{"id":7755,"date":"2018-11-07T17:14:16","date_gmt":"2018-11-07T16:14:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/?p=7755"},"modified":"2025-05-01T09:58:07","modified_gmt":"2025-05-01T07:58:07","slug":"backpacking-mexico","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/","title":{"rendered":"Mexico Travel Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This giant North American country covers about 2 million square kilometers and over 10,000 km of coastline. It is among the 10 most visited countries in the world and has something to offer for every taste: Caribbean beaches, mountains, deserts, ruins, colonial cities and much more.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I spent more than a month traveling backpacking in the interior of the country. In this guide you will find a lot of tips and information to better organize your trip.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Quick menu<\/b><\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/#when\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When to visit Mexico<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/#doc\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Documents and vaccinations to enter Mexico<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/#what\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What to do and see Mexico<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/#iti\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suggested itineraries in Mexico<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/#how\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to get around Mexico<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/#cost\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Backpacking Mexico: costs<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/mexico\/backpacking-mexico\/#safe\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Backpacking Mexico: safety<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/rovine_teotihuacan.jpg\" alt=\"Le Piramidi di teotihuacan\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>The Pyramids of Teotihuacan near Mexico City.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"when\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>When to visit Mexico<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Summer in Mexico, from June to October, is theoretically the rainy season, but rainfall varies significantly by region.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the central part of the country, the rainy season is most pronounced, with daily rainfall typically concentrated within a few hours in the afternoon. Chiapas is the state with the highest rainfall. Along the coast, rainfall is less frequent but accompanied by high humidity, whereas in the north, it rains very little.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">September and October are hurricane season. Along the coasts, rainfall is more frequent, and there is a possibility of encountering tropical storms.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">November marks the beginning of the dry season and is probably the best month to explore the country since the rains have just ended, the vegetation is lush, and the high season has not yet begun. From December to April, the weather is excellent and coincides with the high tourist season, especially in Yucatan.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That said, Mexico can be safely visited year-round. Personally, I was there at the turn of September and October, during hurricane season. It often rained in the afternoon, but only for a few hours, and it was never a major issue.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/alba_laguna_bacalar.jpg\" alt=\"Alba alla laguna Bacalar in Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Sunrise in Bacalar.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"doc\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Documents and vaccinations to enter Mexico<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most passport holders receive a 180-day tourist visa once they enter the country.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The visa is free but there is a 717 MXN tourist tax that must be paid when leaving the country. Some airlines include it in the cost of the ticket. I entered by land from Guatemala and had to pay it. Keep the receipt.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Mexico, but Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B are recommended.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cascata_rovine_palenque.jpg\" alt=\"Cascata nella foresta vicino alle rovine di Palenque\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Waterfall in the forest near the ruins of Palenque.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"what\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see Mexico<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When planning a trip to Mexico, a country larger than all the Central American countries combined, it&#8217;s evident that one would need months, if not years, to explore it entirely.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The classic Mexico travel itinerary typically runs from Mexico City to the Yucatan Peninsula. This route is easy to follow and can be combined with trips to neighboring Guatemala and Belize. This guide focuses on these areas, which I believe offer a good balance between beaches, cities, and ruins, blending nature and culture.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prices in this guide are expressed in the local currency. The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso, abbreviated as &#8220;MXN&#8221; or simply &#8220;P.&#8221;<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the time of publication, the exchange rate is 1\u20ac = 20 MXN. For the current exchange rate, I suggest checking <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.xe.com\/currencyconverter\/convert\/?Amount=1&amp;From=EUR&amp;To=MXN\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Messico_cosa_vedere.jpg\" alt=\"Mappa turistica del messico, cosa fare e vedere\" width=\"730\" height=\"365\" \/>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Mexico City<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The capital, with its 10 million inhabitants, exceeds 20 if the entire metropolitan area is considered. Many of the districts that make up the city are sketchy and generally do not have much to offer in the way of tourism, but the heart of the city is truly fascinating and worth a visit.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Mexico City<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the city center, and particularly in the area around the Z\u00f3calo which is the main square (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/r4P8xgEKTE89FfJc7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), there are a lot of historic buildings, churches and museums. Among the museums I recommend the anthropology museum (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/h68gv9bDU9CzC1CZ8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), one of the best in the world, or the Frida Kahlo museum (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/6kXMPidumjZZjPxg9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which I did not personally visit, however.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A couple of blocks from the main square we find La Lagunilla (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/JTAcRhHjcNjvGaFBA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), a huge market that is definitely worth a visit, if you feel like you can join a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.freetour.com\/mexico-city\/historic-downtown\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">free walking tour<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/museo_antropologia_citta\u0300_del_messico.jpg\" alt=\"Il museo di antropologia di citt\u00e0 del Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"740\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>The Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Pyramids of Teotihuacan<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Pyramids of Teotihuacan (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/VLfdaEubENRfsWSU9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) also known as the &#8220;City of the Gods,&#8221; is an archaeological site located 40 km north of Mexico City. It features some of the largest pyramids in the world, built by what was once the largest pre-Columbian civilization, with a population of up to 150,000 people.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The site is truly impressive and deserves at least half a day to explore. It can be easily reached by bus from the Terminal Autobuses del Norte (located along Metro line 5, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/RxeiDhbfUHcZcNmV8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Buses depart every 20 minutes from Puerta 8, the one-way fare is 60 MXN.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Entrance to the archaeological park costs 80 MXN and includes access to the museum. I recommend visiting in the morning due to the extensive walking and the site being completely exposed to the sun. You can climb to the top of the pyramids, so it\u2019s best to avoid the hottest hours of the day.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note: Once your visit is over, there is no need to return to the main entrance. It is better to exit from &#8220;puerta 3,&#8221; where the same buses run every 20 minutes or so back to Mexico City.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/piramidi_teotihuacan.jpg\" alt=\"Esplorando le rovine di teotihuacan\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Pyramid of the sun at Teotihuacan.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Mexico City?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/mexico-city-hostel.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mexico City Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a good hostel. Quiet atmosphere and great location, literally steps away from the Z\u00f3calo.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Mexico City?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For short and long distances there are direct buses to many destinations. For longer trips I recommend looking at domestic flights which in some cases are really cheap. From all bus terminals, and also from the airport, you have direct access to the subway, which is cheap and efficient.