Mexico Bucket List: 25 Amazing Experiences You Need To Have

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Mexico is widely known for its majestic beaches spread along 9000+ km of coastline. This vibrant country has so much more to offer than just sun and sand!

Throughout Mexico, you’ll find gorgeous colonial cities, stunning natural scenery, some of the best food you could ever taste, fascinating remnants of ancient civilizations, and so much more. 

I’ve compiled this Mexico bucket list with the help of some fellow travel bloggers to show you just how many different types of experiences there are to be had in Mexico.

Looking for the best things to do in Mexico? TripAdvisor.com is my FAVORITE website and App for booking tours!

There’s truly something here for all types of travelers, from thrifty backpackers to luxury seekers, art and history fanatics, foodies, and beyond!

I must admit that after residing in Mexico for more than 3 years, my list of must-do experiences has only grown.

I haven’t yet had the opportunity to partake in ALL the experiences featured here, which is why I asked my fellow travel bloggers to share theirs!

I will keep adding experiences to this collection as I continue to travel and learn about Mexico and Mexican culture. 

If you think I’ve omitted something crucial, drop a comment below or send me an email, and I’ll add it to my list of things to do in Mexico!

Below is a list of the most amazing experiences in Mexico that I’ve been very fortunate to have! They are considered Mexico’s most popular experiences, and I’ve put them in a wonderful, easy-to-read list that you can print!

Northern Mexico & the Baja Peninsula

From the wine regions of Ensenada and snorkeling reefs off of Los Cabos to the arid landscapes of the Sonoran desert, the famous Copper Canyon in the state of Chihuahua, Northern Mexico, and the Baja Peninsula, there is plenty to explore!

1. Sea Kayaking Along the Baja Peninsula

The Baja Peninsula has long been a draw for adventure travelers who venture south in search of sun and sand.

Surfing, diving, fishing, and whale watching are all popular activities in the Baja, especially toward the southern tip of the peninsula.

Sea Kayaking is another fantastic way to appreciate the stunning nature of this region.

There are all kinds of sea kayaking expeditions available, some lasting for a few hours and others for a few days. 

Leigh, of Campfires and Concierges, recently tried a multi-day Sea of Cortez kayaking expedition that departed from La Paz, Baja California Sur.

The tour included visits to sea lion colonies by kayak, as well as snorkeling excursions, all from a beautiful basecamp on Isla Espiritu near La Paz.

Wondering how to get the best currency exchange rate in Mexico? Use Wise!

If you’re looking for an adventurous way to experience nature in Baja California, definitely check out a sea kayaking tour. 

Read Also: 14 Adventurous Outdoor Experiences in Mexico

2. Wine Tasting in Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California

By Chris of Explore Now Or Never – follow her on Pinterest for more travel inspiration!

Wine tasting in Mexico? Yes indeed! Definitely add a few days of wine tasting in Valle de Guadalupe to your Mexico bucket list.

With more than 75 wineries, this valley’s unique Mediterranean climate—warm days and breezy nights—has inspired varietals from around the world… everything from syrah and cabernet to tempranillo and chardonnay!

Just a two-hour drive from San Diego, east of Ensenada, it’s easy to do a day trip to Valle de Guadalupe, either on your own or with a tour.

You can stay for a few nights at one of the many eco-friendly hotels, B&Bs, or Airbnbs located throughout the valley.

Mix up your tasting itinerary at wineries in Valle de Guadalupe by visiting some of the older, more established wineries (there’s a handful that have been making wines for decades) along with some of the up-and-coming boutique wineries.

Wines aren’t inexpensive here (plan on $25 USD per bottle and up as of Summer of 2025), but you can find some memorable wines.

The food scene here is also on the rise.

Whether you want a budget (gourmet) meal at a food truck or are ready to splurge on a four-course food and wine pairing, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Ride the “El Chepe” train through Copper Canyon, Chihuahua.

Copper Canyon, or La Barranca del Cobre as it is known in Spanish, is a system of canyons that are both bigger and deeper than the famed Grand Canyon of the US (not that Mexico is bragging).

One of the most popular ways to experience Copper Canyon is via the famous “El Chepe” train, which travels from the city of Chihuahua (in Chihuahua state) to Los Mochis, Sinaloa.

