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Mexico

Palm-lined shores, spice-laden dishes, lush rainforests, bustling cities, and vibrant fiestas—Mexico inspires vivid dreams and brings them to life with unforgettable color and energy.

1. Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of Mexico’s most visited archaeological sites—and for good reason. Perched on cliffs overlooking turquoise Caribbean waters, the ruins captivate visitors with stunning views and rich history. While smaller than other Maya cities, Tulum’s seaside charm and evocative atmosphere offer a unique glimpse into pre-Columbian life as a bustling port town from 1200 to 1521.

Historical Highlights
Originally called Zamá (“dawn”), Tulum was a fortified city (its name means “wall”) that controlled maritime trade along the Caribbean coast. Spanish conquistadors first spotted it in 1518, amazed by its colorful buildings and ceremonial fire atop the watchtower. Abandoned within 75 years due to European diseases, Tulum remained hidden until 19th-century explorers rediscovered it.

What to See
The site is enclosed by three stone walls, protecting the civic and ceremonial heart, while most residents lived outside. Key structures include:

  • Templo del Dios de Viento: A small temple on a rocky outcrop, linked to the wind god and ancient hurricane warnings.

  • Templo del Dios Descendente: Famous for its iconic relief of a descending god and a sun alignment during the spring equinox.

  • El Castillo: The tallest pyramid, used as a lighthouse and adorned with Toltec-style plumed serpents.

  • Templo de las Pinturas: An observatory with elaborate murals and stucco masks, though weathered over time.

The Beaches
Tulum uniquely combines ruins with two pristine beaches. The main beach sits below El Castillo, popular for swimming and sunbathing, while a quieter beach beneath Templo del Dios de Viento offers scenic selfies.

Visitor Tips

  • Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the site peacefully.

  • Climbing on ruins is prohibited—respect all signs to protect this heritage.

  • Bring water, a hat, and sun protection; shade is scarce.

  • Tickets cost M$80 and must be bought onsite; hours are 9am–5pm (last entry 3:30pm).

  • Food options are limited and pricey near the visitor complex, but there are restaurants and snack shops, including a Starbucks.

  • Transportation includes a shuttle from the visitor complex (M$55), taxis (M$100), or a scenic walk from the beach road.

Tulum offers a magical blend of history, nature, and beach relaxation—an unforgettable experience on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

2. Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

Imagine a white sand beach where manta rays glide gracefully through shimmering turquoise waters. No hotels, no nightclubs, no roads or cars—just pure nature. That’s Isla Contoy, a slender island and protected national park about 40 km (25 miles) from Cancún. For decades, it has been a sanctuary for wildlife and a refuge for researchers. For a lucky few visitors, it’s an unforgettable day trip to step back in time and glimpse a world of rare birds, sea creatures, and untouched beauty.

Where Is Isla Contoy?

Located at the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, Isla Contoy lies just north of Cancún’s Isla Blanca. The island itself stretches 8 km long but is very narrow—only about 20 meters wide at its slimmest point.

What Does “Contoy” Mean?

The name “Contoy” comes from the Maya language, though its exact meaning is debated. Some say it combines “Kom” and “To’oy,” meaning “low shelter,” reflecting the island’s shallow waters that provided refuge to sailors and fishermen for centuries. Others believe it’s a variation of the Maya word “pontó,” meaning “pelican,” one of the island’s most common birds.

Incredible Ecology

Isla Contoy is one of the most important seabird nesting sites in the Mexican Caribbean. Dense mangroves and tranquil lagoons shelter over 170 bird species including brown pelicans, olive cormorants, brown boobies, red flamingos, and white herons. In winter, more than 10,000 birds call the island home.

The island’s turquoise waters mark the start of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second longest reef. Marine life is abundant, featuring over 240 species of tropical fish, crustaceans, and eight types of rays. In summer, the northern shores host nesting hawksbill, loggerhead, and white turtles, and whale sharks are often spotted nearby between May and September.