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Puebla<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Puebla was the first city in central Mexico that was not founded by the Spanish over the ruins of some ancient settlement. During the colonial period, due to its strategic location between Veracruz and Mexico City, it was the second most important city. One can still see what were the splendors of the past.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Puebla<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Z\u00f3calo (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/wq7XKNnLzxXAF9nS9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) became a UNESCO site in 1987, well-preserved colonial buildings everywhere and an impressive cathedral especially in the evening when it is lit up. It is definitely worthwhile walking around the adjacent streets as well.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I also went up to &#8220;Los Fuertes&#8221; (Fuerte de Loreto and Fuerte de Guadalupe) at the top of Cerro de Guadalupe, which overlooks the city. It was a pleasant walk, with a nice park at the top and a great view (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/v7g4Nwy6HLnRmUAy6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). You can also visit the forts.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cattedrale_puebla.jpg\" alt=\"La cattedrale di Puebla in Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Puebla cathedral.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Cholula<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cholula is a city located only 10 km from Puebla. The town boasts 45 churches and an archaeological site (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Xng6zXPx3ArEMbp36\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), although I did not find it particularly impressive. The symbol of the city is the cathedral built atop the Tepanapa pyramid, the largest pyramid in the world in terms of volume.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfortunately, during my visit, access to the top of the pyramid and cathedral was closed due to a recent earthquake, but this may have changed since then. However, it was still possible to visit the tunnels under the pyramid, the surrounding archaeological area, and the museum (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/8CMbYSNJKqGEkNM76\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). During my visit, the museum was showing a 3-D video of various archaeological sites in Mexico. Admission to the site, which includes the museum, is 85 pesos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I visited Cholula from Puebla on a day trip, so I can&#8217;t speak from personal experience about the nightlife, but I was told it is great, as it is mostly a university town. From downtown Puebla, it is best to take the bus (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/6ZPZCVnGTbB2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), it\u2019s about a 20-30 minute ride and costs 7.50 pesos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cholula.jpg\" alt=\"Un delle tante chiese di Cholula vicino a Puebla\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>The cathedral at the top of the Cholula pyramid.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cuexcomate<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is the world&#8217;s smallest volcano and is located in one of Puebla&#8217;s suburbs (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Yxnt7RjWZa8nEEB77\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), just off La Libertad. It is nothing spectacular but it is a nice way to spend a couple of hours. Take a bus along <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avenida 11 oriente <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">bound for Libertad and get off at the main plaza, which is also the last bus stop. The volcano is in the center of the square.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to get to Puebla?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The city is only two hours from Mexico City and there are buses about every 20 minutes departing from Terminal TAPO (also known as Terminal de Oriente, San Lazaro metro stop, <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/wZJyCwewpwWFrK2y9\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) but also from Benito Juarez Airport and Terminal del Norte from where, however, departures are less frequent, it is 2 hours about 160-200 MXN.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Where to sleep in Puebla?<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/hostal-casa-de-arcos.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostal Casa De Arcos<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an excellent hostel, really well taken care of a stone&#8217;s throw from downtown, large and spacious dorms, and a relaxed atmosphere.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Oaxaca<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oaxaca was undoubtedly my favorite city during my trip to Mexico. Its streets have a really relaxed atmosphere but at the same time there is always something interesting to see: some street performer, demonstration or, if you are lucky like me, even a rather unique wedding. <\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/matrimonio_oaxaca.jpg\" alt=\"i festeggiamenti di un matrimonio per le strade di Oaxaca\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Wedding celebrations.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Oaxaca<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As always, the area around the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Z\u00f3calo (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/meUo4VbRUj3nQk7N7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is the liveliest area of the city and you will find the most interesting colonial buildings, also check out the nearby Mercado Benito Juarez (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/YGS68QDEFhnrzndJA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). While a few blocks further north, don&#8217;t miss the Ex Convento de Santo Domingo (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ALf9yvM25ujhJLBS6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which can be visited every day except Mondays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and costs 90 MXN.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another site I particularly enjoyed was the botanical garden that is also part of the former convent. To visit it you have to join the guided tour but it was really interesting and I recommend it. The tour is offered three times a day in Spanish and in other languages on alternate days. The tour in Spanish costs 50 MXN versus 100 MXN for the other languages, at the bottom of <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.quepasaoaxaca.com\/jardin-etnobotanico-de-oaxaca\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you will find the schedule.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Mount Alban<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I will preface this by saying that I did not visit the site as I was coming from almost a year of travel and countless archaeological sites but it is said to be one of the most impressive in the region (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Ns3xgVqyjBdz99NMA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are numerous tours that leave from Oaxaca but if you want to visit the site on your own you can simply take a shuttle from Hotel Riviera de Angel (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/4WiXTfqcaUGSgAeQA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for 80 MXN. Site admission costs 80 MXN.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/monte_alban_oaxaca.jpg\" alt=\"Le rovine di Monte Alban ad Oaxaca\" width=\"1110\" height=\"625\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Monte Alban ruins.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>Since I no longer run ads, if you found this article helpful, please consider purchasing your <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/travel-insurance\/\">travel insurance<\/a> through one of the links on this site. Doing so supports my work at no additional cost to you. For EU and UK residents, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.truetraveller.com\/?tag=4486\">True Traveller<\/a>. For everyone else, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/heymondo.com\/?utm_medium=Afiliado&amp;utm_source=ILBACKPACKER&amp;utm_campaign=PRINCIPAL&amp;cod_descuento=ILBACKPACKER&amp;ag_campaign=INPUT&amp;agencia=3e3e0e90cc3ad100e738962ea2e0b0be8d69\">HeyMondo<\/a>, which offers a 5% discount. Thank you for your support!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Hierve el Agua<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a surreal place, a spring of water at an elevation of 3,000 meters that has formed a series of natural pools culminating in a giant petrified waterfall all topped with spectacular views of the valley.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfortunately, the place loses some of its charm due to the heavy tourist presence and all that goes with it, but it is still something unique.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The site is about 2 hours from the city and can also be reached by public transportation, from the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/qVLZQUCgLr82\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">baseball stadium<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> take a bus to Mitla (18 pesos, 1 hour) from where there are then camionetas to Hierva el Agua, 40 pesos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Hierve_el_agua_oaxaca_messico.jpg\" alt=\"la cascata di Hierve el Agua vicino ad Oaxaca.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Hierve el Agua.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Oaxaca?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/hostal-de-las-ama-c-ricas.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostal de Las Am\u00e9ricas<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> excellent hostel a short walk from downtown, helpful staff.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Oaxaca?