Mexico may be known for its resorts, beaches and food, but venture out a bit further and discover the natural side of this vast and diverse country. Mineral-rich waterfalls, nature sanctuaries, national parks housing deep and expansive canyons abound.
1) The Arch of Cabo San Lucas
Located on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula where the Gulf of Mexico meets that Pacific Ocean, photographs of these distinctive limestone rock formations, are often used to promote the Baja California, Mexico attraction. And for good cause. The unique formations attract as many sea lions as it does tourists. A boat trip, particularly aboard a glass-bottom boat, around the El Arcos, as they are known locally, is a must-do experience from Cabo San Lucas, with Playa Grande Resort and Grand Spa nearby
2) The Sea of Cortez
Dubbed “the world aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, the Sea of Cortez is the place to go for whale watching, admiring playful dolphins and even sea lions. Also known as the Gulf of California, The Sea of Cortez is a must-do for aquamarine lovers and is family friendly for all ages. Located between mainland Mexico and the Baja California Peninsula, this day trip is accessible to guests staying in the Sea of Cortez area
3) Rosario Sanctuary Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
Monarchs also flee Canada in the winter months, migrating to their wintering grounds at the Rosario Sanctuary in Mexico. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, millions of monarch butterflies make the Rosario Sanctuary their home each year which visitors are welcome to witness. While several reserves exist throughout the states of Mexico and Michoacan, this particular sanctuary lies in the latter state. It is accessible to travellers on a city break in Mexico City during the winter months who are seeking an authentic daytrip experience. Once the warm weather returns, the monarchs too return home to Canada and the United States.
4) Sumidero Canyon
We can’t decide if we prefer seeing the Sumidero Canyon from the various lookout points or from sea level during a boat cruise. From sea level, the canyon walls soar up to 800 metres in some spots. Known locally as Cañón del Sumidero, the canyon was formed at the same time as the Grand Canyon in the United States. A day trip exploring the Sumidero Canyon is accessible to travellers staying in San Cristobal de Las Casas in the southern Mexico state of Chiapas who are looking for an authentic experience, as most travellers visiting are Mexicans.
5) Hierve el Agua
Visitors to Hierve el Agua are reminded that nature truly is spectacular at this natural wonder located in Oaxaca in central Mexico. The cascading Hierve el Agua gives the impression of a frozen waterfall from a distance, but get a bit closer and visitors discover that the mineral-rich pools at the top of the limestone rock formation have spilled over, resulting in mineral deposits that settle to create what looks like a frozen waterfall from afar. The pools, rich in calcium and magnesium are open to the public for swimming and are believed to have medicinal properties.
Adventure seekers, beach goers, families, history enthusiasts and nature lovers can all find something in Mexico to satisfy their wanderlust.
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