15 Unforgettable Things To Do in Mexico – Beyond Eating Tacos on the Beach!
Mexico is great for a beach vacation, but it’s also so much more. Whether you’re looking for a getaway packed with adventure sports, wellness experiences, delicious food, great shopping, or stunning landscapes, you’ll find it here. These are the 15 best things to do in Mexico.
Explore Mayan Ruins
Delve into the ancient mysteries of Mayan civilization at iconic sites like Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Palenque. The intricate carvings, towering pyramids, and sacred temples offer a glimpse into the rich history and advanced engineering of this remarkable culture.
Discover Colonial Cities
Wander through the charming streets of colonial towns such as Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, and Oaxaca City. The cobblestone streets, vibrant plazas, and ornate cathedrals evoke a sense of old-world charm and Spanish colonial grandeur.
Witness the Monarch Butterfly Migration
Experience the breathtaking spectacle of millions of monarch butterflies fluttering through the forests of Michoacán and Mexico State. The sight of these delicate creatures blanketing the trees in shades of orange and black is nothing short of magical.
Go Whale Watching
Embark on a thrilling adventure off the coast of Baja California Sur or the Sea of Cortez, where majestic whales breach the surface in a display of grace and power during their annual migrations. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience that offers a newfound appreciation for marine life conservation efforts.
Visit Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul
Step into the vibrant world of renowned artist Frida Kahlo at Casa Azul in Mexico City. This iconic blue house, where Kahlo was born and lived with her husband Diego Rivera, is now a museum dedicated to her life and work.
Indulge in Mexican Cuisine
Treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through Mexico’s diverse regional cuisines. Mexican cuisine is much more than just tacos; sample traditional dishes like pozole, tamales, and chiles en nogada, and don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing agua fresca or a glass of mezcal.
Relax in Hot Springs
Soak away your cares in natural hot springs like Hierve el Agua and Tolantongo. These geothermal pools, nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes, offer a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Explore Cenotes
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, where underground rivers reveal hidden wonders in stunning limestone caverns. These natural sinkholes, formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock, offer a refreshing escape from the tropical heat and a unique opportunity for adventure. Explore cenotes like Dos Ojos, Ik Kil, and Gran Cenote, each offering its own magical experience beneath the surface.
Take a Boat Tour of Sumidero Canyon
Cruise through the towering cliffs and lush vegetation of Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas, marveling at the natural beauty and diverse wildlife that call this spectacular gorge home. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of crocodiles, monkeys, and exotic birds as you navigate the narrow waterways.
Participate in Día de los Muertos Festivities
Join the vibrant celebrations of Día de los Muertos in cities like Oaxaca, where colorful altars, lively parades, and traditional music honor departed loved ones in a joyful tribute to life and death. Experience the rich cultural traditions of this ancient Mexican holiday as families gather to remember and celebrate their ancestors.
Visit The Great Pyramid of Cholula
Nestled in Cholula, Puebla, emanates an aura of mystery as it lies concealed beneath a verdant hillside. Ascending the pyramid’s ancient steps, visitors encounter a mesmerizing blend of pre-Hispanic and colonial influences, culminating in the picturesque Church of Our Lady of the Remedies, perched majestically atop the pyramid’s summit. This remarkable juxtaposition of cultures invites exploration and contemplation, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Mexico’s history and heritage.
Hike in Copper Canyon
Trek through the rugged landscapes of Copper Canyon in Chihuahua, exploring breathtaking vistas and encountering indigenous communities that call this remote region home. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the area as you interact with the Tarahumara people, known for their traditional way of life and remarkable endurance running abilities.
Marvel at Teotihuacan
Climb the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, once the largest city in pre-Columbian America, and marvel at the architectural achievements of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the sprawling archaeological site, wandering through the remnants of palaces, temples, and residential complexes that offer insight into the daily life of the ancient peoples that lived here.
Go Scuba Diving in Cozumel
Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Cozumel, where vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life await beneath the surface, offering an unforgettable underwater adventure. Explore world-renowned dive sites like Palancar Reef and Santa Rosa Wall, where colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and majestic sea turtles abound.
Embark on a Mezcal Tasting Tour
Journey through the agave-rich regions of Mexico, such as Oaxaca and Jalisco, on a mezcal tasting tour to discover the complexities of this artisanal spirit. Visit traditional mezcal distilleries, known as palenques, where skilled maestros mezcaleros craft this ancient beverage using age-old techniques.
José Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based editor, content marketer, and web developer. He is the co-founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana and has written for publications like MSN and Thrive Global. José is a Havana, Cuba native and serial entrepreneur. Find him scouting out the best hiking trails around town and teaching himself yet another programming language.