Iglesia de San Juan Chamula
This is much different from any of the other churches you will ever be in. It is something you have to see for your own eyes. Once you are inside, you are not allowed to take pictures or have your phone. You will see thousands of candles, pine needles on the ground to sit on, a lot of chanting and sacrifices happening. It is a must on the list of to-dos.
Best Time To Visit
There is no good time to visit, as you want to go whenever you can. You can go during the warmer months, or cooler ones. Since it is inside, you can even go and enjoy your time when it is raining.
You Should Know
This is not an attraction, it is real life and it is how people believe and pray, so be respectful, even if it is different. It is highly recommended that you go with a guide, so they can explain everything to you.Hierve el Agua
This is a petrified waterfall, and it is one of two in all of the world. This means it is a site you want to stop when you are in the area. Created by a mineral-rich spring, they are cool to the touch and provide swimming holes for those who want to cool down when it is too hot outside.
Best Time To Visit
Many say that the best time to take a dip is during the hotter months because of the ability to swim in the falls and man-made swimming holes. However, it is busier during this season.
You Should Know
You can go on a tour that brings you to some other ideal places such as Mezcal Farm and the ruins of Mitla.Chapultepec Castle
This is a castle that provides a view of the entire Mexico City. You will feel like you are a part of France and transported out of Mexico entirely because of the beauty of this castle and the architecture it boasts. Beautiful murals and lavish rooms welcome you inside.
Best Time To Visit
Those who wish to see this castle are welcome to visit whenever they have time. Visiting in any weather and any part of the month is good.
You Should Know
Walking through the park next door is one of the best ways to get to the castle, plus it's like an extra excursion along the way.Temazcal Ceremony
Touch on the spiritual aspects of being in Mexico when you take part in an ancient Mayan ritual. The dome is heated, and you would go in and get ‘whipped' with a special massage technique and herbs. It is interesting and while it might not be for everyone, it is a piece of the area.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to participate in a Temazcal Ceremony is any time in the fall or spring months, as the summer might be unbearably hot inside the dome for some.
You Should Know
You can read up on this type of ceremony and ritual ahead of time to see if it is right for you.Malecon Boardwalk
This boardwalk allows you to walk down, see everything, purchase items in shops, and even try some delicious Mexican food. This is right by the water, so you can go down and touch the shore with bare feet or stay up on the boardwalk and watch the people walk by.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to go to the Malecon is when the weather is warmer, it is sunny out and you want to be walking in the sunshine. Of course, some of the months are too hot for some so planning accordingly is ideal.
You Should Know
Some of the shops are high-class and costly. Along the street, there are cheap alcohol drinks along the way. Avoid street vendors because they may try to push their items on you.African Safari
Watching Safari animals is always a good thing to do and exciting for many. With large animals you can see up close, this is a great spot for families, singles, and children. Many of the animals can be fed through their enclosures since this is an open-air Safari.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to take a Safari is when the weather is sunny, it is not raining, and it is a warm or comfortable temperature to walk down the paths in.
You Should Know
You can book shows throughout the safari to see the animals up close and personal or watch them do specific things. They are open every day of the year and appreciate donations to help care for the animals. There is a small entry fee for those who are visiting.Balandra Beach
The waters are crystal clear and not that deep. During high tide times, the water goes up to the waist, while low tide brings the water to knee level. The sandy beaches are white, comfortable, and warm. This is a must-see and must-loved beach to visit. It is one of the top ten beaches worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to go to the beach is in the late spring, early summer months, or even later on in summer if you want to be there during the very hot times of the year.
You Should Know
It is generally not super busy or crowded, so you will see what it is like to have your own private beach. There are a number of other attractions and restaurants right around the area.Chichen Itza
These are ancient ruins that are a big historic part of the area. There are a number of complexes, but the three most known as the Great North Platform, El Castillo, and the Temple of Warriors. Take your time looking through this area, there is plenty to see, learn, and take in while you walk through.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to tour Chichen Itza is when it is not raining and when the temperatures are comfortable, even a bit cool or hot.
You Should Know
This can take hours, or up to a whole day to go through all of the temples and complexes in the area. They do charge admission to go and see the ruins, up to $50 per person.
Embarking on a Mexico cruise is a fantastic idea year-round, but certain times might just give you that extra slice of paradise. Mexico enjoys a warm climate overall, but for that perfect balance of sunny skies and pleasant temperatures, consider booking your cruise between November and April. This period allows you to escape the winter chills and avoid Mexico's rainy season, which typically runs from June to October.
If you're a fan of vibrant festivities, plan your trip around cultural events like the Day of the Dead in November or Carnaval in February. However, remember that the peak season from December to March also means more tourists and higher prices. For those seeking serenity, May and November offer mild weather with fewer crowds, ensuring a peaceful retreat. No matter when you go, a Mexico cruise promises enchanting experiences, but choosing your timing wisely can elevate your journey to unforgettable.
Getting There
Mexico, a captivating country that bridges the gap between North and South America, is flanked by the Pacific Ocean on the west and the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea on the east. This strategic location ensures it's a prominent destination on many cruise itineraries, with accessible ports that promise smooth sailings.
