EXPERIENCE MEXICO, GUATEMALA AND BELIZE
Mesoamerica’s nature is diverse, stunning and perfect for outdoor activities. The north is home to majestic cactus deserts and protected bays teeming with wildlife. Through the centre, you can experience turquoise waterfalls at the beautiful Sierra Madre. The south contains the second Earth’s green lung. And the Caribbean coast boasts a rich tropical marine life at the longest reef in the Americas. Finally, Guatemala’s volcanoes offer amazing treks for any adventurer.
The land from central Mexico to Guatemala forms the earth’s second jungle after the Amazon. The tropical weather and remoteness of these areas allow a wide diversity of flora and fauna, perfect for outdoor activities. These reserves are home to jaguars, howler monkeys and quetzal birds among others.
From south to north, we begin our jungle exploration in the Peten region in Guatemala. This vast jungle offers great hikes to some stunning lookout points. Moreover, swimming in the tranquil waters of Peten lake is a relaxing experience! Then, around Belize, we will explore amazing caves hidden in the rainforests.
Entering southern Mexico, the Calakmul reserve counts many species of flora and fauna. This is a paradise for photographers, bird watchers and nature lovers. Moreover, Palenque National Park is home to colourful toucans and howling monkeys.
Mesoamerica offers crystal-clear cenotes, volcanic lakes, travertine waterfalls and deep canyons. From north to south, we begin visiting freshwater wonders in central Mexico. Here, the Huasteca Potosina offers extraordinary sinkholes and turquoise waterfalls. Besides, we will enjoy a bathing experience like no other at the Tolantongo hot springs.
Around southern Mexico, Oaxaca is home to Hierve el Agua. This set of infinity pools at the top of spectacular waterfalls is also great for outdoor activities. Continuing south into Chiapas, you can find the Sumidero Canyon, whose walls are over 1,000 feet high. Additionally, several waterfalls run with crystal clear water. Finally, the jungle of Yucatan is home to the famous cenotes and the turquoise lagoon of Bacalar.
Guatemala is also rich in beautiful cascades and lakes. For instance, Rio Dulce is an imposing biological corridor with spectacular beauty. Besides, Semuc Champey offers turquoise-tiered pools above a natural limestone bridge. Last but not least, no trip to Guatemala is complete without a visit to the imposing Lake Atitlan.
Mesoamerica’s coast contains some of the world’s most important marine life reserves. Starting from north to south, you can explore the stunning bays of Baja California. Containing dozens of warm bays protected by UNESCO, it is the perfect paradise for marine life. You won’t know where to look first!
The North Pacific coast also teems with marine wildlife. In Sonora, Kino bay is home to Tiburon Island, the largest in Mexico with 1,200 km2. Moreover, the Sinaloa state is excellent for swimming with wild dolphins. Finally, the Riviera Nayarit’s sweeping swath of coast attracts nature lovers and surfers. Here, the Marietas Islands offer natural beauty and scenic vistas.
In the central areas, Oaxaca’s Pacific coast boasts sandy beaches and crashing waves. As part of our experiences, we enjoy a tour through the mangrove, home to alligators and deer. Additionally, we visit a turtle conservation centre and Punta Cometa’s viewpoint.
Finishing in the Caribbean, Tulum includes a wonderful turquoise beach. To the south, Belize‘s Caribbean coast is the perfect example of a tropical paradise. Here, Caye Caulker is a tiny island where we will explore the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere!
Mesoamerica is home to some of the best volcanoes in the world. In Guatemala, the Acatenango trek offers stunning views over the erupting Volcán de Fuego. On the other hand, those who want a less demanding option can hike through the skirts of Pacaya Volcano. Lastly, in Michoacán, the tiny village of Paricutín is worth visiting for its Church, submerged in lava.
Moreover, north Mexico has many beautiful canyons and mountain ranges. Chihuahua is home to the stunning Copper Canyon. And its associated El Chepe is one of the most impressive train rides in the world. Hitting central Mexico, we visit the spectacular ridge of the Sierra Gorda of Querétaro. Here, Cuatro Palos’ views will leave you breathless. Finally, in the southern state of Oaxaca, the Pueblos Mancomunados offer great outdoor activities. Last but not least, the Huehuetenango mountains in north Guatemala offer incredible horse rides.
Finally, you can also find interesting wildlife sanctuaries sprinkled throughout Mesoamerica. The most famous is the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. Here, a mammoth migration takes place every year. Besides, the state of Tlaxcala sees thousands of fireflies mating in the pine forests. Finally, the Green Macaw Sanctuary offers great opportunities to see these colourful birds.
Visit the most diverse and spectacular sierras, volcanoes and sanctuaries
Northern Mexico’s desert is often overlooked by visitors. Yet, there’s plenty worth seeing here. Expansive plains dotted with a cactus or two serve as common backdrops in the wild west films. All in all, these dry and dusty landscapes are something unique and remote.
Baja California comes to everyone’s mind when thinking about desert landscapes in Mexico. For instance, it is home to the beautiful oasis of Guadalupe Canyon, which contains amazing hot springs. Moreover, in Sonora, you can find the stunning World Heritage Site of El Pinacate. This reserve combines massive dunes with spectacular craters, creating a fabulous landscape.
Heading south to the state of Coahuila lies Mexico’s “Bermuda Triangle” in the form of the Zona del Silencio. Myth and legend have forever circulated about this remote patch of desert. Besides, Real de Catorce is one of Mexico’s most famous ghost towns. Its surrounding desert witness a stunning peregrination of the Huichol tribe every year.
Wonder with Lupita’s selection of remote deserted landscapes!