Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
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Inbursa Aquarium
Inbursa Aquarium (Acuario Inbursa) opened its doors in June 2014 and is not only the largest aquarium in Mexico, but one of the largest in the world. With 11,500 square feet, the aquarium houses more than 5,000 marine mammals in a multi-level complex that is mostly underground and cost a reported $19 million to complete. The nearly 230 species of animals include piranhas, sharks, turtles, jellyfish and crocodiles.
Visitors to Inbursa enter at street level and then descend several floors underground to moody lit tanks designed to mimic the varying ocean depths. There are five fish tanks with a total volume of 1.6 million gallons of water, all brought in from the Mexican state of Veracruz, while the sand was brought in from Florida.
Exhibits are themed and based on various ecosystems and ocean depths. The lowest level has brightly colored fish swimming with rays and sharks, while the Sunken Ship exhibit contains black tip sharks that circle the structure’s giant concrete pillars. One of the more creative exhibits is the Jellyfish Labyrinth, with its backlit gallery that makes the jellyfish look like they are pulsating to music. Be sure to check out the cool glass tunnel where you can stop for a selfie with a manta ray.
There are plans for expansion and additional exhibits, including one with penguins. Don’t skip the already open educational exhibits: Ice Land, Coral Kingdom, Forest of the Kelps, Black Mangrove, Calypso Beach, the Lost Waterfall, Touch Pool and Sea Bed.
Practical Info
Inbursa Aquariu is located in Colonia Polanco, across the street from the Soumaya Museum. The aquarium has a $10 entrance fee.
Address: Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 386, Miguel Hidalgo Granada, Ciudad de México, Distrito Federal, Mexico 11529, Mexico
Hours: Daily 10am-7pm
Admission: $10
From $ 11
Isla Contoy
This small island off of Mexico’s Caribbean coast has become one of the most important nature reserves in the region, particularly for marine birds such as the brown pelican and the double-crested cormorant. The tropical paradise, of which more than 70% is covered in mangrove forest, is home to white sand beaches and palms, as well as an extensive reef just off of its shores. Because the island is well protected, it is believed to have some of the best snorkeling and bird watching in the country.
At only five miles in length, Isla Contoy can make visitors feel like they have their own private tropical island. In addition to serving as a secluded getaway, the island is an important nesting ground for both local birds and sea turtles.
Trails wind throughout the island, offering views of the turquoise waters and beaches as well as many opportunities to see local wildlife. Guided tours take visitors through the wilderness and often include snorkeling on the beautiful Ixlache Reef.
Practical Info
Isla Contoy is about 30 miles north of Isla Mujeres, which is a short ferry ride from Cancun. Access is granted to a maximum of 200 daily visitors, so the area is best visited with a tour group to obtain the necessary permits.
Address: Isla Contoy, 77500, Mexico
From $ 80
Jamaica Market (Mercado de Jamaica)
When it comes to cities at altitudes over 7,000 feet, flowers aren’t usually the very first thing associated with a market. Here at Jamaica Market, however, in the heart of Mexico City, colorful flowers appear by the truckload to fill the air with the sweet scents of roses, hydrangeas, and lilies. At this bustling wholesale flower market, families shop for white flowers they’ll need for an upcoming funeral, or lovers purchase bags of rose petals—available by the kilo. The stalls are a rainbow of brilliant colors, the air a fragrant elixir, and flower prices are so shockingly low they’re almost too good to believe. The tens of thousands of flowers aside, Jamaica Market is also known for its stalls of colorful produce, as well as authentic, exceptional street food at prices that travelers will love.
Insider Tip: Many of the trucks arrive at around 8pm, when it’s possible to find deals that are even cheaper than the already rock bottom prices. Also, the market floor can be covered in puddles—so best to wear closed toed shoes.
Practical Info
Jamaica Market is located 15 minutes south of the central historical district. The market is open 24 hours, and is relatively safe at all hours, provided you take regular precautions.
