If Mexico were a person, it’d be that one loud, fabulous friend who shows up uninvited, draped in bold patterns and carrying a tray of margaritas. But you’re glad they came because you know things are about to get a little spicy.
Mexico demands your full attention with its kaleidoscope of culture, history and surprises around every colourful corner. Sure, you’ve heard about the beaches, the tacos (spoiler alert: they’re better than you imagined) and the overrated party culture in Cancun, but there’s so much more madness to uncover.
Unlike that weird friend, we’re actually inviting you to discover 10 wild, weird and wonderfully unexpected experiences in this crazy country, from swimming in a dinosaur-killing cenote crater to slurping up pork rind ice cream from a street stall. These experiences aren’t tourist traps, they’re the ones you didn’t even know you needed to add to your bucket list. Until now.
If Mexico were a person, it’d be that one loud, fabulous friend who shows up uninvited, draped in bold patterns and carrying a tray of margaritas. But you’re glad they came because you know things are about to get a little spicy.
Mexico demands your full attention with its kaleidoscope of culture, history and surprises around every colourful corner. Sure, you’ve heard about the beaches, the tacos (spoiler alert: they’re better than you imagined) and the overrated party culture in Cancun, but there’s so much more madness to uncover.
Unlike that fabulous friend, we’re actually inviting you to discover 10 wild, weird and wonderfully unexpected experiences in this crazy country, from swimming in a dinosaur-killing cenote crater to soaking it up in nature's own waterpark. These experiences aren’t tourist traps, they’re the ones you didn’t even know you needed to add to your bucket list. Until now.
1. DINE AT HUESO
GUADALAJARA, MEXICO
Ever dined surrounded by thousands of animal bones? No? Don’t blame you, it’s quite niche. But that’s exactly what you’ll do at Hueso in Guadalajara. A night here isn’t just dinner, it’s an experience straight out of an avant-garde fever dream.
This edgy eatery is all about celebrating life and death (and everything in between) with walls adorned in carefully arranged skeletons. Why? Because life’s too short for boring decor, and bones tell stories, just like the artfully crafted dishes on their menu.
Expect a bold, seasonal suite of culinary options that draw on Mexican flavours with a creative, almost rebellious twist. Think mole like you’ve never had it or perfectly grilled octopus cooked with ingredients that’ll make your tastebuds do a double take.
2. SWIM IN A CENOTE FORMED BY THE CHICXULUB CRATER
YUCATAN PENINSULA, MEXICO
Ditch the hotel pool. Swimming in a Mexican cenote is like taking a dip in ancient history. These magical sinkholes are the result of a meteorite (yes, that meteorite; the one that KO’d the dinosaurs) smacking into Earth 66 million years ago, creating a network of spectacular underground rivers.
Fast forward a few epoch, and viola, over 6,000 cenotes are sprinkled across the Yucatan Peninsula, just waiting for you to cannonball into them. And the water? Crystal clear, Insta-perfect, and refreshingly cool.
The fantasy of swimming under a jungle canopy, with sunbeams streaming through limestone formations, and maybe a small fish or two darting past your toes is actually a reality here—no ifs or buts, but maybe a few stalactites.
3. EXPLORE GUACHIMONTONES
JALISCO, MEXICO
The ancient site of Guachimontones is proof that ancient Mexicans weren’t afraid to think outside the box, or in this case, the square. Built by the Teuchitlán people around 300 BCE, this ancient site was like the OG social hub. These mounds weren’t just for show; they were used for rituals, festivals, and a mysterious ball game that was half sport, half sacrificial drama. Move over, soccer.
If it was so cool, why was it ever abandoned? No one really knows, and like a Netflix series cancelled too soon, everyone vanished, leaving only these mystical mounds behind.
Today, you can stroll among the ruins and snap envy-inducing pics with a 360° slice of moss-covered history. There’s also a cool museum where you can geek out on all things Teuchitlán culture.
4. DRINK AT LA ISLA SECRETA
RIVERIA MAYA, MEXICO
Tucked away like a juicy secret you can’t help but spill, La Isla Secreta is Mexico’s best-kept (but not really) hidden gem. Only accessible to the lucky souls staying at the Rosewood Mayakoba Resort, this exclusive bar isn’t just about drinks, it’s about a big ol’ fiesta vibe.
Think sultry, jungle-chic decor with dim lighting, woven lanterns, and more greenery than your local juice bar. And the menu is as cool as your ex wants you to think they are - carefully crafted cocktails with unexpected twists, mezcal concoctions that whisper seduction, and snacks so good you’ll dream about them long after your flight home.
But here’s the twist: La Isla Secreta doesn’t blow its own horn. No signs, no Instagram tags (okay, maybe a few), just a word-of-mouth mystique that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled into something muy especial. After all, life’s more fun with a few secrets.
5. WITNESS THE MOBULA RAY MIGRATION
BAJA, MEXICO
The sight of tens of thousands of mobula rays, aka the ‘flying tortillas’ of the sea, doing their migration dance in the crystal-clear waters of Baja is something truly extraordinary. And from April to June every year, these rays flock to the Gulf of California in one of the biggest gatherings in the world, creating what’s known as a ‘fever’ (not the sick kind, thankfully). It’s like a manta ray rave, with the ocean as the dance floor and you, right in the middle of it.
