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MEXICO

BACKPACKING MEXICO

Mexico has such a rich deep history, it is full of friendly people home to stunning landscapes and coasts. It has cool cities that are massive (like Mexico City) and smaller (like Oaxaca) and lets not forget tacos, tequila and mezcal. Whether you are flying into Mexico City, or crossing into Mexico from Belize you will be met with a plethora of things to do and a lot of places to uncover and explore.

Mexico City

Spanish

Pesos

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OUR MEXICO BACKPACKING JOURNEY

BACKPACKING MEXICO

WE HAVE TWO ROUTE OPTIONS FOR MEXICO

ROUTE 01: CANCUN TO BELIZE
ROUTE 02: MEXICO CITY TO PUERTO ESCONDIDO 

ROUTE 01 - Arriving into Cancun the Yucatan region is truly spectacular you get to explore Holbox, Chichen Itza the dreamy Caribbean coast. You also get the bohemian Tulum,  all the cenotes and the Mexicans really know how to throw a party be it jungle beach or town. 

ROUTE 02 - Arriving into Mexico City is a polar opposite experience to Cancun but the city is incredible. Here you get a some beautiful architecture, a gritty party vibe, fantastic food and more museums than you can shake a stick at. Its a culturally enriching destination and as you work your way down to the west coast you get to experience everything from an urban metropolis to mountain trails, smaller vibrant towns famous for something (like mezcal) The best part is, Mexico is pretty easy to transit using public transport. Lets get into this magical country. 

ROUTE 01

TAKE ME TO 0.1 CANCUN AIRPORT

TAKE ME TO 0.2. HOLBOX

TAKE ME TO 0.3. TULUM

TAKE ME TO 0.4. CHICHEN ITZA

TAKE ME TO 0.5 BACALAR

TAKE ME TO 0.6. CHETAMUL TO BELIZE (Caye Caulker)

-

ROUTE 02

TAKE ME TO 0.7. MEXICO CITY AIRPORT

TAKE ME TO 0.8. MEXICO CITY

TAKE ME TO 0.9. TO PUEBLA 

TAKE ME TO 0.10. TO OAXACA (We are building it)

TAKE ME TO 0.11. TO SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS (We are building it)

TAKE ME TO 0.12. SAN JOSE DEL PACIFICO (We are building it)

TAKE ME TO 0.13 PUERTO ESCONDITO (We are building it)

0.1.

CANCUN AIRPORT

Cancun Airport

 

Welcome

Arriving Into Cancun

Immigration at Cancun International. This is relatively easy, on a UK passport, you will need to fill out a green tourist card. You may need to confirm where you are staying so make sure you have this in your memory. You will be asked how long you would like to stay in the country (always ask for the maximum) 180 days) The immigration officer will take the majority of the forms before giving you a section (DO NOT LOSE THIS SECTION)

Maps Wallet

Option 01

Buses are going to be your best travel option across Mexico and they are easy to use. If you are spending a night or two in Cancun then you need terminal 2 and are just 50 minutes away for 130 pesos. If you are looking for island paradise and want Holbox, head to Chiquilá from Cancun bus terminal (2h30mins and 360 pesos) before grabbing the Holbox Express 220 pesos. Or if you want to head straight to Tulum you have a three hour bus ride from the airport. 

Option 02

The alternate option is to jump in a taxi. These can get to Central Cancun in around 30 - 40 minutes and will not cost the earth if there is a group of you travelling together, they are quite intimidating when you walk out the airport but talk to a few and ask for the price. If you know Spanish, now is a good time to start using a bit. 

Option 03

A final option is a shuttle, these can be pre booked through companies like Happy Shuttle, but again a better option when sharing. 

50 minutes later

Image by Dayana Brooke
Image by Andreas M
Image by Alex Braga
Image by Embla Munk Rynkebjerg
Image by Jared Rice
Image by Xad Eugenia Sánchez Ruíz
Image by Miranda Garside

BACKPACKING CANCUN

Cancun is synonymous for large all inclusive style resorts, you can find a party and a golden beach here and you can also access the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. As a backpacker, this area may not be your jam, but Cancun is a great place to transit due to the cost of flights. Check out our blog post backpacking 101 for tips on getting a good international flight deal.

0.2.

Eat

Seafood

Drink

Cocktails

Do

Diving

Party 

Travel

Walk 

Taxi

Stay

Hostels

Hotels

Time

1-2 Days

Where To Stay In Cancun

Cancun is a tourist destination that has all inclusive hotels from wall to wall, I would advise spending minimal time in Cancun. For a backpacker it does not offer adventure, nonetheless lets look at some hostels! 

Maya Monkey - Dorms £22 p/n

The Maya brand has positioned itself as a 'luxury' hostel. What to expect is a clean environment and facilities, beds with curtains and lockers. Bars on site and bike hire. You can be fairly certain of a nice stay.