A Brief History

Dating back to 300 BC, the Maya used Isla Contoy for fishing and collecting shells and stingray spines for rituals and tools, though no permanent settlements existed due to lack of fresh water. The Spanish arrival in the 16th century halted Maya visits, and the island became a resting spot for explorers.

The island caught naturalists’ attention in 1892 thanks to explorer John L. Stephens’ documentation of its diverse birdlife. Nicknamed Isla de Pajaros (Island of Birds), it was declared a nature reserve in 1961 and upgraded to a national park in 1998, protecting 230 hectares of land and 49 sq km of surrounding ocean.

Visiting Isla Contoy

The only way to visit is via guided tours from Cancún or Isla Mujeres, with a strict daily visitor limit of 200 to protect the fragile ecosystem. Typical tours include a morning boat ride with snorkeling at Ixlache Reef, followed by 3-4 hours on the island to explore trails, climb the observation tower, or relax on the beach. Most tours include breakfast, lunch, and drinks.

Cost: Around US$100 for adults, US$80 for kids, plus a US$15 admission fee paid upon arrival (cash only).

Important Tips for Visitors

  • Only biodegradable sunscreen is allowed to protect the reef. If you can’t find it, wear a long-sleeve rash guard and hat.

  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching.

  • Wear comfortable shoes and mosquito repellant for hiking.

  • Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel.

  • Snorkel gear is usually provided by the tour operators.

No Overnight Stays

Isla Contoy has no hotels or restaurants, and camping is prohibited. The only residents are park rangers and biologists who live there to safeguard the island’s ecosystem.

Isla Contoy remains a rare jewel in the Mexican Caribbean—a place where nature thrives in pristine condition, and visitors can experience the calm and beauty of a truly untouched paradise.

3. SFER IK

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel feels like stepping inside a giant cocoon. Surrounded by nature—inside and out—curving walkways of vine-like bejuco wood guide you past mind-bending artworks, while sweeping cement walls open to tropical forest and bright skies. Dreamlike and surreal, SFER IK Museion was designed to let visitors experience world-class art seamlessly intertwined with Tulum’s natural beauty. It’s utterly unique and completely unexpected—a must-visit.

Design & Architecture
Designed by Jorge Eduardo Neira Sterkel (“Roth”), founder of Azulik, the museum boasts a soaring 12-meter dome, swirling ferrocement walls, and walkways lined with native bejuco vines. Trees grow through the floor toward openings in the ceiling, and huge circular windows frame the surrounding forest. Remarkably, it was built without heavy machinery or blueprints, using traditional Maya techniques by local craftsmen. Visitors enter barefoot, deepening their connection to this organic, immersive space.

History & Meaning
Opened in 2018, SFER IK—pronounced “spheric”—reflects the building’s curving form with no right angles or straight lines. “Ik” means “wind” in Yucatec Maya, symbolizing creativity and dreams, while “Museion” is Greek for “temple of the muses.” The museum was born from a chance collaboration between Roth and Santiago Rumney Guggenheim, great-grandson of Peggy Guggenheim, transforming the space into a dynamic gallery that blends art, architecture, and environment.

Exhibits & Programs
The ever-changing exhibits showcase site-specific installations that interact with the museum’s unique design—art you can walk around, under, and even touch. A small permanent collection includes works by Ernesto Neto and Artur Lescher. SFER IK also hosts creative workshops, symposia, and community events that celebrate local culture and nature.

Visiting Information

  • Admission: US$10; kids under 12 free (one per adult).

  • Hours: Open daily, year-round.

  • Rules: Barefoot entry required; cell phone photos allowed, but professional cameras cost US$100; no large bags (>40cm).

  • Getting There: Located on Azulik’s grounds at Tulum’s southern beach road. Accessible by bike, colectivo (shared van), taxi, or car (valet parking US$5).

4. Jardín Botánico de Vallarta

For a refreshing change from Puerto Vallarta’s beaches, venture into the tropical highlands of the Sierra Madre mountains to explore the beautifully curated Jardín Botánico de Vallarta. This sprawling 33-hectare botanical garden boasts one of Mexico’s most extensive orchid collections alongside a dazzling variety of native plants and colorful birds.

