One of the most pleasant towns in the Yucatán is definitely the colorful San Francisco de Campeche (Campeche for short). Although it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , many tourists miss it. And that’s a big mistake. This colourful town is full of beautiful streets, pleasant cafes and restaurants.

1) Visit the colonial fortifications

Campeche is one of the few cities on the North American continent where the city’s fortifications have been preserved. You can climb it in several places, but although some bloggers write that you can walk around the whole city, this is not true. We suspect they’ve never been to Campeche. 🙂 So be careful if you catch such information somewhere.

2) Museo de La Arquitectura Maya

If you are interested in the history of the Mayan civilization, you should definitely not miss this tiny museum in Campeche. Entrance costs 55 pesos (about 65 CZK) and it hides real treasures, such as the death mask of a prominent ruler or well-preserved beautifully decorated columns.

3) La Calle 59

Your visit will not be complete without a tour of the city’s most colourful street . It’s full of stylish restaurants, cafes and shops.

4) Visit the beautiful Catedral de la Purisma

One of the Campeche’s most dominant building is the Catedral de la Purisima, which took on its Baroque-Classical appearance in the early 18th century. century. This is one of the best examples of colonial architecture to be found in Campeche.

5) Take a ride on the tourist train

There is a tourist train that runs through the city, which costs 100 pesos (120 CZK) for adults and 40 pesos (50 CZK) for children and takes you on a 45-60 minute tour of the city. The tour is in both Spanish and English and you will learn many interesting facts about the pirate history of the city.

6) Enjoy the sunset on the “malecon” promenade

Campeche is right next to the sea, although you won’t find any beaches here. It’s not that the water is dangerous, just outside the town is Playa Bonita, but there is simply no entrance to the sea. Instead, locals walk the ‘malecon’ promenade which stretches for miles. The most beautiful walks are of course at sunset, which is admired by dozens of tourists and locals every day from the promenade.

7) Light show on the main street

Have you ever been to the Signal Festival in Prague? You can experience something similar in Campeche, every day at 8am. Take a look at video.

8) Go to Playa Bonita

Want to take a bath and don’t know where? 20 minutes from Campeche is the beautiful Playa Bonita beach, where you can spend a few hours or even a whole day.

9) Visit the ruins of Edzná or Uxmal

If you’re heading to Merida from here, your next stop will definitely be the Uxmal Ruins, which are less than two hours away. Those with more time in Campeche can head to the lesser-known ruins of Edzná, only an hour away.

10) Taste local specialities

At Campeche you can taste dishes you won’t find elsewhere in the Yucatán. Those who, unlike us, eat meat can try, for example, shrimp in coconut, shark or have traditional octopus with garlic and pickled onions. We tasted here vegetarian enmoladas with egg. The traditional dessert is Postre de Chicozapote, which is made from the fruit of the same name. It grows on the tree from which the Mayans made chewing gum. The dessert is very sweet and has the same consistency as crème brulée.

Where to eat in Campeche

Koko Sushi If you’ve had enough of Mexican cuisine, try Koko Sushi . Mexico isn’t known for quality sushi restaurants, but this one is an exception. For Mexico, the rolls are tasty and they have nice prices. Café Sotavento Vegans and vegetarians will appreciate the offer Cafe Sotavento where there is a really nice selection of vegan dishes. The menu includes Mexican chilaquiles, waffles and burgers. Nice place to work. Chocol´Ha Pleasant café with a wide range of drinks and food. Plus, if you love chocolate, you’ll definitely find it here. Like most places in Campeche, wifi is a given.  

Where to stay in Campeche

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Price/Performance

Casa Mazejuwi

One of top rated accommodation at a great price. It is right in the historic center and the price includes breakfast. [/lgc_column] [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”33″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”false”]

Apartment

Las Puertas la Ria

If you are planning to cook and want something cheaper, we recommend the Depto Las Puertas La Ria apartments. However, you pay for a very reasonable price with a greater distance from the centre. [/lgc_column] [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”33″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”true”]

Luxury hotel

Hacienda Puerta Campeche

Those with a taste for luxury will probably reach for this magnificent hotel from the 17th century. Century, which has its own spa and indoor and outdoor pool. It is located in historic centre and breakfast is included in price. [/lgc_column]

Tips and tricks for travelling in the Yucatán

What to pack Take a look at our travel packing guide to help you prepare . Choose the right travel backpack, check out the travel gadgets and don’t forget anything important at home. Where to get tickets Search for cheap airline tickets at Kiwi , they’re our favourite portal. Be sure to read our instructions how to get cheap airline tickets. Car rental We commonly use a grader DiscoverCars.com to help us choose a car provider. Reservation of accommodation Booking.com is our most popular hotel search engine. We always compare hotels to for local apartments and rooms on Airbnb ( 725 CZK discount ). Read, how we find cheap accommodation . Don’t forget about insurance Travel insurance is an absolute must. For shorter journeys, choose AXA ( 50% discount ) and for longer journeys the British insurer True Traveller . Take a look at  comparison of all insurance companies  and choose the one that suits you best. Recommended Lonely Planet Yucatanguide

 

More articles about Mexico that you may find interesting

Playa del Carmen City Guide

What to do in Tulum? 12 things to do there

Chichen Itza: Mayan Ruins and Mexican Wonder of the World

Laguna Bacalar: 8 things to do there + where to eat

 

The ruins of the ancient Mayan civilization can be found all over the Yucatán and are the most interesting thing to experience on the Mexican peninsula. Follow the footsteps of the Mayans with us.

Mayan civilization on the Yucatán Peninsula

The Mayan civilization was one of the most advanced cultures in the Western Hemisphere, at least until Europeans discovered North America. The Maya had their greatest heyday between 300 and 900 AD and their empire extended over what is now southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras and northern Belize. In all, there were more than 40 city states, and those that survived under the jungle cover are now designated World Heritage Sites. Mayan cities are full of stone temples, pyramids, playgrounds and residential quarters. Cities primarily served as home to local leaders, kings and for religious activities. The Mays are known especially for their excellent knowledge of mathematics and astronomy. These sciences were firmly linked to the worship of the Mayan gods. Let’s take a look together at seven large Mayan cities that are still preserved and can be visited today. If you are going to the Yucatán and plan to follow in the footsteps of the Maya, we recommend booking at least 14 days.

Chichen Itza – the new wonder of the world

Chichen Itza is the most visited and the most expensive ruins in the entire Yucatán, but there’s a reason for that. There are a total of 18 restored buildings, the most famous of which is the Kukulcan pyramid. On the days of the equinoxes (March 21 and September 21), the setting sun creates a perfect shadow that forms the silhouette of a serpent descending on the steps of the pyramid. Under the pyramid there is also a cave with an underground lake, but unfortunately you can’t go there. In the town complex you will find one of the best preserved areas where the famous religious ball game Tlachtli was played. Apparently, after the game was over, either the captain or one entire team was sacrificed to the gods in a nearby cenote. Another interesting building is the so-called Observatory, whose roof is dome-shaped and not fully enclosed. It was probably used by Mayan astrologers for stargazing.

