Mexico has far more to offer travellers than just fiestas, beaches and poolside margaritas. Brimming with natural wonders, from towering mountains to mysterious caves, lush jungles, pristine beaches and enchanting cenotes, the country remains an underrated gem but is currently gaining more renown as an adventure destination that offers access to many of the world’s most exhilarating sports and activities. The time is ripe to gear up and discover a different side of Mexico – before the secret gets out.
White-Water Rafting in Jalcomulco, Veracruz – To experience the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting, adventure seekers flock to the town of Jalcomulco in the state of Veracruz. The small town provides access to launch spots along three rivers: the Rio Pescados, Rio Actopan and Rio Antigua. Rife with Class III and IV rapids, the waterways intensify even more in the late summer rainy season, when it is widely considered the place to find Mexico’s best white-water rafting.
Cage Diving with Great Whites in Guadalupe Island, Baja California – Shark enthusiasts should hop aboard a ship bound for Guadalupe Island for the opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with the ocean’s top apex predator: the great white shark. Located about 265 kilometres from Ensenada on the northern end of the Baja Peninsula, these waters around this volcanic island are famous among wildlife photographers for their incredible visibility of up to 30 metres, as well as comfortable water temperature of around 20°C. Due to the island’s remote location, organised trips here typically last five days, with three full days of cage diving.
Monarch Butterfly Migration in Michoacán and Estado de México – From whales to exotic birds, wildlife migrations attract animal lovers to destinations all across Mexico, but perhaps the most majestic among them remains the annual migration of monarch butterflies. Starting in November, millions of monarch butterflies begin to migrate from the USA and Canada, gathering in the mountain forests about 100 kilometres northwest of Mexico City. In January or early February, set out on a hike through these UNESCO-protected lands or visit the butterfly reserve in Michoacán to witness an incredible sight: a glowing forest canopy blanketed in orange.
Cave Canyoning in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas – Love the thrill and technical challenge of canyoning, but want to take it up a notch? Head to El Chorreadero cave in Chiapas, where you can tackle tactical climbs, rappelling and waterway navigation along with top-level spelunking. Daredevils from across the globe come to experience this beautiful cave, with experts tackling a full day of 12 to 16 hours of exploration, while brave beginners can select a 4- to 6-hour adventure with guides.
Discover The Explorean Cozumel
Nestled amid the unspoiled beauty of one of Mexico’s most stunning locations, The Explorean Cozumel provides a vacation experience you will not soon forget. From the welcoming accommodations to the delicious on-site dining and wide range of activities – everything you could need or want is included as part of your stay. Guests also enjoy exclusive access to all of the facilities at sister resort Fiesta Americana Cozumel, including the relaxed beach club, pampering spa, world-class restaurants and more. Interested in exploring the island? The Exploriean Cozumel is located just a short distance from top attractions like Chankanaab Park and Museo de la Isla. Embrace the spirit of Cozumel on your next holiday. Find out more and start your vacation here.
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Ziplining in Divisadero, Chihuahua – Feel the need for speed? Then hop aboard the El Chepe train for passage through the vast Copper Canyon, where you can appreciate the picturesque views and cultural immersion in a truly unique region – and fuel up on a dose of adrenaline. The world-class Copper Canyon Adventure Park offers ziplines and suspension bridges spanning across the dramatic canyon, including one of the longest ziplines in the world with which passengers reach speeds of up to 110kph across the near 400-metre cable.
Day of the Dead Festival in Oaxaca City, Oaxaca – The Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) festivities continue to grow in popularity across Mexico and the world. But don’t expect to find blowout festivities everywhere in Mexico; the event is native to only a few locations, one of which is Oaxaca City. Starting in late October through the first few days of November, the city comes alive with a calendar of celebrations, art displays, parades and even midnight cemetery revelry. While there, visitors can also appreciate some of Mexico’s best cuisine, explore the mysterious Monte Alban ruins and sip spirits of a mezcal trail, too.
Surfing in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca – When searching for a surfer paradise, look no further than Puerto Escondido on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Known simply as “Puerto”, this surf spot is the ultimate paradise, complete with tropical weather, palm trees, relaxing hammocks, fresh fish tacos, active nightlife and, of course, epic waves to ride. Playa Zicatela remains the heart of the surf scene, with its heavy waves continuing to challenge the very best in the world; in fact, it’s home to the infamous Mexican Pipeline, one of the most dangerous breaks in the world. Still a novice? Don’t worry, you can watch from the beachfront bars or take an inexpensive taxi to other local beaches to surf more manageable waves or take lessons.