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Mexico City but also from nearby Puebla there are numerous departures per day, about 6-7 hours. Coming from San Cristobal take a look at the <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ado.com.mx\/#\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADO<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> website, it is about 11 hours.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Puerto Escondido<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Famous Puerto Escondido is known for its excellent surfing conditions and great nightlife. Once a quiet fishing village it can now be considered the classic &#8220;tourist trap&#8221; with prices significantly higher than in the rest of the country and extremely crowded. If you are interested anyways, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.jenniewanders.com\/best-beaches-in-puerto-escondido\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you can find a guide to Puerto Escondido\u2019s beaches.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are looking for a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere I recommend a few towns further south along the coast, such as Zipolite.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Puerto Escondido?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are numerous direct buses leaving from Mexico City and Oaxaca. <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ado.com.mx\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Check out Ado<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Zipolite<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zipolite is a destination that is growing in popularity especially among backpackers; it is the ideal place for anyone looking for a seaside village with a relaxed atmosphere, uncrowded beach and really cheap prices.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is not much to do in the village except enjoy the beach perhaps with good company or a good book. Surfing is also possible.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/spiaggia_zipolite_Messico.jpg\" alt=\"La spiagga di Zipolite\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Zipolite, the water is so dirty because of the heavy rains.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Zipolite?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I slept at &#8220;<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/s5U8syZAhbH2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">El Carrizal Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8221; with a very hippie atmosphere and not exactly the best of cleanliness but extremely cheap at only 50 pesos a night. The French lady who owns the facility is a real character. The hostel is probably not for everyone but there are plenty of other options however cheap (it was closed in November 2023). Check out <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/digital-dorms.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maracuy\u00e1 Hostal Zipolite<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to reach <\/b><b><i>Zipolite?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ado.com.mx\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ado<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has several buses (even at night) to nearby Pochutla (9-10 hours) from where there are then collectivos to Zipolite, about half an hour. The quicker and cheaper but less convenient alternative is to take one of the minibusses that shuttle during the day between Pochutla and Oaxaca; it is about 7 hours.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">San Crist\u00f3bal is a charming colonial town in the heart of the mountains of the state of Chiapas. The city itself with its colonial buildings and the many churches and plazas is undoubtedly the main attraction. But one can also visit numerous villages where Mayan culture and tradition are still strong.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As mentioned above, the city alone deserves at least a day of exploration; I recommend climbing the steps leading up to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/iS96bNRrLV82\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Iglesia de Guadalupe<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/c9jdoEr9RTD2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Iglesia Antonio<\/span><\/a><b>. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From both you have good views of the city.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/mirador_iglesia_antonio.jpg\" alt=\"Vista su San Cristobal de Las Casas dal Mirador iglesia Antonio\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Mirador Iglesia Antonio.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>San Juan Chamula<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of all the Mayan villages surrounding the city, San Juan Chamula is undoubtedly the most visited. Here you will find a church where Catholic and Mayan rites have mixed over the years in a very unique way (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/uga84a4pTrCaXbJr7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). The church is literally covered with candles and offerings to the gods are made all the time; I have not seen it but I was told that sometimes animal sacrifices are also made.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Admission to the church costs 10 pesos if I am not mistaken, and you are not allowed to take photos or videos, an interesting experience to say the least. There is not much else to do in the village but you could check out the market (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/vFprRWeeeejFkFyL9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) or the nearby cemetery (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/umaK4dPoCnrZhArW9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which is not exactly a traditional one. The village is only 20 minutes from San CristobaI, collectivos leave from a microbus station near the main market (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/nUjRtPJH9unzzrHDA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">location<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), 20 pesos. <\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cimitero_San_Juan_chamula.jpg\" alt=\"Il cimitero di San Juan Chamula\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>San Juan Chamula cemetery.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>El Chifl\u00f3n<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a series of truly impressive waterfalls and natural pools (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Y13feJWhqfryMn988\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). As always you can join a tour, which normally includes a visit to the Montebello Lakes, or rely on public transportation as I explain below.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a bus (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/XVGk1LQazrikZHtXA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) or collectivo (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/NVD5eApy263p7RVP7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) direct to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comit\u00e1n, about 2 hours (collectivos are faster and cheaper), from the Comit\u00e1n terminal (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/4UqfHWy7L96uFRsH9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) about 3 blocks away you can find shuttles to El Chifl\u00f3n, about 40 minutes, 40 pesos (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/fKc6Y5VcASEqk1zH8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Admission to falls costs 80 pesos. The trail is really short, but the view of the main waterfall &#8220;Velo de la Novia&#8221; is really spectacular.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/El_Chiflo\u0301n_chiapas_messico.jpg\" alt=\"La cascata el Chiflon vicino a San Cristobal\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>El Chiflon.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Sumidero Canyon<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I have not personally visited the canyon, but it is a popular attraction. In some places, it exceeds one kilometer in depth. The tour typically involves a walk to the base of the canyon followed by a boat ride along the river that runs through it. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/storiesalongtheroad.com\/sumidero-canyon-solo-trip\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you can actually find a guide of some travelers who managed to visit it on their own.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in <\/i><\/b><b><i>San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/posada-mirador.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostel el Mirador<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a short walk from the Guadalupe Church I mentioned earlier. There is a nice indoor garden and a great breakfast included in the price. It is slightly off center.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are direct buses to and from almost every possible destination, know that to Palenque the collectivos are faster and cheaper than the buses, you have to change at Ocosingo but it is a matter of a few minutes.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are arriving or continuing on to Guatemala and do not want to take the tourist shuttles (much more expensive) take first the colectivo bound for Comitan (same for <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">El Chifl\u00f3n) from here there are then other collectivos bound for the &#8220;Ciudad Cuauht\u00e9moc&#8221; border. <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A detailed article on how to continue to Quetzaltenango can be found <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venturebeneaththeskies.com\/blog\/\/border-crossing-mexico-to-guatemala\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cattedrale_san_cristobal.jpg\" alt=\"La cattedrale di San Cristobal de Las Casas in Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>San Cristobal.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Palenque<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Palenque is both the name of the town and of the famous ruins, about 6km from the center. The town is honestly nothing much although the area around the main plaza is not that bad, in any case I recommend settling just outside the ruins at &#8220;El Panchan&#8221; which I will discuss in detail in the &#8220;where to sleep&#8221; section.