Tulum – port city with beach

The Mayan city on the site of today’s Tulum (130 kilometres south of Cancún) was a seaport with its own extensive beach and a defensive wall that encircles the city on three sides. The buildings here are very well preserved, but unlike in less visited cities, they are not in the jungle. Therefore, we recommend that you start your tour early in the morning, before the intense heat sets in.

Coba – accessible ruins without tourists

Archaeologists believe that the city of Coba used to be extremely important to the Maya, but has not yet become much of a tourist destination. That’s why it’s possible to climb the highest pyramid and enjoy many of the buildings in solitude. In addition to the iconic Ixmoja pyramid, which measures 42 metres, there are several well-preserved playgrounds and smaller buildings. Most of the city is still inaccessible and covered in dense jungle.

Uxmal – unique ruins near Merida

The city of Uxmal (pronounced Oshmal) was one of the most important Mayan cities. It was built during the fifth and sixth centuries, but excavations show that the site was inhabited as early as the eighth century BC. Interestingly, the city was built entirely in the Mayan Puuc style. This is strange because the smaller towns in the area show signs of several styles as local cultures influenced each other. The most prominent building is the Pyramid of the Magician, which has a total of four annexes.

Calakmul – a jewel in the middle of the jungle

Calakmul is one of the city complexes that are really hard to reach for the average tourist. It lies 60 km from the nearest tarmac road and is a three-hour drive from the nearest major cities. But all the more so has it retained its old atmosphere. This Mayan city is huge, so make a day of it. In addition to countless smaller buildings in the jungle, there are also two gigantic pyramids, one of which is the second largest Mayan pyramid ever discovered. It measures 55 metres in height and of course you can climb it. During our visit, we shared the entire complex with only thirty tourists, so we enjoyed most of the views all by ourselves. Only two families of howler monkeys (extremely loud monkeys) kept us company.

Becan – ruins right by the road

The town of Becan was only discovered in 1934 and most of the buildings still lie deep beneath centuries of earth. Although you can see the main pyramid directly from the busy road, few people stop here. We walked among more than 20 exposed buildings and pyramids all alone, only a Mexican old man appeared and took us in his arms and showed us around the city in Spanish. Becan is built in the style of the Río Bec (Bec River) and was once the political, economic, military and religious capital of the entire province of Río Bec. The city is unique for the moat that surrounds the city centre, where several pyramids and important buildings stand.

Kohunlich

The last ruins we visited, and definitely worth a visit, are again in the middle of the jungle in the south of the Mexican province of Quintana Roo and are only 9 km from the nearest asphalt road. The town of Kohunlich was probably founded around 200 BC, but most of the important buildings were not built until between the third and sixth centuries. On the site you will find a total of 8 large groups of buildings that served as administrative centres, spiritual places, palaces and residential areas. The fact that the entire city is deep in the jungle directly invites you to explore the wide surroundings. All-day shade allows you to spend long hours in the ruins.

Map of the location of the Mayan ruins in Yucatán

Tips and tricks for travelling in Mexico

What to pack Take a look at our travel packing guide to help you prepare. Choose the right travel backpack, check out the travel gadgets and don’t forget anything important at home. Where to get tickets Search for cheap airline tickets at Kiwi , they’re our favourite portal. Be sure to read our instructions how to get cheap airline tickets. Car rental We commonly use a grader DiscoverCars.com to help us choose a car provider. Reservation of accommodation Booking.com is our most popular hotel search engine. We always compare hotels with local apartments and rooms on Airbnb ( 725 CZK discount ). Read, how we find cheap accommodation . Don’t forget about insurance Travel insurance is an absolute must. For shorter journeys, choose AXA ( 50% discount ) and for longer journeys the British insurer True Traveller . Take a look at comparison of all insurance companies and choose the one that suits you best. Recommended Lonely Planet Yucatanguide

 

Calakmul is an ancient Mayan city located in the middle of an impenetrable jungle in the heart of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Only a handful of tourists and adventurers venture here, and the more you take away from the experience, the more you will enjoy it. The city lies in a UNESCO-protected biosphere and Calakmul itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The road to the ruins of Calakmul

It is not easy to explore this vast city. The ruins lie 60 kilometres from the nearest tarmac road and the journey from the nearest town, Xpujil, takes over two hours. Xpujil itself is six hours south of Cancun, so only those who choose to circumnavigate the peninsula go to Calakmul. The ruins lie almost on the border of Mexico and Guatemala.

The ancient city of Calakmul

It is estimated that as many as 50,000 Maya lived in this central city of the region at the height of its glory. Since there are really only a minimum of tourists, there are almost no restrictions in the complex. You are allowed to climb all the structures you discover, including the two giant pyramids. The larger one measures 45 metres in height and is the second largest Mayan pyramid ever discovered. In the area you will find 117 so-called. stelae, which are large pieces of stone worked into a standing block on which important events and rulers are depicted. Some even still have the original red colour!

History of Calakmul

The city existed for twelve centuries, from 500 BC to 900 AD. It was part of a coalition of four cities, of which it was the most important. The coalition was constantly at war with its southern neighbours, most of whose raids were carried out by the city of Tikal. During its full operation, there were over 6,700 buildings in the city and its immediate surroundings, covering an area of 70 square kilometres. The kingdom of Calakmul (under the influence of the ruler of Calakmul) included 20 other urban centres, which had a total population of about 200,000.

What you will see in the ruins of Calakmul

These ruins are the most extensive in the entire Yucatán and you can easily spend several hours here. In the core of the city, which covers about two square kilometres, we find the remains of about 1,000 different structures. This is also the only area that is open to the public. The rest still lie under jungle deposits, although the locations of all 6,200 structures have been mapped in detail. The water reservoirs around Calakmul are huge. There is the largest artificial Mayan water reservoir yet discovered. It measures 242 metres in width and 212 metres in length. Structure 1, as the first of the two major pyramids is unoriginally called, is built on a slight hill and at first glance appears to be higher than the second pyramid, although this is not true. Structure 2 is the largest Maya pyramid ever discovered. The base measures 120 square metres and 45 metres in height. Like the other pyramids found, this was originally a small pyramid, which the rulers gradually completed to its present form. The Mayan sacbes stone roads were important transport arteries and there are eight of them in the Calakmul area. Two of them have been mapped, three are half-exposed and the rest are known only through ground imaging. These roads led throughout the kingdom, but also connected Calakmul with its enemies. The longest documented road connecting the town of Calakmul with El Mirador and El Tintal is 68 kilometres long. For a more detailed description of the history we recommend a foreign source Loco Gringo .

