Mexico
Exploring Baja California’s Dunas de Soledad
Right in the center of the Baja Peninsula is one of the largest coastal dune sheets of North America. But despite it often appearing on lists of ‘Top Places to Visit in Baja,’ specific details on the Dunas de Soledad are hard to come by. In this guide, we’ll be covering everything you need to
A Journey to Baja’s La Trinidad Cave Paintings
With the native languages and traditions of Baja now largely extinct, the peninsula’s numerous cave paintings are all that remain of the ancient cultures that lived here for millennia. In fact, sites like the La Trinidad cave paintings, among others, are among the oldest surviving archaeological sites in all of Mexico. The La Trinidad cave
A Guide to Mulegé: Exploring the Desert Oasis
A small town of under 4,000 residents in the southern part of the Baja Peninsula, Mulegé is about as remote as it gets in Mexico. But while experiencing the town can be challenging in a number of ways, its stunning scenery will stick with you for a long time. In this Mulegé guide, we’ll be covering things
A Guide to Loreto: Coronados Island & More
For such a small town, Baja California Sur’s Loreto has a lot going for it: historical buildings, beaches, mountain views and an abundance of wildlife. In the following Loreto guide, we’ll be covering the top attractions of the town center, as well as nearby Coronados Island, home to dolphins, sea lions and more. Also be
Top 5 Things To Do in La Paz: Espíritu Santo Island & More
La Paz, a city of 250,000 residents, is the capital and largest city of Baja California Sur, one of Mexico’s most sparsely populated states. While long overshadowed by the nearby resort city of Cabo San Lucas, more and more people are now discovering La Paz and its unrivaled natural beauty. In the following guide, we’ll
Visiting Las Labradas: The Mysterious Seaside Petroglyphs
About 60 km north of Mazatlán is one of Mexico’s most obscure – and most unusual – archaeological sites. You won’t find a single pyramid or tomb at Las Labradas, but you will encounter hundreds of ancient petroglyphs carved into rocks along the beach. But why? In this guide, we’ll be covering the site’s history, astronomical
Top 5 Things To Do In Mazatlán
Sinaloa’s Mazatlán is among Mexico’s most scenic coastal cities – both in terms of its natural surroundings and its colorful architecture. And among Mexico’s many beach towns, it arguably has the widest variety of things to see and do. Below we’ll be covering the top things to do in Mazatlán which should equally appeal to outdoor enthusiasts,
A Guide to Tepic: The Nayarit State Capital
The Nayarit state capital of Tepic is by no means among Mexico’s most talked-about cities. Frankly speaking, the main thing it has going for it is its location. Situated between the tourism hotspots of Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán, it’s a convenient place to break up the journey along Mexico’s Pacific coast. And in this Tepic
Colima: Exploring Mexico’s Most Underrated State
Colima, situated between Jalisco and Michoacán, is one of Mexico’s smallest states. Nevertheless, it has quite a variety of things to do while remaining largely undiscovered by tourists. In the following Colima guide, we’ll be covering the top activities in the state’s three most interesting towns: Colima city, Comala and Manzanillo. For more information on
Archaeological Colima: La Campana & El Chanal Ruins
Like the state of Colima as a whole, the archaeological sites of La Campana and El Chanal, both located in the state capital, are seldom talked about. But these were once the most extensive cities in western Mexico, and they remain in an excellent state of preservation. In the following guide, we’ll be covering exactly
The Unique Round Pyramid of Guachimontones
Guachimontones, reachable as a day trip from Guadalajara, is the state of Jalisco’s flagship archaeological site. It’s most known for its unique round pyramid (itself known as a ‘guachimontón’), of which there are actually several of various sizes. The site was the former capital of a largely forgotten Mesoamerican civilization we now call the Teuchitlán Culture,
A Guide to Guadalajara: Exploring Mexico’s Second City
Jalisco and its capital Guadalajara are the birthplaces of things that many first picture when they think of Mexico, such as sombreros, tequila and mariachi. And with its metropolitan area consisting of 5,250,000 people, Guadalajara is also Mexico’s second-largest city. Yet it’s not always at the top of travelers’ lists. In the following Guadalajara guide, we’ll
A Day in Léon: Exploring Guanajuato’s Bustling Capital
The state of Guanajuato, home to San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato city, is one of Mexico’s premier tourism destinations. But despite its capital León being one of Mexico’s largest cities, few tourists visit. In the following León guide, we’ll be taking a look at the top things to do and see in this overlooked city. The
A Weekend in Aguascalientes: Historical Buildings & Hot Springs
Aguascalientes, located in the state of the same name, is one of the lesser-visited cities of Mexico’s Bajío region. And frankly speaking, few would consider it the country’s prettiest big city. But among Mexicans, it’s revered for being the birthplace of influential artist José Guadalupe Posada, and his museum is one of this Aguascalientes guide’s main
Zacatecas: The Ultimate Guide
As with nearby Guanajuato and San Luis Potosí, the city of Zacatecas grew immensely wealthy as a mining town, with much of that wealth being reinvested into beautiful buildings. As we’ll cover in the following Zacatecas guide, from Baroque architecture to an old mine to top-class art museums, this city has something for everyone. In
The Mysterious Ruins of La Quemada: Who Built Them?