Address: Guillermo Prieto 45, Jamaica, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: Open 24 hours daily
From $ 99
La Quebrada Cliff Divers
Acapulco's iconic attraction, made famous in Elvis flicks, Ray Austen stunts, and every cheerfully scrawled holiday postcard sent home ever since, are La Quebrada Cliff Divers. Beginning in the 1920s, these brave young men and women began leaping for the crowds some 45 craggy meters (150 terrifying feet) into a wave-crashed inlet just 4 meters (13 feet) deep. And that's if they time it just right.
The ritual begins with a prayer at the shrine to La Virgen de Guadalupe, carved into the cliff-top platform. Then, the divers carefully calculate when their target will have enough water to soften their fall. Finally, they leap. First in the afternoon, and as the sun sets, again. The final dive of the night plunges past torches into a sea of fire (lit with flaming gasoline), no easy feat.
Practical Info
La Quebrada Cliff Divers perform daily at 1pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm, 9:30pm, and 10:30pm. There are 2 top spots for watching them dive. The public viewing platform close to the cliff offers the best views, and charges a small fee (tips for the divers are, of course, appreciated). Or, grab a seat at gently aging Hotel Mirador Acapulco, with fine views from its restaurant, cocktail lounge, and guest areas.
Address: Plazoleta de la Quebrada 74, Acapulco, Mexico
Hours: Performances daily
Admission: Viewing platform: 30 pesos
From $ 22
Kabah
This minor archeological site on the Puuc Route south of Merida is worth visiting to see its Palace of the Masks, an ornate structure covered with hundreds of masks of the same figure: the rain god Chaac. This repeating motif is rare in Mayan art and perhaps illustrates the importance of water—or the lack of it some years. There are no underground cenotes in this area, so rainfall was the only source of water.
Artifacts have been found here going as far back as the third century BC, but most of what remains was built between the 7th and 11th centuries AD. It was abandoned soon after and was empty when the Spanish conquistadores arrived.
Some of the sculpted elements of the site have been whisked off to various museums, but several low stone buildings and pyramids remain. Since Kabah is in a region dotted with other ruins, it’s usually a quick stop as part of a multi-site tour.
Artifacts have been found here going as far back as the third century BC, but most of what remains was built between the 7th and 11th centuries AD. It was abandoned soon after and was empty when the Spanish conquistadores arrived.
Some of the sculpted elements of the site have been whisked off to various museums, but several low stone buildings and pyramids remain. Since Kabah is in a region dotted with other ruins, it’s usually a quick stop as part of a multi-site tour.
Practical Info
Location: 53 miles from Merida
Address: Mexico
Hours: Open 8am - 5pm daily.
Admission: $3.50
From $ 62
Jolly Roger Pirate Ship
Offering family entertainment that both adults and children can enjoy, the Jolly Roger Pirate Ship sets sail from the Riviera Maya and sails the Caribbean seas while dazzling passengers with swashbuckling pirate shows and hearty food. The ship is a modern replica of the Santa Maria, which Columbus is said to have journeyed on when he discovered the Americas.
The Jolly Roger features four decks and can accommodate up to 240 passengers, with plenty of space for entertainment and dining. Filet mignon, lobster, a vegetarian option, plus a special pirate kids menu are on offer, not to mention the open bar with free domestic drinks. The pirate show is a blend of comedy and adventure, interspersed by dinner, fireworks, and dancing. Expect dramatic sword fighting, exploding cannons, and amazing acrobatics, all designed to entertain, delight, and draw you in to this unique pirate adventure.
Insider’s Tip: This is a popular attraction, so it's a good idea to book tickets in advance. Dinner, drinks and entertainment are all included in the ticket price.
Practical Info
The Jolly Roger Pirate Ship departs from the Playa Linda Pier. A pier tax of $11 per person in addition to the cost of the tour is required upon departure.
Address: Boulevard Kukulkan, Km 4.5, Cancun, Mexico
Hours: 6:30am-10pm
Admission: From $87
From $ 100
La Condesa
The charming, bohemian vibe of Mexico City’s La Condesa neighborhood attracts locals and tourists alike. The stylish area boasts a thriving food scene, as well as plenty of bars and clubs. Its wide, tree-lined avenues are dotted with modern cafés, galleries, and boutiques mixed with fixtures of its past, including art nouveau mansions and art deco apartment buildings.
