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In 2001, Mexico’s Tourism Ministry launched the Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Villages) Program, looking to promote tourism development in small towns and villages around the country, which are characterized by its historical architecture, exceptional natural landscapes and deep-rooted cultural heritage. 20 years after, 132 villages are part of the program, that has helped raising awareness of the wonders of the country both for Mexicans and international tourists. Let us help you narrow the list with the 5 magic towns you’ll definitely want to visit on your next trip to Mexico.
Located 200 miles south of Cancun, Bacalar, the village got its name
from the lagoon, also known as the “Lagoon of the 7 colors” because of
the marvelous shades of blue the water gets depending on the hour of
the day. Cenotes (underground caves of crystal-clear water), a fort
built to protect the village from pirate raids, delicious food and
activities for both outdoorsy and relax-seeker visitors, Bacalar is a
paradise destination that will delight your senses.
Don’t miss this: Look for a hammock or a swing suspended over
the Bacalar lagoon (there are plenty among the hotels at the lagoon
shore) and dive into the colors and sounds of the village.
30 miles southwest of Morelia, the capital city of Michoacán, a state
in central west Mexico you will find a town of colonial architecture,
exquisite gastronomy and mysticism. Patzcuaro was the base for Spanish
colonialism and religious expansion in the region during the 16th
century, as its beautiful churches witnessed. During the first days of
November, the town hosts one of the most beautiful and iconic Día de
Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivals, where graveyards all along lake
Pátzcuaro region are gorgeously decorated to receive those have
departed.
Don’t miss this: Go to Vasco de Quiroga, town’s main square and
try the nieve de pasta, a traditional ice cream made with milk and
sugar.
The southeast state of Yucatán in Mexico is home of this nice and
quiet village, whose name comes from the Mayan word Itzmal, which
means sky dew. The village combines the history, tradition and
architecture of its mayan origins, its colonial period and the modern
time, which has granted it the nickname of “The city of the three
cultures”. Izamal has archaeological sites older than other more
famous sites such as Chichen Itzá and Uxmal as well as beautiful
colonial sites as the San Antonio de Padua convent. Its mustard
painted houses, tropical weather and fresh air make of this yellow
city a nice option for your visit to Yucatán.
Don’t miss this: Visit the San Francisco convent and enjoy the
beautiful contrast between the blue sky and the yellow walls, or climb
the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid and get the best view in town.
Literally meaning All Saints, this picturesque town in the Baja Desert
is an artsy oasis filled with galleries near La Paz. A popular
destination among American tourists, you’ll find a relaxed and
easygoing atmosphere all around the town. You’ll find colonial
architecture all over the place, a perfect stage to watch the
incredible sunsets of the Pacific Ocean. Explore the Baja and you’ll
find gorgeous beaches such as Balandra, Los Barriles and Punta
Lobos.
Don’t miss this: Visit the iconic Hotel California, the one
that according to the local legend, inspired the Eagles to write their
famous song. The hotel it’s still open, so go and have a drink and
find out if the legend it’s true.
Located at the heart of the region known as La Huasteca Potosina in
northeast Mexico, the town of Xilitla lies in a region with exotic
landscapes and wildlife all around.
The founding of the town dates back to the 16th century, making it the
oldest town in all of the state of San Luis Potosi. Although Xilitla
has a small territorial extension, its greatness is unmatched.
Don’t miss this: The Edward James surreal garden. In the jungle
you’ll find a mystical place with an interesting history, involving a
British tycoon and hallucinogenic drugs.
127 more Pueblos Magicos in Mexico to go. Elife can help you with the arrangements to take you over to any of these magnificent destinations in Mexico.
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