Located about 56 km south of the city of Zacatecas is one of Mexico’s most overlooked and mysterious archaeological sites. Was La Quemada merely an outpost of a mightier civilization further south, or was it perhaps the capital of its own forgotten empire? Whatever the case may be, the ruins of La Quemada make for a
Exploring the Magical Ghost Town of Real De Catorce
The former mining town of Real de Catorce is one of Mexico’s most fascinating destinations. But being located in a remote part of the country at an elevation of over 2700 m, it’s not an easy place to reach. Though often dubbed as a ‘ghost town,’ Real de Catorce is in fact home to over
San Luis Potosí: The Ultimate Guide
Photos alone can’t truly convey what a place is like, and without visiting, it can be hard to tell many of Mexico’s old colonial cities apart. But San Luis Potosí’s historic center is arguably the largest and most immersive of them all. Despite being a city of a million inhabitants, it’s also one of the country’s most
How to Visit the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve
Those who happen to come across images of the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, with its countless towering cacti as far as the eye can see, often wonder how to go about planning a visit. But despite having been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, online searches still yield few helpful results. My trip to
Orizaba: The Ultimate Guide
Mexico is home to countless colonial-era towns and cities, many of which have been designated as Pueblos Mágicos (or Magic Towns) by the government. But not all of them are equal, with some consisting of little more than a town square and a church. Orizaba in the state of Veracruz, on the other hand, has so much
Experiencing Day of The Dead in Oaxaca: What You Need to Know
If there was one holiday or event most representative of Mexican culture, it would have to be Day of the Dead. And nowhere else in Mexico celebrates the holiday quite like Oaxaca. In the following guide, we’ll be covering everything you need to know about experiencing Oaxaca Day of the Dead, from its history and
Exploring the Lesser-Known Ruins of Muyil
While many visiting Tulum stop at the Tulum Archaeological Zone and nearby Cobá, the area is home to a third Mayan site that remains off the radar for most travlers. Muyil, which is located within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, is a great way to visit some well-preserved ruins while also avoiding the crowds. Muyil is
Exploring Sayil and Its Great Palace
Just 7 km south of Kabah, the ancient Mayan city of Sayil shares a lot in common with neighboring sites in the Puuc region. The city, however, was founded in the 8th century AD – considerably later than either Uxmal or Kabah. And Sayil is also known for its unique and humongous Great Palace which remains
Exploring The Overlooked Jungle Ruins of Oxkintok
Located around 50 km from Mérida near the town of Maxcanu, Oxkintok is one of the more obscure Mayan archaeological sites. But it’s arguably among the best. The extensive ruins are home to multiple pyramids and even an ancient labyrinth, while just a few kilometers away is the fascinating Calcehtok Cave, where important Mayan rituals
Exploring The Aztec Baths of Texcotzingo
Texcotzingo, a former Aztec botanical garden, spa and royal palace, is one of Central Mexico’s most obscure archaeological sites. But it shouldn’t be. This fascinating hilltop site was founded by Nezahualcoyotl, the legendary poet-king of Texcoco. And it reveals a softer, more creative and intellectual side to Aztec culture than what we’re used to seeing.
