Best Hidden Gems of Mexico
Taxco
Taxco is also known as the white city, for obvious reasons. Located on the side of a mountain, this town gained importance because of its silver production and stayed relevant because of its beauty. 90% of the cars in Taxco are white VW Beetles. Back in the day they were the only cars with the motor in front that could conquer the uphill streets. Today they are still the preferred mode of transport.
During the Holy Week before Easter lots of people come here to witness the procession. Participants even hurt themselves to repent for their sins.
Nearby Taxco you can visit the impressive caves of Cacahuamilpa. I joined a tour that included both from Mexico City.
San Juan Chamula
San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan are only about 30 minutes outside of San Cristobal’s city center, but they’re pretty much a completely different world. Wandering through the Temple at San Juan Chamula is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. Pine needles cover the floor, thousands of candles flicker, women kneel and dramatically pray to various saints.
You can see how chickens are sacrificed, and you will definitely see people drinking something that looks like water, but it’s actually smallpox (local liquor).
In Zinacantán we visited some artisans. Women here weave gorgeous tops and other garments by hand. The designs are unreal. Two other villages to consider visiting are Amantenango del Valle, a Tzeltal village known for its pottery, and Simojovel, known for its amber production.
Sierra Gorda Biosphere
The Sierra Gorda Biosphere is not just 1 attraction. Maybe I cheated a little bit with this one. It's an entire region filled with natural attractions. From the Mirador Cuatro Palos you can look out over the incredible mountain range from above the clouds. Aside from this, there are plenty of waterfalls, like El Chuveje Waterfall.
The Cañón del Paraíso or canyon of paradise in Peñamiller is also a popular stop along the way. The Jalpan Dam is great to spend time doing water activities. You can spot fireflies and taste the incredible food along the "Ruta del Sabor" or Route of Flavour! Once you've seen everything the region has to offer, you can continue your trip through San Luis Potosi, Mexico's best-kept secret!
Campeche
Although it is a lesser known city on the Yucatan peninsula, it is one that has a special place in my heart. I loved the colorful old town of Campeche.
I got a local colectivo that leaves once it’s full to the nearby archeological site, Edzna. When I got out, only 2 other girls got out with me and that’s how I met my friend Selene, who I've spent many good times with since. After introducing myself to her and her friend I set off to explore the ruins and they were probably the cheapest visit I’ve done and there were less than 10 other people on site, which was so cool!
Yachxilan Temple
Yaxchilan can only be reached by boat on the river that separates Mexico from Guatemala. You’ll even run into crocodiles on your way there. As soon as you reach the site, the sound of the howler monkeys hits your eardrums and you’re really in the middle of the jungle. Beware of the snakes, that was definitely the one thing I didn’t like there. Oh and I rolled down the pyramid! The steps were covered in slippery moss, so it’s definitely a place to watch your feet, but so worth it!
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