TREKKING IN MEXICO

Mexico is perfect as a trekking destination! The country has a number of stunning mountain ranges and on the whole, the weather is cooperative which often makes up for serious altitude issues offered by the country’s capital, Mexico City. The best time to hike in Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from October to April, when you can expect temperate weather and the opportunity for some truly incredible trekking opportunities. Here is our pick of the best trekking trails in Mexico.

Climbing Iztaccíhuatl volcano

Puerto Vallarta

The hiking around Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is known for its spectacular waterfalls. Most of these natural cascades are located to the south, by the beaches near Banderas Bay, and the best time to witness these waterfalls is during the rainy season between May and October when they are flowing to the maximum. For an easy hike, get a water taxi from Playa de los Muertos or Boca de Tomatlan to the seaside village of Yelapa and follow the signs for the Yelapa Waterfall Trail. For something more challenging, take on the Palo Maria trail, which is located near central Puerto Vallarta and is home to seven waterfalls.

Yelapa Waterfall

Cabo San Lucas

The hiking around Cabo San Lucas offers the opportunity to hike through Baja’s spectacular desert landscape, including the popular La Laguna Mountains and the fossil fields in the Cape region. If you’re looking for an easier hike, then head out to the San José Estuary, which is excellent for ornithologists.  Hiking in Cabo San Lucas is somewhat better in the cooler winter months, if you’re planning a summer trek, leave early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and take plenty of water. You’ll also need decent walking boots as you will be hiking through rattlesnake territory.

Cabo San Lucas

Mexico City

Escape the city and the polluted streets of the Mexican capital, and explore some of the surrounding nature. The city is nestled amidst the Cordillera Neo-volcánica mountain range, which boasts three of Mexico’s tallest peaks, as well as meadows and sprawling pine forests. Climb the Paso de Cortes which winds between two of Mexico’s most famous volcanoes reaching 3,400m, or take a more leisurely stroll around Desierto de los Leones Mexico’s first national park. 

Paso de Cortes

Oaxaca

Oaxaca in Southwestern Mexico, is surrounded by imposing mountains and offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. These mountains, known as the Sierra Norte Range, are home to eight villages. Each village has a comfortable cabin to accommodate visitors and a restaurant serving up affordable local dishes. Hire a local guide for some of the best trekking experiences.

 

Sierra del Norte

Cancún

Cancún, on the Yucatán Peninsula, is best known for its lively resorts, white-sand beaches lined with bars and pumping nightlife, which makes it a popular destination for backpackers and “spring breakers.” There are, however, many beautiful hikes within easy reach. One of the most popular is La Ruta de los Cenotes, which is located near Cancún and Puerto Morelos which passes through eight cenotes that you can take a refreshing swim in. The largest sinkhole on the route is Cenote Las Mojarras, running between Cancún and Tulum in the Loma Bonita Eco Adventure Park, which also has bathrooms, camping and picnic facilities.

Cenote, Yucatan Peninsua

Sayulita

This former fishing village, between Mexico’s Pacific coast and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, is known mainly for its surf beaches and marine wildlife, including dolphins and humpback whales. The beaches also set the scene for some epic hikes that cut through pockets of jungle, the habitat of birds and other wildlife. A notable exception is the Monkey Mountain, which has a trail that winds through lush jungle to a summit that offers sweeping views of the coastline in both directions. A round trip will take about three hours, and it’s advisable to hire a local guide. 

Sayulita

Tulum

Mayan Ruins at the city of Tulum near Cancun, in the state of Quintana Roo, are filled with history, limestone buildings, vegetation and wildlife. Explore some of Mexico’s most impressive ruins and get a taste of the country’s spectacular jungle. Head to the Muyil Archaeological Zone near Tulum, where you’ll find a trekking route that runs through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Mexico’s third-largest biosphere reserve and a Unesco World Heritage Site. The route offers a number of Mayan sites, including Mayan pyramids, temples and altars, as well as lush Yucatan jungle and views over the Caribbean Sea. The best way to get there is to book a guide in Tulum.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Todos Santos

This seaside town, on the Pacific coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is one of the prettiest in the area and has transformed over the years from a quiet fishing village to a bustling destination known for surfers, galleries, whale-watching and mountain hikes. One of the most popular is the Pacific Bluffs trail, which starts at Punta Lobos beach and follows the clifftops along the coast. It takes around 3.5 hours to complete, and there are several swimming spots to stop off at along the way.

Todos Santos 

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is famous for its palm-lined beaches and coral reefs that make it one of the world’s top diving and snorkelling destinations in the world. If you’ve had enough of the beach, head inland into the rainforest. Xcaret Park is a family-friendly ecological theme park that gives visitors of all ages the opportunity to explore the tropical jungles of Mexico.

Playa del Carmen

Copper Canyon

The Copper Canyon, ranked one of the best in the world by National Geographic, is actually a system of canyons made up of six separate canyons. The Tararecua Canyon is arguably the best for hiking, due to the thermal springs at the base. It cuts right through the northern state of Chihuahua, and combines ancient indigenous civilization with great scenery and rough wilderness.

Copper Canyon

Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve

This Biosphere Reserve, found in the south of Veracruz state, is an excellent trekking destination especially for those who are interested in learning about culture and rituals as they trek. Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve occupies a vast expanse of 155,000ha and is known for areas such as Catemaco, which is populated with healers. Before you begin any hike, legend says that you should be cleansed first. The different trail options available, offer everything from lakeside walks to mountainous hikesincluding the Sumidero Canyon.

 

Sumidero canyon, Los Tuxtlas

Nevado de Toluca

Located in Toluca, this is one of Mexico’s most popular destinations for hiking that is more than suitable for beginners or amateur walkers. Either hike to the summit of Mexico’s fourth largest mountain, Friar’s Peak or simply head to the twin lagoons that offer truly spectacular views. Since you can drive and park at many points up the Nevado de Toluca, hikes in this area can be tailor-made for various levels.

Nevado de Toluca

Iztaccíhuatl 

This is the inactive half of Mexico’s set of twin volcanoes with the neighbouring Popocatépetl erupting last in 1994, and it is an excellent trekking spot for the more experienced and physically able. While the summit is open to climbing attempts, it can prove fatal and the altitude is unforgiving, so don’t push yourself too hard on this two-day hike to Iztaccíhuatl.

View of Popocatépetl from  Iztaccíhuatl