The scenery is purportedly breathtaking from the train, and I am eager to experience it firsthand.

According to Trip Savvy, the 400-mile journey through Copper Canyon includes 36 bridges, more than 80 tunnels, and an 8,000-foot elevation gain!

The train makes a couple of stops along the way, which enables passengers to take day hikes, visit viewpoints, and explore villages along the route.

If you find any stops intriguing, you can stay overnight and catch the train again!

Central Mexico

Central Mexico includes the states of Aguascalientes, Colima, Estado de Mexico, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacan, Morelos, Nayarit, Queretaro, San Luis Potosi, Tlaxcala, and Zacatecas.

This region is incredibly varied because it features the sun-soaked beach towns of the west coast, the lush jungles of the coastal mountains, the arid terrain and colonial cities of the central valley and central highlands, and more!

4. Climb the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacán

The Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacán is just an hour outside of Mexico City.

Just as Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the Americas, with 21.2 million people, Teotihuacán was one of the largest cities of pre-Columbian Americas, with a population of 125,000.

Experts believe the site dates back to 100 B.C. and was in use until the 8th Century AD. The site is interesting because the Aztecs lived there, but it was already in ruins when they arrived. Who built and inhabited this location prior to the Aztecs is a subject of much debate.

Teotihuacán’s pyramids of the Sun and the Moon are its most famous features. The Sun is the world’s third largest.

While the landmarks are stunning, the visit is much more dynamic when led by a guide who can explain the historical relevance of each of the structures.

This archaeological site makes an effortless day trip from Mexico City.

Pack plenty of water and apply sunscreen, as shade is nonexistent, and it is bound to be hot.

Related Reading: Incredible Ruins in Mexico You Should Visit

5. Experience Dia de Muertos or Cervantino Festival in Guanajuato City, Guanajuato

When someone is ready to explore Mexico beyond the beach, Guanajuato City is my first recommendation.

After visiting 26 of 31 Mexican states over the course of a lifetime, Guanajuato is a standout. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a colorful and festive walkable colonial town carved into a mountainous ravine.

Bursting with plazas, gardens, narrow alleyways (known as callejones), cobblestone streets, markets, cafes, and other wonders, it’s the perfect backdrop for one of Latin America’s most famous arts festivals, Festival Cervantino.

As you’ve probably surmised, its namesake is the famous 16th-century writer, Miguel de Cervantes.

The two-and-a-half-week festival is packed with visitors from around Mexico and the world, enjoying both ticketed and free indoor and outdoor music and other art performances.

Occurring every October, the festival coincides with the lead-up to Día de Muertos on November 1 and 2, elevating the festival with new and old Day of the Dead traditions.

Enjoy pan de muerto (a sweet bread), a city full of catrinas (people wearing skull-painted faces and “19th-century” dresses), yellow, orange, and scarlet marigolds and similar flowers, and market stands selling calaveras (skulls made out of various materials, both edible and not).

Guanajuato City is an easy bus ride from Mexico City, Guadalajara, Querétaro, and San Miguel de Allende.

The city is bustling from the beginning of Cervantino in early October through Three Kings’ Day on January 6.

I have visited Guanajuato City four times during this period, including twice for El Cervantino, and I have always been able to find a room at the last minute.

Enjoy the festival!

Click here to discover more incredible things to do in Guanajuato!

6. Catch a performance of Mexico’s Ballet Folklórico at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City.

The Ballet Folklórico is a 3-hour performance incorporating dances representative of Mexico’s history, from the Aztec times all the way through to modern-day Mexico.

Colorful costume styles, unique traditional dances, and incredible music will awe you.

This is an interesting way to learn about Mexico’s history from a seat in one of the most beloved buildings in Mexico City, the Palacio de Bellas Artes. Click here to learn more and check ticket prices!

The Palacio de Bellas Artes is worth a visit regardless of whether you have a chance to see the ballet.

Construction on the incredible building began in 1905 but wasn’t completed until 1934.

The architecture style has neoclassical, art nouveau, and art deco influences and a facade of Carrara marble, which is so heavy that the building has sunk approximately 4 meters since construction!

In addition to performances, the Palacio de Bellas Artes also features incredible works by some of Mexico’s most treasured artists, including the famed muralists Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and José Clemente Orozco.