What to See and Do
Stroll along shaded woodland paths blooming with bromeliads and succulents, while brilliant hummingbirds flit about. Wander down a jungle trail to the peaceful Río Horcones, where a dip in the cool, boulder-strewn river is the perfect way to cap off your visit.

Nature lovers will delight in the garden’s orchids, including the native Mexican vanilla orchid, showcased both outdoors and inside a large conservatory, complete with informative displays about vanilla cultivation. Along the way, you’ll encounter cacao trees—offering insight into Mexico’s rich chocolate heritage—and the iconic blue agave plants, the key ingredient in tequila.

For a deeper dive, book the six-hour guided nature and culinary tour on the garden’s website. This package includes round-trip transport, entrance, lunch at the onsite Hacienda de Oro restaurant, and a demonstration on making vanilla extract. The garden also hosts seasonal events like flower shows, birding festivals, and culinary gatherings.

Dining
Hacienda de Oro, the garden’s open-air restaurant and bar, serves breakfast, fish tacos, burgers, and brick-oven pizzas. Outside food and drinks aren’t permitted, but if you’re heading back toward Puerto Vallarta, consider stopping at a waterfront seafood spot in Boca de Tomatlán, just 8 km away.

A Journey Into Jalisco’s Natural Heritage
Opened in 2005 on land once overgrazed and reforested with pine, oak, and mahogany, the garden was founded by Savannah native Robert Price to promote plant conservation and education. Today, the nonprofit features hiking trails, a vitro propagation lab, and a remarkable plant collection, all supported by donations, admissions, and restaurant proceeds.

Visitor Tips

  • Admission is M$200; children under four enter free.

  • Carry cash and cards, pack insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim in the river (best from June to October).

  • The garden closes Mondays except during peak season (December-April) when it’s open daily.

  • Wi-Fi is available at the restaurant.

Getting There
By car, the garden is a scenic 35-minute drive south from Puerto Vallarta along Highway 200 (about 30 km). Taxis and Ubers cost around M$370–450 one way from downtown. The most economical option is the bus marked “El Tuito” (M$35), departing every 30 minutes from the Zona Romántica.

Extend Your Adventure
On your way back, visit the charming fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán for a late lunch or a coastal hike to Colomitos cove and its beautiful beaches. Nearby Mismaloya—famous as the filming location of The Night of the Iguana—offers access to Los Arcos, a renowned snorkeling and diving spot reachable by boat or kayak.

5. Museo Maya de Cancún

Tucked away from the crowds and beaches of Cancún’s bustling Zona Hotelera, the sleek and modern Museo Maya de Cancún offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and art of the ancient Maya civilization. Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the museum houses one of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most significant collections of Maya artifacts—many unearthed from nearby archaeological sites.

Behind the museum, a winding jungle path leads to San Miguelito, a once-thriving Maya maritime community now preserved as a fascinating archaeological site with stone temples, dwellings, and pyramids. Together, the museum and ruins provide a powerful window into the lives of the people who once inhabited this region.

History of Museo Maya de Cancún

Opened in 2012 to replace Cancún’s previous anthropology museum damaged by hurricane, the Museo Maya was designed by Mexican architect Alberto García Lascurain with hurricane-resistant glass and modern, open-air spaces. It marked a cultural milestone for Cancún, a city better known for its beaches and nightlife, by introducing a thoughtful and immersive showcase of Maya heritage right within the hotel zone.

What to See at Museo Maya de Cancún

Museum Experience
Set on a rare patch of intact jungle, the museum’s design beautifully blends indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the tropical forest and the shimmering Laguna Nichupté—offering a glimpse of what this landscape looked like centuries ago.

The exhibition halls sit atop a spiraling outdoor staircase inspired by the snail shell, a Maya symbol of physical and spiritual rebirth. The museum comprises three main halls:

  • Hall 1: Focuses on archaeological sites in Quintana Roo, showcasing intricately painted pottery, funerary masks, beaded jewelry, and monumental stone stelae.

