Discovering Mexico: 6 Things to Experience on Your First Visit

Mexico remains one of the best places to visit during your hard-earned vacation from work. Whether you are going with friends or family, the rich history of Mexico and its vibrant landscapes will make the experience worth it. However, your experience will be much better if you know the best things to do in  Mexico first. 

Whether you visit the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan or the extraordinary waters of the Mayan Riviera, the birthplace of the Mayans has many sights to unfold—and many activities to participate in!

Therefore, get yourself a pen and paper because it’s time for you to create a proper itinerary for the most exciting things to do in Mexico. Read this post till the end to find out what they are!

Six Of The Most Exciting Things To Do In Mexico!

No matter how long you are an expert on vacationing in Mexico, there are many places and things to do here. However, from my last trip to Mexico a few years back,  there were things I believe every visitor must experience. 

These six experiences are a must for your trip to Mexico; otherwise, your trip will be incomplete. Therefore, here are six must-experience things to do in Mexico in 2024!

1. Exploring Historic Landmarks

As you all know, Mexico is the land of the ancient Mayan race. The same race that worshipped an alien with an elongated skull, according to the movie Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. However, whether that is true or not still remains a mystery.

But that shouldn’t stop you from exploiting various historic Mexican landmarks. Your first stop after ths airport and hotel room is the dense Mayan metropolis of Chichén Itzá. It has towering pyramids and various intricate carvings that dazzle modern visitors and artists.

According to Statista, the number of tourists to Chichén Itzá, Mexico, surpassed 2.6 million in 2022. Located in Yucatán, Chichén Itzá is Mexico’s most visited site of archaeological importance. The number of tourists is projected to be higher than in previous years.

Moreover, if you go to southern Mexico, the main location of the Mayan civilization, the goosebumps-inducing ruins of Teotihuacan are a must-visit. Furthermore, just south of it lies Mexico City, the capital of Mexico. However, did you know that this city was previously known as Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Mayan Aztec empire?

Both these places were the largest Aztec cities back in the past. Moreover, you will find actual Mayua people, an ancient race with about six million people. This is where you will find lots of underground ruins that give you a deeper understanding of where the Mexican culture originates from.

Exploring these awe-inspiring landmarks isn’t just about appreciating their architectural beauty. It’s also about connecting with the stories of the people who built them and the civilizations that thrived here for centuries.

2. Indulging in Culinary Delights

Every adventure to Mexico is complete with pandering to its vibrant and diverse cuisine. Mexican food goes far beyond tacos, boasting a rich tapestry of flavors influenced by indigenous and European traditions.

According to Gitnux, 89% of Mexican meals comprise tortillas, but that’s not all Mexican food is about. Mole is the most popular sauce in Mexico, available in 40 different styles and varieties. Sample fragrant mole, a complex sauce simmered with chilies, chocolate, and spices that can vary regionally.

Don’t miss fresh ceviches bursting with citrusy goodness or warming bowls of pozole, a hearty stew traditionally made with pork and hominy. From streetside vendors to upscale restaurants, Mexico offers a culinary journey for every palate and budget.

3. Enjoying Natural Wonders

Did you think Mexico only has many historic and culturally significant Aztec ruins? Apart from ancient Mayan ruins, Mexico has much more to offer you in the form of breathtaking natural landscapes.

Therefore, if you are a nature lover and a nature photographer with a DSLR camera, the magnificent rocks of Hierve el Agua are a must-visit. This place has many natural rock formations interspersed with grandiose waterfalls, which are breathtaking. 

I highly recommend clicking a good picture of the waterfall cascading down Oaxaca’s mountainside. Trust me – it will be worth your time.

In addition, I also recommend taking a boat ride through the Copper Canyon. It’s a group of canyons as majestic as the drier Grand Canyon. From the boat itself, you wil find many picturesque views of aquatic vistas and wildlife.

Moreover, the Yucatan Peninsula is also nearby. I recommend doing these two on the same day. The peninsula has various crystal-clear cenotes and natural sinkholes where you can take the moist, refreshing dips of your life. For more information on Mexico travel, visit https://travelyucatan.com/.