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Palenque<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Obviously the ruins are the main attraction, but Palenque is also an excellent base for exploring other sites not too far away.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The ruins of Palenque<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are staying in town, be aware that there are colectivos shuttling every 10-15 minutes, which are convenient and efficient, costing 25 pesos (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/JPhgcZnsg9n9Emvq6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). There are two entrances to the ruins. I strongly recommend taking the secondary one just after the museum (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/URCommYq6z3bK9PVA\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), about 1.5 km before the main entrance. This route includes a short path through the jungle with a small waterfall (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/DfseXavyd72YRPNK6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) along the way.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ruins are definitely worthwhile. If you visit early in the morning (the site opens at 8:00 am), they are not too crowded. Only the central acropolis has been excavated, so the site is not very large; a couple of hours should be enough to explore it. Entrance to the site costs 90 pesos, and there is an additional entrance fee to the national park of 105 pesos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/rovine_palenque.jpg\" alt=\"Vista sulle rovine di Palenque\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Palenque.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Agua Azul<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a series of waterfalls somewhat similar to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">El Chifl\u00f3n. You can easily visit them in a day from Palenque or if you travel light you could combine the visit with a transfer to San Cristobal or vice versa.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The falls are in fact located along the road to Ocosingo so you can simply take a colectivo headed there (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/1fVCb4DnLhaVKXCK7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). Get off <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/QD37mNuGEksxm5iK7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and then take one of the many colectivos that shuttle to the falls for 30 pesos. You could also walk this last stretch. The entrance fee is 40 pesos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, it is possible to visit the nearby ruins of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yaxchilan (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/p4KNeddpLtyyWWNP8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). I have not personally been there, as even without relying on a tour, it is still relatively expensive to reach. The ruins cannot be accessed by land; you have to take a boat from Frontera Corozal for about 40 minutes, with costs ranging from 800 MXN. It might be more worthwhile if you are in a group. Based on the photos, the ruins do not look particularly impressive.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/agua_azul_mexico.jpg\" alt=\"Cascata de Agua Azul a Chiapas in Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Agua Azul.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Palenque?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As previously mentioned, I recommend staying at &#8220;El Panchan,&#8221; a complex of various hotel facilities and some restaurants, literally nestled in the jungle at the entrance to the national park, just a stone&#8217;s throw from the ruins.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I personally recommend staying at <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/Swco4io6CqzWx6V78\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jungle Palace<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. They offer affordable cabanas (small bungalows). While not luxurious, they are definitely a good option. There are other nearby options as well. There&#8217;s a really nice lady who runs a small &#8220;restaurant&#8221; just outside the facility. The food is cheap, but you may need to remind her that you are not a rich gringo.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Palenque?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From San Cristobal there are frequent buses, but remember that collectivos via Ocosingo are faster and cheaper. Toward the Yucatan Peninsula, the only direct connections are to Merida with <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ado.com.mx\/#\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADO<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you continue on to Guatemala, however, you can cross the border at Frontera Corozal as described in detail in the <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/destinations-en\/guatemala-en\/backpacking-guatemala\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guide dedicated to Guatemala<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The Yucat\u00e1n <\/b><b>Peninsula<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula is undoubtedly the most touristy and expensive region in the country, especially along the so-called &#8220;Mayan Riviera,&#8221; where places like Cancun and Playa del Carmen are filled with resorts and have been extremely popular with North American tourists for years.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nevertheless, there are many destinations that are definitely worth visiting.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cancun<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let&#8217;s start with the main hub of the peninsula, Cancun. Long story short, it&#8217;s not a place I would recommend unless you are looking for an all-inclusive vacation at a hotel or resort by the sea. If you&#8217;re reading this guide, that&#8217;s probably not your aim!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In my opinion, Cancun can be described as a giant playground for Americans who flock there, especially during school vacations. However, if you&#8217;re looking for a few days of beach time and nightlife, it might not be that bad. Still, my advice is to move on to other destinations.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/golf_car_isla_mujeres.jpg\" alt=\"A spasso con la golf car a Isla Mujeres\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Cancun on the horizon seen from Isla Mujeres in the company of some of the guys from the hostel.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Cancun?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/the-boat-house-cancun-cancun2.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Boat House Cancun<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a great hostel within walking distance of the bus station so it is ideal for spending a night before reaching your next destination.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Isla Mujeres<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Isla Mujeres, located just opposite Cancun, was the last stop on my long trip to Latin America, making my days there particularly memorable.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The beaches on the island are wonderful and, despite the short distance from Cancun, are much less crowded than those on the mainland. I visited in late October, and the island was extremely livable\u2014though it may be different during peak season. In any case, Isla Mujeres is better than Cancun in every respect.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There&#8217;s not much to do on the island except relax on the beach. I rented a golf cart with some people from the hostel to explore the southern part of the island, where there are some &#8220;ruins.&#8221; It was a nice day, but honestly, you wouldn&#8217;t miss much if you skipped it.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Isla Mujeres?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/nomads-hostel-amp-bar-isla-mujeres.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mayan Monkey Isla Mujeres<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is one of the few hostels on the island, nice but not exactly cheap.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Isla Mujeres?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are at least a few companies that cover the route and depart from three different points in Cancun. By far the cheapest ferry is the one that leaves Punta Sam (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/2jYXh5FQ9bYXJFCd6\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), it is the ferry that also carries vehicles so it is slower than the others but cheaper. <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/ultracarga.com\/en\/ruta-punta-sam-isla-mujeres\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can find the schedule here<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The faster but more expensive option is <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ultramarferry.com\/en\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ultramar<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To reach Punta Sam there are collectivos that pass <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/zD4cMz2CzDk\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">along the road in front of<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the bus terminal.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/spiaggia_isla_mujeres.jpg\" alt=\"Sulla spiaggia di Isla Mujeres\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Isla Mujeres.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Playa del Carmen<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Playa del Carmen is the first tourist destination south of Cancun. While I haven&#8217;t been there personally, everyone I&#8217;ve spoken to has described it as a miniature Cancun. Wikitravel even calls it a &#8220;resort town.&#8221;<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re looking for a destination with nice beaches and great nightlife for your trip, Playa del Carmen is probably a good choice. However, if you&#8217;re seeking something more authentic and inexpensive, you might want to look elsewhere.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to get to Playa del Carmen?