The Yucatan Peninsula is home to Mexico’s most famous landmark, Chichen Itza. The Mayan temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and is iconic of Mexico. Significant proportions of the local population are of Mayan descent, and the traditional language is still spoken here. A great base from which to visit Chichen Itza is the city of Merida, from where we would also recommend visiting the mangroves of Celstun to meet the flamingoes or exploring the simply spectacular Lol-Tun caves. Mayan paintings can still be seen on the walls of this remarkable underground lair, beautifully decorated with incredible stalactites and stalagmites.
For a truly unusual and memorable dip, head to one of the Yucatan’s many cenotes. These ‘sinkholes’ are unique in Mexico,and with their electric-blue waters and spectacular rock formations, are an absolute must.
Dotted throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, and close to many of the region’s best Mayan sites and colonial cities, we recommend staying at one of the beautiful haciendas.
Meanwhile, Campeche offers lush green rainforests, historic architecture and fascinating Mayan sites, as well as the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.