But these rays aren’t just a pretty sight - they’re unique, with a slow reproduction rate, making their presence even more special. Swimming alongside them is like being part of an underwater symphony, with dolphins, sea lions, and sometimes even whales joining the show.
This is nature at its most magnificent and wild; chances to witness one of the coolest migrations in the animal kingdom don’t come around too often.
6. RELAX AT GRUTAS TOLANTONGO
SAN CRISTOBAL, MEXICO
Nestled in the Hidalgo mountains, Grutas Tolantongo is where Mother Nature decided to flex her spa-building skills. You might find it hard to believe that the famous turquoise pools aren’t man-made, but they aren’t. They’re fed by mineral-rich warm water that trickles down from the mountains. Over centuries, the flow carved out these dreamy terraces, creating the ultimate natural hot tubs.
Swimming here isn’t just about soaking in jaw-dropping views (though, wow, those canyon vistas). The water’s minerals are said to help with relaxation, circulation, and even skin health. So, basically, it’s a full-body recharge without the fancy treatment price tag.
There’s also steamy caves and waterfalls you can explore, plus a lazy river for floating all your worries down. 50% adventure, 50% self-care, and 100% stunning.
7. EXPERIENCE A 3,000-YEAR-OLD TEMAZCAL CEREMONY
TULUM, MEXICO
If you're into history and steam (who isn’t?), a 3,000-year-old Temazcal ceremony is an experience you can't skip. Dating back to pre-Hispanic Mesoamerica, this ancient ritual is a spiritual purification process held in a steam bath, fuelled by volcanic stones and aromatic herbs. Like hitting ‘refresh’ on your soul.
But the ceremony isn’t just about sweating out your stress (or the one too many tequila sodas you had the night before). It’s a symbolic journey through the four elements - earth, water, air, and fire - designed to clear your mind, detox your body, and leave you feeling spiritually zen. And don’t worry, it’s not all heat and no fun, there are breaks to chill, reflect, and breathe in the good, healing vibes.
Why do it? Because it’s a one-of-a-kind spiritual experience and a legit way to connect with ancient traditions. Plus, you'll leave feeling like a purified, refreshed version of yourself. Sign us all the way up.
8. STAY AT HOTEL HUMANO
OAXACA, MEXICO
This place is the ultimate haven for those who like their luxury with a side of chill. Nestled in the stunning surroundings of Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca, this newly opened spot feels exclusive without the snobbish attitude.
From the moment you step into the sleek, vertical subway-tiled entrance, the vibe screams style - think locally sourced coffee (served in their very own coffee shop/hotel lobby), ocean views, and a community feel.
Whether you're in a garden pool room or splurging on the ocean-view suite with your own private pool, you’ll be living your best life. The hotel even has a swanky spa, plunge pools, and a sauna, so you can sweat it out or soak in relaxation.
Then there’s the food: fresh, local, absolutely delicious and a perfect excuse to never leave the bistró. And we wouldn’t if it weren’t for the Sunset Bar full of craft cocktails inspired by traditional flavours. You know where to find us.
9. PLAY IN PLAYA DEL AMOR
ARIETAS ISLANDS, MEXICO
Playa del Amor, or “Lover’s Beach,” is basically the VIP section of Mexico’s coastline, and yes, it lives up to the hype.
Tucked away on the Marietas Islands, this beach is a hidden gem with crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and dramatic rock formations that make it feel like you’ve stumbled into a postcard. And you can only reach it by boat, so it feels like your own personal secret getaway.
As you can probably guess from the Insta-perfect scenery, Playa del Amor is a paradise for nature lovers. Think vibrant marine life, ideal snorkelling spots, and the surrounding islands' lush wildlife. Plus, the peaceful vibe means you can soak up all the beauty without the crowds, unless you’re counting the occasional seagull.
Stumbling upon this place is truly like finding your own slice of heaven, and let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to brag about having “secret beach” status?
10. HOP ABOARD THE JOSE CUERVO EXPRESS
GUADALAJARA, MEXICO
So, you’re in Mexico and unsurprisingly, you’re craving tequila like it’s water on a 35+ degree day. Surprisingly, there’s a train for that, and it’s the Jose Cuervo Express.
This train ride is a boozy, cultural rollercoaster that starts with a welcome shot and doesn’t stop until you’re fully immersed in the world of tequila (read: feeling a little worse for wear).
You’ll take the scenic route through agave-filled landscapes while sipping some of its finest produce, from smooth silver to rich, aged añejo. You may pretend to be an expert by the fourth tasting, but there’s really no need. Actual experts on board are ready to help you with any tequila-induced questions.
You don’t even need to drink to have fun with plenty of activities, including tequila workshops, dancing and learning about Mexican history to keep you company. We’ll cheers to that.
get in the know Mexico City was actually built on a drained lake, meaning the city is constantly sinking around 12 cm per year - so get there quick.
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