Monolithic Malinalco & The Sanctuary of Chalma
Built during the final days of the Aztec Empire, the temple complex of Malinalco is unlike any other in Mesoamerica. Carved into the side of a hill at over 100 m above the valley floor, Malinalco is a rare example of monolithic architecture in this part of the world. Visiting Malinalco can also be combined with
Tenayuca & Santa Cecilia Acatitlan: Mexico City’s Suburban Pyramids
Situated within the suburb of the same name, Tenayuca is considered to be the best-preserved Aztec temple, as it was one of the few that the Spanish never touched. Despite being accessible via Mexico City’s public transport system, few tourists venture out here. But if you’re interested in pre-Hispanic archaeology, visiting Tenayuca is well worth the
Mexico City’s National Museum of Anthropology: A Visitor’s Guide
Established in 1964, Mexico City’s National Museum of Anthropology is easily the country’s top museum, and also among the best in the world. The museum is home to over 600,000 objects belonging to the many great civilizations of Mexico’s past. But with so much to see, organizing your time at the museum can be overwhelming.
Visiting Pátzcuaro & The Island of Janitzio
Founded in the 1320s as the first capital of the mighty Tarascan Empire, Pátzcuaro is one of Mexico’s most popular Pueblos Mágicos and a must-do day trip from Morelia. And as we’ll cover in this guide, visiting Pátzcuaro is typically combined with the scenic island of Janitzio, largely inhabited by an indigenous Purépecha community. After covering the
A Guide to Morelia: The City of Pink Stone
Morelia, the capital of the state of Michoacán, is easily among Mexico’s most beautiful cities. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, Morelia has a distinctive and unified look thanks to the bare Cantera stone used in most of its buildings. Be that as it may, it get very few foreign tourists, making it
Exploring the Ruins of Tzintzuntzan & Ihuatzio
While hardly a household name today, the Tarascan Empire was the only kingdom in central Mexico that the Aztecs failed to conquer. And what remains of the former Tarascan capital of Tzintzuntzan, known for its unique circular pyramid temples, is one-of-a-kind amongst Mexican archaeological sites. As we’ll cover shortly, a visit to Tzintzuntzan can also
Guanajuato: The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to eye-catching historic cities in Mexico, few places can top Guanajuato. Founded in the 16th century, the city was home to a booming mining industry for centuries, with much of the profits being spent on new elaborate Baroque and Neoclassical buildings. In the following Guanajuato guide, we’ll be covering the top things
Visiting the Cañada de la Virgen Ruins
Occupied from around 540-1050 AD by the Otomí civilization, Cañada de la Virgen is a small archaeological site located nearby the tourism hotspot of San Miguel de Allende. Excavations didn’t begin until 2002, prior to which archaeologists hadn’t realized what sophisticated cities existed this far north. Cañada de la Virgen has gradually been gaining in
A Visit to The Sanctuary of Atotonilco & Dolores Hidalgo
San Miguel de Allende may be one of Mexico’s most-visited towns these days, but it’s also one of its most divisive. But wherever your feelings lie, there’s no denying that San Miguel is a good base for some interesting day trips – among them the Sanctuary of Atotonilco and the Magic Town of Dolores Hidalgo.
A Guide to San Miguel de Allende: What Makes It So Popular?
San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial-era town located in central Mexico’s Bajío region. Known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant art scene, the town is also one of Mexico’s top expat havens. The following San Miguel de Allende guide covers the best that the town has to offer, from churches to art galleries
Mineral de Pozos: The Ghost Town of Guanajuato
Despite being one of Mexico’s most unique Magic Towns and being within easy reach of the tourist mecca of San Miguel de Allende, very few travelers have heard of Mineral de Pozos. But the fact that it’s a ghost town – home to just a few thousand people and countless abandoned buildings – is one
Hiking Peña de Bernal (& Visiting Tequisquiapan)
At some point when researching popular Mexico travel destinations, you’ve likely come across images of a giant monolith towering over a quaint colonial town. Easily accessible from the city of Querétaro, hiking Peña de Bernal is indeed one of the top things to do in this part of the country. Nearby, meanwhile, is yet another popular town known
A Guide to Querétaro: Exploring the Historical Center
Querétaro, the bustling capital of state of the same name, is one of Mexico’s fastest-growing cities. But in the midst of the busy traffic and countless constructions sites, the city’s small historical center remains an oasis of calm. In the following Querétaro guide, we’ll be covering the top museums, churches and other interesting landmarks to check
El Cerrito: The Forgotten Pyramid of Querétaro
Located in the El Pueblito district of Querétaro is one of Mexico’s largest – yet most obscure – ancient pyramids. Just a quick Uber ride away from the city center, the El Cerrito pyramid was long covered in overgrowth and forgotten about before its 20th-century rediscovery. The trees atop the pyramid have only been cleared