7. Mingle With Monarchs in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Michoacan

From October to March, this reserve is home to millions of Monarch butterflies that migrate south to Mexico for the winter.

What’s truly incredible about this migration is that it takes months to complete, although the lifespan of a butterfly is a mere 2 to 6 weeks.

UNESCO recognizes the reserve as a World Heritage Site and seeks to protect it as an “exceptional experience of nature.”

According to the UNESCO website, the number of butterflies is so prolific that their weight bends tree branches! Can you imagine?

Because the reserve sprawls along the border between Michoacan and Mexico, there are access points from either state.

Within the state of Mexico, you can visit La Piedra Herrada or Cerro Pelón sanctuaries, while from Michoacan, you can visit El Rosario or the Sierra Chincua reserves.

I haven’t yet visited any of these sanctuaries (unfortunately!), but I am eager to do so! My research has led me to think Sierra Chincua might be the ideal access point.

Looking for the best things to do in Mexico? TripAdvisor.com is my FAVORITE website and App for booking tours!

Regardless of where you choose to visit, you can mingle with the butterflies on guided hikes within the reserve.

If hiking seems too strenuous (it can be steep, by the sounds of it) you can also opt to explore the area on horseback.

8. Visit Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul in Coyoacán, Mexico City

Frida Kahlo’s famous Casa Azul was her childhood home and her residence with Diego Rivera and has since been converted into a museum dedicated to her life and work.

The house and grounds are beautiful in their own right, but the collection of art exhibited is striking.

My favorite part of the museum, personally, was the section dedicated to Frida’s outfits.

It was fascinating to learn about the influences on her personal style and why she chose to dress the way she did in order to conceal her imperfections and insecurities.

If you plan to go, book tickets in advance. 

Arrive in Coyoacán early and spend a few hours wandering the colorful streets, visiting the market and the parks, and nibbling on tasty, authentic snacks in one of the many adorable cafes!

Related Reading: How to Spend 4 Perfect Days in Mexico City

9. Hang 10 in Sayulita, Nayarit

By Roxane of The Coastal Campaign

Coming from Canada, Mexico is a very common holiday destination for us.

I have been fortunate enough to have visited on numerous occasions, and still to this date, one of my favorite activities is surfing in the small beach town of Sayulita.

This cute town with bright store facades, delicious restaurants, and picturesque little cobbled streets is adored by travelers worldwide for good reason.

Just an hour’s drive north of Puerto Vallarta, it is well worth the trip.

Not just a surfing town, Sayulita is home to many local artisans and trendy boutique shops, so make sure you take some time to pop your head into a couple of stores.

After finishing your shopping, it’s time to head to the beach. If you are new to the surfing realm, grab an instructor for an hour or two for an inexpensive lesson. 

Or if you are feeling adventurous, rent a board from any of the local surf shops (it shouldn’t cost you more than $15 for an hour as of Summer 2025 currency exchange rates, which is about 200 MXN) and try your luck with a few waves!

It’s fun to be active in the water alone or with friends.

There are few feelings as satisfying as catching a wave, standing up, and riding it to shore. 

Once you have had your fill of the waves, make sure you grab a cold drink on the beach—you’ve earned it!

Are you Dreaming of the beach? Check out my guide to Mexico’s best beach towns!

10. Soak Up History in the Museums of Mexico City

If you’re a history lover, Mexico City is an essential spot for your Mexico bucket list.

Discover a multitude of museums that cover a wide range of topics.

From the Museo Nacional de Antropología, which houses artifacts from pre-Hispanic times, to the Museo Casa de Luis Barragán, which displays works from the award-winning architect in his former home, you’re bound to find something of interest!

Click Here to Buy Tickets to any of the 150 History, Science and Art museums

Of course, remember to visit the Palacio Nacional to discover the history of modern Mexico and visit the famous Diego Rivera murals, which showcase the Spanish conquest.

avant-gardeAnd no trip would be complete without a stop at the Castillo de Chapultepec.

This palace was originally constructed as a summer home for the viceroy of Spain but now serves as the National History Museum of Mexico.

If you’re an art lover, the Museo Soumaya holds the private collection of Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim.

Here you’ll find works by everyone from European Avant-Garde painters to contemporary Mexican artists and beyond!

These options are just the beginning; there’s still plenty more to be discovered depending on your preferences!