The Basics
Located in the Cuauhtémoc borough of central Mexico City, La Condesa housed the artistic upper class during the early 20th century. Eventually those residents moved to newer neighborhoods, making way for younger, creative types who were seeking cheaper rent. Today Condesa, which draws comparisons to hipster neighborhoods in Brooklyn, has become a foodie destination within Mexico City, with readily available cuisine tours of the area and nearby La Roma.
Things to Know Before You Go:
- La Condesa is a popular place to stay for many travelers visiting Mexico City.
- Tamaulipas, Nuevo León, and Michoacán Avenues are the main spots for nightlife.
- The neighborhood’s Parque Mexico was previously a racetrack and now serves as the center of the district.
- Roma and La Condesa were among the areas hit hardest during the September 2017 earthquake, and the local residents and businesses are still recovering.
How to Get There
Centrally located in Mexico City, La Condesa is easily accessible by several major transportation lines, including four nearby metro stations (Patriotismo, Chilpancingo, Chapultepec, and Juanacatlán) and the Insurgentes route on the city’s Metrobus system. There are bike-sharing stations located in the neighborhood, and it’s a 30-minute drive from the Mexico City International Airport.
When to Get There
If you’re visiting La Condesa on a day trip, keep in mind that, as in most of Mexico, many businesses and shops close between 2pm and 4pm. Traffic may be heavy and boutiques may be closed around that time. Also, Mexico City’s peak tourist season typically runs from November to May, so popular areas like La Condesa may be more crowded.
The Frida Kahlo Museum
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Frida Kahlo Museum, located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) south of Roma and La Condesa in Coyoacán. Also known as the Blue House (La Casa Azul) because of its can’t-miss cobalt blue walls, the historic home—which was Kahlo’s birthplace—now serves as a museum filled with works from the famous Mexican artist and her husband Diego Rivera, along with the couple’s Mexican folk art, photographs, memorabilia, personal effects, and other items.
Address: Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad Mexico, FD 06140, Mexico
From $ 65
La Bufadora
On a peninsula along the Baja California coast, the blowhole ‘La Bufadora’ is a marine geyser that shoots ocean water straight up into the air. It occurs naturally from ocean waves that push water into a sea cavern, which causes the pressure to build and then explode when the water recedes. Depending on the level of the tide, the water can climb as high as 60 feet from the sea.
It’s often seen after a short scenic drive from nearby Ensenada, and has become well known as a natural phenomenon of the area. Legend explains that one of the many grey whales that migrate off the coast here swam too close to shore, and that the geyser is reminiscent of the whale’s spout while waiting to be discovered. There are always beautiful views of the coast here, and a small local square with shops and restaurants nearby.
Practical Info
La Bufadora can be found 21 miles south from the city of Ensenada, on the Punta Banda peninsula. To get there you'll drive about 25 minutes to Maneadero, and follow the signs to La Bufadora from there. Parking is readily available.
Address: Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
From $ 32
La Merced Market
For a genuine glimpse of everyday life in most cities, head to the local food market. While Mexico City is packed with such spots, it’s La Merced Market that offers the most bang for your buck. With a maze of street food stalls selling goods from local produce to pinatas, this traditional spot is the city’s largest market and a major tourist draw.
The Basics
Located on the eastern edge of the city’s main plaza, La Merced spans more than four city blocks and includes a daunting labyrinth of passageways that can be hard to navigate, even for experienced Spanish-speaking travelers—with this, booking a walking food tour through the market with a guide can be beneficial. In addition, if you’re searching for the best mole, tacos, or guajillos chiles, for example, a tour guide will be able to steer you in the right direction. Plus, you’ll be able to learn about the history of the market, which was established in colonial times.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear closed-toe shoes and keep jewelry to a minimum since it’s a crowded space.
