Mexico, a country with a vibrant culture and a rich history, beckons travellers with its stunning landscapes and ancient sites. Known for its lively festivals and colourful traditions, mouth-watering cuisine and balmy beaches, Mexico is a popular choice for those looking to create some long-lasting memories.
Whether you’re seeking to soak up the sun, explore historical sites or taste some incredible street food, there are plenty of places and experiences to be found here. And what’s a good holiday without a selection of photographs to look back on in years to come? If documenting your trip with awe-inspiring photos is high on your agenda, be sure to check out these three highly Instagrammable locations in Mexico.
Chichén Itzá
Photo by Mario La Pergola on Unsplash
Start your adventure at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chichén Itzá, an ancient Mayan city that’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The iconic pyramid of El Castillo is a fantastic backdrop for photos and is a testament to the brilliance of Mayan architecture. It was built sometime between the 9th and 12th centuries CE, and is believed to have served as a temple to the god Kukulkán.
If you visit Chichén Itzá during the spring and autumn equinoxes, you’ll see a huge shadow along the northwest corner of the pyramid, leading to a stone snake head statue at the base. This astronomical event gives the illusion of a giant serpent crawling down the pyramid, symbolising the descent of Kukulkán to Earth and signalling the perfect time to plant crops and then harvest them.
Whilst in the Yucatán Peninsula, don’t miss the chance to explore some of this region’s many cenotes. These ethereal underground caves of turquoise pools, hanging vines and moist rocky walls are the perfect natural spa experience – and are some of the best places to snap some pro Insta shots in Mexico.
Coyoacán
Image by Miguel Aco from Pixabay
This sleepy, old-fashioned district of Mexico City is a charming place to spend the day. With cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, art galleries, artisan markets and picturesque parks, there are plenty of ways to soak up the relaxed, chic atmosphere. Coyoacán dates back to the 16th century and is a wonderful place to revel in the rich history and culture of this country.
Among the top attractions is the market of Mercado de Coyoacán – a kaleidoscope of colours and flavours where you can find local trinkets and exquisite Mexican street food. For art lovers, the Frida Kahlo Museum is a must-see. The ‘Blue House’, where the famous Mexican artist lived from 1929 until her death in 1954, is open for viewing and displays many of her most cherished paintings.
San Miguel de Allende
Photo by Vibe Adventures on Unsplash
Nestled away between mountains in the central highlands, San Miguel de Allende is fondly referred to as ‘the heart of Mexico’. The city is a hub for artists, international expats and travellers looking for authenticity, stunning Colonial architecture and a romantic atmosphere. The bright mustard and coral buildings reflect the colours on the time-honoured streets, with festivals and carnivals happening every month.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site itself and with the iconic ‘Sistine Chapel of Mexico’ only 15 minutes away, history and art buffs will be spoilt for choice in this sleepy yet fascinating region. Be sure to take a trip outside of town to see the intricate series of (quite gruesome) biblical paintings by Miguel Antonio Martínez de Pocasangre and Rodríguez Juárez lining the interior of the Sanctuary of Atotonilco.
For Instagram-worthy photos, you can’t beat the colourful and vibrant landscapes of Mexico. So, where will you go first?
Please note, this has been a collaborative posting.