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Published: 11-09-2021
With pristine beaches, national parks, Mayan ruins, canyons, water sports and adventure activities, there is something for everyone both young and not so young in this incredible country. However, some destinations are more suited to families than others in this enormous and stunning destination. Getting around a new country is hard enough, even when you are travelling alone and Bustling cities like Mexico City are enthralling and vibrant, but possibly not ideal for travelling with the little ones. However, there are many more appropriate options for travelling in a family, including all-inclusive resorts, laid-back beaches, and pretty towns that are rich with culture without all the craziness. Here are some suggestions:
Mexico family vacation
Riviera Maya
The massive strip of coastline that runs along the Yucatan Peninsula from Cancun to Tulum is known as the Maya Riviera. Along the white-sand beaches are a plethora of popular all-inclusive resorts and activities for all ages. In the middle is Playa del Carmen, an ex-fishing village and now holiday destination. Some of the highlights of the region include the Mayan ruins in Tulum, the second-largest coral/barrier reef in the world, an eco-archaeological theme park called Xcaret, lagoons of brightly coloured fish, and refreshing “cenotes”-natural pools of clear, fresh water. Flying pole dancers soar above the palm trees, astonishing the crowds below. Tourists can visit the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, being the natural habitat of sea turtles and many bird species. Snorkel at the largest natural aquarium in the world, or journey into the Aktun Chen caves on a more adventurous trip.
Yucatan family holiday
Los Cabos
The Baja California Peninsula occupies 1,247 km of coastline and at its southern tip is Los Cabos. This tourist-friendly destination consists of two capes: the tranquil San Jose del Cabo and the vibrant Cabo San Lucas. Cabo San Lucas is a shopper’s paradise, where you can find embroidered clothes, jewellery, vanilla extract and other local delicacies. San Jose del Cabo, on the other hand, is best for lesser commercial activities, such as enjoying a sunrise, kayaking, horseback riding, and more. Playa El Medano, close to downtown Cabo San Lucas, is always alive with music, food stalls, and volleyball. The whole family can snorkel at the nearby Cabo Pulmo Marine Park or hop aboard the Buccaneer Queen for a “pirate adventure”. Los Cabos is famous for whale watching during the winter months and a myriad of water sports during summer. Some beaches in this region can have strong waves and currents, so families should choose to stay somewhere with a designated safe spot.
Whale shark and diver
Copper Canyon
If you are looking for a destination far away from the crowds and the hot weather at the beaches, the Copper canyon in the North of Mexico is world’s largest canyon range, in the state of Chihuahua, may just be the best destination for a family adventure. Off the beaten track yet exciting and not too challenging, the trip up north can be worth its while! Enjoy a scenic train ride on the luxury Chepe express as you travel through the Sierra Madre Mountains to reach remote indigenous villages and mining towns. Go on an incredible hiking trip, with an expert guide, visiting various lookout points for breath-taking views over the Copper Canyon. Creel the first stop on the Chepe express is excellent for kids, surrounded by magnificent vistas and places to run and explore with the little ones and many an opportunity to mix with the local Tarahumara indigenous children!
Mushroom Valley, Chihuahua
Cancun
Cancun is easy! It is easy to get to, easy to travel, easy to communicate and easy to enjoy! Many flock to its iconic white-sand beaches due to its accessibility and although it is most better-known for being a party place for spring breakers, rest assured it isn't JUST a party place. Cancun is powered by a 20km, double-waterfront Hotel Zone, with an abundance of family-friendly activities. There are open-air markets like Coral Negro and Ki-Huic and the eco-park Xcaret with its underground river to swim in. At the southern end, there are the Mayan ruins of El Rey, where peacocks and iguanas have called home for many years. The resorts have many kids’ clubs where everyone from tots to teens can enjoy herbariums, join pastry-making sessions, and may even learn the art of bows and arrows at the archery school.
Sea Turtles in the Yucatan
Oaxaca
Another excellent family destination for those who are looking for an authentic cultural experience over Mexico's many beaches, Oaxaca is a colourful, colonial city, known for its ancient Spanish architecture and green mountain vistas. Simply spend hours strolling the square, watching herb vendors, grasshopper merchants, jugglers, and guitarists go about their daily activities. Oaxaca's museums, galleries, and handicraft stores are sure to keep visitors busy when there isn't a market being held somewhere around the city. Trolley rides to the historical district are a hit for the kids. For an outdoor experience, the gardens and fountains at Paseo Juarez el Llano Park are as entertaining as the merchants who sell books and artwork amidst them. Foodie families can sample the sauces in the so-called Land of the Seven Moles. Travellers can learn Zapotec rug weaving or take a cooking class at a Mexican culinary school. No one should leave without visiting the Zapotec ruins at Monte Albán, where warriors are carved from stones.