Where to stay near Calakmul

The ruins are far away from everywhere, so we recommend to spend the night in the nearest sleepy town Xpujil and the next day visit the ruins of Becan, which is about ten minutes away. We’ve been all over the city and we can only recommend one hotel with a calm heart. Hotel Villa Calakmul costs around 500 CZK a night and the owner is a very helpful gentleman. The rooms are clean, coffee is available at the reception and the internet works well. From what we have seen, this cannot be said of the other accommodations in Xpujil.

Map of Calakmul ruins

Tips and tricks for travelling in Mexico

What to pack Take a look at our travel packing guide to help you prepare. Choose the right travel backpack, check out the travel gadgets and don’t forget anything important at home. Where to get tickets Search for cheap airline tickets at Kiwi , they’re our favourite portal. Be sure to read our instructions how to get cheap airline tickets. Car rental We commonly use a grader DiscoverCars.com to help us choose a car provider. In Playa del Carmen try writing to the web everythingplayadelcarmen.org , Sergio will take care of you. Reservation of accommodation Booking.com is our most popular hotel search engine. We always compare hotels with local apartments and rooms on Airbnb ( 725 CZK discount ). Read, how we find cheap accommodation . Don’t forget about insurance Travel insurance is an absolute must. For shorter journeys, choose AXA ( 50% discount ) and for longer journeys the British insurer True Traveller . Take a look at comparison of all insurance companies and choose the one that suits you best. Recommended Lonely Planet Yucatanguide

More articles about Yucatán that you may find interesting

Coba: discovering Mayan ruins in Yucatán

Playa del Carmen City Guide

What to do in Tulum? 12 things to do there

Chichen Itza: Mayan Ruins and Mexican Wonder of the World

Laguna Bacalar: 8 things to do there + where to eat

10 tips on what to do in San Francisco de Campeche, Mexico

From the top of the highest pyramid of the Coba complex, the jungle looks like a living carpet. The ruins of Coba are a great compromise for those who find Chichen Itza too touristy, but don’t want to venture further than two hours from their hotel on the Riviera Maya. Archaeologists believe that the ruins of the Mayan city of Coba were extremely important to the Mayans themselves, but due to its location further inland, not as many tourist buses come here. Thanks to this, it is still possible to climb the ruins and enjoy many of the buildings completely alone.

Discovering the Mayan ruins of Coba

The city of Coba is famous for the largest network of stone sacbes roads. Of the fifty, sixteen have been uncovered and opened to the public, the rest are still under the jungle. These elevated paths connect the various residential districts to the Nohoch Mul area. They also lead to smaller lakes (cenotes) that served as a source of water. Although we have evidence of a dense network of transport arteries, it is still a mystery how the Maya transported water and goods. There is no record of them using a bicycle. Due to the size of the town, we recommend renting a bike on site, which costs 50 pesos. But if you like to explore, take a tour on foot. Most of the city is still hidden in the jungle, and no one will stop you from exploring the jungle properly.

Climbing the pyramid

The largest pyramid in the Coba area is called Ixmoja, it measures 42 metres in height and is open to the public. There are 120 steep steps leading to the top, which are much easier to climb up. So be prepared to climb back down on all fours. A rope is stretched from the top of the pyramid, which you can hold on to while climbing. But it’s worth it. The top of the pyramid rises high above the jungle, and from the top you can see the jungle stretching into the distance. It is already clear that it won’t be long before the authorities ban climbing this pyramid as well, just as they did with the more touristy sites.

History of the ruins of Coba

The Mayan city of Coba was founded around 100 AD and was abandoned around 1550 when Spanish invaders invaded the Yucatán Peninsula. It is believed that the town of Coba was inhabited by up to 50,000 people at its peak. While exploring the area, you will come across many stelae, stone monuments on which the Maya depicted their rulers and important events.

In the jungle here you will come across two well-preserved playgrounds where the traditional Mayan ball game of Tlachtli was played. The rules of the game have changed over the centuries, in short it was about players trying to use their hips to throw the ball through the hoop. According to some sources and conjectures, one of the teams, or at least its captain, was sacrificed to the gods.

Swimming in the adjacent cenotes

A visit to the ruins of Coba is not without a dip in one of the adjacent cenotes. Cenotes are natural underground reservoirs of fresh water that are popular places to spend a sultry afternoon.

There are three cenotes around Coba

Cenote Choo-Ha is a shallow cenote with crystal blue water and stalactites hanging from the ceiling. Cenote Tamcach-Ha is a deep cenote with two platforms (5 and 10 meters) for jumping into the water. Cenote Multun-Ha is deeper in the jungle. Entrance to each of the mentioned cenotes should be 55 pesos (66 CZK). A great description of all the cenotes, including photos and instructions on how to get to them, can be found in this foreign article .

Where to stay near Coba

The ruins are not far from the cities of Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Valladolid, with Tulum being the closest (40 minutes away). [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”50″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”false”]

Cheap accommodation

Hostel Bambu Grand

Hostel right in the hotel zone in Tulum, which has its own cenote and restaurant with affordable prices. That’s almost a miracle in a hotel zone.[/lgc_column] [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”50″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”false”]

Medium expensive

Zamunda Garden View

Zamunda Garden View Apartments may not be right on the beach in the hotel zone, but you get a great apartment at a great price. Accommodation is located in the city center.[/lgc_column] [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”50″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”true”]

Luxury

Nomade Tulum

One of the most stylish hotels in all of Mexico.[/lgc_column]

Tips for visiting the ruins of Coba

• Coba is 44 kilometres (40 minutes) from Tulum and 110 kilometres (90 minutes) from Playa del Carmen
• In addition to cars, the ruins can also be reached by ADO buses and cheap Colectivos minibuses
• Rent bikes on site for 50 pesos
• Take plenty of water with you, you will spend up to two hours on site
• As always, it’s best to visit the ruins first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak tourist times

Tips and tricks for travelling in Mexico

What to pack Take a look at our travel packing guide to help you prepare. Choose the right travel backpack, check out the travel gadgets and don’t forget anything important at home. Where to get tickets Search for cheap airline tickets at Kiwi , they’re our favourite portal. Be sure to read our instructions how to get cheap airline tickets. Car rental We commonly use a grader DiscoverCars.com to help us choose a car provider. In Playa del Carmen try writing to the web everythingplayadelcarmen.org , Sergio will take care of you. Reservation of accommodation Booking.com is our most popular hotel search engine. We always compare hotels with local apartments and rooms on Airbnb ( 725 CZK discount ). Read, how we find cheap accommodation . Don’t forget about insurance Travel insurance is an absolute must. For shorter journeys, choose AXA ( 50% discount ) and for longer journeys the British insurer True Traveller . Take a look at comparison of all insurance companies and choose the one that suits you best. Recommended Lonely Planet Yucatanguide

More articles about Yucatán that you may find interesting

Playa del Carmen City Guide

What to do in Tulum? 12 things to do there

Chichen Itza: Mayan Ruins and Mexican Wonder of the World

Laguna Bacalar: 8 things to do there + where to eat

10 tips on what to do in San Francisco de Campeche, Mexico

The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza has an amazing history of over a thousand years. It is the second most visited archaeological site in Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.