A Guide to El Tajín: Touring The Majestic Jungle Ruins
Despite its isolated location far from any major city, El Tajín continues to attract hordes of visitors. According to official statistics, in fact, El Tajín was Mexico’s seventh-most visited archaeological site in 2021. As we’ll go over in the following El Tajín guide, this is surely due to the site’s unique and beautiful architecture, such
A Tour of The Xalapa Museum of Anthropology
Located in the Veracruz state capital, the Xalapa Museum of Anthropology is the state’s primary museum. Many who visit, in fact, consider it to be the country’s top archaeology museum after the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City. But what makes it so special? Opened in 1986, the museum features over 25,000 artifacts from
Visiting Quiahuiztlán & Cempoala in Veracruz
While not many foreign visitors have heard of the Totonacs, they were one of the main groups thriving in Mesoamerica at the time the Spanish arrived. Sites like Quiahuiztlán and Cempoala, therefore, are among the most ‘recent’ pre-Hispanic ruins one can visit in Mexico. But even though the cities were at their peak when Hernán Cortés and
A Guide to Puebla: Exploring the Historical Center
Throughout the three hundred years of Spanish rule, Puebla was often regarded as Mexico’s most important city after the capital. And its beautiful baroque churches and colonial-era houses are testament to that. Today, with over 3 million residents, Puebla is Mexico’s fourth-largest city. But as we’ll cover in the Puebla guide below, the highlights are concentrated in
Experiencing the Cacaxtla Murals & the Pyramids of Xochitécatl
Located in the state of Tlaxcala, the sister sites of Cacaxtla and Xochitécatl are an easy day trip from Puebla. Visitors to the region with the slightest interest in Mesoamerican art or history shouldn’t miss the Cacaxtla murals, some of the best-preserved pre-Hispanic paintings in Mexico. The only other paintings on this level would be those of
Exploring the Obscure Ruins of Tehuacán el Viejo
Tehuacán el Viejo is arguably one of Central Mexico’s most obscure archaeological sites. And frankly speaking, sites like Cholula, Cantona and Cacaxtla are all more essential day trips from Puebla. With that said, Tehuacán el Viejo’s main plaza and pyramid are impressive enough to warrant a visit for true archaeology enthusiasts. Little is known about Tehuacán el
The Cantona Ruins: Mexico’s Most Overlooked Ancient City?
Located near the border between Puebla and Veracruz, Cantona is one of Mexico’s most unique – and lesser-known – archaeological sites. The Cantona ruins are incredibly dense yet shockingly vast. And as archaeologists continue to research the site, it becomes increasingly clear it was one of the most important and prosperous cities in Mesoamerican history.
A Guide to Atlixco: The City of Flowers
Located 25 km to the west of Puebla, Atlixco is one of Mexico’s most colorful Pueblos Mágicos. As with many ‘Magic Towns,’ Atlixco doesn’t have a whole lot going for it in terms of attractions. But where it really shines is its atmosphere, traditional architecture and stunning volcano views. In the following Atlixco guide, we’ll be
Hiking Mount Tlaloc: The Rain God’s Abode
Located in Izta-Popo National Park, about halfway between Mexico City and Puebla, hiking Mount Tlaloc is one of the region’s most unique outdoor adventures. At the summit, not only will you find beautiful views, but also an expansive Aztec temple. As the name suggests, the mountain was believed to be the abode of the rain
Hiking La Malinche Volcano: Everything You Need to Know
Despite being one of Central Mexico’s most popular day treks, hiking La Malinche volcano may not be for everyone. At 4,461 m above sea level, it’s the 6th-highest peak in Mexico. And the hike to the summit is steep and difficult. But those who are up for the challenge will be rewarded with some of
Cholula: Exploring the Largest Pyramid in the World
Ask most people what the largest pyramid in the world is, and they’ll likely tell you the Great Pyramid of Giza. Narrow it down to Mexico, and you might hear Teotihuacan’s Pyramid of the Sun. But Mexico’s – and the entire world’s – largest pyramid, in fact, is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, located about
Cuicuilco: Mexico City’s Forgotten Round Pyramid
Considered the first great city of the Valley of Mexico, Cuicuilco even predates the foundation of Teotihuacan. But no, you don’t have to travel to some small, obscure village to find its remains. The unique circular pyramid of Cuicuilco, in fact, stands right in the heart of Mexico City’s urban sprawl. In the following guide, we’ll
Chalcatzingo: Olmec Ruins in the Valley of Morelos
When one thinks of the Olmecs, the massive stone heads found in states like Tabasco and Veracruz typically come to mind. But while the largest Olmec cities were indeed located along Mexico’s Gulf Coast, their trade networks and political power spread much further. The overlooked site of Chalcatzingo, located in Central Mexico’s state of Morelos,
A Guide to Taxco: Mexico’s Most Magical Pueblo Mágico?