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Cancun, there are colectivos that run frequently (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/dQENGnVn8NU49XbD6\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). The trip takes about 45 minutes.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cozumel<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cozumel is the island opposite Playa del Carmen. I haven&#8217;t been there either, but only due to time constraints. From what I&#8217;ve read and heard from other travelers, the island is truly amazing.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cozumel is considered one of the best diving sites in the world, which is undoubtedly the main activity there. The main settlement is the village of San Miguel on the west side of the island. Renting a car or scooter is recommended to explore the undeveloped east side, where breathtaking beaches dominate the landscape.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are also some archaeological sites, but they are not as impressive as others found in Yucatan.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Cozumel?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Departing from Playa del Carmen there are ferries about every hour. The trip takes 35-40 minutes and is offered by two companies, <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ultramarferry.com\/en\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ultramar<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as always is the most expensive, the cheaper alternative is <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/www.winjet.mx\/\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mexico Waterjets<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/immersioni_cozumel.jpg\" alt=\"La barriera corallina che circonda Cozumel\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Tulum\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tulum, in my opinion, is the best destination along the so-called &#8220;Mayan Riviera.&#8221; It offers a more relaxed atmosphere, more reasonable prices than Cancun and Playa del Carmen, and fantastic beaches. Additionally, Tulum serves as an ideal base for exploring the nearby ruins of Tulum and Cob\u00e1, as well as numerous cenotes (freshwater caves).<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Tulum\u00a0<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The town is tiny and not particularly active during the day but in the evening people take to the streets and everything comes alive, there are a few clubs but if you are looking for a more authentic atmosphere I recommend <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/Z5Hy3v6JtRx\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this square<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or even <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/tLcymnwEaW82\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Parque dos Aguas<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where I caught a concert in the evening. Eat at least once at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/WWrxddHNWVK2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antojitos<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, delicious food and extremely cheap.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The ruins of Tulum<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ruins (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/QqiHt4rQpMTgE4gL6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) are certainly not the most impressive to be seen, but the context in which they are set makes them unique. In fact, the site is located on a cliff overlooking the crystal clear sea and white beaches.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ruins are extremely popular, which is why I recommend visiting them early in the morning before the buses full of tourists from Playa del Carmen and Cancun arrive. The site opens at 8:00 am.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The entrance to the ruins is easily accessible by any colectivo heading north as the entrance is only a kilometer from the main road. If you wanted you could even walk or bike there, it is in fact about 4km from the center. The entrance to the ruins costs 95 pesos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/rovine_tulum.jpg\" alt=\"Le rovine di Tulum\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>The ruins of Tulum.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Akumal<\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Akumal is a small town between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, famous for the seaweed that grows in the main bay, which attracts hundreds of sea turtles (<a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/earLs1etG3cYyP3M7\">Google Maps<\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To protect the turtles, it&#8217;s compulsory to wear a life jacket in the water, which prevents diving and disturbing them. There are designated areas for snorkeling, while other areas are off-limits. Equipment can be easily rented on the beach. There is a 120 pesos entrance fee.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To reach Akumal, simply take any collectivo heading north. The beach is less than 1 km from the main road.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/tartaruga_verde_akumal.jpg\" alt=\"Una tartaruga verde che mangia nella baia di Akumal\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Akumal.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The ruins of <\/b><b>Cob\u00e1<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ruins at Cob\u00e1 (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/bErPKqTcp3dyQ2mX8\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) are definitely not the most impressive in the region, but they do feature &#8220;El Castillo,&#8221; a very tall temple and one of the few that you can still climb. From the top, you get incredible views of the surrounding jungle.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ruins can be easily reached by colectivo from Tulum (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ucRKmTVmNPVTkGUL6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which takes about an hour. Admission costs 95 pesos.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Rovine_Coba_Messico.jpg\" alt=\"Le rovine di Coba immerse nella giungla.\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>El Castillo, Cob<\/em>\u00e1.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>The cenotes\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are literally hundreds of them in the region, the most popular ones can be extremely expensive, Dos Ojos (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/XkVakZtSwYQdVcob6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) for example costs a whopping 400 MXN. In many cenotes you can go diving or just snorkeling.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I personally in Tulum have only visited Cenote Calavera (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/UbzbgKCwWUX8XQUS9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) which did not particularly excite me, Gran Cenote (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/5eQNzuvPCRgHhDB17\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) not far away seems to be a favorite of many. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mexicokantours.com\/post\/our-guide-to-the-best-cenotes-around-tulum\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you will find reviews and photos of some Cenotes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Tulum?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/maui-hostels-tulum.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maui Hostels Tulum<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a good hostel not far from the center.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Tulum?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are buses and collectivos frequently shuttling along the coast to Playa del Carmen and Cancun in the north but also to Bacalar in the south and Valladolid in the east. Collectivos stop here <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/ucRKmTVmNPVTkGUL6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-5888\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cenote_calavera.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cenote_calavera.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cenote_calavera-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cenote_calavera-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/cenote_calavera-1024x576.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1110px) 100vw, 1110px\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Calavera Cenote.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Valladolid<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valladolid is a small town in the center of the Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula that pleasantly surprised me. The center features many well-preserved colonial buildings, and the atmosphere is markedly more authentic than any other town I visited in Yucat\u00e1n.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is also an ideal base for visiting the nearby ruins of Chich\u00e9n Itz\u00e1 while avoiding the hordes of tourists arriving in the late morning from Cancun and Playa del Carmen.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to Do and See in Valladolid<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valladolid is really small and can easily be explored on foot, although I recommend renting a bike for a day to also explore the nearby cenote that I will now discuss.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cenote in Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This cenote (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/BzxH2ZnPU6D39FqP7\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) is a good alternative to the more popular Cenote Zaci (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/hpSXcaK7Vv9ZkXFp6\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), which is located exactly in the center of town. It can be reached by taxi (about 70 pesos) or by renting a bike for about 80 pesos; it is only 5 km from the town center.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cenote is really cool, with lots of roots running down the walls until they touch the water, and best of all, it is really uncrowded. Inside the property, there is a nice pool. When I was there, it was possible to pay for cenote entrance only (30 pesos), but now there are only two types of tickets: access to the pool and cenote for 150 pesos, or 300 pesos with food and drink at the bar.