Chichen Itza is located on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, not far from Cancún, and that’s one of the reasons why millions of people visit these Mayan ruins every year.

History of Chichen Itza

Not much is known about the history of the town, but one thing is certain. When the first Spanish explorers arrived on the Yucatán Peninsula in the fifteenth century, the town of Chichen Itza had long been abandoned. Historians have come up with several theories as to why this was so. Chichen Itza is not the only city from which its inhabitants have disappeared. The entire Mayan civilization died in a similar fashion.

One theory is that the Maya were simply too numerous and exhausted the available natural resources. There could also have been a catastrophe in the form of a major drought or epidemic.

Moreover, the various city-states were in constant competition with each other – Mayan cities are full of scenes of wars and bloody battles. In any case, Chichen Itza is one of the best preserved cities left from the Mayan civilization.

Pyramid of Kukulkan – El Castillo

The most famous and most photographed structure of the complex is the Pyramid of Kukulkan, which shows signs of highly sophisticated builders who used advanced mathematics. The pyramid is built on a square plan, 91 steps lead to the top and on the days of the equinox the setting sun casts a shadow that makes the snake statues on the pyramid seem to come to life. Their shadows crawl vertically down the pyramid, creating the illusion of snakes.

One staircase leads from each side to the top and each staircase represents one side of the world. There are 365 steps on the pyramid, the same number of days on the Mayan solar calendar.

Thanks to 3D scanning technology, archaeologists have discovered that there are two more pyramids inside. So the new rulers probably had a new pyramid built on top of the old one.

Temple of the Warrior

The Temple of the Warriors is a large building, of which only about 200 columns remain, which probably supported the roof, which was made of a different material. The temple is also known as the Hall of the Thousand Columns and was probably an area for religious gatherings or a marketplace.

Along the staircase you will see statues holding bowls, which were probably used in religious rituals. The Mayans could fill them with tobacco, tortillas, or whatever was appropriate to sacrifice to the gods.

Playground at Tlachtli

To the left of the main pyramid you will find the Mayan ball game field Tlachtli, which is the largest Mayan ball field found in the world so far.

According to engravings and other fragments, it is believed that two teams played against each other and their task was to throw a rubber ball through a hoop placed high above their heads.

This would be no big deal if they weren’t forbidden to use their hands and feet.

The game itself is over 3,500 years old and has been played in various variations for many centuries. In the case of the Maya, it was a religious ritual where the captain or the entire team (it is not clear whether the winners or the losers) were sacrificed to the gods in a nearby natural well – the cenote – at the end of the game.

Well of Sacrifice – Cenote De Los Sacrificios

Natural wells used to be the only available source of drinking water, and the Maya held them in sacred respect. Many historians believe that the city of Chichen Itza was built here because of the existence of the Well of Sacrifice.

During long dry periods, the Maya would throw many objects into the well, including the remains of sacrificed Maya, to curry favor with the rain god Chac.

While exploring the underground lake, divers discovered thousands of artifacts made of gold, copper and kidney stone, and of course a number of human skeletons showing signs of decapitation.

Observatory – El Caracol

Another interesting building is the so-called. Observatory, whose roof is dome-shaped and not fully enclosed. It was probably used by Mayan astrologers for stargazing.

But the Maya had no glass, so they did not own any telescopes and made all their discoveries with the naked eye.

Tzompantli – wall of skulls

This platform, surrounded by skulls, was used to pile decapitated heads into large piles. The victims were enemies defeated in battle or prisoners sacrificed to the gods.

The adjacent House of the Eagles building, which depicts eagles and jaguars clutching human hearts, has a similar motif.

Swimming in the surrounding Cenotes

You can’t swim directly in Chichen Itza, but you can go to one of the adjacent cenotes.

The nearest is cenote Ik Kil , but count on a high number of tourists, because agencies often offer to visit Chichen Itza and Ik Kil together. We therefore recommend heading towards the city of Valladolid and trying one of the lesser known cenotes: Zaci or Dzitnup.

Tips for visiting Chichen Itza

• The entrance fee will cost you about 600 CZK, please bring enough cash (only part of the price can be paid by card)
• Arrive as soon as possible, buses full of tourists start arriving at 9:30
• Equip yourself with a good quality sunscreen, hat and water for the tour
• Ignore the trekking vendors, they offer overpriced souvenirs that you can buy in any major city for half the price, but if you forget your headgear, invest in a hat instead
• Every guidebook says something a little different, so take the information with a grain of salt, generally speaking, not much is really known about the Maya and the detailed descriptions of religious ceremonies are more of a fairy tale for tourists
• The restaurants around the entrance are overpriced and not worth it, take a snack with you and go to the village of Piste or the town of Valladolid for lunch
• Don’t park along the road, park directly in the reserved parking lot in front of the entrance, it is guarded and you don’t have to worry about your rental car being scraped off.

Excursions to Chichen Itza

If you prefer to go with a group and don’t want to worry about anything, we recommend going on a day trip with one of the local companies. They usually pick you up at the hotel

Map of Chichen Itza

How to get to Chichen Itza

By car

If you’re planning to rent a car, there are some tips on where to go to get one at the end of this article. Here are the distances to the nearest towns where you are likely to stay.

• CANCUN – Chichen Itza is 197 km (two and a half hours) from Cancun by car.
• PLAYA DEL CARMEN – Chichen Itza is 181 km (2 hours) from Playa del Carmen by car.
• MERIDA – Chichen Itza is 119 km (one and a half hours) from Merida by car.
• VALLADOLID – Chichen Itza is 45 km (45 minutes) from Valladolid by car.

By bus

Mexican buses ADO will take you from Cancun in three hours and one trip will cost you 336 pesos (405 CZK). ADO also runs from Valladolid, the journey takes 50 minutes and you pay around 100 CZK one way.

Colectivos

A cheaper option are the Colectivos minibuses, which leave every ten minutes from Cancún and Valladolid. In most cases, you’ll pay about half the price of an ADO bus ticket.

Tips and tricks for travelling in the Yucatán

What to pack Take a look at our travel packing guide to help you prepare. Choose the right travel backpack, check out the travel gadgets and don’t forget anything important at home. Where to get tickets Search for cheap airline tickets at Kiwi , they’re our favourite portal. Be sure to read our instructions how to get cheap airline tickets. Car rental We commonly use a grader DiscoverCars.com to help us choose a car provider. In Playa del Carmen try writing to the web everythingplayadelcarmen.org , Sergio will take care of you. Reservation of accommodation Booking.com is our most popular hotel search engine. We always compare hotels with local apartments and rooms on Airbnb ( 725 CZK discount ). Read, how we find cheap accommodation . Don’t forget about insurance Travel insurance is an absolute must. For shorter journeys, choose AXA ( 50% discount ) and for longer journeys the British insurer True Traveller . Take a look at comparison of all insurance companies and choose the one that suits you best. Recommended Lonely Planet Yucatanguide

The city of Guanajuato is called the most beautiful and colorful city in all of Mexico. We spent almost two months there and can only agree. In this guide I will share with you Guanajuato, Mexico: 22 Best Things to Do and See. Guanajuato is a paradise for all digital nomads and experienced travelers.