Mexico is home to 177 Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns) that were chosen for things like their scenery, history or architecture. But what, many wonder, is the most magical town of them all? In the following Taxco guide, we’ll be covering what makes this former silver mining town in Guerrero a top contender. Silver mining existed
Xochicalco: The Mayan City in the Valley of Morelos
Located about 38 km southwest of Cuernavaca is one of Mexico’s most underrated archaeological sites. Formed during one of the region’s most tumultuous periods, Xochicalco’s downfall came suddenly after just 250 years as a city. Nevertheless, the ruins remain highly impressive, both in terms of their scale and level of craftsmanship. Following our guide to
A Guide to Cuernavaca: The City of Eternal Spring
Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés chose Cuernavaca as his base of operations, partly due to its central location. But, like the Aztec rulers before him, he surely enjoyed its mild year-round climate. And up until fairly recently, ‘The City of Eternal Spring’ was considered the place to be for high-society Mexicans and expats alike. In the
Adventures in Puerto Escondido: The Hidden Port’s Top Things to Do
Puerto Escondido is quickly gaining popularity as the new, less-developed alternative to the Riviera Maya. Intrigued, I spent over a week in the area to experience it for myself. And what follows is a list of the top things to do in Puerto Escondido and its neighboring towns. The name Puerto Escondido means ‘Hidden Port,’
Street Art: Oaxaca
I hadn’t come to Oaxaca with the intention of focusing on its street art. Admittedly, after having created street art guides for numerous cities throughout the world, I largely lost interest in the subject. Nevertheless, during my initial walks through Oaxaca’s colorful streets, something inspired me to seek out and photograph all the murals I
Hierve el Agua: Visiting Oaxaca’s Frozen Waterfall
Oaxaca’s Hierve el Agua is one of just several sets of travertine pools and rock formations that one can find throughout the world. Accordingly, the natural wonder is by far the most popular outdoor adventure near central Oaxaca, whether you’re coming independently or by tour. Whether you decide to go for a swim in the
Touring the Ex-Convent of Cuilapam & the Zaachila Tombs
Just south of central Oaxaca are two overlooked yet fascinating historical sites that can be visited together in a single day. The 16th-century Ex-Convent of Cuilapam is an architectural marvel, despite never having being fully completed. The nearby tombs of Zaachila, meanwhile, contained some of the most exquisite pre-Hispanic artifacts ever discovered in Oaxaca. Be
Oaxaca’s Overlooked Zapotec Sites: Yagul, Dainzú & Atzompa
While Monte Albán and Mitla may be the two most-visited archaeological sites in Oaxaca, they’re certainly not the only. Just a short drive from Mitla is Yagul, known for its natural scenery and elaborate palace. Further down the road, meanwhile, is Dainzú, home to a plethora of tombs and pyramid temples. And elsewhere on the
Mitla: Seeing The Mosaic Friezes of The Magical Ruins
Located about an hour east of the city of Oaxaca, Mitla is the second-most popular site of the Zapotec civilization. But the experience of visiting Mitla and Monte Albán couldn’t be more different. Monte Albán is a hilltop site full of vast plazas and numerous pyramids. Mitla, on the other hand, consists of several courtyards and a
Oaxaca: The Ultimate Guide
Oaxaca consistently appears on lists of Mexico’s most beautiful cities, and thanks to its well-preserved colonial architecture, there’s a strong case for it being number one. In the following Oaxaca guide, we’ll be covering the state capital’s top landmarks, from historical churches to art museums. Oaxaca, however, is more than just the sum of its
Visiting Monte Albán: A Guide to The Ancient Zapotec Capital
Located on a hilltop just 7 km from the city of Oaxaca, Monte Albán was the capital of the Zapotecs, one of Mesoamerica’s most influential pre-Hispanic civilizations. And it remains one of the country’s finest archaeological sites today. In the following guide, we’ll be covering everything you need to know when it comes to visiting Monte Albán, including
Visiting The Stunning Montebello Lakes & Chinkultic Ruins
The deep blue Montebello Lakes aren’t what most people expect when they picture Mexico, but the stunning National Park is becoming an increasingly popular destination for those visiting Chiapas. In the following guide, we’ll be covering how to visit Montebello Lakes National Park independently from Comitán together with the nearby Chinkultic ruins. Most people visit