Dreaming of Mexico City yet? These charming Mexico City vacation rentals would be the perfect base for your trip!

11. See Baby Turtles Released in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

One of the most special experiences I’ve had in Mexico took place on a beach just north of Puerto Vallarta.

One evening, just before dusk, we stood outside the Nuevo Vallarta Turtle Sanctuary, where, in just a few minutes, a nightly event would begin.

At dusk, the gates of the sanctuary opened, and two volunteers came out carrying a large plastic box.

We peeped over the edge to see that it was full of tiny baby turtles – Olive Ridley turtles – who’d hatched earlier that day.

Their mothers had come to the beach a few weeks before to lay their eggs, which had then been brought into the safety of the sanctuary to incubate.

Now it was time for the babies to take their first steps in the wild.

We weren’t allowed to touch the little turtles, but the volunteers did tell us all about them.

They release the young turtles at dusk, as that’s the safest time, with fewer predators and more chance that they’ll reach the water safely.

After doing a final inspection for any turtle-eating birds in the area, the volunteers gently took them out of their plastic tub and placed them on the sand, quite a way from the water’s edge.

It’s important for the young turtles to find their own way to the ocean so they have time to feel and taste the sand, which helps them find their way back to lay their own eggs.

We watched them rush towards the water to begin their lives in the sea – a magical moment and an unforgettable experience in Mexico.

12. Cruise the Canals of Xochimilco, Mexico City

To cruise in a trajinera (a colorful boat) through the canals of Xochimilco is, without a doubt, an activity that anyone who wants to learn more about Mexico and the country’s traditions should do.

A Xochimilco tour will leave you absolutely soaked in Mexican culture.

You’ll be surrounded by all kinds of music, from mariachi and fandango to Norteña bands! For a small tip, a band will serenade you with the musical stylings of your choice!

Meanwhile, on the other side, you will be bombarded with options of delicious comida típica, from tacos to elotes, nopales, and antojitos!

Xochimilco is popular among tourists and locals alike who wish to spend a few hours relaxing while surrounded by a unique landscape with a friendly ambiance.

These canals were part of a network of waterways within the Lake of Texcoco. 

Historically, these served the Aztecs not only as routes for transporting goods but were also developed for a particular form of agriculture in which crops were grown on man-made, floating islands.

The city of Tenochtitlán (now Mexico City) was built on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco, surrounded by canals.

The borough of Xochimilco is all that remains of what used to be the main method of transportation.

While lazy voyages on the canals are a fun pastime, many residents of this neighborhood still use these waterways as routes for commuting to school, work, and beyond!

One piece of sage advice: go easy on the Tequila while singing Juan Gabriel songs at the top of your lungs… Being on a boat in constant motion could potentially lead to disaster. Just sayin’!

Southern Mexico

Southern Mexico includes the states of Campeche, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Puebla, Tabasco, Quintana Roo, Veracruz, and Yucatán.

Though it covers only a handful of states, this region is home to some of Mexico’s most popular destinations, namely those of the famous Yucatán peninsula.

From the colorful, colonial streets of Oaxaca City, the lush jungles of Chiapas, and the white sand coasts of Quintana Roo, there is a lot to take in!

Following are just a few of the unforgettable experiences that you might wish to add to your Mexico bucket list.  

13. Eat Cochinita Pibil in Mérida, Yucatán

Cochinita pibil is a style of slow-roasted, marinated pork that originates from Yucatán state.

Traditionally this dish is prepared by roasting for hours on a bed of hot coals buried underground. After a fitting amount of time, the tasty meat is dug up and served.

I’m sure this technique is no longer the most common method of preparation.

The marinade used on the pork is a delicious citrus concoction that tastes absolutely heavenly.

You can put the cochinita in tacos or a torta, enjoy it alongside scrambled eggs, or in a myriad of other presentations.

While I think it’s totally reasonable to visit Merida solely to eat cochinita pibil, I would also recommend exploring the city.

It’s one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial cities and offers some of the country’s very best food.

Be sure to drive down the Paseo de Montejo to spot the impressive, French-inspired 19th-century mansions that line the street.

You may also wish to check out the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, visit a few cenotes, or even take a road trip to Chichén Itza!

14. Ride A Boat Through Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas

The state of Chiapas is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The Cañón del Sumidero is a must-see natural wonder in Chiapas, Mexico.