SCUBA Diving in Cozumel, Quintana Roo – The crystalline waters of Cozumel are world famous for their radiant blue colour and incredible visibility; eagle rays, sea turtles and sharks remain common additions to diver logbooks here. The more experienced divers, however, can descend to the various caves and caverns located at this Mesoamerican reef. The destination’s popularity has unfortunately exploded in recent years thanks to the cruise industry, but the island still offers a haven for divers seeking the warm, clear blue waters that make the Caribbean a beacon for marine enthusiasts.
Hot Air Ballooning in Huasca de Ocampo, Hidalgo – Up, up and away! Just a few hours northeast of Mexico City, the pueblo magico (magical town) of Huasca de Ocampo is the perfect launchpad for hot air balloon flights over forests and waterfalls, even the basaltic prisms for which the area is famous.
Waterfall Rappelling in Malinalco, Estado de México – Feel the cool, refreshing water on your face as you descend the stunning 57-metre Cascada del Obraje outside Malinalco. Rappelling opportunities are plentiful in this part of Mexico, located about two hours southwest of Mexico City. Malinalco, another pueblo magico, is itself worth a visit while you’re here for your rappelling and river canyoning adventures.
Discover The Explorean Kohunlich
The majestic beauty of Quintana Roo’s lush jungle sets the stage for a one-of-a-kind vacation experience in Chetumal, Mexico. The Explorean Kohunlich is an intimate resort that deftly combines world-class service with a sense of relaxed elegance befitting its scenic location. Unwind in cosy bungalows or spacious cabanas with rustic amenities, including private patios with comfortable hammocks. Indulge in thoughtfully prepared Mexican cuisine at Kohunlich Restaurant, where the menu reflects our chef’s culinary passions. Embark on a bicycle tour, charter a sailboat or treat your special someone to a romantic dinner in the jungle. It is all waiting for you here at The Explorean Kohunlich. Find out more and start your vacation here.
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Hang Gliding in La Valle de Bravo, Estado de México – Run, leap and let the winds carry you away to the sky. The best hang gliders in the world come to La de Bravo, because practically every day here is a good day to fly. Professional flyers train in the area as well as competing in international competitions, while recreational thrill seekers can book courses with the countless schools and guides offering packages to travellers. Though it was hang gliding that originally put La Valle de Bravo on the map, the location has also become a hotbed for the more accessible paragliding.
Trekking to the Summit of Iztaccíhuatl in Puebla – Love to hike and trek? Consider ascending Mexico’s third-highest mountain. Though Iztaccíhuatl is an inactive volcano, hikers on the trail can enjoy the impressive views of the active smoking twin peak Popocapetl, a volcano linked to Aztec legend. It takes an entire day to reach the summit, and visitors to the national park will need to allot time for altitude acclimation in order to safely complete the journey. It is best to go with a guide.
Sea Kayaking in Loreto, Baja California Sur – Paddle a kayak in the waters of the Sea of Cortez, which famed ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau dubbed “the Aquarium of the World”. Various tour guides offer multi-day kayak journeys through the five islands of Loreto, the perfect opportunity to see and experience the area’s abundant sea life, beautiful beaches and majestic landscapes.
Mountain Biking in the Sierra Norte, Oaxaca – The trails of the Sierra Norte offer challenging terrain for all levels of mountain bike enthusiasts. Bumping along the Zapotec trails once used to connect ancient mountain communities, riders on multi-day treks can expect full pine forests as well as short brushland with elevations around 3,000 metres above sea level. Day trips, on the other hand, can be found from Oaxaca City, providing altitude differentials of around 900 metres.
Snorkelling with Sea Lions in La Paz, Baja California Sur – Jump right in and snorkel alongside playful sea lion pups – and witness their natural curiosity up close! In the protected waters around the Isla Espiritu Santo, day trippers can access multiple sea lion colonies and enjoy the opportunity to swim and dive among them. Most trips include lunch at a secret beach nearby, accessible only by boat.
Craig Zabransky left Wall Street to pursue his passion for travel. He podcasts, writes and photographs his adventures to inspire others to take and make adventure in their life at stayadventurous.com. After traveling 60plus countries, he continues to visit Mexico often, one of his favourite countries for adventure.
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