Nomads Hotel Hostel & Rooftop Pool - Dorms £9 - £12 p/n

Nomads have two locations in Cancun, both locations are known as 'party hostels' I would highly recommend ear pugs. If you want to meet backpackers, you will find them at these Hostels.

Selina Cancun Laguna Hotel Zone

Selina has positioned itself as a hostel that caters to the digital nomad. Having stayed in a good number of Selina, they can be hit and miss on cleanliness. The atmosphere in a large number can simply non existent. Cancun Selina does not rate high but I am yet to stay in one that is 'terrible'. The price point on food and drink is always expensive, so keep this in mind! Check out our post on the Selina brand for a quick look at which we would suggest checking out during travels through Central and South America.

Cancun

Cancun 

Hotel Zone

Coral Reef Island

Cancun

Snorkeling

What To Do In Cancun

Playa Tortugas

Perhaps the easiest way to have fun in Cancun is to head to a beach, pull on some swim ware and grab the snorkel mask.

Nomads Hostels

For a party nomads are a good place to meet backpackers who have usually just arrived into Mexico, the hostel has a bit of a party vibe so make sure you have earplugs!

To Holbox 

or

Image by Jorge Fernández Salas

HOLBOX

Image by Ahtziri Lagarde
Image by Jorge Fernández Salas
Image by Michiel Ton
Image by Michiel Ton
Image by Loris Boulinguez
Image by Heather Suggitt
Image by marco boldrin

Backpacking Holbox

Pronounced 'holbosh' this island is car-less and the epitome of paradise. 

Pristine, white-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island's coastline stretches for miles, providing plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Holbox is part of the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Protection Area, a protected natural reserve. The island is home to diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and lush tropical vegetation. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

0.2.

Eat

Seafood

Pizza 

Drink

Smoothies

Do

Walks 

Bird watch

Relax 

Travel

Bicycle 

Golf cart

Stay

Hostels

Time

2-3 Days

Ado Bus Terminal

Cancun

Ado Bus Terminal

Getting to Holbox

From Cancun take a bus to Chiquilá (2h30mins and 360 pesos) before grabbing the Holbox Express 220 pesos

This will land you in Holbox dock were you should be able to proceed on foot to your hostel of choice. Lets look at some of the options for where to stay in Holbox. 

Where To Stay In Holbox

Tribu Hostel - Dorms £19-22 p/n

Chilled vibes and just off the beach, evening activities and large fully equipped kitchen with a terrace dining area. Hammocks in the garden and a hostel bar with live show. A great choice for a relaxing stay

Che Holbox Hostel & Bar Adults Only - Dorms £21 - £25 p/n

If you want a very clean environment Che is your place. A big hostel on Holbox that offers a bar, a pool, yoga sessions. Evenings tend to revolve around the bar but a good place to meet people and have some fun.

Barco Verde Hostel Dorms - £20 p/n

A friendly welcome and within 200 metres of Playa Holbox and 2.3 km of Punta Coco. A shared kitchen is on site. Rooms have  private bathrooms and air conditioning. 

Tribu Hostel communal area

Tribu Hostel 

Break Out

Image by Luca Dimola

Holbox

Coast Line

What To Do In Holbox

Punta Coco

Visitors to Punta Coco often go to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the serene surroundings. It's also a great place for birdwatching. Holbox is home to numerous bird species, including flamingos and pelicans. Due to its remote location, there are limited facilities at Punta Coco, so it's a good idea to bring your own snacks, drinks, and shade if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there.

Bird Watching

Explore the island's mangroves and lagoons to spot a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons.

The Main Town

The main town of Holbox is a charming place with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars. Stroll through the streets, enjoy the local cuisine, and shop for handmade crafts.

Playa Mosquito 

Playa Mosquito is less crowded compared to some other beaches on Holbox, thanks to its somewhat remote location. It offers a more serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking a tranquil beach experience.

Horse Back Riding

There are opportunities on this beautiful island for a horse back trip usually during sunrise or sunset hours and through the mangroves budget circa £65 per person. 

Where to Eat In Holbox

Roots Pizza

Known for its wood-fired pizzas, Roots Pizza is a popular spot for those craving a taste of Italy. They offer a range of pizza options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.

Mandarina

Tropical ambiance, serving fresh seafood and Mexican dishes. It's a great place to try ceviche or other seafood specialties.

Image by Oscar Nava

Holbox

Beach 

Holbox express
Image by Ahtziri Lagarde
Image by Ahtziri Lagarde
Image by Camila Vázquez
Image by Jorge Fernández Salas
Image by Nicole Arango Lang

Luuma

 Vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant think salads, wraps, smoothies with fresh ingredients.