- La Merced Market is open daily, from 5am to 7pm, and is free to enter; it is closed on some holidays, such as Good Friday.
- Many walking tours include food samples and offer information on Mexico’s culinary culture.
How to Get There:
Located east of Mexico City’s historic center, just north of Sonora Market and the Fray Servando Teresa de Mier, the market and its surrounding neighborhood serve as the city’s commercial hub. La Merced is roughly a 15-minute drive from the airport and is easily accessible and within walking distance from downtown hotels. There is also a subway stop and a bus stop at the market.
When to Get There
La Merced Market is open daily, from 5am to 7pm. Like most food markets, the best time to visit is midweek during the mornings to avoid the crowds and score the freshest produce, meats, and other goods. Market vendors observe national and religious holidays, such as Good Friday, so be mindful of that before making plans to visit.
What to Eat at La Merced Market
The market is divided into different sections based on the types of food being sold, such as meats, fruits and vegetables, and even insects. For adventurous foodies, specialty vendors offer up crispy, fried insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and ants and their larvae. Other traditional Mexican food to try includes caldo de gallina (hen stew), pancita (another kind of stew made from cow's stomach), pork posole, and plenty of fresh tacos.
Address: Calle Rosario S/N, Venustiano Carranza, Merced Balbuena, Ciudad de México, D.F., Mexico 15810, Mexico
From $ 69
Kantun Chi Ecopark
Built around the cenotes and jungle of the Riviera Maya, the Kantun Chi Ecopark makes a popular choice for a day trip from Cancun or Tulum, offering a unique way to explore the dramatic natural scenery and learn about the region’s long Mayan history.
A subterranean playground of cenotes, underground caves and grottoes, dripping with stalactites, stalagmites and ancient columns, the dramatic landscape is the ideal backdrop for an adventure. Go swimming in the freshwater cenotes, try snorkeling or diving in the vast caverns, or go kayaking around the underground caverns.
Practical Info
Kantun Chi Ecopark is located about 90 km south of Cancun and is open daily from 9am-6pm.
Address: Carretera Federal Cancún-Tulum, km 1266.8, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico 77734, Mexico
Hours: 9am-6pm
From $ 140
La Roqueta Island
Located off the coast of Acapulco and reachable by boat, La Roqueta Island is an ideal spot for travelers looking to relax. Visitors lounge on the golden sand beaches, snorkel and kayak at secluded coves, and hike a network of trails that lead to stunning scenic overlooks. The island also offers a handful of restaurants and a small zoo.
The Basics
La Roqueta Island can be visited independently or on a sightseeing tour of Acapulco. Most travelers arrive as part of a snorkeling or kayaking tour that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off. Tours typically include free time to relax on the beach and explore the island.
There’s also a hiking tour and a popular sunset or moonlight yacht cruise to consider. Glass-bottom boat rides take visitors to see a submerged bronze statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The island offers little shade, so remember to bring sunscreen and a hat or sunglasses.
- Snorkeling gear and kayaks are available to rent.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, especially if you plan to make use of the trail network.
How to Get There
The quickest way to La Roqueta Island is by speedboat from Caleta and Caletilla beaches; boats leave every 20 minutes and the ride takes about 10 minutes. Travelers can also opt for a slightly longer (and more scenic) option, which includes a ride on a glass-bottom boat.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Acapulco is in winter, when humidity is low. Other times of the year are less crowded. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Expect wet weather with higher than average humidity during rainy season (June through October).
Hiking on La Roqueta Island
While many come to La Roqueta Island to snorkel, kayak, and lounge on the beach, its hiking trails are also worth exploring. Popular easy hikes take visitors along lush jungle trails up to the lighthouse, the island’s highest point, and to different lookout points around the island for beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Acapulco Bay.
Address: Mexico
From $ 40
La Crucecita
La Crucecita sits just inland from Santa Cruz Bay on the coast of Oaxaca. Originally built as the service town for the Huatulco resort area, today La Crucecita has an authentic atmosphere draws that visitors from the beaches to its lively streets. Highlights include a traditional market, a historic church, specialty shops, and restaurants.
