address: Mexico
Admission: 105 pesos
From $ 173
Akumal
Akumal is a small beach town located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Meaning “land of the turtles” in the Mayan language, Akumal is famous for its plentiful sea turtle population. Its secluded white-sand beaches and peaceful bays are also ideal for those seeking a more private experience.
The Basics
Most Akumal tours include round-trip transportation from your hotel and leave from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other Riviera Maya destinations. Scuba diving and snorkeling tours are a good way to experience Akumal’s coral reef and resident sea turtle population, while jungle ATV and zipline excursions allow you to experience the town’s nearby jungle. Some combination tours visit Akumal along with the Tulum ruins and various cenotes (underground pools).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Akumal is an ideal destination for nature lovers and peace-and-quiet seekers.
- Be sure to bring sun protection, swim gear, water, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Be careful not to touch the sea turtles or any other wildlife in Akumal.
How to Get There
Akumal is located in Mexico’s Quintana Roo region, roughly 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen and 60 miles (97 kilometers) from Cancun. You can get there by taxi, rental car, or as part of a guided tour.
When to Get There
The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms if you plan to participate in outdoor activities. Arrive in the morning for the best chance of spotting sea turtles.
What to See in Akumal
Be sure to check out Half Moon Bay, a famous spot for sea turtle sightings, along with Laguna Yalku, a protected snorkeling area. Akumal Bay is also a good spot for swimming, reef snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Address: Akumal, Cozumel, Mexico
From $ 475
Angel of Independence (Monumento a la Independencia)
Built in 1910, this iconic monument commemorates the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the nation’s War of Independence. Its towering stone column stretches high into the Mexico City skyline and both drivers and pedestrians can see its golden angel statue as they move about the popular Paseo de la Reforma.
Once a monument of commemoration, travelers will now find that the Angel of Independence has become a common meeting place for locals and the gathering spot for protests and celebrations—particularly after the Mexican national soccer team wins a match. The base of the monument also serves as a mausoleum and final resting place for a number of Mexican war heroes.
Practical Info
The monument is located in the roundabout near Padeo de la Reforma in downtown Mexico City. Entrance is free and small groups of 12 visitors can climb the more than 200 stairs to the top. Travelers who are unfit will find the steep12-story climb a challenge and those who fear tight spaces may want to avoid the narrow stairwell altogether.
Address: Paseo de la Reforma y Eje 2 PTE, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 32
3D Museum of Wonders
Jump into the art at Playa del Carmen’s 3D Museum of Wonders. Created by a visionary American artist, this interactive museum is truly in a genre and mind-bending class of its own. It doesn’t take long for reality to blend with illusion, and pretty soon you’re splashing beneath a waterfall, surfing a wave, or trapped inside a bubble.
The Basics
Stare in awe at more than 60 drawings that seem to pop off the wall, and become one with the art at the aptly named 3D Museum of Wonders. Owner and artist Keith Wenner once worked for NASA as a graphic artist and was commissioned to draw for the Vatican. Bring a fully-charged camera, as the illusions are only fully revealed in photographs with visitors included in the art.
The 3D Museum of Wonders offers plenty of space for families and groups. Prebook skip-the-line admission tickets to avoid lines, especially in peak season (winter).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is great for families, art lovers, and those looking for a fun activity beyond the beach.
- Expect to spend about two hours exploring the museum’s collection.
- Buy skip-the-line admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting at the ticket booth.
- The museum has a gift shop and restrooms.
- All photography, including flash, is allowed inside the museum.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchair users. Strollers are not permitted inside the exhibits and must be left by the entrance.
How to Get There
The 3D Museum of Wonders is located on 10th Avenue between 8th and 10th streets in downtown Playa del Carmen. Most visitors walk, bike, or take a taxi to the museum. Limited street parking is available in the area around the museum.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 9am to 10pm daily, and there isn’t really a bad time to visit. If you want to avoid the crowds, arrive in the morning. Winter brings large numbers of travelers to Playa del Carmen, and the weeks before and after Easter are some of the busiest. The museum is air-conditioned and enclosed, so it makes for a comfortable escape from the heat or rainy days.
Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida)
Set aside some time to stroll along Playa del Carmen’s famous Fifth Avenue, located just one block from the 3D Museum of Wonders. This bustling pedestrian street provides easy access to the beach and is lined with loads of shops, restaurants, cafés, bars, and clubs.
Address: Avenida 10, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
Abastos Market
Abastos Market is located in Oaxaca, Mexico, and is one of the largest markets in the country and by far the largest --and oldest -- in the city of Oaxaca. Its official name is Central de Abastos, meaning the central place of supplies and that name holds true as you can find just about everything at this massive outdoor marketplace in Oaxaca.
A popular souvenir to get while at Abastos is the green and black pottery Oaxaca is known for. You can also find luxury brand knock-offs, homeware, rugs, jewelry, auto parts, produce and food...so much food. The list goes on and on. Basically, if it's grown or produced in Mexico, chances are you'll be able to find it at Abastos Market.
At the stalls you'll encounter hanging pieces of meat, strings of garlic, local candy, bugs, exotic fruit, spices and much more. One top food product to find at the market is chili ranging from whole to paste and mild to spicy. If you want some authentic mole, which the region is famous for, you're in luck – on any given day you should be able to find every variety of mole being sold at Abastos Market.
Practical Info
Abastos Market is open daily, with its busiest day on Saturday. Abastos Market is located 1 km west of Zocalo, the main plaza of Oaxaca and is a fairly easy walk from there or a cheap taxi ride. Bartering is expected and fine to do at Abastos Market.
Address: Oaxaca, Mexico
From $ 84
Arbol de Tule
A tree so fat it seems to strain against the confines of the surrounding square, the Árbol del Tule is at least 2000 years old, which makes it one of the world’s oldest living entities. El Tule is a Montezuma bald cypress (Taxodium mucrunatum), a tree the Aztecs cultivated as an ornamental and a source of medicine. Hoary yet flourishing, the giant has a mesmerizing quality: The bark is so thick and gnarled that various growths have nicknames, including “the pineapple,” “the elephant,” and “Carlos Salinas’s ears” (a reference to former president Carlos Salinas de Gortari).
El Tule is located in the village of Santa María del Tule, 13 km east of the capital. The square surrounding the tree features souvenir shops, snack stands, and the usual army of roving vendors.
El Tule is located in the village of Santa María del Tule, 13 km east of the capital. The square surrounding the tree features souvenir shops, snack stands, and the usual army of roving vendors.
Practical Info:
To get there, drive east on Highway 190, or catch a bus at the second class bus station (Central Camionera de Segunda Clase in Colonia Mercado de Abastos). Buses to El Tule depart every 30 minutes.
Address: Santa María del Tule, Oaxaca, Mexico
Hours: 24 hours
Admission: 30 pesos for a close-up view; you can see the tree from afar for free.
From $ 35
Africam Safari
With more than 2,500 animals and over 300 species, the Africam Safari makes for a thrilling day out and it’s earned a reputation as one of Mexico’s leading zoos. The majority of animals are free roaming within the park, and visitors can either drive through the safari trail or take a bus tour. Lions, Bengal tigers, rhinos, elephants and giraffes are among the most popular residents, while the herds of zebra, deer and antelopes often venture right up to the cars.
Additional highlights include an Adventure Zone, where it’s possible to spot Mexican wolves, kangaroos, meerkats and red pandas, alongside a bat cave, butterfly pavilion and botanical garden; a thrilling treetop zip-line course; a bird and falconry display; and a boating lake, as well as a restaurant, café and souvenir shop.
Practical Info
Africam Safari is located around 20km south of Puebla, Mexico, and is open daily from 10am-6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is Mex$232.
Address: Blvd. Capitan Carlos Camacho Espiritu Km. 16.5, Tecali de Herrera, Heróica Puebla de Zaragoza, Pue. Mexico 75240, Mexico
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: Mex$232
From $ 20