5 Underrated Mexican Destinations To Explore This Year

From Cabo to Puerto Vallarta, it’s easy to understand why so many travelers are drawn to major Mexican cities and tourist hubs. But if you’ve already been there or want to avoid the crowds on your next trip, it’s time to check out this country’s hidden gems. Here are our favorite underrated spots in Mexico:

1. Akuten-Chen Natural Park, Cancun

Cancun is one of the top destinations on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. It is known for its breathtaking beaches and lively party scenes. However, moving away from the crowded area, Cancun hides captivating caves, caverns, and rainforests waiting to be explored.

One destination to try is the Akuten-Chen Natural Park. Located in the Akumal village, this site covers a 400-acre rainforest preserve, allowing you to discover the beauty of the Mexican wilderness. Explore the 5-million-year-old limestone cave and swim in its crystal clear pool. You can also try zipline rides to get an amazing bird’s eye view of the rainforest. For more, have a memorable wildlife encounter with whitetail deer and spider monkeys while exploring.

2. Isla Hoblox, Quintana Roo

Lying off the northern coast of the Yucatan peninsula, Isla Holbox is a secluded 26-mile-long island accessible only by ferry boat. Once a sleepy fishing village, the island has become an ecotourism spot. It doesn’t allow cars, but you can get around via bicycles, carts, and mopeds.

Its calm beaches offer a great destination for families with kids. You can try popular activities like fishing, kiteboarding, island hopping, and birdwatching. In addition, the shallow lagoon that separates Isla Hoblox from the rest of the Quintana Roo state is home to beautiful avian species like herons, flamingos, cormorants, and more. If you visit between June and September, you may even get the chance to see and swim with whale sharks in the area.

3. Merida, Yucatan

If you’re looking for a family-friendly alternative to the busy beach scene of Cancun, Merida is one of the best options. You’ll get the same mesmerizing beaches but none of the crowds.

Known as the Capital of Culture, Merida is also lined with historic and beautiful churches, haciendas, and museums. You’ll see color facades in central squares filled with numerous market stands where you can shop for trinkets or satisfy your Mexican food cravings. Plus, the city hosts free concerts, local traditions like Pok Ta Pok demonstrations (a Mayan ball game), cultural events, and festivals.

If you’re into history, you can go on day trips to Mayan ruins and explore cenotes or natural sinkholes. For little ones who love the animated film Coco, visiting the Merida cemetery will leave them thrilled. You’ll see rows upon rows of multi-colored mausoleums stuffed with candles, dried flowers, and photos of lost loved ones.

4. Sierra Gorda, Queretaro

Although one of the most underrated Mexican destinations, Sierra Gordon is a must-visit for nature lovers. Featuring unique ecosystem diversity where large cliffs rise above barren lands, you’ll probably need several days to see all the amazing views of this location.

The mountainous region is packed with adventure activities suitable for all kinds of travelers. Explorers will love the trails that take you to breathtaking sceneries and refreshing waterfalls. Adrenaline junkies can go on rappelling adventures or ride through steep mountain biking trails. For a more laid-back experience, you can also swim in crystal clear rivers, watch beautiful birds at sunrise, or stay in eco camps in the forests.

5. Palenque, Chiapas

Tourists flock to popular historical Mexican destinations like Tulum to see ancient Mayan ruins. However, a visit to the historical temples of Palenque will help you further appreciate the history of ancient Mexico. These temples are much older than most Mexican Mayan ruins, offering a richer cultural experience.

While the Palenque archeological site is the main attraction, you can also tour the ruins at Bonampak and Yaxchilan. The area is surrounded by a jungle filled with tropical birds and howler monkeys calling your attention. Furthermore, Palenque is also known for its beautiful waterfalls like Agua Azul and Misol-Ha, where you can cool off after a hot day of exploring.

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