Travel to Mexico, Mexico is a country full of beauty and culture, from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the stunning beaches of Cancun. However, there are many hidden gems waiting to be explored that often go unnoticed by tourists. These hidden gems offer visitors a chance to experience something new and unique, away from the crowds of tourists that flock to the more well-known spots. From breathtaking natural wonders to charming colonial towns, there is something for everyone in Mexico. In this article, we’ll take a look at 20 unique hidden gems in Mexico that you don’t want to miss.
- 1. Bacalar Lagoon
- 2. Isla Holbox
- 3. Real de Catorce
- 4. Sayulita
- 5. Xilitla
- 6. San Cristobal de las Casas
- 7. Hierve el Agua
- 8. Tulum Ruins
- 9. San Miguel de Allende
- 10. Puerto Vallarta
- 11. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park
- 12. Guanajuato City
- 13. Taxco
- 14. Teotihuacan
- 15. Isla Mujeres
- 16. Xochimilco
- 17. San Luis Potosi
- Final Thoughts
1. Bacalar Lagoon
Located in the southern state of Quintana Roo, Bacalar Lagoon is a natural wonder that boasts crystal-clear water in shades of blue and green. Known as the “Lake of Seven Colors,” it’s a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the lagoon, which is home to a variety of wildlife such as crocodiles and turtles.
2. Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is a small island located off the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s a popular spot for whale shark tours, as well as for its white sand beaches and laid-back vibe. Visitors can rent a bike or a golf cart to explore the island, or take a boat tour to see flamingos and other wildlife.
3. Real de Catorce
Real de Catorce is a small town located in the northern state of San Luis Potosi. Once a thriving silver mining town, it was abandoned in the early 1900s and is now a ghost town. Visitors can explore the town’s historic buildings and take a horseback ride through the surrounding desert landscape.
4. Sayulita
Sayulita is a charming beach town located on Mexico’s Pacific coast. It’s known for its colorful buildings, laid-back vibe, and great surfing. Visitors can take a surf lesson, browse the local shops and galleries, or simply relax on the beach.
5. Xilitla
Xilitla is a small town located in the mountains of the northern state of San Luis Potosi. It’s home to the surreal Las Pozas sculpture garden, which features giant concrete structures covered in lush vegetation. Visitors can explore the garden’s winding paths and discover hidden waterfalls and pools.
6. San Cristobal de las Casas
San Cristobal de las Casas is a colonial town located in the southern state of Chiapas. It’s known for its colorful buildings, lively markets, and indigenous culture. Visitors can explore the town’s historic churches and museums, or take a day trip to nearby natural wonders such as the Sumidero Canyon.
7. Hierve el Agua
Hierve el Agua is a natural wonder located in the southern state of Oaxaca. It’s a series of petrified waterfalls and mineral springs that offer stunning views of the surrounding valley. Visitors can take a dip in the natural pools, hike the nearby trails, or explore the nearby ruins of a pre-Columbian settlement.
8. Tulum Ruins
Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, the Tulum Ruins are a Mayan archaeological site that overlooks the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can explore the ancient temples and buildings, or simply soak up the sun on the nearby beach.
9. San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a colonial town located in the central state of Guanajuato. It’s known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the town’s museums and galleries, or take a hot air balloon ride over the surrounding countryside.
10. Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination located on Mexico’s Pacific coast. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and excellent dining. Visitors can take a boat tour of the bay, go snorkeling or scuba diving, or simply relax on the beach.
11. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park
Located in the southern state of Guerrero, Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park is home to a stunning system of underground caves and caverns. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves, which are illuminated by multicolored lights, or hike the nearby trails.
12. Guanajuato City
Guanajuato City is a colonial town located in the central state of Guanajuato. It’s known for its colorful buildings, underground tunnels, and lively cultural scene. Visitors can explore the town’s museums and galleries, or attend one of its many music and arts festivals.
13. Taxco
Taxco is a colonial town located in the southern state of Guerrero. It’s known for its silver mines and the beautiful jewelry that is crafted there. Visitors can explore the town’s winding streets and historic buildings, or visit one of its many silver shops.
14. Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan is an archaeological site located outside of Mexico City. It’s home to some of the largest and most impressive pyramids in the world, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramids for stunning views of the surrounding valley.
15. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small island located off the coast of Cancun. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving. Visitors can also explore the island’s colorful streets and markets, or take a boat tour to see the nearby sea turtle sanctuary.
16. Xochimilco
Xochimilco is a neighborhood located in the south of Mexico City. It’s known for its colorful boats, known as trajineras, which can be rented for a leisurely ride along the neighborhood’s canals. Visitors can also enjoy traditional food and drinks, and listen to live music.
17. San Luis Potosi
San Luis Potosi is a colonial town located in the northern state of San Luis Potosi. It’s known for its baroque architecture, historic plazas, and nearby natural wonders such as the Cascadas de Tamul waterfalls and the Huasteca Potosina region.
Final Thoughts
Mexico is a country full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From colonial towns to natural wonders, there is something for every type of traveler. So why not book a trip and start exploring some of these unique destinations? You never know what kind of adventure you might find.