Our 88-Day Photographic Journey Through Mexico: Vibrant Cities, Ancient Ruins, and Pristine Beaches
Mexico, only our second destination on this epic trip, unexpectedly stole our hearts. We extended our stay multiple times, ultimately spending 88 days and covering over 3,600 kilometers (2,370 miles) across this captivating country.
Reliving those unforgettable moments, we've curated a stunning photo tour of our adventure through Mexico's diverse landscapes, cultures, and hidden gems:
Upon landing in Mexico City, we were greeted by lively Mariachi bands and colorful folklore performances…
We uncovered vibrant street art…
…and marveled at the breathtaking views from the iconic Torre Latinoamericano.
In Xochimilco, we glided through the canals on a traditional trajinera boat…
In Coyoacán, we soaked in the bohemian vibe and bustling market, plus a visit to Frida Kahlo's iconic Casa Azul.
The majestic Aztec pyramids of Teotihuacán were an absolute highlight on our itinerary.
We then ventured to Puebla, home to the famous VW Beetle factory until 2003…
…and admired the city's stunning Talavera-tiled facades.
We arrived in Oaxaca just in time for the vibrant Guelaguetza festival in July…
…spending delightful weeks in this colonial gem before exploring the awe-inspiring Monte Albán ruins.
Next, we relaxed in the laid-back beach village of Mazunte on Oaxaca's Pacific coast, experiencing our first taste of subtropical paradise.
After unwinding, we headed to nearby Zipolite, then inland to the charming highland town of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
San Cristóbal boasted incredible street art…
…and a strong presence of Chiapas' indigenous Maya communities throughout.
We visited the Maya villages of Zinacantán and Chamula, witnessing traditional weaving and tortilla-making firsthand.
At Sumidero Canyon, we gazed at the stunning Christmas Tree waterfall and spotted numerous crocodiles…
En route to Mérida, we stopped at the turquoise cascades of Agua Azul and Misol-Há:
…and one of our favorite Maya sites: Palenque, nestled deep in the jungle.
Mérida welcomed us with heavy rains and flooding…
…but soon the August heat returned, letting us enjoy its grand churches before…
…venturing to Cuzamá for our first Yucatán cenote swim in these mystical sinkholes.
Valladolid became our absolute favorite town in Mexico:
Charmed by its warm locals…
…and enchanted by its picturesque colonial architecture…
Chichén Itzá's grandeur left us in awe…
…while Cenotes X'Kekén and Samulá were just a quick bike ride away.
We based ourselves in Playa del Carmen for four weeks, finding serene beaches away from the crowds…
Before departing, we island-hopped to Isla Mujeres, a Caribbean paradise off Cancún…
…though its southern cliffs evoked Scotland and Ireland…
…and wrapped up with Tulum's Mayan ruins, dramatically perched above the turquoise sea.
Our final Mexico stop was Chetumal on the Belize border, launching us by speedboat to Ambergris Caye.