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Cenote_Hacienda_San-Lorenzo.jpg\" alt=\"Il Cenote Hacienda San Lorenzo a Valladolid in Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Hacienda San Lorenzo Cenote.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Chich\u00e9n Itz\u00e1<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The famous ruins, considered one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, are undoubtedly the most visited in the entire region and are literally overrun by day-trippers especially from Cancun and Playa del Carmen.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valladolid which is only a 45-minute bus ride away is an ideal base for exploring the ruins before the crowds arrive. I recommend taking the first 7:00 a.m. collectivo (they leave at the intersection of Calle 46 and Calle 39 at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/dziwYg5Q2LP2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this point<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) so that you arrive at the entrance in time for the 8:00 a.m. opening. Entrance to the site is now 614 pesos which is a lot. I\u2019m not sure it\u2019s worth it anymore.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In conclusion, if you do not want to join an organized tour to visit Las Coloradas, the best place to start is Valladolid. In <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/ShowTopic-g499453-i9228-k10745484-Q_Go_to_Las_coloradas_pink_lagoon_from_valladolid_by_bus-Valladolid_Yucatan_Peninsula.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this post<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you will find precise instructions on how to reach them by public transportation.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Chiche\u0301n_Itza\u0301_messico.jpg\" alt=\"La piramide di Chichen Itza\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Chichen Itza.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Valladolid?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/hostal-tunich-naj.en.html?aid=1680713&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostal Tunich Naj<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is well located, walking distance from downtown and the bus station, nice staff.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Valladolid?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the bus station (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/JWogM5XrpdHWaRzg6\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) there are several daily departures to all major cities on the Peninsula.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Holbox Island<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I did not personally visit the island due to bad weather forecasts, but it was highly recommended by many travelers. It is less crowded compared to the more popular Isla Mujeres and Cozumel.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best way to reach it is from Valladolid and Cancun via the town of Chiquil\u00e1, from where ferries depart about every half hour during the day. For more detailed information, you can find an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/thepartyingtraveler.com\/2022\/01\/10\/complete-travel-guide-isla-holbox-mexico\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">article about it here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Isola_Holbox.jpg\" alt=\"Isola di Holbox vista dall'alto\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Holbox island.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Merida<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">M\u00e9rida, the capital of Yucat\u00e1n, was the first city &#8220;founded&#8221; by the conquistadors. The city preserves many colonial buildings, and the historic center is truly beautiful.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While there isn&#8217;t a single standout attraction, the charm of M\u00e9rida lies in the city itself. However, there are a few places that are undoubtedly worth visiting: Plaza de la Independencia (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/QCdzoRvcgQb4qXm76\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), the main square where there is always some event in the evening (<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.merida.gob.mx\/capitalcultural\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">find upcoming events here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">), Palacio del Gobierno (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/cnQQYMnes1mwF6bi9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) and the Cathedral (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/rZ46acG9konqJ74p9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). There is also a tour of the 3 cenotes area. You can find a detailed post <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/tillthemoneyrunsout.com\/discovering-the-cenotes-near-merida-mexico\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Merida?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1100l3LP6\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fhosteldetails.php%2FHostal-Catedral-Merida%2FMerida%2F267402%3FdateFrom%3D2018-10-08%26dateTo%3D2018-10-09%26number_of_guests%3D1\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hostal Catedral Merida<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a good hostel in downtown Merida.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Merida?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Merida is a fairly large city and has direct connections to all the major cities on the peninsula, even Palenque. The bus terminal is close to the center (<\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/f7RQpQj3z4PWbUxx5\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">). <\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/merida_viaggio_messico.jpg\" alt=\"La piazza di Merida\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Campeche<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I have not personally been there, but it is another well-preserved colonial town still relatively untouched by mass tourism along the Mayan Riviera. The historic center, characterized by cobblestone streets and brightly colored buildings, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more detailed information, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/thepartyingtraveler.com\/2022\/01\/27\/backpackers-travel-guide-campeche-mexico\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">you can find an excellent article discussing the city here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Campeche?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most practical and fastest way to reach Campeche is from nearby Merida, which is only 2 hours away and has buses that run back and forth every hour or so. But there are also direct buses from Ciudad del Carmen and Cancun, although less frequent.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Bacalar<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bacalar, and more specifically the lagoon of the same name, is an incredible place to say the least, a true gem fortunately still little visited by vacationers who often stay further north along the coast.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>What to do and see in Bacalar<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without a doubt, the main attraction here is the Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the &#8220;Laguna de los 7 Colores&#8221; for its incredible shades of blue and azure.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also visit a small fort (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/dgSeuC1H8LoAVaeh9\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Google Maps<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) near the town square, though, honestly, it doesn&#8217;t look like much from the outside.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N.b. From the village, access to the lagoon is not easy as it is full of private properties\/hotels\/hostels but there is a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/eEHiYMh1vQx\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">municipal pier<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from where you have access.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>Where to sleep in Bacalar?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1100l3LP6\/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hostelworld.com%2Fhosteldetails.php%2FYaxche-Centro-Hostel-y-Camping%2FBacalar%2F76983%3FdateFrom%3D2018-10-08%26dateTo%3D2018-10-09%26number_of_guests%3D1\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yaxche Hostel<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> isn&#8217;t particularly remarkable and is not located directly on the lagoon like many other facilities. However, it has another property outside of town, with a free shuttle service provided daily. This area is well-equipped with swings in the water, gazebos, a small bar\/restaurant, and a few rooms. The water here is much cleaner, and being outside the town gives the feeling of being in a remote paradise.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b><i>How to reach Bacalar?<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From the north (Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun) there are several daily departures with ADO or MAYAB (cheaper) but there are also colectivos that go through <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Felipe Carrillo Puerto where you have to change. From Chetumal to the south the most convenient method is the shared taxis that leave from <\/span><\/i><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/PXLRuanw2zo\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">this point<\/span><\/i><\/a><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/laguna_bacalar.jpg\" alt=\"La laguna Bacalar\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Laguna Bacalar.