7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Mexico

Mexico is an incredibly diverse country. Whether you’re after world-class beaches, ancient ruins, highland hikes, or dynamic cities, you’ll find it here.

I lived in Mexico for three months and completely fell for the energy of the place, the food, the people, the music, the landscapes.

There’s a real depth to it, and so much more than just the tourist trail.

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Why Visit Mexico?

Mexico is a huge country. It’s a place shaped by ancient civilisations, colonial legacies, and rich Indigenous traditions.

You’ll find ancient pyramids in jungle clearings, colourful markets spilling into cobbled streets, and an overwhelming variety of natural beauty.

From the sprawling energy of Mexico City to the quiet surf beaches of the Pacific coast, and the cenotes of Yucatán to the mountains of Chiapas, it’s a place that constantly surprises you.

Here are seven solid reasons to make Mexico your next adventure.

1. Diverse Natural Wonders

Mexico is packed with extraordinary natural landscapes. Beaches, deserts, mountains, rainforests, volcanoes, and underwater worlds.

You can swim in freshwater cenotes carved out of limestone bedrock, go hiking through the jungle to remote waterfalls, or explore the dramatic cliffs of Sumidero Canyon by boat.

One of my favourite memories was exploring a little eco park on the edge of San Cristobal at the end of the day. Beams of sunlight cut through the air, and birds fluttered above. It was magical.

From Baja California’s deserts and grey whale migration to the lush cloud forests of Oaxaca and Chiapas, the country offers nature on a massive scale. And it’s often fairly easy to access.

2. Rich Cultural Heritage

Mexico has one of the richest and most layered cultural histories in the Americas. You’ll see it everywhere, in the architecture, food, music, and rituals still practised today.

Ancient sites like Teotihuacan, just outside Mexico City, are awe-inspiring. Its Pyramid of the Sun is one of the largest in the world.

In the Yucatán, Chichen Itzá draws crowds for good reason. Though lesser-known Mayan cities like Ek Balam or Calakmul are just as fascinating and far less crowded.

In Chiapas, the ruins of Palenque are surrounded by jungle, with howler monkeys echoing through the trees. When I visited, there were only a handful of other people, and it felt properly wild.

Mexico’s festivals and traditions are just as impressive. Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is the most famous, with its altars, parades, and face paint .

Local versions vary by region and are often deeply personal and family-focused.

You’ll find regional folk dances, Indigenous crafts, traditional medicine, and an astonishing range of local dialects. It’s all part of the country’s cultural fabric.

3. Incredible Food

Mexico is one of the world’s great food destinations. The flavours are bold, the ingredients are local, and the regional variety is enormous.

You can grab tacos al pastor from a street cart in Mexico City, tuck into slow-cooked cochinita pibil in the Yucatán, or enjoy high-end tasting menus in Mexico City or Oaxaca.

And it’s not just the obvious dishes. Some of the best food I had was from roadside stalls or market kitchens, often run by families for generations.

Try pozole – a hominy corn soup topped with cabbage, radish, lime, and chilli.

Chiles en nogada is another must-try: stuffed poblano peppers covered in creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds, traditionally eaten around Independence Day.

Mole is a whole world of its own, especially in Oaxaca, with dozens of varieties combining ingredients like chillies, chocolate, seeds, and spices.

Don’t skip tamales either – steamed parcels of masa filled with meats, vegetables, or cheese, wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves.

If you’re feeling brave, chapulines (fried grasshoppers) are surprisingly good! Crunchy, salty, and often served with lime and chilli.

And of course, mezcal and margaritas are essential accompaniments.

4. Beautiful Beaches

With over 9,000 kilometres of coastline, Mexico’s beaches range from wild Pacific surf spots to calm Caribbean coves.

On the east coast, you’ve got the famous beaches of the Riviera Maya: Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

These can be crowded and touristy, but they’re undeniably beautiful, with white sand and turquoise sea.

If you prefer something quieter, head to Oaxaca’s coast. Places like San Agustinillo, Mazunte, and Zipolite are laid-back surfy spots with a much more local feel.

I spent a few days on the beach in San Agustinillo and barely saw more than 20 people a day.

Chiapas also has peaceful beach towns, like Boca del Cielo. No big resorts, just hammocks, fresh seafood, and time to slow down.

On the Pacific side, you’ll find bigger waves and world-class surf in places like Puerto Escondido, Sayulita, and Baja California.

If you’re into diving or snorkelling, the coral reefs off Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are among the best in the country.

5. Colourful Cities

Mexico’s cities are intense, layered, and full of character. There’s something new around every corner, from murals and food stalls to leafy plazas and buzzing cafés.

Mexico City is one of the biggest cities in the world, but it somehow still feels very accessible.

You’ve got leafy neighbourhoods like Roma and Condesa, incredible museums like the Museo Nacional de Antropología, and endless places to eat and drink.

