6 Best Hiking Places To Visit In Mexico

Mexico makes for an ideal hiking destination – it has a number of excellent mountain ranges and (generally) ideal weather, which more than make up for the often brutal altitude issues posed by the country’s capital, Mexico City. The best time to hike in this North American country is during the dry season, from October to April, when you can expect temperate weather and the opportunity for some truly epic hiking trail experiences.

# Puerto Vallarta

The hiking around Puerto Vallarta, a resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is known for its spectacular waterfalls. Most of these natural wonders are located to the south, by the beaches near Banderas Bay, and the best time to visit is during the rainy season between May and October when the falls are in full flow. 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, some of which require rock climbing to reach.

# Cabo San Lucas

The treks around Cabo San Lucas offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in 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 (and shadier) hike, then check out the historic San José Estuary, which is a favorite of birdwatchers. Keep in mind that hiking in Cabo San Lucas is more comfortable in winter months – if you’re planning a summer trek, make sure you head out early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day and take plenty of water. You’ll also need proper hiking boots, as rattlesnakes are fairly common on some trails.

# Mexico City

Escape the densely populated and polluted streets of Mexico’s capital, and explore some of the surrounding nature. The city is nestled amidst the Cordillera Neovolcánica mountain range, which boasts three of Mexico’s tallest peaks, as well as wildflower meadows and sprawling pine forests. Take on the 11,1500ft (3,400m) Paso de Cortes (more details below), which winds between two of Mexico’s most famous volcanoes, or take a more leisurely stroll around Desierto de los Leones (more below), Mexico’s first national park. Be warned, however, Mexico City sits at 7,350ft (2,240m) above sea level, so you’ll need to allow time to acclimatize before taking on any mountainous hikes.

# Oaxaca

This colonial city, in Southwestern Mexico, is surrounded by towering 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 – Pueblos Mancomunados – that operate the Expediciones Sierra Norte ecotourism program, which gives back to the communities and environment. Pay a visit to the head office in Oaxaca City to plan an itinerary with one of the knowledgeable guides. Each village has a comfortable cabin to accommodate visitors and a restaurant serving up affordable local dishes.

# Cancún

Cancún, on Mexico’s eastern Yucatán Peninsula, is best known for its lively resorts, white-sand beaches lined with bars and chaotic nightlife – making it a popular destination for backpackers and “spring breakers.” There are, however, also plenty of beautiful hikes within easy reach. One of the most popular is La Ruta de los Cenotes (the Cenotes Route), which is located near Cancún and Puerto Morelos and takes in eight cenotes (sinkholes) that you can swim in. The largest sinkhole on the route is Cenote Las Mojarras, located just over 7.5mi (12km) from the highway running between Cancún and Tulum in the Loma Bonita Eco Adventure Park, which also has bathrooms, camping and picnic facilities.

# 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 full of birds and wildlife. A notable exception is the enigmatically named 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 to accompany you.