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Mexico

7

Reasons To
Visit Mexico

  • Ancient civilizations

    Mexico is an historian’s paradise with an abundance of ancient sites from Olmec to Zapotec to Mayan at every turn. Added to the excitement of being able to transport you back in time to when these cities were teeming with life, the setting of these magnificent ruins is an attraction in itself, whether it is being engulfed in jungle surrounded by the howls of monkeys or atop a plateau with a magnificent view.

    Ancient civilizations

  • Beaches

    Mexico’s Mayan Riviera is famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise sea, perfect for relaxing, and we have some wonderful hideaways to recommend. The Pacific coast and the Baja peninsula are also well-known for their beaches, rolling surf and dramatic coastline. Less visited by the British, we have researched a fantastic selection of hotels here from boutique, activity based, friendly eco-lodge or plush resort-style.

    Beaches

  • Colonial history

    You will find some of the best preserved examples of colonial history throughout many of Mexico’s cities. They not only retain some beautiful classic architecture but something of their historical soul which has been incorporated into modern bustling lives. They are a delight to simply wander round, or to shop, browse markets, sit in cafes, absorb local life and visit museums.

    Colonial history

  • Day of the Dead

    On the 1st of November, Mexico celebrates its 'Day of the Dead', a colourful synergy of ancient cultures and Catholicism, involving decorated skulls, candles, banners and parades. Celebrations take place across the country but there's something particularly enchanting about experiencing this tradition in the colonial towns and it's well worth timing your visit to coincide with these festivities.

    Day of the Dead

  • Food

    Mexican food varies tremendously by region due to climate, geography and the degree of Spanish influence. Absolutely delicious, it suits all tastes, from fresh ceviche to sizzling steak to the more traditional tortillas, frijoles (beans) and guacamole. For the more adventurous, dishes such as spicy mole sauce (a combination of chocolate and chilli) or Chiles Rellenos (chillis stuffed with meat) work perfectly. All washed down with a swift tequila or an ice-cold Corona!

    Food

  • Local culture

    Whether it be visiting the colourful market towns around Oaxaca, the bustling colonial cities, the Indian highland villages of Chiapas or the harsh mountain communities of the Tarahumara around the Copper Canyon you will experience a diverse range of fascinating cultures during a trip to Mexico.

    Local culture

  • Whale watching

    The Sea of Cortez and Baja California is fast becoming known as 'Mexico's Galapagos'. Best experienced by a wilderness focused adventure cruise this remarkable area is prolific with whales and dolphins and other wildlife during November-April.

    Whale watching

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Excursions in Mexico: Montebello Lakes & Hacienda Santa Maria

A two and a half hour drive south from San Cristobal is the Montebello Lakes area. The area is a beautiful combination of lush green pine forests and deeply coloured green and blue lakes that have formed over time in the karst scenery that dominates the area.

Montebello Lakes
Montebello LakesMontebello LakesHacienda Santa MariaHacienda Santa Maria

Montebello Lakes & Hacienda Santa Maria

San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico
  • Food & Wine
  • Walking & Biking

A two and a half hour drive south from San Cristobal is the Montebello Lakes area. The area is a beautiful combination of lush green pine forests and deeply coloured green and blue lakes that have formed over time in the karst scenery that dominates the area.

One of the largest and most beautiful of the lakes, Lago de Tziscao, stretches across the Mexican Guatemala border but you will have the chance to spend time exploring many of the most attractive lakes with your guide.

When you begin the return journey to San Cristobal there is the chance to stop at Hacienda Santa Maria Parador for a spot of lunch and to enjoy the character of this beautiful and charming nineteenth century hacienda. The food is excellent and the hacienda commands stunning views over the local country side and we would highly recommend taking a walk through the gardens where they grow a range of fruit from bananas to grapefruit as well as producing their own coffee which can be enjoyed after you have finished eating.

You also have the opportunity to explore the hacienda's museum which is located in the old family chapel and which houses a small collection of religious art dating from the sixteenth to nineteenth centuries.

Please note this is not a good excursion to do from June through to the end of October during the rainy season as the water levels of the lakes are quite high and the colours are not as vivid.

Further reading:
MexicoWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout MexicoCountry Guides

Other countries in Central America, Mexico & Cuba:
BelizeCosta RicaCubaGuatemalaHondurasNicaraguaPanama

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