The Basics
La Crucecita’s La Probadita market is an ideal spot to shop for artisan crafts and taste Oaxacan specialties, such as chocolate, mezcal, and chapulines (fried grasshoppers). Visitors can also step inside the white stucco Church of the Virgin of Guadalupe to see a 65-foot (20-meter) mural of the religious icon painted on its dome. In the evenings, crowds gather in the zocalo (main square) to listen to live music and peruse the stands of numerous street vendors.
Things to Know Before You Go
- La Crucecita is ideal for those who want to have a meal or do some shopping.
- Choose a Huatulco sightseeing tour with round-trip transport included.
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the Huatulco tourist areas.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach La Crucecita, located about half a mile (one kilometer) inland from Santa Cruz Bay. Most visitors arrive in Huatulco by air or cruise ship. Driving from Oaxaca City takes about 5 or 6 hours. Taxis are plentiful throughout the resort area.
When to Get There
As with all of Huatulco, La Crucecita is lovely year-round. This destination receives fewer tourists than other popular Mexican resort areas and overcrowding is rarely a problem, even during high season (December to April). Wet weather is likely from June to October.
Huatulco Bays
Huatulco is a Mexican resort destination made up of nine bays with 36 beaches. It spans 22 miles (35 kilometers) of coastline in the state of Oaxaca. Its pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity make it popular with nature and wildlife lovers. Huatulco offers a variety of beach experiences, and a boat tour is one of the best ways to explore the bays.
Address: La Crucecita, Oaxaca, Mexico
From $ 35
Iztaccihuatl Volcano
A trio of craggy peaks looming in front of the still-smoking mound of Popocatepetl volcano and clearly visible on the horizon from Mexico City, the Iztaccíhuatl Volcano is one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks and a popular choice for hiking and camping excursions. Named for its resemblance to a sleeping woman, Iztaccíhuatl translates from the Nahuatl language to “white woman,” with the three peaks said to appear from a distance like the head, breasts and feet.
Reaching a height of 17,000 feet (5,230 meters), the Iztaccíhuatl Volcano measures in as Mexico’s third-highest peak, and scaling the permanently snow-capped summit offers impressive views over the neighboring Popocatepetl and the Valley of Mexico below. Most hikes start out from La Joya at 12,000 feet (3,700 meters), from where a range of technical and non-technical hiking trails run up the mountainside, taking about three to four hours to reach the summit.
Practical Info
The Iztaccihuatl Volcano is located 40 miles (65 kilometers) southwest of Mexico City and is typically visited from the town of Tlalmanalco, connected by regular buses to the capital. Hiking the summit is not recommended without a guide.
Address: Iztaccihuatl Volcano, Mexico City, Mexico
From $ 52
La Feria de Chapultepec
As one of the most popular amusement parks in all of Mexico, La Feria de Chapultepec is a top spot for families with more than 50 rides and activities. Attractions range from roller coasters and flat rides to zoo animal exhibits and carnival games. Most are organized either for children, families, teens, or extreme adventurers and are designated as such.
The park dates back to 1964 when it debuted some of the tallest and faster roller coasters at that time. It has since been renovated, but keeps much of its original charm and nostalgia. The most classic roller coaster is La Montana Rusa, which held the world record for tallest roller coaster when it was built. There are also many slower rides and rides suited for ages 10 and under, such as the monorail, train, and bumper cars.
Practical Info
The park is located in the middle of Chapultepec Park near the Constituyentes Metro station. Admission costs are based on the amount of activities you’d like to take part in. The park is open daily from 10am-8pm.
Address: Circuito Bosque de Chapultepec, Mexico City, Mexico
Hours: 10am-8pm
Admission: $100-200 MXN
From $ 12
Isla Espiritu Santo
Isla Espiritu Santo, off the coast of La Paz in the Gulf of California, is part of the national marine park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This long narrow island is abundant in wildlife, both above and below the ocean’s surface, and a popular destination for travelers looking to experience some of the best of Mexico’s outdoors.
