Mexico is one of those destinations with something for almost every traveller. Whether you want to relax on idyllic beaches, explore ancient ruins, hike through breathtaking scenery, or soak up the culture of its vibrant cities, Mexico has it all.
I lived in Mexico for 3 months and fell in love with the people, the food, the landscapes, the music, and the overall vibe of the place. It’s a fantastic country, full of energy and life.
7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Mexico in 2024
Mexico is a huge country, steeped in history, passion, and creativity. It’s a land full of vivid colours, fiery fiestas, mystical ancient ruins, and extraordinary adventures.
From the temples of the Mayan civilization to the lively streets of Mexico City, and the azure waters of the Caribbean to the rugged landscapes of the Sierra Madre mountains, this mesmerizing destination has so much to offer.
Here are seven reasons why Mexico deserves your attention in 2024.
1. Diverse Natural Wonders
Mexico is a treasure trove of stunning natural wonders just waiting to be explored.
Pristine beaches, lush jungles, soaring mountains, and endless deserts, Mexico’s diverse range of landscapes will leave you in awe.
Dive into crystal-clear cenotes, hike through thick jungles in search of ancient Mayan ruins, enjoy mesmerising waterfalls, or marvel at the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon.
With its rich biodiversity and unparalleled natural beauty, Mexico is a dream destination for any nature lover.
2. Rich Cultural Heritage
Mexico’s rich cultural heritage shines through its vibrant traditions, colourful festivals, and impressive archaeological sites.
Visit the ancient ruined city of Teotihuacan, home to some of the largest pyramids in the world, near Mexico City.
Or head to the Yucatan peninsula and explore Mayan temples, such as Chichen Itza with its iconic El Castillo pyramid.
Journey deep into the jungles of Chiapas to discover the incredible ancient ruins of Palenque. This place is so atmospheric, looming out of the lush green foliage. It still hosts various ceremonies and rituals throughout the year too.
Experience the vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations, sample traditional dishes like mole and tamales, and witness a folk dance performance. Or listen to an authentic Mariachi performance in Mexico City.
Mexico’s culture is as diverse as it is fascinating.
3. Mouthwatering Cuisine
Mexican cuisine is renowned worldwide for its bold flavours and distinctive ingredients. From street food like tacos al pastor to sophisticated fine dining, visiting Mexico is a true culinary delight.
Indulge in a bowl of hearty pozole, made with corn, meat, vegetables, and spices. Try the fiery chiles en nogada – stuffed poblano chiles with a creamy walnut sauce – a dish that celebrates the colours of the Mexican flag.
Sample some authentic Oaxacan mole sauces, made from a variety of ingredients such as chocolate, nuts, chiles, and spices. Or traditional tamales – cornmeal masa dough mixed with meat or beans and steamed in corn husks.
Try chapulines (deep-fried grasshoppers) seasoned with chilli and lime (they’re actually really tasty!). And don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing margarita or some authentic mezcal.
4. Beautiful Beaches
With over 9,000 kilometres of coastline, Mexico is home to many gorgeous beaches, with something for every preference.
Take your pick from the popular tourist destinations like Cancun and Tulum, or hidden gems like Playa San Augustinillo in Oaxaca, and Boca del Cielo in Chiapas.
Relax on the soft white sands, soak up the sun, or go snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters. And if you’re a surfer, you’re in luck. Mexico’s Pacific coast has some of the best surf breaks in the world.
5. Colourful Cities
Mexico’s cities are vibrant, colourful, and full of life – a real feast for the senses.
Explore the streets of Mexico City and discover buzzing neighbourhood cafes and bars, tranquil parks, excellent museums, and some of the best food in Latin America.
Visit the beautiful colonial cities of Oaxaca, Puebla, and San Cristóbal de las Casas. These places will transport you to a bygone era, with their picturesque cobblestone streets, serene courtyards, vibrant plazas, and ornate cathedrals.
6. Adventure and Ecotourism
For thrill-seekers, Mexico offers endless opportunities for adventure. Go zip-lining through the jungle, trekking in the Sierra Madre, swimming with whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, or take a hot-air balloon ride over Tequila Valley.
Explore ancient caves, ride horses through the desert, or hike to a hidden waterfall. No matter what your definition of adventure is, you’ll find it in Mexico.
Ecotourism is a rapidly growing sector in Mexico too. Many eco-lodges and sustainable resorts are committed to preserving the local environment, using renewable energy, offering locally sourced food, and also paying fair wages.
Check out the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Tulum that’s teeming with wildlife.
Here, you can explore the mangrove forests and untouched waterways while supporting local conservation efforts.
7. Art and Music Scene
Mexico is a country steeped in art and music, from its ancient civilizations to modern-day artists. No matter where you go in Mexico, you’ll be struck by how incredibly creative and vibrant the culture is.
In Mexico City, there are many museums and galleries showcasing everything from pre-Hispanic artefacts to contemporary works.
The streets of Oaxaca are lined with incredible street art, sculptures, and beautifully painted colonial buildings.
Even Tulum (not the most authentic Mexican destination in my opinion) boasts a thriving art scene with galleries featuring local artists and open-air exhibitions.
For music lovers, there’s no shortage of live performances. You can hear music on practically every street corner. The country has a rich musical history, with both Indigenous and Spanish influences.
Today, modern Mexican music blends these traditional sounds with contemporary styles, creating a unique fusion of rhythms and melodies.
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!
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.