For a slower pace, head to Oaxaca City, Puebla, or San Cristóbal de las Casas.

These colonial cities are packed with charm, with pastel buildings, hidden courtyards, and rich Indigenous culture layered on top of their Spanish foundations.

One of the best things about exploring these cities is how walkable they are. You can go from a quiet backstreet to a hectic market to a rooftop bar in a few minutes.

There’s always music playing somewhere, and the colours are unforgettable – in the buildings, the clothes, the art, the food.

6. Adventure and Ecotourism

Mexico is perfect if you like your travels a bit more active. There’s no shortage of ways to get outdoors and do something different.

Go zip-lining over jungle canopies in places like Chiapas or the Riviera Maya. Trek through the Sierra Norte mountains in Oaxaca on multi-day community-run trails.

Swim with whale sharks off Isla Holbox or Isla Mujeres between June and September.

You can hike to remote waterfalls, ride horses through dusty canyons, or explore underground cave systems like Grutas de Cacahuamilpa.

One of my favourite adventures was hiking to a hot spring near Hierve el Agua, surrounded by views that felt like the edge of the world.

Ecotourism is also growing fast. Many eco-lodges are built with sustainability in mind, using solar power, natural materials, and local ingredients.

And importantly, some projects are run by Indigenous communities who genuinely benefit from visitors.

Check out Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, just south of Tulum.

It’s a protected area of jungle, wetlands, and coastline where you can spot crocodiles, manatees, and even jaguars (if you’re lucky). All while supporting conservation efforts.

7. Art and Music Scene

Creativity is everywhere in Mexico. In the streets, the music, the murals, and the everyday details of life.

Mexico City is a cultural heavyweight, with world-class museums like the Museo Frida Kahlo and Museo Tamayo. Plus, independent galleries and street art in neighbourhoods like Roma and Coyoacán.

Oaxaca is another creative hotspot. You’ll find brilliant local crafts, vibrant street murals, and contemporary art spaces like MACO (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca).

I remember wandering the streets and stumbling on pop-up exhibitions and artist collectives in old colonial buildings.

Even Tulum (which I think is pretty overrated) has embraced art in its own way, with outdoor galleries, sculptures, and installations all over town.

Music is also a key part of life in Mexico. You’ll hear live music on street corners, in markets, and on long bus rides.

Mariachi might be the stereotype, but there’s also son jarocho, banda, norteño, cumbia, and a growing indie music scene.

The mix of Indigenous and Spanish musical traditions continues to evolve, with each region adding its own twist.

Additional Information on Visiting Mexico

Mexico Travel Tips:

• Most of Mexico is generally safe to visit, although certain areas should be avoided due to the risk of lawlessness and violent crime. Check official government travel advice for up-to-date information.
• Wherever you visit, it’s essential to exercise common-sense precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuable items, and use reputable transportation services.
• While many Mexicans working in tourism speak English, learning some basic Spanish phrases will definitely enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
• Public transportation is cheap and effective both within and between major towns and cities.
• Taxis and rideshare apps like Uber are also widely available in major cities.
• I recommend hiring a car if you want increased flexibility and the freedom to explore more out-of-the-way places.

Best Time to Visit Mexico:

• The ideal time to visit Mexico depends on your preferences. The dry season from late November to April is perfect for beach vacations and outdoor activities.
• If you want to experience significant cultural festivals, come during Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) between 31 October and 2 November, or Semana Santa (Holy Week) in March or April.
• For smaller crowds and pleasant weather, consider the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October.

Top Destinations to Visit:

• Mexico City: The sprawling high-altitude capital offers a rich cultural experience, including historic sites like the Zocalo, Frida Kahlo’s house, and the stunning Teotihuacan pyramids.
• Cancun: Known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to ancient Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza.
• Playa del Carmen: A trendy coastal town with stunning beaches, upscale shopping, and easy access to the natural wonders of the Riviera Maya.
• Oaxaca City: Famous for its traditional markets, historic centre, and delicious cuisine, including mole and mezcal.
• Puerto Escondido: Mexico’s surfing mecca, located on the southern Pacific coast of Oaxaca state.
• Tulum: A picturesque beach town with Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, culture, or a deeper connection with nature, Mexico has it all in spades.

Mexico’s diverse landscapes, countless archaeological treasures, world-class cuisine, and distinctive culture make it a dream destination to explore.

If it’s not currently on your bucket list, it should be!

Other Posts About Visiting Mexico

• 25 Best Boutique Hotels in Mexico City
• 11 Best Boutique Hotels in Cozumel
• How To Get From Cozumel To Tulum
• Ultimate Yucatán Backpacking Travel Guide
• Guide To Visiting Cascadas Roberto Barrios In Chiapas
• Boca Del Cielo, Chiapas: An Unspoilt Pacific Paradise

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