Adventures in Chiapas: Ascending El Chiflón Waterfalls
El Chiflón Waterfalls are among Chiapas’ most striking natural wonders. And that’s saying a lot when Chiapas is already considered to be one of Mexico’s most beautiful states. As El Chiflón is a massive cascading waterfall, the experience doesn’t just consist of taking pictures at a single viewpoint before turning around. Rather, over the course of
Visiting the Templo de San Juan Chamula & Zinacantán
Stepping inside, it was immediately clear that this was no ordinary church. The floor was completely covered in pine needles, and everywhere I looked, local healers waved around live chicken as incense smoke filled the air. When it comes to Mexico travel, there’s nothing quite like visiting the Templo de San Juan Chamula and witnessing
Visiting the Sumidero Canyon & the Chiapa de Corzo Archaeological Site
The scenic Sumidero Canyon has long been a top destination for nature lovers visiting Chiapas. Yet few are aware of the unique ruins nearby – one of Mexico’s only publicly accessible Zoque sites. In the following guide, we’ll be going over everything you need to know about visiting the Sumidero Canyon along with the overlooked Chiapa
San Cristóbal de las Casas: The Ultimate Guide
Located in the Central Highlands of Chiapas, San Cristóbal de las Casas is easily one of southern Mexico’s most charming colonial towns. In fact, many consider it among the most magical of all of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos. A popular stop on the tourist trail between Oaxaca and the Yucatán, San Cristóbal is an ideal slow travel destination. In the following San
Comalcalco: The Edge of the Mayan World
The overlooked ruins of Comalcalco in Tabasco state are remarkable for a couple of reasons. Not only did they mark the very western edge of the Mayan civilization, but Comalcalco is the only Mayan city to have been built of brick instead of stone. The ruins are both well-preserved and largely void of crowds, making
Parque Museo La Venta: Experiencing The Legacy of the Olmec
Whether you’re visiting ruins built by the Mayans, Zapotecs or Aztecs, you’re almost guaranteed to encounter things like pyramids, ball courts and hieroglyphic inscriptions. But where did this broader Mesoamerican culture originate? Based on our current understanding, it all started with a group known as the Olmec. For more than a thousand years, the Olmecs
Visiting the Jungle Ruins of Yaxchilan and Bonampak
Situated deep in the jungle near the border with Guatemala, Yaxchilan and Bonampak are two of Mexico’s most geographically remote Mayan ruins. But with the number of tour groups now visiting each, they’re far from well-kept secrets. Nevertheless, exploring the once-mighty city of Yaxchilan and its ally Bonampak, known for its stunning ancient murals, is
Toniná: Exploring the Lost Pyramid City
Overlooking the Valley of Ocosingo in the state of Chiapas is one of Mesoamerica’s largest and most unique structures. The Toniná Pyramid consists of seven tiers, many of which are home to temples, palaces and monuments. As such, it shouldn’t just be considered a large pyramid, but an entire pyramid city. The pyramid rises up to
Visiting Palenque: Touring The Magical Jungle Ruins
With its well-preserved buildings and gorgeous jungle setting, few archaeological sites can rival the magic of Palenque. The surviving structures largely date back to the 7th century AD, many of which housed elaborate tombs of the ruling elite. Situated by the modern city of the same name in the state of Chiapas, visiting Palenque is
A Guide to Bacalar: The Lagoon of 7 Colors & More
While it may be hard to believe, one of Mexico’s most beautiful waterfront towns remains at least somewhat off the beaten path. Bacalar and its stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors can still be experienced without the crowds and touts of other Riviera Maya sites – but maybe not for much longer. In the following Bacalar
Kohunlich & Dzibanché: Quintana Roo’s Hidden Mayan Gems
While millions of international tourists flock to Quintana Roo each year, the state remains home to hidden gems that fall well under the radar. In Quintana Roo’s south, right near the border with Campeche, are two well-preserved but underrated Mayan sites that are worth the extra effort to see. In the following guide, we’ll be
Visiting Calakmul: Pyramids & Wildlife in Southern Campeche
