Mexico offers travellers a tantalising smorgasbord of nature, history, cuisine and culture. Aztec and Mayan archaeological treasures, tequila, charming colonial cities, Mexican food and beach culture, all these features and more make up this tourist and historical hub. The culturally curious will be bowled over by the impressive sites of ancient civilisations that moulded Mexico’s great pre-colonial history. Nature lovers will be in their element on the pristine beaches that stretch along its 10 000 kilometre coastline or exploring the country’s rainforests, mountain peaks and mangrove lagoons. Gourmands gorge on the distinctive and flavourful cuisine that has become famous worldwide.
Mexico City, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, sprawls across the Valley of Mexico. Originally the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, the city was constructed over the ancient Lake Texcoco. The arrival of the Spanish saw the demolishment of most structures. However, some centuries-old canals and ruins can still be found. Head to the historic centre to see a host of architectural and cultural attractions, including the Plaza de la Constitucion, the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Templo Mayor, the Palace of Fine Arts and the scenic Central Alameda Park. Top attractions such as Chapultepec Castle, the Modern Art Museum and the National Museum of Anthropology can be found in Chapultepec Park.
Set in Mexico’s Central Highlands, the cosmopolitan city of San Miguel de Allende is known for its thriving art scene, excellent restaurants, upmarket accommodations, colonial architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico and holds UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of interesting attractions including: the vibrant handicraft market, the recently excavated archaeological zone of Canada de la Virgen, the picturesque El Jardín, the main plaza in the historical heart, and the Neo-Gothic San Miguel Arcangel Parish, a church in the heart of the city’s historic cobblestoned centre.
Set in a narrow valley bordered by the Sierra de Guanajuato Mountains, the charming city of Guanajuato comprises narrow, cobblestone streets that wind in-between colourful buildings and mountainsides. Many of these streets are far too small for vehicles to pass through, and the resulting underground network of tunnels is just one feature that makes the city a unique destination. Visitors to the historic mining town are also treated to magnificent neo-classical and baroque buildings, vibrant plazas, and a host of cultural events and activities all year round. Most notable is the famous Festival Internacional Cevantino, one of the world’s premier art and culture extravaganzas. UNESCO recognises Guanajuato for its signature architecture, silver mines, and rich history.
Located in western Mexico, the city of Guadalajara serves as the capital and largest city of the state of Jalisco. Guadalajara is also the second-largest metropolis in Mexico. Guadalajara is the cultural hub of Mexico, considered by most to be the home of mariachi music and wide-brimmed sombreros. The town's warm small-town atmosphere is contrasted by big-city attractions including fascinating museums, modern restaurants, and excellent shopping. Sample Guadalajara’s famous culinary delights at the city’s massive food court at Mercado San Juan de Dios; or explore the city’s historic centre, dotted with landmarks and colonial plazas. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Guadalajara’s specialty, 'torta ahogada' a scrumptious ‘drowned sandwich’ stuffed with fried pork.
Dubbed a microcosm of Mexico's best, Oaxaca is a southern state known for its diverse natural landscapes, exquisite architecture, spirited culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. Mountain peaks, canyons, pristine beaches and tropical rainforests have shaped its topography, creating a fertile platform for rich biodiversity – the state is endowed with 50% of all Mexico's plant and animal species. Oaxaca City offers a rich colonial charm and is located only nine kilometres from Monte Albán, a Maya city founded in 500BC, dotted with several hundred artificial terraces. Holidaymakers flock to Oaxaca's pacific coast for its excellent surf, the string of vibrant holiday resort towns, and stretches of pristine coastline where sea turtles come to nest.
Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, the port town of Puerto Escondido is a popular vacation destination in the state of Oaxaca. ‘Surfs up’ at this beach paradise with Tie-dye T-shirts, surfboards, and beach shacks abound. This surfing mecca is known for its spectacular stretches of golden-sand beach, perfect waves, and magnificent surrounding natural landscapes. It boasts a collection of pristine beaches, all possessing a unique charm, including the palm tree-lined Principal beach, where visitors can relax at one of the thatch-roofed bars lining the beach, as well as surf the excellent waves at Zicatela Beach, enjoy the calmer waters of La Punta Beach and soak up the incredible scenery of Carrizalillo Beach set in a little cove backed by steep cliffs. Other highlights include kayaking, diving, horse riding, fishing, and whale watching. This sun-drenched Mexican paradise is a dream come true for sun worshippers and nature lovers.
