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Yucatan Peninsula Overview

We know what you’re thinking. Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula? Tequila shots, sweaty nightclubs, and beach volleyball here we come. Think again. Let’s Go ’s intrepid Researchers once again dove headlong off the beaten path to bring you the best of the best in one of the continent’s cultural capitals. And while we haven’t yet given up the tequila shots, we have come up with the peninsula’s most exciting and inspiring destinations, all safe from the mayhem of the beach resort scene.

In this region, at the extreme southeastern edge of Mexico, tucked between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean, imagination meets reality. Legends of Mayan civilizations, pirates, and Spanish conquistadors surround steamy jungles, centers of modern trade, and sultry pleasures to create the ultimate travel experience. Quiet Campeche inspires romantic images of history and legend, while Yucatán state overflows with cross-cultural treasures. Meanwhile, Quintana Roo boasts incredible barrier reef exploration and an abundance of natural wonders.

Sleep on the ocean in one of Celestún’s tiny hotels, or camp among Mayan ruins in La Ruta Puuc. We’ve found the best chimichangas and enchiladas, the coolest fish markets, and raging beachside bars along the entire peninsula. Whether you are looking to get that perfect tan on a quiet beach or to plunge into the jungle, the Yucatán Peninsula is the perfect setting for an unforgettable adventure.

  • Mexico, Defined: Náhuatl word meaning “Bellybutton of the World.”
  • Population: 108 million
  • Land Mass: 1,972,550 sq. km
  • Gdp Per Person: US$10,700
  • Annual Tortilla Consumption Per Person: 270 lbs.
  • Annual Beer Production: Over 6 million liters of brew—the world’s fifth largest exporter.
  • Regular Churchgoers: 45 million
  • Regular Soccer Fans: 31 million
  • Mexico City Metro: Built for 1968 Olympics, used daily by 9 million riders.
  • Chichén Itzá: Mayan city named one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World” in 2007.
  • Red Savina Habanero: World’s hottest pepper, measuring a scorching 577,000 Scoville units.

  • When To Go
  • Mexico’s lush jungles, gleaming beaches, and textured highlands entice visitors year-round. Winters tend to be mild, while summers vary from warm to excruciatingly hot, as temperatures soar to ...more

  • What To Do
  • Whether climbing age-old Mayan temples, haggling for silver trinkets in colonial open-air markets, diving near coral reefs, or dancing with a margarita in hand, visitors head to the Yucatán Peninsula ...more



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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.

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