  • Hall 2: Covers the wider Maya world, featuring multimedia exhibits that bring Maya culture to life.

  • Hall 3: Hosts rotating Maya-themed exhibits and is home to the celebrated La Mujer de las Palmas—a 12,000-year-old skeleton found in a cenote near Tulum.

San Miguelito Ruins

A short walk through the jungle behind the museum leads to the San Miguelito archaeological site. Once a strategic Maya port from CE 1200–1350 due to its access to the Caribbean and Laguna Nichupté, the community was abandoned after Spanish conquest in the mid-1500s.

Visitors follow a leafy circular trail through the 80-hectare site, passing ruins of homes, a columned palace, temple, and an 8-meter-high pyramid. Informative placards explain the significance of each structure.

Visitor Tips

  • English translations and captions are available throughout the museum and ruins.

  • To avoid crowds, visit early (before 11 am) or during the Mexican lunch break (2–4 pm).

  • Large bags and backpacks are not allowed inside; free lockers and bag-check services are near the ticket booth.

  • Bring insect repellent for the ruins, especially in late afternoons.

  • Climbing on ruins is prohibited to protect the structures; please respect signage and barriers.

Tickets & Practical Information

  • Admission is M$80, including access to both the museum and San Miguelito ruins.

  • Tickets can only be purchased onsite.

  • Open Tuesday to Sunday, year-round. Last entry to the ruins is at 4:30 pm.

Getting There

Located at the southern end of Cancún’s Zona Hotelera, the museum is easily accessible:

  • By bus: Catch any R-1, R-2, or R-27 bus (M$12) from downtown; look for signs reading ‘Hoteles’ or ‘Zona Hotelera.’

  • By taxi: Readily available, but agree on a fare beforehand.

  • On foot: If staying nearby, well-maintained sidewalks run along the Zona Hotelera.

  • By car: Parking at the museum is free but limited and fills up by mid-morning. Alternatives include free parking at Playa Delfines (1.6 km south) or paid parking at Plaza Kukulcán mall (4.5 km north).

6. Yelapa

Nestled on Puerto Vallarta’s southernmost cove, Yelapa is a remote and picturesque beach village framed by lush jungle-covered mountains. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and small fishing community, Yelapa is best accessed by boat and offers a peaceful alternative to the busy resort areas. While day-trippers frequently visit during the day, the village reveals its tranquil charm once the last water taxi departs in the late afternoon—making an overnight stay highly recommended.

Where to Sleep

Yelapa boasts a variety of accommodations perched on the jungle hills overlooking the cove. Options range from budget-friendly apartments and cozy family-run hotels to luxury guesthouses and wellness retreats hidden in the tropical forest. During the high season (December to April), rates rise and early reservations are essential. Good value options include Casa Vista Magica and Casas Garcia. Note that some rooms have open-air designs, inviting cool ocean breezes but also mosquitoes—so pack insect repellent.

Eating and Drinking

Despite its small population of about 1,500, Yelapa offers a surprising number of dining spots. Numerous palapa-style seafood restaurants line the beach and riverbanks. On the west side of the river, you’ll find hillside cafes, taco stands, and family eateries serving traditional Mexican dishes alongside options friendly to international tastes.

  • Taquería los Abuelos is famed for fish tacos on blue corn tortillas.

  • Ray’s Place serves a popular Sunday birria (goat stew).

  • Domingo’s grills the regional specialty pescado zarandeado (grilled fish), perfect with a refreshing michelada cubana (a beer cocktail similar to a Bloody Mary).

After your meal, keep an eye out for Yelapa’s “pie ladies,” who stroll the beach carrying homemade coconut, banana, and lime pies on their heads.

Sights and Activities

Yelapa’s main attractions are its two waterfalls with natural swimming pools:

  • Cola de Caballo (Horse Tail Waterfall): Just a 15-minute uphill walk from the beach, this easily accessible waterfall can get crowded, especially during peak season and when cruise ships dock.

