9 of the Top Wonders of Mexico You Won't Want To Miss

Among the thousands of cenotes on the Yucatan peninsula, Cenote Ik Kil stands out thanks to its size, lush surroundings, and proximity to Chichen Itza. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with fresh water that regularly feature on lists of must-see places in Mexico, but some are partially covered, making them darker and more difficult to access. Ik Kil, in contrast, is an open-air cenote with turquoise blue waters—ideal for swimming. Many tours combine Chichen Itza and Cenote Ik Kil with a visit to Cenote Suytún, another cavernous sinkhole near Valladolid.

Founded in the sixth century, Chichen Itza was a major center of religious ceremonies, military operations, governance, and trade that supported a population of around 35,000 at its peak. It is thought that the site was chosen due to the two large cenotes nearby, one of which is known as the Sacred Cenote. Visit on a guided tour from Valladolid, Tulum, or Cancun to learn how ancient Maya and Toltec astronomy influenced the archaeology of Chichen Itza.

Six canyons combine to form the spectacular landscapes of the UNESCO–listed Copper Canyon region in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains of northwestern Mexico, reaching depths of 4,600 feet (1,400 meters). The Copper Canyon system is best accessed via a train trip from Chihuahua to Los Mochis.

Insider tip: Stop over for a couple of nights in Creel and explore one of the hidden gems in Mexico, home to the Rarámuri people and a popular hiking, mountain biking, and ziplining spot.

This mineral-rich spring is arguably the most unusual of Mexico's natural wonders—a white, cliff-like structure that looks like a frozen waterfall, formed over thousands of years. Don’t let the name Hierve El Agua fool you: The water is not “boiling” when it comes to temperature. Instead, the name refers to the bubbling spring. Day trips from Oaxaca City often also visit the Mitla archaeological site, a mezcal distillery, a textile weaving workshop, and the town of Santa María del Tule with its famously wide tree.

Insider tip: Before your swim, take a short hike to the nearby lookouts or around the base of the waterfall.

One of the best attractions in Mexico, Monte Albán was first inhabited by Zapotec people from at least the first century BC and then by Mixtec peoples up until Spanish colonization. This sprawling archaeological site is known for its plazas, pyramids, ball game court, and numerous tombs, all of which can be visited on a half-day or full-day guided tour from Oaxaca City.

Insider tip: Pack sun protection and water for your visit; like most archaeological sites, Monte Albán doesn’t offer much shade.

Flourishing from 600–900 AD, the ancient city now known as Palenque features well-preserved carvings and images of Maya mythology, alongside significant hieroglyphic inscriptions. It is estimated that less than 10 percent of the city has been excavated, with the remaining 90 percent still hidden among the surrounding jungle. The once-isolated town of Palenque can now be reached via the Maya Train route spanning the Yucatan peninsula, meaning this archaeological site is well on its way to becoming one of the top wonders of Mexico.

The small city of San Cristóbal de las Casas draws visitors in with its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant Indigenous cultures, and access to secluded landscapes. One of the highlights is Sumidero Canyon National Park, around a 1-hour drive from San Cristóbal. Take a scenic boat tour and spy the crocodiles, birds, and monkeys inside the canyon’s towering walls, then explore the charming nearby town of Chiapa de Corzo, and wander around its markets to pick up a souvenir.

Now one of the most famous landmarks in Mexico, the Teotihuacán archaeological site was among the largest cities in the world at its peak (around 500 AD). Historians estimate its population at up to 200,000 people, making it the economic and religious hub of the region. Climbing is permitted on the lower level of the Pyramid of the Moon, but the grand scale of the structures is best appreciated by walking along the Avenue of the Dead between the two pyramids.

Insider tip: Take an early morning tour to beat the crowds (and traffic!)

Xochimilco’s reputation as a spot for celebrating means it can get crowded on weekends, but that shouldn’t stop you from adding it to your itinerary. The canals regularly feature on lists of the best destinations in Mexico, with good reason. These chinampas, or floating islands, were developed by Aztec farmers and are still used today. As you weave through the canals aboard a colorful trajinera (flat-bottom boat), enjoy local dishes, music, and a festive atmosphere as you float on by.

Insider tip: Take a sunrise kayak tour to experience a more tranquil side of the canals.