Despite being one of the most powerful Mayan cities in history, Calakmul only attracts a fraction of the attention of sites like Chichén Itzá. Located deep in the jungle about two hours by car from the town of Xpujil, it’s easily one of Mexico’s most isolated Mayan sites. But those visiting Calakmul will be rewarded
Xpujil-Becán-Chicanná-Hormiguero: Exploring Río Bec
The region of Río Bec, situated in modern-day southern Campeche, was among the most prosperous and densely populated parts of the Mayan world. No less than 45 Río Bec sites have been discovered in total, though only several are accessible today. While most tourists stay in Xpujil to visit the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, even closer to town
Visiting Edzná: The House of the Itzaes
Deep in the jungle, about 50 km southeast of Campeche, lies the once-mighty city of Edzná, one of Mexico’s most under-appreciated Mayan ruins. Known for its unique five-story pyramid, the site is not only well-preserved, but it gets just a fraction of the tourists of places like Uxmal. Those visiting Edzná in the early morning,
A Guide to Campeche: Mexico’s Most Underrated City?
Campeche is perhaps best known as a base for visiting the nearby ruins of Edzná. But many are surprised to encounter a beautiful colonial city with enough attractions to keep one occupied for several days. Not only is Campeche one the most charming cities of the Yucatán Peninsula, it’s arguably one of the most underrated
A Day Trip to Progreso: Ruins, Salt Flats, Cenotes & More
The are a few different ways to enjoy a day trip to Progreso from Mérida. One option is to relax on the beach, explore town and grab some food before heading back home. But if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, Progreso’s surroundings are home to four unique sites, all of which can be visited in
Mayapán: The Last of the Great Mayan Cities
Located about 50 km south of Mérida, Mayapán could be considered the last of the great Mayan capitals. But despite its historical importance, the site remains well off the tourist trail. What makes Mayapán unique is that its major buildings are all jam-packed into a single area, giving it one of the Mayan world’s most picturesque ‘cityscapes.’ With that
Visiting Kabah: Deeper in The Heart of Puuc
Kabah is one of several Mayan sites in the Puuc region, named after the nearby Puuc hills. But many visitors only see Uxmal, which is a shame, as sites like Kabah have much to offer while allowing one to avoid the crowds. Learn more below about visiting Kabah in tandem with nearby Uxmal, which is
Visiting Uxmal: The Pyramids in the Heart of Puuc
Located 62 km south of Mérida, Uxmal is one of Mexico’s most outstanding archaeological sites. Not only are its structures monumental in scale, but many are adorned with some of the most beautiful stone friezes of the Mayan world. And with fewer visitors than Chichén Itzá, visiting Uxmal is a must if you’re hoping to have
A Day in Izamal: The Magic Town & Its Massive Pyramid
Mexico is full of fascinating archaeological sites, while the country is home to dozens of charming towns designated by the government as Pueblo Mágicos (Magic Towns). But there’s no place quite like Izamal, where you’ll find massive ancient pyramids right in the middle of a bustling town established during the colonial era. In the following
Mérida: The Ultimate Guide
Mérida is fast becoming one of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most popular destinations for expats and tourists alike. As the nearest city to Mayan sites like Uxmal, the Yucatán capital makes for a great base for day trips. But as Mexico’s tenth oldest continuously inhabited city, Mérida is a worthy destination in its own right. Learn exactly why in the Mérida guide below. Also
Visiting the Ek Balam Ruins & the X’canche Cenote
Located 25 km north of Valladolid, Ek Balam only gets a fraction of the crowds of nearby Chichén Itzá. But it’s easily one of the region’s most remarkable sites. Not only can those visiting Ek Balam climb every structure, but the massive Acropolis contains what’s arguably the best-preserved stucco frieze of the Mayan world. Ek
Visiting Chichén Itzá: Mexico’s Wonder of the World
As crowded as it can get, a visit to Chichén Itzá quickly reveals why the ancient Mayan site is so popular. As the most dominant city in the Yucatán throughout the Early Postclassic period (900-1200 AD), its ruins are some of the grandest and best-preserved in all of Mexico. While best known for its spectacular pyramid,
A Guide to Valladolid: Churches, Cenotes & Folk Art
