Mexico is a country of contrasts – from the frenetic capital Mexico City to the tranquility of the Caribbean Island of Holbox, from the dense jungles in Chiapas to the desert of Baja California. It is home to some of the most important ancient archaeological sites in North America.
Yaxchilan – A hidden Mayan gem in the jungles of the Chiapas, while remote, is now easily accessible from Palenque. It takes about three hours by bus to get to the Usumacinta River which forms the border between Guatemala and Mexico.
The Mayan ruins of Palenque lie in the jungle of the Mexican state of Chiapas. While some areas in Chiapas are considered dangerous, the route from Palenque airport to the town and the amazing ruins are usually safe.
The journey from Merida to the Caribbean island of Holbox took the whole day. Five hours by bus to Chiquila, a brief stop for lunch was long enough, and then a half hour ferry ride to reach Holbox.
Chichen Itza has a great collection of ancient temples, palaces, platforms and statues which have been painstakingly restored.
While Mexico holds many truly amazing ancient archeological sites, for me Uxmal is the one that has made the biggest impact. As you move around the site, it’s treasures reveal themselves one at a time.
The UNESCO site of Monte Alban is a short ride from Oaxaca. It was established 2500 years ago on a prominent hill by the people of the Oaxaca Valley, known as the “Zapotecs”.
Oaxaca (pronounced Wa Haka) is a six-hour bus ride from Mexico City. After leaving the capital, the road begins to take you through rolling countryside. A few of the mountain peaks are still snowy even in the summer.
Xochicalco was built in the 7th century, soon after the fall of Teotihuacan. It was founded by the Olmeca-Xicalancas from the faraway state of Campeche, which is closer to major Mayan sites.
The pyramids of Teotihuacan are among the largest in Mesoamerica. They are beautifully preserved and a sight to behold. Teotihuacan is only a couple of hours from Mexico City, and deserves at least a full day to explore it.
Mexico City is the capital and largest city in Mexico. It is also the oldest capital city in the Americas. It lies at 2240 metres above sea level. The city’s name is derived from its founders, the Mexica, who are more commonly known as the Aztecs.