Furthermore, visit the underwater Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. You must scuba dive to experience such underwater wonders. Moreover, here’s a fun fact: the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second biggest coral reef in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef!

4. Shopping for Artisanal Treasures

Beyond the historical and natural wonders, Mexico offers a treasure trove for shopping enthusiasts. Seek out artisanal treasures in local markets and hidden courtyards. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of a tianguis, a traditional market where you can find hand-woven tapestries, colorful ceramics, and intricate silver jewelry.

Mother Sierra suggests that Mexico is also famous for authentic handcrafted jewelry by the Wixárika & Otomí tribes and the Maya community in Guatemala. These communities have a long-standing tradition of creating intricate pieces that reflect their cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

You can also dive into the unique collection of handcrafted jewelry at the Mother Sierra site. Each piece tells a story, blending tradition, skill, and cultural significance. Shopping at local markets in Mexico benefits everyone. You’ll find unique souvenirs while your purchases directly support indigenous tribes and help preserve their traditional crafts and economic livelihood.

Shopping for artisanal treasures offers a chance to connect with local artisans, learn their techniques, and grasp the cultural significance of each piece.

5. Immersing in Cultural Experiences

The best way to learn more about Mexico’s culture is to experience it firsthand. 

Therefore, I recommend participating in Oaxaca’s “Di de los Muertos” or Mexican halloween. Like Halloween, you will find the city full of impressive costumes and loud music! The Mexicans do know how to throw a banger of a party for the dead in style!

Moreover, I recommend watching a show of Ballet Folklórico, a form of classical Mezcian dance. It’s visually impressive and gets you dancing to its grooves!

Furthermore, to test your spirits and endurance and purify them from all evils, participate in Temazcal. It’s a traditional sweat lodge ceremony that is more like a sauna with a twist. I couldn’t believe how light and energetic I felt after sweating it!

6. Experiencing Vibrant Cities

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Mexico is the 10th most populated country in the world, with a population of 130.7 million. Mexico consists of numerous ethnic groups within. Mexico’s metropolises offer a dynamic blend of history, culture, and contemporary energy.

Mexico City, with millions of inhabitants in its greater metropolitan area, boasts world-class museums, like the National Anthropology Museum. It also boasts alongside trendy neighborhoods like Roma Norte, brimming with art galleries and upscale restaurants.

Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara, is popular for its vibrant mariachi music scene and architectural gems like the Guadalajara Cathedral. Don’t miss exploring smaller gems like Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage City renowned for its colorful Talavera pottery and baroque architecture. Each city throbs with its exclusive rhythm, offering a charming mix of historical appeal and modern flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are some must-visit landmarks in Mexico for first-time visitors?

Some of the best places to visit in Mexico are famous landamarsk like:

• The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum.
• Exquisite vistas of the Copper Canyon.
• The beautiful Cancun beach.
• Mexico City’s underground capital of Tenochtitlan.

Q2. What are some traditional Mexican dishes that travelers should try during their visit?

On my last visit to Mexico, I tried out lots of finger-licking delicious Mexciaan fishes like:

• Mole sauce made with chocolate and hot spices
• Ceviche, a zesty and tangy seafood
• Pozole
• Tamales
• Tacos el Pastor

Q3. Where are the best places to shop for local crafts and souvenirs in Mexico?

Some of the best markets in Mexico to shop for souvenirs and Mexican clothes and jewelry are:

• Oaxaca’s Mercado de Tlacolula
• Mercado de Artesanías La Ciudadela in Mexico City
• Tonala in Guadalajara

Mexico: The Birthplace Of The Mayans – And The Location Of Your Next Vacation!

Now that you know the best places to visit in Mexico in 2024, I hope you have sorted your itinerary. Visiting Mexico and experiencing its ancient cultural heritage has been one of my best experiences. 

With so many Aztec ruins, natural landscapes, unique shops, and friendly people, it has been everything but sour. It’s a country I recommend everyone visit once in their lifetime!

Therefore, pack your bags, review your itinerary again, and sail to Mexico! Thanks for reading this post! If you have any questions, please comment below!