Guanajuato is located in the higher regions of central Mexico, which adds to its beauty and appeal. Colorful houses and architecture contrast with the arid surroundings, and constant festivals, interesting history, and a variety of good restaurants and cafes together create an experience you won’t tire of even after several weeks.

What You should Know about Guanajuato

The original settlement on the site of today’s city was transformed into a prominent mining town during the silver rush. It is from this period that the colonial architecture originates, permeating all of Guanajuato and found almost at every turn.

In the 18th century, Guanajuato was a world leader in silver mining and has retained its architectural elements from that time to this day (for example, a complex of underground streets).

The historic center and adjacent silver mines are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites (along with 34 other sites in Mexico), and the local Baroque and Neoclassical buildings have inspired architects throughout Mexico for centuries.

Guanajuato is not very well known among foreign tourists, but it is all the more popular with Mexican visitors, whose numbers literally fill the streets during the season. Even outside of peak season, we met tourists, but only a handful of them were from the USA and Europe.

Safety in Guanajuato City

The city of Guanajuato is located in the state of the same name (Mexico is a federal state), which was considered relatively dangerous in 2019. The reason is clashes between local gangs and government forces trying to suppress them.

However, the city itself is unusually safe, and we felt safest here out of all of Mexico. Guanajuato is a university city, so you’ll commonly encounter groups of students in cafes or pubs.

Additionally, there is a large community of Americans living here who run the Facebook group Guanajuato Travelers.

We recommend joining the group; they’ll be happy to help you with everything, from interesting places to visit to buying a house.

How Long to Visit Guanajuato

If Guanajuato is just one stop on your trip, book at least two to three nights to have enough time to explore all the main attractions and activities we’re writing about here.

However, we strongly recommend a longer stay (even 2-3 weeks), as that’s the only way you’ll be able to experience and taste everything we write about in this guide.

Best Activities in Guanajuato City

The city was not originally planned, so you might find it difficult to navigate. Therefore, we’ve created an interactive map for you that you can save to your phone and refer to anytime.

Also, be prepared to walk a lot uphill and downhill. There’s almost no flat ground in the city.

All the places we write about can be found on this map:

1) a Walk through the Historic Center

Start exploring the city in the historic center with a proper walk. The city center is a labyrinth of colorful alleys filled with small shops, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll discover something new around every corner!

Also, try walking through one of the underground tunnels. Previously, the tunnels served for water drainage during heavy rains; today, most vehicular traffic is routed through them.

The tunnels have pedestrian walkways, and sometimes you can use them to shorten your route across the city.

2) Visit the Mummy Museum

Yes, you read that right. Guanajuato has its own museum full of mummies, the Museo de las Momias. In the 19th century, a cholera epidemic broke out in the city, and many people lost their lives then, all being laid to rest in hastily dug graves.

Decades later, the cemetery administration decided to impose a tax on relatives for grave maintenance. And whoever didn’t pay, their deceased would be exhumed. Some people indeed refused to pay, so the city exhumed many remains.

It turned out that thanks to the unique geological subsoil, an almost perfect mummification process occurred, and the bodies were nearly intact. More and more people came to see this curiosity, and later a museum was built for the mummies.

If the thought of mummies doesn’t make you sick, take a look at photos from the museum here before you go. Maybe it’ll deter you 😉

3) Visit the Grand Basílica City Church

Basílica de Nuestra Señora is a church on the main promenade where church weddings are often held. The church was built in the 17th century and, like the surrounding buildings, is bursting with colors.

If you like visiting churches, come here on Sunday for a local mass.

4) Visit one of the Silver Mines

Visiting a silver mine is almost a must, although we resisted these dark depths. We recommend visiting the El Nopal Mina mine, where local engineering students conduct tours. This mine is not as frequently visited, so expect a shorter waiting time until enough interested visitors gather for a tour.

The Valenciana Mines is more popular, but it’s 5 kilometers from the center, so you’ll need to use public transport.

Guided tours of the mines are in Spanish.

5) Funicular Ride

From the city center, you can reach the central viewpoint of the Pipila Monument either on foot or by the red funicular. We recommend paying for the ride up and walking down through the winding streets.

The steep funicular ride is 102 meters long, overcomes an elevation of 76 meters, and takes only a few minutes. However, it offers some of the best views of the city you’ll find in the area.

6) City View from the Pipila Monument

The Pipila Monument is visible from almost every corner of the historic center. At the top of the hill is a huge statue overlooking the city below. A funicular leads to the monument, and the reason is simple. It offers the best view of the historic center and a significant part of the entire city.

Only here will you be able to soak in the city’s colorful atmosphere and discover that even the rooftops of houses often burst with color.

7) Traditional Kiss at Callejón Del Beso

The local alley, Callejón del Beso, is the alleged setting of a tragic story. A girl from a wealthy family fell in love with a boy of working-class origin here, and her parents disapproved.

So the boy rented a room across from his girlfriend’s house so they could kiss across the balconies at night. The story ends tragically: the boy climbed into the girl’s room, and her father caught them. For an incomprehensible reason, he stabbed his daughter in a rage, and the boy killed himself falling from the balcony while trying to escape.

There’s probably not much truth to the story, but the balconies are indeed very close here, and homeowners allow visitors, for a small fee, to go onto the balconies and take a picture while kissing.

8) Go for a Trek to La Bufa

Although it seems unlikely, you’ll find opportunities for trekking even around Guanajuato. The hike to the La Bufa viewpoint isn’t marked anywhere, and you can only join the trail outside the city center, but it’s definitely worth it.

On the way to the viewpoint, you’ll pass several waterfalls (they are often dry), and at the end, a steep ascent awaits you to a smaller mountain with a metal cross at the summit.

The entire trek takes about three hours, including breaks for photos and snacks.

9) Explore the Local University

The local university is no small school. Over 30,000 students attend here, which is why the campus is spread almost throughout the entire city center. You won’t distinguish most university buildings from others, but you definitely won’t miss the main building.

The iconic staircase leading to the university’s main entrance is a popular spot for student gatherings and romantic dates. There are also beautiful views of the city from here.

10) Visit Local History and Art Museums

In Guanajuato, you’ll find a variety of museums where you could easily get lost for days. We visited three (the best ones, in our opinion) and highly recommend them to you.

Diego Rivera Museum (Diego Rivera Museum)

The most famous Mexican painter, Diego Rivera (Frida Kahlo’s husband), was born in Guanajuato. The local museum is the artist’s birthplace and shows how he spent his childhood. Of course, you’ll also find many of his paintings here.