One of the best ways to experience the canyon is on a boat ride that departs from the town of Chiapa de Corzo.

As you skirt along the Grijalva River, the steep canyon walls tower up to 2500 feet above you.

If you’re staying in San Cristobal de Las Casas, you can book tours to Sumidero Canyon that depart right from San Cristobal.

Watch for wildlife as you cruise: you’re liable to spot crocodiles and many different species of birds.

The canyon also offers impressive geological features, like stalactites, caves, sections of rapids, and seasonal waterfalls!

Don’t forget to sample the famous Chiapas coffee as you reflect on the day’s adventure!

15. Hike in Itza-Popo National Park, Puebla

Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl are neighboring volcanoes and the second and third tallest peaks in Mexico.

You can often spot them in the distance if you are in Puebla or Mexico City. 

A day hike in the National Park sounds like an exciting trek and a fun way to get a closer look at these two volcanoes.

Popo is an active volcano, and you may even see her spew ash during your hike!

Dan and Di of Slight North have a great guide on how to spend a day hiking in Itza-Popo National Park, and I can’t wait to put their advice to use!

If you’re a more intrepid explorer, there are numerous mountaineering expeditions that you can join in order to climb Iztaccíhuatl.

If you prefer a solo mission, you can hire a guide to take you up.

16. Sail the Lagoon of Seven Colours in Bacalar, Quintana Roo

By Felicia of Feather and the Wind 

There are dozens of charming pueblos magicos worthy of a spot on your Mexico bucket list, and Bacalar is one that ought to be close to the top of Mexico’s most popular experiences.

This is one of the most amazing experiences in Mexico that I have had in my life!

Nestled in the south of Mexico, not far from the Belize border, the town of Bacalar is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds of more popular tourist hot spots.

Bacalar’s beautiful lagoon, sometimes called the Maldives of Mexico, has so many shades of blue that it may take your breath away.

The appropriately named Lagoon of Seven Colors can be admired from a waterfront bar, dock, or hammock, but the best way to experience this hidden gem in Mexico is with a memorable sailing excursion.

Enjoy the lagoon’s endless blue hues as you make your way toward the Pirate Channel, where you can stop for a refreshing dip in the clear, shallow water.

Your sailing trip will likely also feature bird watching, a visit to the Black cenote, and a lesson on the stromatolites that make this lagoon so unique.

17. Eat Mole Poblano in Puebla City, Puebla

I was intrigued when I heard that mole poblano was a chocolate sauce. I’ve never met a piece of chocolate I didn’t like.

I mean, I literally have no standards (or self-control) when it comes to chocolate.

But when I learned that it’s usually served over meat, I became skeptical. If you’ve never tried it before, it’s hard for your palate to anticipate what such a concoction would taste like.

Spoiler alert: Incredible.

And I’m not just saying that because I’m a chocoholic. In fact, it took me years to really develop a taste for mole, but now… I’m obsessed.

While it’s commonly found throughout Mexico, mole poblano is believed to have originated in Puebla. It consists of chocolate, chili, and approximately 20 other ingredients.

It’s typically served over meat or as an enchilada sauce. If you visit Puebla (or anywhere in Mexico, really), you’ll be missing out if you don’t try this tasty and unique dish.

It’s possible you may not like it the first time (I didn’t), but I urge you to give it at least 3 tries before you abandon the idea — it tastes different everywhere you go!

If you love mole poblano and wish to experience some of Puebla’s other traditional offerings, try ordering a cemita poblana or chiles en nogada!

A cemita is Puebla’s version of a torta: a sandwich on a fluffy roll stuffed with meat, cheese, avocado, and veggies! 

Chiles en nogada consists of a poblano chile stuffed with ground beef and veggies (picadillo), bathed in a creamy nut sauce, and topped with pomegranate seeds.

This dish is most popular in the late summer when pomegranate seeds are in season.

18. Photograph the Hierve El Agua “Waterfall” in Oaxaca

This calcified “waterfall” near the city of Oaxaca is formed from water oversaturated with calcium carbonate.

After many long years of dripping from the earth, it has hardened into a “frozen” cascade that drops over 50 meters into the valley below. 

The name of this site is a bit of a conundrum to anyone who speaks Spanish, as hierve means “boiling.”

