There is so much to see and do in Mexico that you barely ever get a chance to explore the country. The vastness of the country and its diverse cultures also make it challenging for travellers to stay focused on only one place at a time. However, with these hidden spots, exploring Mexico will suddenly become your new favourite pastime. Mexico has everything from ancient Mayan ruins to stunning natural parks, eccentric small towns, fascinating historical sites and vibrant cultural festivals. Let’s not forget about the amazing cuisine either! And if you are looking for an adventure beyond your usual bucket list, then this blog is for you! Here we have compiled a list of 6 lesser-known places that you should definitely add to your itinerary once you go there.
Mayan Ruins
The ancient Mayan civilization that thrived in Mexico from the 1st century BC to the 8th century AD left behind an incredible legacy. The archaeological sites, which include great Maya pyramids, temples, and suspension bridges, are one of the must-see destinations in the country. The ancient structures have been beautifully preserved and make for a fascinating sight.
Other than Mayan ruins, you can also see other ancient monuments, for example, the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, or the Classic period pyramids at Chichen Itza. You can also visit other cities like Oaxaca, Teotihuacan, or Chichen Itza to see more ancient ruins.
The Mayan Ruins will transport you back in time to a time when the world was a very different place. These are places you will be inspired and infuse with a sense of historical awe.
The Pirates’ Coast
If you are looking to experience a bit of history mixed with a pinch of adventure, then the Pirates Coast in Baja California should be your next stop in Mexico. The region, which is also known as the Sea of Cortez, is actually a coastal desert. The whole stretch from La Paz to San Diego is considered to be the ‘Pirates’ Coast’, because it was notorious for piracy in the 16th century. During this time period, the California coast was under the control of Spain and Mexico. Mexico used the California coast as a stopping point for ships carrying gold and silver.
The area is still very much untouched and has a fascinating history. The only thing that the tourists do is walk along the coast, with very few places to stay or stay overnight. So you should definitely not miss out on this experience.
Baja California’s Desert Canyons
Another place that you should definitely add to your travel bucket list is Baja California’s Desert Canyons. The region is known for its stunning canyons and mountains. The whole region is covered with a dense tropical forest and gives you a feeling of being in a tropical island. This makes it not just a scenic destination, but also a great place for wildlife enthusiasts. The canyons are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Another wonderful thing about this place is that there are no crowds at all during the monsoon season (from November to February). The only time when you will have to be careful is from April to May, when the flow of tourists increases.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Mexico is home to some of the most amazing archaeological sites and UNESCO World Heritage sites. So if you are looking for a place that is rich in culture and history, then you should definitely head to Mexico. The country has a diverse collection of historical sites. Some of the most popular sites include the pyramids at Teotihuacan, pyramids at Chichen Itza, the Aztec Ruins, and the capital city of Tenochtitlan.
Apart from these, you should also visit the colonial cities like Veracruz or Oaxaca, or the ancient Mayan Ruins like Bonampak or Palenque. You can even visit the port city of Puerto Vallarta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its colonial architecture. You can see these places as a day trip from any of the cities in the country.
Tlaquepaque Market
The Tlaquepaque Market is one of the most popular markets in Mexico. The city of Tlaquepaque is famous for weaving and handicrafts. The market is located in the city and is open from 6 am to 6 pm daily. The place is bursting with colour and offers a variety of handicrafts and food items. You will find everything from traditional sombreros and costumes to paintings and vibrant paintings. So you can definitely spend some time browsing through the stalls and exploring the place.
Apart from the market, Tlaquepaque is a great place to visit. There are a lot of amazing things to see in the city. You can visit the Basilica de Guadalupe and the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions. You can also visit the old town, where you will see beautiful examples of the traditional Mexican architecture.
Volcanic Scenery in Mexico
One of the best things about travelling to Mexico is that you can witness one of the most fascinating natural phenomena of the world. The country is home to many volcanoes, some of which have been active for thousands of years. You can witness the fascinating volcanic scenery as you visit the National Volcanoes National Park. The park is located in the town of Puebla and is open year-round. You can visit the park even during the rainy season, as the place is flood-free.
Apart from visiting the park, you can also visit other volcanic regions in Mexico, like the Lake Atitlan region or the Central Volcanic Complex. You can also visit the hot springs in the country, which are believed to have healing properties.
Conclusion
These places will leave you bewildered, inspired, and with a deeper sense of Mexican culture. You will also learn a lot about the country’s rich history and will gain a new appreciation for the Mexican people. So, don’t wait any longer and go to these places and explore the beautiful country of Mexico.