• ($25 pesos, 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM)

Museo De Iconografico

This museum was built in honor of Spain’s most famous literary character, Don Quijote. The museum’s owner fell in love with him and collects art objects and paintings on this theme from all over the world.

• ($65 pesos, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM)

11) Explore (and Visit) Teatro Juarez

The Juarez Theater was built in the 19th century and is one of the more European-style buildings. Throughout the year, a variety of plays and musical performances are held here. If you have the time and inclination, definitely go see something. You can also visit the theater during the day; you’ll just pay a small entrance fee.

12) Boats on Presa De La Olla Lake

A bit outside the center, you’ll find a relatively forgotten beautiful park with a small reservoir, Presa de la Olla. For a few pesos, boats are available for rent here, and we definitely recommend taking one out.

In the immediate vicinity, there are several local restaurants and pubs, including a small tower from which you can get yet another view of the city.

13) Trip to Hacienda San Gabriel De Barrera

This opulent 17th-century estate consists of several grand buildings and a huge garden. It is one of the remnants of silver mining – the hacienda was built by the owners of one of Guanajuato’s significant mines.

This former colonial home is now a meticulously maintained museum with a beautiful mature garden and a unique display of the luxurious life of that era.

14) Visit Hidalgo Market

Mercado Hidalgo is a huge market with fruits, vegetables, meats, clothes, trinkets, and many other interesting things. Definitely go check out the market, even if you don’t want to buy anything. It’s definitely worth a visit, and you can combine it with lunch.

In the back of the market, you’ll find a variety of stalls where locals go for a quick meal. Tacos, soups, and many traditional dishes here cost literally a few pesos and taste better than in many tourist restaurants.

Best Culinary Experiences in Guanajuato

What kind of article would this be if we didn’t mention our favorite Guanajuato restaurants and food spots?

15) La Esquinita – Divine Vegetarian Tacos

This tiny restaurant, La Esquinita, with just a few tables, offers the best tacos we’ve tasted in all of Mexico. They also have a wide range of vegetarian options. For lunch, we recommend buying 4-5 tacos; have two with mushrooms and three with pastor de soya.

The tacos are always made by the same lady, who is also the waitress and cashier. She simply owns and takes care of the business herself. You can’t miss the restaurant; it’s right on the corner of the street and has garage-like doors.

16) Delica Mitsu Campanero

If you like Thai cuisine or sushi and get tired of Mexican food, head to the Japanese restaurant Delica Mitsu Campanero in the center. It’s one of the few Asian restaurants you’ll find in Guanajuato (if not the only one), but their food is absolutely luxurious.

We especially recommend the Thai green curry and the desserts (with seaweed) from the display case, which they prepare fresh several times a day.

17) Habibti Falafel Guanajuato Centro

Do you like falafel? We’re crazy about it, which is why we were regulars at Habibti. Try the falafel balls with vegetables wrapped in a tortilla. You definitely won’t go there for the last time.

18) Ice Cream at La Garrafa Nieves

While walking around the city center, you’ll surely come across one of the branches of the local ice cream maker La Garrafa Nieves. They make their own ice cream and offer a wide range of unique flavors you’ve never had before.

We stuck to the conservative strawberry and chocolate, but the adventurous can opt for chili, tequila, or cheese flavors.

19) Street Food

Buying and consuming food directly on the street is common in Guanajuato. On every corner, you’ll find a stall with tacos, gorditas, or esquites (cups with corn and cheese).

Definitely try everything you like. And choose stalls where there are longer lines, or where locals are also buying. That’s how you’ll recognize true quality.

Best Coffee in Guanajuato

We lived and worked in Guanajuato, so we needed to find cafes with good coffee. And we succeeded!

20) Vivo Café

The only European-style cafe in Guanajuato is Vivo Café, located in a secluded alley in the city center. They have luxurious coffee, a great giant table perfect for working on a computer. You’ll especially appreciate the cafe on hot days, as it offers pleasant dimness and coolness.

21) Aguamiel Café

This restaurant is hidden on an upper floor of one of the local hostels, and few people visit it. Yet, Aguamiel Café offers absolutely luxurious seating by open windows and excellent sandwiches and burgers you won’t find elsewhere.

22) Cafe Tal

Our absolute favorite. Cafe Tal has two branches and is an absolutely amazing cafe. Coffee costs around 20 CZK, and you can get free refills all day.

The cafe has a total of three buildings and spaces adapted for laptop work – smaller tables, power outlets, and soft lighting from lamps. Simply amazing. The location outside the city center also offers seating on a rooftop terrace!

Where to Stay in Guanajuato

If you’re only visiting Guanajuato for a few days, it’s best to stay near the city center. There’s a wide selection of hotels, hostels, and luxurious apartments and villas available.

However, if you’re moving to Guanajuato for a while, consider Airbnb, where you can find cheaper monthly rentals (mostly with locals).

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Recommended Hostels in Guanajuato

• Casa de Dante – a renowned hostel with clean rooms and excellent breakfast, where you can stay for around 20 USD per night
• La Fuente – a hostel in the historic center with a view from the rooftop seating area

Recommended Hotels in Guanajuato

• Casa de Pita – Great location right in the center for 30 USD per night with breakfast
• Hotel de la Paz – Hotel in the very center of the city with large, elegantly furnished rooms

Guanajuato, Mexico: 22 Best Things to Do and See

What to pack Check out our travel packing guide to help you prepare. Choose the right travel backpack, explore travel gadgets, and don’t forget anything important at home. Where to find flights Look for cheap flights on Kiwi, our favorite portal. Be sure to read our guide on how to find cheap flights. Car rental We commonly use the comparison tool DiscoverCars.com, which helps us choose a car rental provider. Accommodation booking Booking.com is our favorite hotel search engine. We always compare hotels with local apartment and room listings on Airbnb (725 CZK discount). Read how we find cheap accommodation. Don’t forget insurance Travel insurance is an absolute must. For shorter trips, we choose AXA (50% discount), and for longer trips, the British insurance company True Traveller. Check out  a comparison of all insurance companies and choose the one that suits you best.

Isla Mujeres is a Mexican island in the Yucatán Peninsula. Located only twenty minutes by ferry from Cancun, it is popular among tourists for its perfectly turquoise water, white beaches and ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving trips. In addition, Playa Norte beach is a very lively town full of affordable restaurants, cafes and bars where young people enjoy the nightlife. Although Isla Mujeres is crowded with tourists, if you know where to go, you can avoid them very comfortably. Let’s take a look at everything you can do here. Isla Mujeres is a common day trip from Cancún, but if you’re planning a snorkeling trip, we recommend spending at least two days here.