The “boiling water” part of the name refers to what is actually the heavily carbonated water that is being pushed from the earth’s surface.

There are pools of this water at the top of the site that are said to be swimmable! 

Hierve el Agua is just one of many amazing things to do in Oaxaca. I can’t wait to see it for myself one day!

Related Reading: How to Spend 4 Amazing Days in Oaxaca, Mexico

19. Soak up the sun in Tulum, Quintana Roo

By Greta of Greta’s Travels

If you’re seeking the ultimate Mexico travel experience, Tulum is a must-add to your Mexico Bucket List.

Tulum is a town along the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, famous for its white-sand beaches with turquoise water and the well-preserved Mayan ruins that overlook them.

The beach by the ruins of Tulum is very beautiful, and you will most likely see lots of people swimming in the sea and enjoying the beach, but the real highlight for me was the Mayan ruins.

Walking through the remains of this ancient civilization in such a beautiful natural scenario will amaze you.

Tulum is crowded during the day, so arrive early to avoid the rush.

Once you’ve had enough of history, there is more to explore in Tulum than just beaches and Mayan ruins.

You can venture inland to swim in the cenotes (natural sinkholes resulting from the collapse of rock that exposes underground water) or go scuba diving in the sea searching for turtles.

Tulum is a beautiful part of Mexico, which I believe everyone should add to their Mexico bucket list.

Read Also: 18 Adventurous Things to do in the Riviera Maya

20. Enjoy a Lechero at La Parroquia in Veracruz City, Veracruz

Drinking a lechero in the Gran Café de la Parroquia has been, for many years, a tradition that is practically obligatory for anyone who visits the Port of Veracruz.

The waiter will bring you a tall glass with a shot of espresso and bang a spoon against the glass, signaling another waiter to serve the milk. 

When the second waiter arrives, he will complete your delicious coffee by making a show of pouring the milk into your glass from up to a meter above!

A bomba, a sweet bread filled with butter, complements this tasty, traditional coffee, making it complete. 

As you enjoy the breeze floating in from the Gulf of Mexico, you can listen to traditional music in the Huapango Jarocho style, which originates in Veracruz.

Many people overlook the fact that the famous song “La Bamba” was written in this very city and in this style!

Ritchie Valens may have made it famous worldwide, but this song has long been considered a Veracruzan hymn and even has its own accompanying dance!

21. Swim with Sea Turtles in Akumal, Quintana Roo

The beach town of Akumal sits right between Tulum and Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya.

Not only is Akumal one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, but it’s also the feeding and nesting ground of four different species of sea turtles.

If you take your gear (or hire a guide), you can snorkel with turtles right from the beach!

For the best experience, plan to arrive at Akumal Bay early in the day before the sandy bottom is disturbed, making visibility poor.

Spend a few hours snorkeling with the turtles and then relax with a picnic on the beach! Later, after a couple of cervezas, head out for another round of snorkeling, or just enjoy a peaceful swim in the warm water!

Are you curious to visit Akumal and swim with the sea turtles? Read my full guide on snorkeling with turtles in Akumal.

22. Frolic in the Water at Xel-Ha, Quintana Roo

By Sara of Fernweh Sarah

Already before we started on our nine-month trip around the world, a colleague insisted that Xel-Ha in Tulum, Mexico, absolutely has to be on our Mexico travel bucket list.

A few months later, we spent a day at Xel-Ha. I now understand why she was so excited about it!

Xel-Ha is an all-inclusive water park 20 minutes by car from Tulum. You can take a small public bus (my recommendation!) or an organized tour.

The public buses will drop you off near the highway, and you then simply walk for about 5 minutes to reach the entrance of the water park.

Inside Xel-Ha, tubing through a mangrove river, numerous waterslides, ziplines, cenotes, and other fun water adventures await you.

Almost everything is included; right in the beginning, you will get your personal snorkeling set (mask, disposable snorkel, and fins) as well as towels and a swim vest.

Lockers are available for your personal belongings, including clothes and other items.

And now the best: Food and drinks (even cocktails) are included in your day pass as well! (This is not the case with the sister park Xcaret near Playa Carmen!).

We were very pleased by the food selection and quality – the best choice, in our opinion, was the Mexican Restaurant (La Cocina del Pueblo).