Located right in between Mérida and Cancún, Valladolid is the closest city to Chichén Itzá, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. But Valladolid, officially recognized as a Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town), is very much a destination in its own right. In the following Valladolid guide, we’ll be covering the town’s top highlights, including
Touring the Unique Seaside Ruins of Tulum
While Tulum may be one of Mexico’s most-visited archaeological sites, it’s hardly the largest or most spectacular. But what makes visiting the Tulum ruins truly special is their stunning seaside setting. Out of all the Mayan cities constructed throughout Mesoamerica, this is the only one built on a cliff overlooking the water. Tulum functioned as a port
Visiting the Cobá Ruins: Quintana Roo’s Tallest Pyramid
Situated 42 km northwest of Tulum, Cobá, known for its towering pyramids, was once the prominent city-state of the eastern Yucatán Peninsula. And today, visiting the Cobá ruins is a must for those basing themselves in the Tulum area. To learn more about reaching the ruins, you can learn more below. But first, a bit of history: The
Visiting Cozumel’s San Gervasio Ruins: The Abode of Ixchel
When looking at lists of the top Mayan sites in Mexico, the San Gervasio ruins will seldom get mentioned. And perhaps justifiably so, as the site lacks the magnificent pyramids or relief carvings of Chichén Itzá and Uxmal. But for those with an interest in Mayan history and culture, San Gervasio makes for a rewarding
Cancún’s Overlooked Ruins: San Miguelito, El Rey & Punta Sur
Not many people realize that one can find ancient Mayan pyramids right in the heart of Cancún’s Hotel Zone. As far as Mayan ruins go, San Miguelito isn’t much to write home about, but entry is combined with the excellent Museo Maya. Just several minutes away, meanwhile, is yet another interesting archaeological site known as El
Celebrating the Ordinary at Mexico City’s Nostalgia Museums
The nostalgia industry is big these days. As our lives become increasingly focused on accomplishing tasks by tapping our thumbs against glass screens, more and more people are longing for the physical. It wasn’t too long ago, of course, when all of our possessions could be touched, held or collected – just not downloaded. Tapping
Meeting the Mummies of the Museo de El Carmen
Underneath an old convent in the southern suburb of San Ángel awaits one of Mexico City’s most peculiar attractions. The former Carmelite convent, which dates back to the 17th century, is now known as the Museo de El Carmen. It hosts a large collection of Spanish Baroque paintings and ancient religious relics, while the building
Tepotzotlán: Searching for Magic in a Pueblo Mágico
Admittedly, I’d never even heard of Tepotzotlán until a day or two before my visit. I had a fairly long list of small towns nearby Mexico City that I wanted to see, but sadly, most of them were still recovering from a powerful earthquake from a few weeks prior. After some last-minute research, I discovered Tepotzotlán
Tula: Mesoamerica’s Missing Link
Between the abandonment of Teotihuacan and the emergence of the Aztec Empire, central Mexico was dominated by another powerful group: the Toltecs. But we still know relatively little about them. The Aztecs sung the Toltecs’ praises, considering themselves to be their heirs. And they even repeatedly visited their former capital of Tula to learn (and
Ascending the Ancient Pyramids of Teotihuacan
Two thousand years after they were built, the pyramids of Teotihuacan remain among the most awe-inspiring and mysterious structures in the Americas. In the following Teotihuacan guide, we’ll be covering the history and significance of each of the main landmarks in detail, along with the best way to navigate this massive (and crowded) archaeological site.
Street Art: Mexico City
The Mexico City street art scene is thriving nowadays, with the rest of the world beginning to take notice. But looking at the country’s history, this shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. Mexico has long been tolerant, if not downright encouraging, of creativity in public spaces. There was the Mexican muralist movement of the
Uncovering Mexico City’s Aztec Past
In 1978, local electric company workers digging near Mexico City’s Metropolitan Cathedral made a discovery that would change the city’s urban landscape forever. It was a massive stone disk depicting the dismembered body of the goddess Coyolxauhqui. According to ancient mythology, she was killed and turned into the moon by her brother Huitzilopochtli, the patron deity of