It can seem like there is never enough time to explore the cosmopolitan capital – Mexico City. But, if you are ready to adventure beyond city limits to explore more of what Mexico has to offer, then you’re in for a treat. No matter what direction you go, you’re never too far from a quaint “magic town”, a natural phenomenon or a stunning vista. Mexico offers such a diverse and wide range of adventurous treats for the avid traveller that there are truly no limits to what you can squeeze in, no matter what your time restrictions. From one town to the next, you may have only travelled a few hours but you will feel like you’ve been transported to a completely different place, which is all part of the magic of Mexico. We have gathered a few of our favourite short escapes out of the city to give you a little taste of the beautiful destinations to explore.
Escape to San Miguel & Guanajuato
Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days
A few hours outside the city you will find the beautiful town of San Miguel, named one of Travel and Leisure’s 2017 Best Cities in the World. A quaint and colourful city where the best mode of transport is your two feet. Soak in the pretty architecture, colonial churches and chique art galleries, and even taste Oprah’s favourite tequila- Casa Dragones, one of the best sipping tequilas you can find! It’s easy to explore San Miguel in one day, so why not also take the time to cruise on down to Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage site that will fill your soul with all the authentic Mexican experiences. Walk the cobbled streets and learn about the history that unfolded during the Mexican War of Independence. Not forgetting to pop into the many theatres and museums that litter the streets, with gorgeous colonial architecture at every turn.
TOP TIP If you are keen to explore these beautiful towns on your own but maybe want a guide for touring around, check out the Bamba Colonial Experience for a bit of guidance, and also to have time on your own to enjoy the beautiful cities.
Escape to Oaxaca
Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days
The journey is more than a few hours, but Oaxaca is well worth the wait. The home of the ‘seven moles’ and the best mezcal in the country, it’s safe to say your taste buds will be satisfied. Famous for its mix of authentic Mexican culture, history and nature, the town itself is colourful and welcoming- filled with handmade crafts, trendy cantinas and overflowing with culture. Discover the fascinating ruins of Monte Alban, the greatest ancient capital built by the Zapotec culture and the most important archaeological site in Oaxaca. And the natural wonder that is the Hierve el Agua. No words can describe the beauty of the mineral springs and rock formations as you dip your toes in the water while looking out at the stunning vista- heaven!
TOP TIP It can be tough to get everything you want fitted into a few days, so we couldn’t recommend the Oaxaca Quick Escape more to squeeze in every awesome sight you can. Flexible on time? Stop by the charming colonial town of Puebla on the way there!
Escape to La Huasteca Potosina
Ideal Duration: 5-6 Days
This escape, couldn’t be more different from the hustle and bustle of city life. A nature lover’s paradise and a real hidden gem in Mexico, La Huasteca Potosina offers rich biodiversity from mountains to valleys, deserts and jungles. Unleash your inner adventurer and take on one waterfall after another, jumping into clear, pristine, blue waters and swim leisurely through dreamy sinkholes. The scenery is so stunning and the water is so blue from the high calcium in the rocks- you have to see it, to believe it. Otherwise you would probably see a picture and think it’s been photoshopped (really!). And if you have time to spare, sneak in a visit to San Luis Potosi, a colonial city with a lot of history and interesting museums and theatres, a time to chill out after your exploration into the wild side of Mexico!
TOP TIP If you have the time to spare, and the patience for a long bus journey then this trip is SO worth it. Check out Bamba’s Huasteca Potosina Jungle Adventure.
Escape to Tepoztlan, Taxco & Las Estacas
Ideal Duration: 6-7 Days
With this awesome trip you can fit in a bit of culture, fun and relaxation- not bad, eh? This option only means a few hours from one place to another- so the huge benefit is less travel, and more time enjoying all the sights. Lying just over an hour out of the city, Tepoztlan is a gorgeous town surrounded by towering ragged cliffs and a magical atmosphere with indigenous traditions still living on – many locals still speak the native tongue of Nahuatl. Next up is the “Silver City”; Taxco! A colonial city known for its amazing architecture and craftsmanship of its silver workers. Look out over the valley from its hilltop perch to see the cobblestone streets, colonial buildings and beautiful town squares! And last, but certainly not least, take some time to relax by the beautiful natural reserve of Las Estacas. Surrounded by nature’s beautiful scenery and with crystal clear waters, explore with friends, or relax, swim and enjoy the sun!
TOP TIP Rather than doing it all on your own, if you want everything taken care of, Bamba can easily help you out, just contact us and we can create a tailor-made itinerary for your friends! And if you are limited on time, start with the Taxco & Cuernavaca Day Tour and add whatever extra trips you want to make the perfect getaway.
For the best times to visit Mexico check out Bookmundi’s comprehensive guide on When To Visit Mexico
Do you have any other awesome tips for short escapes out of Mexico City? Let us know in the comments below!