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Crossing the border Mexico Guatemala<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Palenque -&gt; Flores\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I took the route in the opposite direction, but it should make no difference. In any case, I recommend leaving early in the morning. From Palenque, I was told that there are colectivos heading to Frontera Corozal only in the morning. If not, take any colectivo heading south and ask to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/w7RhARdaKCR2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">get off at the intersection<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for Frontera Corozal. From there, taxis are available to take you to the village.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once in the village, go through immigration and then continue to the river where small boats shuttle to La T\u00e9cnica. From there, direct buses to Flores are available. The bus stops at immigration and waits for you to stamp your passport.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas -&gt; Quetzaltenango\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I have not personally done this route but you can find it described in detail <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.venturebeneaththeskies.com\/blog\/\/border-crossing-mexico-to-guatemala\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Crossing the border Mexico Belize<\/b><\/h3>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crossing the border is really easy. Reaching Chetumal from any city in Yucat\u00e1n is simple, and from there, frequent departures to Belize City are available from the Mercado Nuevo Terminal (cheaper) or the ADO Terminal (more expensive with less frequent departures).<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note: You will be asked to pay a tourist tax of 717 pesos. This tax is legitimate, but some airlines include it in the cost of your ticket, so you may not have to pay it. Check the details of your ticket cost and keep the receipt as proof to show.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"iti\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Suggested itineraries in Mexico<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Below, I have listed two-, three-, and four-week itineraries. Obviously, there is no perfect itinerary given a specific time frame, so consider what you have read so far as inspiration and modify it according to your interests and budget!<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Itinerary Mexico 15 days in the Yucatan<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assuming your arrival airport is Cancun, I recommend moving directly to Tulum the same day, at least as long as it is not late at night. <\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/itinerario_yucatan.jpg\" alt=\"Itinerario viaggio di due settimane nello yucatan in Messico\" width=\"830\" height=\"550\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Tulum (4 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 1:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cancun &#8211; Tulum transfer.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 2:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the ruins of Tulum and spend the rest of the day at the beach.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 3:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit Akumal.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 4:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the ruins of <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cob\u00e1 or some cenotes in the area.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Bacalar (2 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 5:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tulum &#8211; Bacalar transfer.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 6:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Full day at the lagoon.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Valladolid (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 7:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bacalar &#8211; Valladolid transfer.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 8:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Day at the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cenote at Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 9:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chich\u00e9n Itz\u00e1 in the morning and perhaps cenote Zaci in the center of town in the afternoon.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Isla Holbox or Isla Mujeres (4 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 10-11-12-13:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Valladolid you can easily reach Holbox or return to Cancun and board the ferry to Isla Mujeres. Holbox is less touristy and developed as opposed to Isla Mujeres but I think both are good choices.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 14:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Return.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Itinerary Central Mexico and Chiapas 15 days\u00a0<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assuming that your departure and arrival airport is Mexico City I recommend the following itinerary.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/itinerario_15_giorni_messico_centrale.jpg\" alt=\"mappa itinerario di 15 giorni nel Messico centrale\" width=\"458\" height=\"264\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Mexico City (2 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 1:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recover from the jet leg and explore the historic center.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 2:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the Pyramids of Teotihuacan.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Puebla (2 nights):<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 3:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfer from Mexico City. Explore the historic center.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 4:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the nearby city of Cholula.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Oaxaca (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 5:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfer to Oaxaca, explore the historic center in the afternoon.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 6:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit Hierva el Agua.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 7:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the ruins of Monte Alban. Night bus to San Cristobal.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas (3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 8:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enjoy the city and maybe visit San Juan Chamula in the afternoon.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 9:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">El Chifl\u00f3n <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Falls.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 10:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Relaxing day in the city.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Palenque(2-3 nights)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 11:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transfer to Palenque.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 12:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the Agua Azul waterfall.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 13:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visit the ruins of Palenque. By visiting the ruins in the morning you have plenty of time to take a bus to Villahermosa with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ado.com.mx\/#\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADO<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the afternoon and then the evening flight to Mexico City with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivaaerobus.com\/en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VivaAerobus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, all of which is quite inexpensive if booked in advance and will save you a long day on the bus.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Day 14:<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Return from Mexico City.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you want to spend a few days at the beach my advice is to skip Puebla and go to Zipolite from Oaxaca.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Itinerary Mexico 20 days<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With three weeks to spare I would honestly still focus on one of the two regions (Central Mexico and Oaxaca or Yucatan Peninsula) thus following one of the two itineraries just described, perhaps spending a few extra days in one of the destinations or adding one\/two stops.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having said that, if you have any destinations in mind that you definitely don&#8217;t want to miss in either region, I suggest you take a look at domestic flights as they would save you a lot of time and are generally not too expensive.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>One-month itinerary in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With a month to spare, you should have no problem visiting both regions touching many of the destinations described in this guide. My advice is to combine the two two-week itineraries with an overnight bus from Merida to Palenque or vice versa or with some internal flights.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Itinerario_un_mese_messico.jpg\" alt=\"Mappa Itinerario di un mese in Messico\" width=\"730\" height=\"365\" \/>\r\n<div id=\"how\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>How to get around Mexico<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Buses in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buses and colectivos (minibuses\/vans) are by far the cheapest and most popular way to travel within the country. In most of the destinations described in this guide, the company &#8220;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ado.com.mx\/#\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ADO<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8221; operates, which is actually a collection of many different companies grouped under the same name.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They operate different types of more or less luxurious buses, the choice is yours. I have always traveled with the cheapest option and the buses have always been of a good standard. If bought a few days in advance, tickets are considerably cheaper.