  • Remote Waterfall: For a more secluded experience, hike for about 1.5 hours on a trail west of the river involving several river crossings and some rock scrambling. This smaller waterfall offers a peaceful swimming spot often all to yourself. Bring swimwear, hiking sandals, insect repellent, snacks, and plenty of water.

Both waterfalls can also be reached on horseback, rented from Fannys Restaurant on the beach (US$20 to Cola de Caballo, US$30 to the remote fall).

Other ways to enjoy Yelapa include kayaking along the coast, leisurely walks through the village’s hilly paths overlooking the cove, and visiting local yoga studios (which may close in low season).

How to Get There

Yelapa is accessible only by water:

  • From Playa de los Muertos Pier (Zona Romántica, downtown Puerto Vallarta): Water taxis run at least four times daily (more in high season), with round-trip fares of approximately M$380. Confirm departure times at the Yelapa water taxi office near the pier.

  • From Boca de Tomatlán: A fishing village 16 km south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, water taxis depart hourly from 8 am to 6 pm. Round-trip fares are slightly cheaper at M$300.

  • Private Boats & Tours: Charter boats and tours are available, some including snorkeling or diving stops at Los Arcos marine park. Ecotours de México offers private boats and wildlife-watching excursions with English-speaking guides.

7. Palacio Nacional

Located at the center of Mexico City, the Palacio Nacional serves as the seat of Mexico’s federal government, housing the offices of the president and the Federal Treasury. It also holds the Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada, one of the country’s most important libraries, whose walls are adorned with breathtaking murals.

Rich History

The site’s history dates back to the early 16th century when Aztec emperor Moctezuma II built his lavish palace here. After the Spanish conquest in 1521, Hernán Cortés destroyed the original structure and commissioned Spanish architects to rebuild it as a fortress featuring three interior courtyards. By 1562, the Spanish crown had acquired the building to serve as the residence of the viceroys of Nueva España until Mexican independence, when it was renamed Palacio Nacional.

High above the main entrance hangs the Campana de Dolores, the bell rung in 1810 by Padre Miguel Hidalgo to mark the beginning of Mexico’s War of Independence. From the balcony beneath it, the president leads the famous independence shout, the Grito de Dolores, every September 15.

Diego Rivera’s Masterpiece: The History of Mexico

The palace’s most famous feature is the remarkable series of murals by renowned Mexican artist Diego Rivera, painted between 1929 and 1951. These murals vividly portray Mexico’s history, from the arrival of the Aztec god Quetzalcóatl to the post-revolutionary era. The nine large murals on the north and east walls of the courtyard’s upper level vividly depict indigenous life before the Spanish conquest.

Seeing these murals in their open-air courtyard setting is an awe-inspiring experience and considered an essential stop for visitors interested in Mexican culture and history.

Visiting the Palacio Nacional

As of 2022, public access to the Palacio Nacional is restricted under the current government, and private tourists cannot visit independently. However, some authorized guided tours are permitted, and virtual tours via Zoom offer an alternative way to explore this historic and artistic landmark.

8. Torre Latinoamericana

When it was completed in 1956, the Torre Latinoamericana was the tallest building in Latin America and remains a dominant landmark in Mexico City’s Centro Histórico. Its striking silhouette is a helpful guidepost for navigating downtown.

Engineering Marvel & Stunning Views

Built on deep-set pylons, the Torre has famously withstood major earthquakes, including those in 1985 and 2017, demonstrating its incredible resilience. Visitors can head to the 44th-floor observation deck or the 41st-floor lounge bar for breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling city—when the air is clear enough.

Tickets and Tips

  • Entry fee: M$170 for adults, M$100 for children.

  • Admission allows same-day re-entry, perfect for catching views both in daylight and after dark.

  • The ticket includes access to a museum onsite that showcases Mexico City’s history.

  • If you just want to visit the bar, entry is free (aside from drinks), and there’s a separate elevator to avoid crowds—ideal if the observation deck line is long.

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