The only things that cost extra are things like the StingRay Encounter and SNUBA Diving – but we were waaaaay too busy with the free stuff to try any of those!

Just bring your GoPro and prepare for a day full of splashing in fresh and saltwater, snorkeling, and enjoying the amazing Mexican waterworld!

Read Also: 10 Thrilling Playa del Carmen Day Trips

23. Scale the Coba Pyramid, Quintana Roo

Coba is a bit remote from the coast and not as famous as other Mayan sites in the Yucatan peninsula. Which is why you will enjoy it even more, without huge crowds and souvenir vendors!

This is likely the reason you are still allowed to climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid, the main temple in Coba. 42 meters in height, this is one of the tallest Mayan pyramids.

Climbing the 130 stairs to reach the top is quite an adventure, as they are very steep and slippery due to the thousands of people who have ascended them over time.

Even if it sounds strange, the way back down is even more challenging due to the inclination.

But do not worry, the view is completely worth the intense workout. The site is surrounded by jungle and lakes, offering a stunning panorama.

Some even say there still are ruins hidden in the lush vegetation, not yet fully explored.

Bring enough water; the sun seems to burn more at the pyramid’s top.

The Coba ruins are spread over quite a big site. You can walk through the jungle, but a bike or tricycle taxi is better.

You’ll save your energy for the pyramid and have a lot more fun.

24. Find Peace Among Nature at the Laguna de Catemaco, Veracruz

The Laguna de Catemaco is, without a doubt, a magical place reserved for only the most adventurous. Along its 12 miles (19 km) of width, you will encounter a paradise…“from the movies.” … Literally, though, this location was the backdrop of Mel Gibson’s controversial film, Apocalypto.

This area is known worldwide for its resident brujos (witches) and spiritual cleansing rituals, both of which attract thousands of visitors annually.

Located in the south of the state of Veracruz, within the Los Tuxtlas jungle, this enormous lake possesses a unique beauty.

It is surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountain range and sits 400 meters above sea level. It’s one of Veracruz, Mexico’s most popular experiences with locals.

In the middle of the jungle, looking toward the lake, you will find the ecological reserve of Nanciyaga.

Here you will discover a sanctuary protecting the area’s species, including animals and plants. It also offers lodging in cabins and the opportunity to partake in a popular mud bath ritual.

If you choose to venture onto the lake, you will find an island filled with white Crane birds (Garzas), referred to as La isla de Garzas, where hundreds and hundreds of these birds reside on the branches of the trees, turning them white. 

Further along the lake, you will locate La isla de Changos. These changos, a special species of monkeys hailing from Asia, were introduced to the zone by the University of Veracruz as part of a study of adaptive evolution.

Remarkably, the monkeys acquired the skills of fishing and swimming to ensure their survival.

You will also spot beautiful mangroves, which many people enjoy exploring by kayak or canoe.

If you do this at sunset, you’ll have a magical view of the sun sinking between the mountains.

You won’t want to miss these amazing experiences in Mexico!

Related Reading: 23 Incredible Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations in Mexico

25. Visit the Pre-Columbian City of Chichen Itza, Yucatán

The Mayan ruin of Chichen Itza is located on the Yucatán peninsula and makes a great day trip from Cancun, the Riviera Maya, or Mérida.

It has recently been designated one of the NEW 7 Wonders of the World and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mexico, and for good reason.

History aside, it’s a visual marvel that I highly recommend you have on your Mexico Bucket List (the experience is much better if you have a chance to read and learn about the history as well).

There are many incredible structures at this site, the most notable being the El Castillo pyramid.

A quick search for Chichen Itza on Instagram will reveal endless photos of this pyramid, but my favorite structure is El Caracol — it’s totally different from the rest.

The site also features a dramatic cenote and a juego de pelota (ancient ball game) court— how the players managed to get the ball through that tiny circle is beyond me!

After a day of exploring the ruins, plan a detour to a nearby cenote named Ik Kil, which is a popular choice to cool off after being in the sun.

For more Mexico travel inspiration, read these posts:

• 14 Incredible Outdoor Adventures in Mexico
• 23 Hidden Gems in Mexico that Most Travelers Miss
• The 19 Best Things to do in the Riviera Maya

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What’s on YOUR Mexico bucket list? Let me know in the comments.

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