The Basics
Only reachable by boat, Isla Espiritu Santo features unspoiled beaches and dozens of bays teeming with tropical fish and marine life. It’s most often visited on a day trip from La Paz, and the only way to spend any substantial amount of time here is to camp. Multi-day camping trips allow for the freedom to explore the island’s hiking paths and terrain. One of the highlights of a visit to Isla Espiritu Santo is a chance to snorkel with sea lions at Los Islotes.
Most visitors arrive as part of a snorkeling tour from Todos Santos or La Paz that includes hotel pickup and drop-off. Full-day tours from Los Cabos visit Todos Santos, Isla Espiritu Santo, and Balandra Beach. There’s also a popular glamping tour to consider.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Isla Espiritu Santo is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Choose a half-day or full-day snorkeling tour with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the island offers little shade.
How to Get There
The easiest way to visit Isla Espiritu Santo, located in the Gulf of California off Baja California Sur, is on a boat tour from La Paz. Or, if you’re visiting independently, there are motor boats (pangas) that leave from Tecolote Beach, about 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of La Paz.
When to Get There
Isla Espiritu Santo can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, whereas other times of year are less crowded. Spring and fall strike a nice balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds. During summer, expect daytime highs of 95°F (35°C) with higher-than-average humidity and a chance of wet weather.
Isla Espiritu Santo Wildlife
Isla Espiritu Santo is one of the best places in Mexico to view wildlife. The surrounding waters are teeming with tropical fish, and visitors have a chance of seeing sea turtles, manta rays, sea lions, dolphins, and blue or humpback whales. It’s also a popular bird-watching destination for blue-footed boobies, reddish egrets, great blue herons, and yellow-footed gulls.
Address: Mexico
From $ 1,695
La Antigua
Considered by many to be the first true Spanish town in all of Mexico, La Antigua is the home of Hernan Cortes, who led the expedition that ended the Aztec Empire. His house, which was built in 1523, draws travelers from across the globe who seek a window into Mexico’s incredible—and sometimes bloody—past. Today, Cortes’s home, built of coral and stone, is wrapped thick with vines and overgrown with tree roots.
In addition to Cortes’s family home, the oldest church in the Americas, as well as Edificio del Cabildo—which held the first city council—are both located in La Antigua. Travelers can walk through what remains of the Cavalry Lancers’ garrison, where ready troops were once stationed to defend the town, or explore the Spanish colonial architecture hidden in the landscape of this sleepy town.
Practical Info
La Antigua is about a half hour north of Veracruz City. A Xalapa-bound bus from Veracruz stops about 15 minutes away from La Antigua and costs less than US$2 each way.
Address: La Antigua, Veracruz, Mexico
From $ 70
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres (the “Island of Women”) is known for its rich marine life and pristine beaches. Here you can snorkel at Manchones Reef, scuba dive in the Cave of Sleeping Sharks, or stretch out on the white sands of North Beach (Playa Norte). On land you’ll find bustling nightlife, with oceanside bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood.
The Basics
Most Isla Mujeres tours leave from Cancun, whether you want to travel by sailboat, catamaran, or motorboat. A snorkeling excursion is one of the best ways to experience the island’s diverse aquatic life, and many Isla Mujeres day trips visit the Manchones, El Meco, or Garrafon reefs. If you’re feeling daring, some tours include a swim with whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish. Combo tours from Cancun allow you to visit Isla Mujeres along with other Riviera Maya attractions such as Contoy Island (Isla Contoy), Xcaret Park, or Chichen Itza.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Isla Mujeres is a must-see destination for beach and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring a towel, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.
- It’s a good idea to bring cash (pesos) for gratuities or other purchases.
How to Get There
Isla Mujeres is located just off the coast of Cancun. Ferries run from the mainland every half hour and drop off at the island’s downtown area, close to the beaches and shopping streets. Because Isla Mujeres is only five miles (eight kilometers) long, most people use golf carts or scooters to get around.
