Embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of natural wonders. Mexico is located at the confluence of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and offers a huge variety of natural attractions. They are so impressive that you are speechless when you see one of them with your own eyes. From majestic mountains and active volcanoes to crystal clear Caribbean beaches and lush rainforests, from Mayan ruins to secret beaches, Mexico is a destination of beauty and magic. In this article, we will tell you about breathtaking places that are worth visiting to immerse yourself in the unique nature of this amazing country and feel its unique spirit. While planning your adventure, you might also explore exciting betting options on 22Bet, an extensive sports betting website that caters to thrill-seekers and sports enthusiasts alike.
Nature and Adventure
The real beauty of Mexico is its nature, which spans the entire country and even urban areas. Here you can find everything from cave diving (diving into underwater caves and descending into grottoes) to mystical purification ceremonies and tequila factories.
Yucatan Peninsula
This point is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history and beautiful natural attractions. The Yucatan Peninsula is famous for the excavations of Mayan cities, Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Tulum. So you can learn about this ancient civilization, and explore temples and pyramids.
There are also several natural reserves where you can enjoy unique flora and fauna. For example, Sian Ka’an is home to many species of plants and animals, including rare birds and wild cats. There are also many cenotes hidden throughout the peninsula. They are natural karst sinkholes that are filled with underground water. They were used by the Mayans as sources of fresh water, but today they are popular swimming spots where you can even scuba dive. Some of the cenotes are completely open, some of them are closed by rocks, and some are completely hidden by caves. For safety, it is better to go with a guide; individual tours cost 1,350 MXN (7,560 rubles*).
Mexican cuisine is also known for its authentic dishes. In the Yucatan Peninsula, you can try pok chuk, a Mayan-style pork stew, salbutes, a thin stuffed tortilla, and ceviche, a marinated sea bass.
Riviera Maya
It occupies a large stretch of the Caribbean coast: it starts from the fishing village of Puerto Morelos and reaches the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. The most convenient way to get there is from Cancun, Tulum, Isla Mujeres, and Holbox Island.
The Riviera has something for everyone: those looking to relax can sunbathe on white sand beaches, history buffs will visit sacred ruins, and those who enjoy an active holiday will appreciate the deep blue cenotes, as well as diving and snorkeling in Xcaret Park and the Puerto Reef -Morelos. Partygoers are drawn to the Carnival season, which celebrates the Day of the Dead, with parades, dancing, and elaborate costumes. It takes place every year on the night of November 1st to 2nd. For family holidays on the coast, there is a large number of entertainment, attractions, and water parks.
The Riviera Maya is also famous for its mangroves – they are home to many species of plants and animals. There is a river flowing through the green mangrove trees, so you can take a boat ride. Guides will tell you about the importance of mangroves to the ecosystem, and you will see many colorful birds – pelicans, flamingos, parrots, and king gulls – as well as many other animals, including crocodiles, monkeys, and lizards.
Sierra Madre Mountains
Hidden high in a forested mountain area is the city of San Sebastian del Oeste. It was once a famous mining town with a population of over 20,000 people. Visit a small coffee plantation, photograph the red-tiled buildings and beautiful views from around town, and check out the museum at the church entrance to learn why the mines were closed. It’s worth a trip here only to take a break from the heat and humidity of Mexico and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Another mountain attraction is the Giorullo Bridge. Suspended 150m above the Kuale River and stretching 460m, you’ll definitely be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery and get your adrenaline pumping. But the bridge has a special feature – you can drive across it on an ATV. So, if your legs don’t obey you due to fear of heights, there is a way out.
Nearby is the El Salto waterfall with crystal clear water and a place where you can jump into it. If you don’t want to cross the bridge back, go back along the river on a zipline or tubing. You can dine at the open-air restaurant Los Coapinoles. The most convenient way to get to the mountains is from Puerto Vallarta.
Mayan Ruins
The Mayan civilization was one of the most developed on earth. They achieved significant success in mathematics and astronomy and had sophisticated writing, art, and architecture. Visit one of their ancient cities to marvel at the achievements and mysteries that remain surrounding this ancient culture. The most popular ruins are Chichen Itza, Calakmul, Ek Balam, Uxmal, and the archaeological zones of Tulum and Palenque. The entrance ticket costs from 80 to 600 MXN (from 450 to 3,300 rubles*).
Chichen Itza, founded in 550, was the administrative, religious, and commercial center of the Mayan world. Prominent buildings include the circular observatory of El Caracol, the Temple of the Warriors, and the main temple of El Castillo, or Kukulcan. It was erected in such a way that during the equinox a unique play of light and shadow occurs on the steps of the pyramid. There is also a sacred cenote – a natural well, which the inhabitants of the region consider one of the main entrances to the underworld, where the gods live.
Tulum is located in the Riviera Maya, approximately 120 km from Cancun. It was a major religious and commercial center between 800 and 1600. The 12 m high limestone cliff and high wall surrounding the city served as protection against invaders from both land and sea. The most amazing structure is the El Castillo Castle, on the top level of which there is a temple. The facade is decorated with sculptures and masks in the corners. Inside the temple, there are remains of wall paintings depicting ancient Mayan ceremonies and deities.