Cruise ships to Mexico often embark from maritime hubs in the USA, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, or Miami, capitalizing on the proximity and offering diverse itineraries. These journeys glide through blue waters, docking at inviting ports like Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta, or Cabo San Lucas. Each port serves as a gateway to the region's rich cultural tapestry, with facilities that cater efficiently to sea-bound tourists, making transitions from ship to shore seamless and part of the adventure itself. Whether it's a western or eastern coastal route, getting to Mexico by cruise is a voyage that combines comfort with discovery.
The Perfect Time for a Mexico Cruise
Embarking on a Mexico cruise is an enticing adventure year-round, but timing your voyage can significantly enhance the experience. Mexico's warm climate is a constant draw, but cruising between November and April strikes the perfect balance of sunny skies and pleasant temperatures. This period is ideal for cruising as it lets you dodge the winter chills of home and avoid Mexico's rainy season, which typically spans from June to October.
Cruising to Mexico during specific cultural events like the Day of the Dead in November or Carnaval in February adds a vibrant layer to your journey. These months are steeped in rich traditions and offer cruisers a unique insight into Mexico's cultural heritage.
However, cruising in the peak season from December to March also means you'll encounter more tourists and potentially higher prices. For cruisers seeking a quieter, more serene experience, May and November are excellent choices. These months provide mild weather and fewer crowds, making cruising more peaceful and allowing more intimate interactions with the local culture and landscapes. A cruise to Mexico is always a journey filled with enchanting experiences, but selecting the right time can turn a great trip into an extraordinary one, with each season offering its unique charms and attractions.
Why Book a Cruise to Mexico?
Setting sail on a cruise to Mexico is not just a holiday; it's your ticket to a stress-free, value-packed adventure. Why cram your days with travel logistics when a cruise ships you smoothly from one exotic location to another? Your floating hotel introduces you to Mexico's stunning coastline views, often illuminated by breathtaking sunsets that you won't experience anywhere else.
But there's more! Cruises often come with exclusive perks like private beach getaways and priority access to major attractions, skipping those long tourist lines. Have you ever heard of a private cooking session with a top chef in Cozumel? Or an exclusive dive into a secluded cenote? These are the types of unique experiences some cruises can offer.
And let's not forget, these ships are packed with amenities. After a day of exploration, there's nothing like unwinding with gourmet meals, entertainment shows, or a soothing spa session. All these, paired with impeccable service, make cruising to Mexico more than just travel – it's an experience you deserve.
Experience the Flavors of Mexico
Set sail on a culinary journey through Mexico, a paradise for food lovers! The Mexican cuisine, a flavorful fusion of indigenous Mesoamerican and European influences, is so diverse that you'll find something to tantalize your taste buds at every port.
One cannot think of Mexican food without the famous tacos. Available nearly everywhere, from high-end restaurants to street-side stalls, these delights are a must-try with a variety of fillings like carne asada (grilled meat) or the fresher pescado (fish) version. Don't miss out on sampling enchiladas, tamales, and the iconic guacamole, offering a burst of authentic flavors.
Quench your thirst with local beverages like the spirited Tequila or its milder cousin, Mezcal. For a non-alcoholic refresher, try Horchata, a sweet rice drink that's perfect for cooling down under the Mexican sun.
While onboard, make sure your cruise itinerary includes local dining experiences. Restaurants near ports often serve the freshest seafood dishes, drawing on local catches. Remember, the true essence of Mexican cuisine lies in its variety and freshness, so be bold, try everything, and let Mexico's flavors lead you on an unforgettable journey!
Immerse Yourself in Mexican Culture
Taking a cruise to Mexico promises more than scenic views and exotic foods; it's a ticket to dive deep into the vibrant culture that pulses through this country. Every port in Mexico tells a different story, where historical legacy breathes life into its present-day.
The Mexicans' deep-rooted customs are evident in their warm hospitality. Greet locals with a smile and an enthusiastic "Hola!" and you'll feel like part of the community. Traditional music styles, like the heart-stirring Mariachi or the dynamic Banda, are integral to local celebrations, creating an atmosphere that's nothing short of contagious.
Mexico's calendar is dotted with festivals. If your timing aligns, experiencing 'Dia de los Muertos' (Day of the Dead) is profound, where families honor their ancestors with joy rather than sorrow. Another spectacle, 'Cinco de Mayo,' showcases spirited parades and dance performances.
Ready to Book Your Mexico Cruise?
Ready for the journey of a lifetime? A Mexico cruise isn't just a getaway; it's an entry into a world of breathtaking coastlines, ancient ruins, and lively culture. Imagine spending your days exploring vibrant markets, your afternoons uncovering historic Mayan secrets, and your evenings savoring world-class cuisine, all while the soothing sea carries you from one adventure to the next.
But the magic of Mexico isn't just in its landscapes; it's in the rhythm of life, from the mariachi bands serenading you in balmy plazas to the local artisans sharing stories through their crafts. It's a complete sensory journey, where every port of call offers a new dish to taste, a new dance to learn, and a new wonder to explore.
Don't wait for the moment; seize it! Your passage to unforgettable experiences is just a cruise away. Embrace the spontaneity, pack your spirit of adventure, and book your Mexico cruise today!