El TacoQueto

 If you're in the mood for Mexican street food, El TacoQueto is a good choice. They serve tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites in a casual setting.

Casa Nostra

Italian restaurant with a romantic ambiance and candlelit tables make it an excellent choice for a special evening.

Time for Tulum 

or

Tulum Beach

TULUM

0.3.

Backpacking Tulum

Tulum has become a bohemian town, it is close to the well-preserved costal Mayan ruins, has a laid-back atmosphere, and eco-friendly tourism. The town has been made vibrant through street art and murals. Tulum is also a great base for exploring the cenotes or heading out to jungle parties. You can also consider doing a day tour to Chichen Itza. You will find a lot of backpackers here as well as holiday makers but if you are beginning your backpacking in Mexico, Tulum is a fantastic start place to settle you into the backpacker lifestyle. 

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TULUM 001
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Eat

Vegan

Street Tacos

Drink

Smoothies

Coffee

Modelo

Tequila

Cocktails

Do

Cenotes

Beach

Party

Explore

Travel

Bus 

Collectivo 

Bicycle

Walk 

Stay

Hostels

Time

3-5 Days

Where To Stay In Mexico

Street Art Tulum

Tulum 

Street Art

What To Do In Tulum

Explore the Streets

The central road through Tulum also acts as the main street front, you will find shops and bars but you will also uncover fantastic street art. 

Visit the Cenotes

With hundred of cenotes in and around Tulum its a great place to grab a bike and peddle across to go and see these otherworldly environments.

Hit the Beach

A laid back beach day is a great option, just a 15 minute bike ride away the beautiful Playa Pescadores awaits with its golden sand and warm blue waters.

 

Visit the Ruins

One of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya civilization and on the beautiful coast line. Not the most well preserved ruins you will see in Mexico, but still worth a trip, especially if coupled with a beach day. For maps and more check the blog post below. 

Hostels

As Tulum becomes more popular the hostels, hotels and air BnBs are popping up giving a good amount of choice. Lets have a look at a couple of hostels with big reputations. 

Mamas Home - Dorms £10-15 p/n

Having stayed in Mamas Home, I can highly recommend it (although the staff were fantastic here which really made it special) A good breakfast around a very social banquette style table makes it easy to meet new people. The bathrooms could do with an update but are functional. There is bike hire available which is great for getting to the beach or cenotes and it is located in the heart of Tulum so you are close to all things night life! £10-15 a night for a dorm all with breakfast included is a very good price point. 

 

Maya Monkey  - Dorms £13-20 p/n

A modern, big, but clean and tidy hostel with all your 'mod cons'. Nice beds with privacy curtains. Location is between places, halfway between Tulum and the beach so you will need a bike or a taxi in the evenings. Not all options come with breakfast but it can be included for a small additional cost, which in this location would be a good idea. 

Che Tulum - Dorms £18-25 p/n

Che is though of as a bit of a 'party hostel' especially in Bacalar. A similar offering to Maya as a more modern hostel with mod cons but located in Tulum, a more expensive price point compared to some, a good place to meet new people.

Mamas Home Tulum entrance

Mamas Home

Hostel

Where To Eat In Tulum

El Bajon Vegan Tacos

A tiny place with great vegan tacos at a fair price point. 

El Vegetariano Mar y Tierra

A larger menu a great spot for the vegetarians

Raw Love Town

This place not only has great food and smoothies, the coffee is also fantastic. 

La Hoja Verde

Refined Vegan and vegetarian food. 

Don Cafeto

A more traditional experience, with meat options this place will give big portions at a good price, less thrills more hearty. 

El Bajo restaurant image

El Bajo

Restaurant

Batey Mojito Guarapo bar

Batey 

Tulum

Where To Drink In Tulum

Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar

A new bar in the area it provides live music and makes claim to the best mojito in Tulum

Mezcaleria Amores

A more traditional bar with a good drink selection and seating/ standing that spills out over the streets

Straw hat

Think spring break as a rooftop bar! Cheap drinks and loud music.

 

Naná Rooftop Bar

For a more classy evening Nana has a more modern design and bigger cocktail selection. 

To Chichen Itza

or

Back To The Bus Stop

If you are in and around Quintana Roo, you should take the opportunity to pop over to the Yucatan and check out the Iconic Chichen Itza. This will put you into the depths of mass tourism but the site is an incredibly well preserved example of  Mayan Architecture and is also a UNESCO site. Just a couple of hours from both Tulum and Cancun, lets take a look at this increadible site.

Image by Loris Boulinguez

CHICHEN ITZA

Image by Alex Azabache
Sombrero Girls
Mexican Food
Image by PoloX Hernandez
Image by Iván Díaz

0.4.