How to get to Isla Mujeres

From the airport First you have to get on the ferry that leaves from the port of Puerto Juarez in Cancun. You can either take a taxi, but expect to pay about 400 CZK, or take the buses to the centre of ADO for about 120 CZK, and then change to the bus “RUTA 13” (which costs a few crowns). One trip by ferry will cost you about 250 CZK and the return trip will cost 450 CZK. For more information, please visit Ultramarferry.com. From the hotel Ask the hotel how to get to the nearest bus stop, “RUTA 13”, and get a ride to Puerto Juarez for a few crowns or flag down a taxi. Never take the first offer, you can usually undercut the taxi driver by about 20-30%. We drove from the hotel for 150 CZK. Then board the ferry.

The 10 best things to do on Isla Mujeres

1) Popular Playa Norte Beach

A 10-minute walk from the ferry is a beautiful beach with perfectly turquoise water. Playa Norte is the main beach on Isla Mujeres, and has been voted one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. The beach is public, so if you don’t want to pay for umbrellas and sun loungers, you can pull up your own beach blanket anywhere and lie down wherever you like.

2) Punta Sur

The southernmost point of the island is Punta Sur, and it is also the easternmost point of Mexico. If you come here at sunrise, you will be the first people in Mexico to see the sun rise that day! It is also probably the most beautiful place on the whole island, where the water is again perfectly turquoise and crashing against the rocks. On Punta Sur there is also Garrafon Reef Park which, since 2001, has been scattered with artistic sculptures representing the Mayan civilisation.

3) Rent a golf cart

The best way to explore the island is by renting a golf cart… One day will cost you more than 1000 CZK, but the freedom of movement is worth it. And if you choose not to invest in one, you’ll find it very difficult to discover all the beauty the island has to offer.

4) Yoga overlooking the beach

If you’ve always wanted to practice yoga surrounded by palm trees and overlooking a perfectly turquoise beach, head to The Treehouse Yoga just off Playa Norte. The most popular are the lessons at sunrise and sunset. Lessons cost around 250 CZK.

5) Turtle Rescue Station – Tortugranja

Although protected, turtles are poached for their meat and eggs throughout Latin America. That is why for more than 30 years, local people and volunteers have been working together to protect the turtles. V 80. was founded by a local fisherman a turtle rescue station . It has created a safe place where the turtles can lay their eggs and the station helps with the rearing of the hatchlings. Each year, over 100,000 turtles are released back into the wild. Entrance is only 40 CZK per person.

6) Street art promoting ocean conservation

Take a careful look around the streets of Playa Norte, but don’t just look at the shops and restaurants. Focus on street art. You’ll find that most of the paintings relate to life in the ocean. The works were created by artists from around the world to raise awareness of marine animals that are threatened with extinction in local waters.

7) Trip to Isla Contoy

If you are spending a longer time on Isla Mujeres, you should definitely not miss a visit to the small adjacent island of Isla Contoy, which has been protected by the Mexican government since 1961 and has been a national park of Mexico since 1998. In the south of the island is Ixlaché – the second longest coral reef in the world – home to 234 species of fish, including the majestic whale shark and the giant manta ray. The local lagoons, mangroves and lowland forests are home to 152 species of birds including phragmites, cormorants, bobo, herons and pelicans. In summer, it is possible to see three species of sea turtles laying eggs on the beaches of the island.

8) MUSA Submarine Museum (Museo Subacuático de Arte)

You can go to the underwater museum either from Cancún or from Isla Mujeres. There are over 500 sculptures underwater, created by Jason deCaires Taylor. You will see statues of people and cars at the bottom of the sea and it’s definitely worth it if you haven’t been to a museum like this before. There are several ways to visit the museum. You can go snorkeling, diving or watch the action through a glass boat. Since we don’t have a diving license, we decided to go snorkeling.

9) Snorkelling and snorkelling again

Isla Mujeres definitely has some of the best snorkeling conditions in the area. Therefore, if you are interested in underwater life, you will be in paradise here. Apart from the aforementioned MUSA underwater museum, you can choose from a wide range of snorkelling excursions. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, this island has something for everyone.

10) Swimming with several meter sharks

If you arrive on Isla Mujeres between June and September, you won’t want to miss the biggest attraction – swimming with the giant shark (whale shark). They are the largest sharks in the world and are between 8-10 meters long. They are the largest known pariba in the world and are characterised by their bright spots and stripes. They are not dangerous to humans because they feed on plankton. Be prepared to pay around 3000 CZK per person for this experience, but the trip includes breakfast, lunch and drinks in addition to swimming with the sharks. They will also rent you equipment and usually include snorkeling stops at the corals. Beware, it is illegal to touch sharks and you should always keep a distance of at least two metres.

Where to eat on Isla Mujeres

Chayo and Cacao

Generally in Mexico, it can be quite a challenge to find vegetarian and vegan food that not only looks great, but tastes amazing. Avocado lovers will enjoy the Chayo and Cacao will definitely be in the mood, as well as those who watch their lines.

Aroma Isla

If you have both carnivores and vegans in your group, in Aroma Isla you can all eat. Their menu offers vegan and vegetarian dishes, but also something in the style of steak or Pad Thai.

Where to stay on Isla Mujeres

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Our tip

Hostel Azucar

If you want to choose the cheapest accommodation with the best location, check out the Azucar hostel. It’s a bit punk, some rooms don’t even have windows, but you’ll find a nice reception and a kitchen where you can cook.

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Medium variant

Hotel Kinich

This 3-star hotel is located a short walk from Playa Norte and includes a continental breakfast. It is not a design highlight, but a good option if you want to live close to Playa Norte and the town.

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For families

Suites Lorens

If you’re going as a family, the Suites Lorens costs just 1,100-1,500 CZK per night for four people and offers beautiful, stylish suites. Please note that Suites Lorens is not located at Playa Norte, but in the middle of the island.

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Luxury option – Shell House

Everyone would probably want to spend the night in a shell-shaped house . This is probably one of the most original houses in the world where you can stay overnight. A week in the house costs over 34,000 (depending on the season) and is usually booked up. Designed by one of Mexico’s most famous artists, Octavio Ocampo, for his brother, it is truly the ultimate embodiment of the atmosphere of summer intertwined with sea and sun.  

Tips and tricks for travelling in the Yucatán

What to pack Take a look at our travel packing guide to help you prepare. Choose the right travel backpack, check out the travel gadgets and don’t forget anything important at home. Where to get tickets Search for cheap airline tickets at Kiwi , they’re our favourite portal. Be sure to read our instructions how to get cheap airline tickets. Car rental We commonly use a grader DiscoverCars.com to help us choose a car provider. Reservation of accommodation Booking.com is our most popular hotel search engine. We always compare hotels with local apartments and rooms on Airbnb ( 725 CZK discount ). Read, how we find cheap accommodation . Don’t forget about insurance Travel insurance is an absolute must. For shorter journeys, choose AXA ( 50% discount ) and for longer journeys the British insurer True Traveller . Take a look at comparison of all insurance companies and choose the one that suits you best. Recommended Lonely Planet Yucatanguide

   

Holbox Island, a few hours from Cancún on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is a paradise for all travellers. Holbox is the ideal place to take a break from the hectic pace of life. The mobile signal is very poor and you can dream of stable internet here, yet nobody wants to leave. Or maybe that’s why. If you’ve always dreamed of a holiday on a snow-white beach, this is the place to make it happen. In this article you will find out what to do at Holbox, how to get there, where to eat and where to stay.