When to Get There
Winter is the busiest time to visit, when the weather is warm and dry. Hurricane season runs from May through September and often brings rain and clouds. July and August are the best months to see whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, when hundreds of them gather off the coast.
Things to Do Near Isla Mujeres
Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a paradise for ocean lovers and history buffs, with clear Caribbean waters and ancient Maya ruins such as Tulum and Chichen Itza. Popular mainland destinations include Cancun and Playa del Carmen, while the nearby island of Cozumel is an excellent scuba diving destination, known for its rich coral reefs.
Address: Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 45
La Sima de las Cotorras (Sinkhole of Parrots)
Thousands of green parakeets inhabit the trees at the bottom of this massive plateau, giving rise to its namesake—Sinkhole of Parrots. Each morning between 5:30 and 6 a.m., as well as each evening from 4 until 5 p.m., these colorful birds dart through the sky as they depart for and return from the outside world. Travelers can bear witness to this spectacle, which is unlike any other, and which hits its peak between March and October. Sinkhole of Parrots attracts more than 80 other species of birds, including honeycreepers, thrushes and woodpeckers, making it a destination for avian aficionados.
In addition to an am impressive array of birds, travelers will find close to 50 ancient rock paintings nearly 70 meters below ground level. Visitors can climb down rocky cliffs to check out these images left by unknown artists between 5,000 and 10,000 years ago.
Practical Info
La Sima de las Cotorras is located in the Karst plateau in the municipality of Ocozocoautla. It is about a 90-minute drive from Tuxtla Gutierrez. Stone cabins are available for travelers who want to stay overnight and a restaurant with a limited menu is located on the sinkhole edge.
Address: Ocozocoautla, Mexico
From $ 188
Izamal Ruins
A small colonial city in Mexico’s Yucatan region, Izamal combines the aesthetics of old and new, with ancient pyramids standing alongside an old Spanish monastery and yellow-painted town buildings. The city was once an ancient Maya ceremonial center, and the largest pyramid—dubbed Kinich Kak Mo—was a holy site built for the Maya sun god.
The Basics
Most Izamal tours leave from Merida and include pickup and drop-off from local hotels. Excursions typically last a full day and visit both the ruins and the adjacent town. Some tours also include a romantic carriage ride in Izamal and a light-and-sound show at the Franciscan convent. For a personalized experience, private tours are also available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Izamal is a must-see attraction for history buffs and culture lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, comfortable shoes for exploring, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to bring cash (usd or pesos) for tips and shopping.
How to Get There
Izamal is easy to reach from Merida, which is just 45 (72 kilometers) miles away by road; it can also be accessed via a day trip from Cancun, which is 3.5 hours away. You can get there by taxi, rental car, or on a guided tour.
When to Get There
You can visit the Izamal ruins year-round, but it’s 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. It’s a good idea to visit early in the day to the avoid crowds and afternoon heat.
Other Must-See Archaeological Sites
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is full of ancient Maya ruins. Chichen Itza is one of the largest and most popular, while Tulum Archeological Site, Ek Balam, and the ruins at Coba are also excellent remnants from the ancient Maya civilization.
Address: Izamal, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 48
Jose Cuervo Distillery
As the world’s oldest and largest Tequila distillery, the Jose Cuervo brand is renowned around the globe - and the family-run distillery is the top attraction of the town of Tequila, the birthplace of Mexico’s National drink. Established in 1795, the legendary distillery forms part of the UNESCO-listed landscape of Jalisco and produces up to 20,000 gallons of mixto and 100% agave tequilas per day.
Today, the Jose Cuervo Distillery is open to the public via guided tour, offering visitors the chance to learn how the juice is extracted from blue agave plants and distilled to produce a range of traditional blanco (white), añejo (aged) and mixto (diluted) tequilas. Guests can also sample a selection of fine tequilas, sip premium tequila straight from the barrel or visit the private cellars of the Cuervo family. It’s even possible to create your own customized bottle of tequila, selecting your choice of spirit and designing your own personalized label.
Address: Jose Cuervo 73, Tequila, Jalisco 46400, Mexico
From $ 359