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Especially in Yucatan I have noticed that second class bus tickets tend not to be offered to tourists at the terminal, if you want to save some money, just ask.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As for colectivos, the latter have fixed prices and for the routes they cover have really frequent departures, in general they are faster and cheaper than regular buses and I strongly recommend them especially for short and medium distances.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/colectivos_in_messico.jpg\" alt=\"I collectivos in Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"625\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Collectivos.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Domestic flights in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Given the size of the country and the long travels involved, it is often worth considering some domestic flights, which fortunately can be extremely cheap.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The two main low-cost airlines are: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.volaris.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Volaris<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vivaaerobus.com\/en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">VivaAerobus<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. I flew with VivaAerobus from Mexico City to Chetumal for about \u20ac30. However, for the best fares you need to book in advance.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Taxis in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In general, taxis in Mexico are quite affordable compared to European standards. Some taxis use meters, especially in cities, while others do not. In cases where meters are not used, I recommend agreeing on the fare before boarding to avoid any disputes upon arrival at your destination.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In some cities, alternatives like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uber.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uber<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cabify.com\/en\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cabify<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are available, providing additional options for transportation.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Hitchhiking in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As somewhat in all Latin American countries, hitchhiking is really popular in rural areas and less so around large cities. In some cases the driver may expect to get some money.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"cost\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Backpacking Mexico: costs<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How much does a trip to Mexico cost?<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The cost of a trip to Mexico depends a lot on the type of activities you are going to do and also on the region visited. Yucatan for example is one of the most expensive states in the country, while Chiapas one of the cheapest, in any case <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/planning\/40-tips-for-backpackers\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">traveling low cost<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the independent traveler should have no problem with a daily budget of about 30-40\u20ac per day.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of transportation in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transportation is really cheap although long-distance buses can be relatively expensive compared to other Central American countries especially if not booked in advance. If you have a well-defined itinerary, book in advance!<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, remember to consider domestic flights as well. These can be very affordable if booked in advance, especially if you <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/planning\/backpacking-light\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">travel light<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and only have carry-on luggage.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"img-fluid\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Taqueria_tradizionale.jpg\" alt=\"Taqueria tradizionale per le strade del Messico\" width=\"1110\" height=\"624\" \/>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>Taqueria.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of accommodation in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lodging prices vary widely by region but expect to pay about 10\u20ac for a dormitory bed in the states of Chiapas and Oaxaca while in Yucatan and Mexico City we are generally closer to 15\u20ac. Breakfast is often included in the price.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Cost of Food in Mexico<\/b><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food in Mexico is not only delicious but also very cheap. &#8220;Street food&#8221; is really part of Mexican culture and even the smallest town has a small stand serving tacos, quesadillas and tortas at bargain prices.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A taco is normally sold for about 10 pesos a piece but sometimes even less and for some people 3 tacos make a meal. In San Cristobal in the main square I found a lady selling three delicious chicken tamales for 10 pesos and unique dishes like enchiladas or soups for 30-40 pesos! In short if you just eat where the locals eat or at least in local restaurants the food is extremely cheap.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div id=\"safe\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><\/div>\r\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Backpacking Mexico: safety<\/b><\/h2>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is Mexico safe? In my personal experience, absolutely yes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfortunately, Mexico has been associated for years with drug trafficking and violent crimes, which are a reality. It has to be said that these issues are closely linked to certain areas and very unlikely to interfere with tourism. <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/visionofhumanity.org\/indexes\/mexico-peace-index\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you will find a really interesting map that shows how typically tourist states are also the safest.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In any case, as in all developing countries (but not only!) common sense should be used and for example walking through the streets of Mexico City alone at night is certainly not recommended, having said that, I have been around the country using exclusively public transportation and walking alone through the cities even at times that are not really advisable without ever having any kind of problem, just follow <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/backpacking-safety\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">my advice<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and you will be fine.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Are you planning a trip to Mexico? Check out these posts:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/gear\/best-travel-cards\/\">The best cards for traveling<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/gear\/packing-list\/\">What to bring on your trip<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Do you have any questions? Updated information? Feel free to leave a comment or message me on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ilbackpacker\/\">Instagram<\/a>!<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><strong>Since I no longer run ads, if you found this article helpful, please consider purchasing your <a href=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/start-here\/safety\/travel-insurance\/\">travel insurance<\/a> through one of the links on this site. Doing so supports my work at no additional cost to you. For EU and UK residents, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.truetraveller.com\/?tag=4486\">True Traveller<\/a>. For everyone else, I recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/heymondo.com\/?utm_medium=Afiliado&amp;utm_source=ILBACKPACKER&amp;utm_campaign=PRINCIPAL&amp;cod_descuento=ILBACKPACKER&amp;ag_campaign=INPUT&amp;agencia=3e3e0e90cc3ad100e738962ea2e0b0be8d69\">HeyMondo<\/a>, which offers a 5% discount. Thank you for your support!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.paypal.com\/donate\/?hosted_button_id=QTBBEQQCE37GA\">For donations\/pizzas and virtual beers<\/a> \ud83d\ude42\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><em>Did you like the post? Pin it!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-7597\" src=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_mexico.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"330\" height=\"495\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_mexico.png 330w, https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/backpacking_mexico-200x300.png 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 330px) 100vw, 330px\" \/>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This giant North American country covers about 2 million square kilometers and over 10,000 km of coastline. It is among the 10 most visited countries in the world and has something to offer for every taste: Caribbean beaches, mountains, deserts, ruins, colonial cities and much more.\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I spent more than a month traveling backpacking in the interior of the country. In this guide you will find a lot of tips and information to better organize your trip.<\/span>","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5910,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[62],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7755","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mexico"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7755","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7755"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7755\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5910"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7755"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7755"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ilbackpacker.it\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7755"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}