What is Holbox

Although Holbox is slowly gaining popularity, don’t expect a touristy place full of trinkets and kitsch. The locals try to take good care of Holbox and create an environment that benefits both locals and tourists. Most of the locals either fish for a living or are tourists. The residents of Holbox even have a Facebook group where you can read that if you were here years ago and you think “it’s too touristy now”, you have to accept that everything is changing gradually. Change is inevitable, but the people of Holbox are trying to make it for the good and they would be glad if you could contribute. Most of the restaurants and accommodation are slightly more expensive, but it’s nothing dramatic, like in the hotel zone of Tulum. The word “holbox” (read holboš) means black hole in the Mayan language. This probably has nothing to do with today’s island anymore, as it is now perceived as a tropical paradise with sand that is softer than plain flour. (But in the case of internet availability it fits)

Holbox is located in the north of the Yucatán, 145 km from Cancún in the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve, it lies exactly where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea, so the water is not as turquoise as on Isla Mujeres. Don’t worry, it’s still crystal clear and, most importantly, pleasantly warm. The most beautiful beaches are on the northern coast of the island, those in the south at Yalahao Lagoon are wildly overgrown with mango trees, but with a bit of luck you can also spot dolphins.

Relax in the famous hammocks on the beaches

If you’re worried you won’t find a place with hammocks on the beaches, you don’t have to. They’re all over the island. Just walk around for a while and you’re sure to find an empty one. The best ones are those that are partially in water, because only in such can you last for hours. You will forget the time very quickly, so be careful not to get burned.

Take a trip to the plankton luminary

You’ve probably heard of glowing plankton, it was one of the reasons we wanted to get to Holbox and it was worth it. Our accommodation helped us book a trip to Punta Coco, where it is dark enough at night to see the luminous plantains on the beach. At nine o’clock in the evening, a taxi driver picked us up in a golf cart and half an hour later we were walking in the glistening water. And how come it’s lit? Plantcon has a pigment called luciferin in it, which is released by irritation and lights up. But it is only visible in absolute darkness, so you won’t normally see it, even if it is in water.

How to take a photo of a luminous plankton?

If you want to take a picture of it, set your camera to high ISO and long exposure, but we decided to enjoy the magical experience this time, sailing in the star-studded water and leaving our camera in our backpack. The whole trip lasted only about an hour and cost 250 pesos per person (about 300 CZK). If you’re wondering if it’s worth it, I’m telling you straight out: absolutely YES.

Explore the island by bike or in a golf cart

The best way to explore the island is by bike or golf cart. A bicycle will cost you about 200 pesos per day (250 CZK), with a golf cart you can expect to pay several times that price.

A trip to the Three Islands (Tres Islas) to see pink flamingos

One of the most popular tours is the Three Islands Tour. It will cost you 450 pesos per person (500 CZK), you will see the island of birds, swim in the Cenotes and see pink flamingos. This is a boat trip, so there’s a good chance you’ll meet dolphins along the way.

Swimming with several meter sharks

If you arrive at Holbox between May and September, don’t miss the biggest attraction – swimming with the basking shark (whale shark). They are the largest sharks in the world and are between 8-10 meters long. They are the largest known pariba in the world and are characterised by their bright spots and stripes. They are not dangerous to humans because they feed on plankton.

Horse back-riding tour – explore the island on horseback

If you are one of those who prefer to see the world from the saddle, you can go on one of the organized tours where you will be taken on horseback around the island.

Kayaking on Holbox

One of the things we didn’t know about, but would probably reach for with all ten hands. At Holbox, you can book a kayak or paddle board trip, where they take you out to sea after sunset, and then paddle through the plankton at night. If anyone goes on this trip, be sure to let us know in the comments how it was!

Go dancing tonight at the Hot Corner

Hot Corner is a popular bar with live music almost every day and often has events like: free first drink for women. We caught a great Colombian band and had the opportunity to dance salsa, cumbia and bachata.

Explore every aisle

If you stay on the beach for your entire stay and don’t explore the streets of Holbox, you’ll miss out. Not only are there cute shops, beautiful cafes and stylish restaurants, but you’ll also find local shops, hairdressers you might be afraid to go to and, most importantly, beautifully decorated walls with local street art.

Take a yoga class

There are several places where you can practice yoga at Holbox. Most of the time you just need to walk around your accommodation and you will find a place. One of the better ones is in Amaite Hotel and Spa where you do yoga on the terrace overlooking the sea. But it is also one of the more expensive ones.

The best restaurants and cafes in Holbox

Painapol

One of the most popular places for breakfast is definitely Painapol . If you like avocado toast, you’ll love it here.

NAAY

V NAAY you will find mainly healthy dishes, beautiful Buddha bowls and a menu for vegetarians and vegans. But the portions are somewhat smaller.

El Hornito Argento

If you’ve had enough of tacos, head to the delicious pizza at El Hornito Argento . Those who eat meat can try the famous specialty – Lobster pizza.

Clandestino Coffee Shop

If you are looking for quality coffee and a quiet environment, Holbox has plenty of them. We liked this one tiny place where they have delicious cakes.

Where to stay

If you are looking for cheap accommodation in Holbox, I recommend booking early. Hostels are quite expensive here, it’s much better to invest in a cheaper hotel or Airbnb. [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”33″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”false”]

Our tip

La Casa de Naña

Stylish accommodation with a private beach at a comfortable price. Beware, it sells out fast. It is the ideal choice for those looking for the best value for money. Plus, you can cook here, which is always a plus when you’re getting sick of eating out or want to save a little money. [/lgc_column] [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”33″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”false”]

Medium variant

Hotel Para Ti

Tasteful hotel with an outdoor pool, which is normally priced at 4500 CZK, but you can find it for 2000 CZK on booking! The hotel is for adults only, so it is not suitable for families with children [/lgc_column] [lgc_column grid=”33″ tablet_grid=”33″ mobile_grid=”100″ last=”true”]

Luxury variant

CASA CAT BA

One of the most luxurious and best rated accommodations in Holbox, where breakfast is included and most rooms have a balcony overlooking the beach.

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Other hotels we liked a lot

Casa las Tortugas Petit Beach Hotel & Spa Accommodation, which Lukas and I had to at least look into, as it was out of our budget. The hotel is again very stylishly equipped, with an outdoor pool and hot tub. Holbox Casa Punta Coco Adults-only accommodation that is designed so that you can really relax on your holiday. All rooms have a sea view.

Map of Holbox

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