Backpacking Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is one of Mexico's most famous and iconic archaeological sites, renowned for its well-preserved Mayan ruins and historical significance. Located in the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichen Itza was once a major city in the Maya civilization and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Eat

Take Lunch

Drink

Water

Do

Photography 

Travel

Bus

Stay

Day Trip

Time

1 Days

Maps Wallet

Day Trip To Chichen Itza

On your own from Tulum (2023)

Chichen Itza is just past Valladolid and directly accessible from the Tulum Ado bus terminal. Check the bus times on Bus Bud but during the week generally you could do the following. 

First Bus Leaving: 9:17am Arriving 11:17am

Cost £16

Last Bus Home Leaving 16:00 Arriving 19:45

Cost £16

This would give you a good three - four hours to walk around and explore chicken Itza. 

Pyramid

Chichen Itza

Yucatán

Pyramid

Chichen Itza

Yucatan

Tickets Weekdays

Adults (13+): $614 MXN

Mexican Citizens: $272 MXN

Locals (Yucatan ID): $90 MXN

Tickets Friday and Saturday

General Admission: $708 MXN

 

Sunday

General admission: $450 MXN

Opening Times

Chichen Itza is open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

*Last entry is at 4:00 pm

Day Trip (Third Party)

If you want to put your feet up and have a full day with no worries about then the other option is to take a day trip. These often last a full day (12 hours) but with day tours you also get additional stops! In the case of Chichen Itza, tours will stop off at cenote Saamal and the town of Valladolid, if you have a good guide you will also be able to add knowledge to your arsenal. 

For just the trip (no tour guide) then costs can come in similar with some operators like Viator offering trips from around £70. 

Hostel Day Trips

Always check reviews before going, the final way to navigate this is to check if your hostel offer day trip. From experience, hostels tend to be very geared around a 'fun trip' its just not in their interest to let backpackers down, so booking through the hostel can be the best way to have a relaxing day.

Valladolid church image

Valladolid

Plaza

To Bacalar

or

Back To The Bus Stop

Once you have had your feel of Tulum, the next natural stop is Bacalar, 3 hours down the road head back to Tulum Centro Bus station purchase a ticked for around £18 jump on the bus and enjoy the Mexican scenery. 

Image by Audric Wonkam

BACALAR

0.5.

Backpacking Bacalar

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The Bacalar Lagoon is the town's primary attraction and is famous for its crystal-clear waters that display various shades of blue, hence the nickname "Lagoon of Seven Colors." The different hues of blue are created by the varying depths of the lagoon and the reflection of the sunlight. Bacalar is a quiet town during the day but comes alive in the evening with sunset booze cruises or DJ sets at hostels. It is also a good stop before heading across to Chetamul for a boat crossing to Belize. Make sure you have your ear plugs with you for this town.

Eat

Seafood

Drink

Cocktails

Shots!

Do

Water activities 

Walk the town

Party

Los Rapidos

Travel

Walk

Taxi

Stay

Hotels

Time

2-3 Days

Where to Stay In Bacalar

There are two main hostels here, one is Che and the Other Yak. Both are party hostels. There are other hostels available, but from their reviews, they can be 'hit and miss'. If you want a more chilled stay and have a group of friends, an Airbnb might be the best option (expect to pay around £50 a night). I would happily go back to Che if that is something to go by! Lets look at Che and Yak.

Che Bacalar Hostel & Bar dorm £8-12 a night (2 night stay min)

Clean and comfortable, the hostel has a nice kitchen and some beautiful views. It has breakfast options, a pool and when not in party mode a fairly laid back vibe! If you do stay here capsules are not too much more per night giving you a double bed. As with all party hostel, expect noise, take a good set of earplugs! You will meet people here easily especially if you do a sunset booze cruise. 

The Yak Hostel 

A popular place for backpackers. This place is right on he lagoon. It is also home to an iconic party usually on Wednesday, where you can paint yourself in neon paint and get your rave on. If you are staying here, the dorms are a bit dated and like Che you will need some good ear plugs! You cannot take your own drinks in, and reviews suggest it is not the easiest place to meet new people unlike Che which was!

Che Bacalar

Che Bacalar

Hostel

Image by Liz Aguayo

Pier Sunrise 

Lagoon

What To Do In Bacalar

Sunrise Over the Lagoon

If you have not partied the night away (or if you are still up) The sun rises over the lagoon. Head down and sit on one of the piers for a beautiful way to start your day.

Cenote Azul

Just up the road is cenote Azul, surrounded by lush jungle vegetation, you'll feel like you're in a tropical paradise. Cenote Azul has several jumping platforms of varying heights, allowing you to leap into the refreshing waters below. A nice way to spend an afternoon with fellow backpackers. 

Los Rapidos

Find youself a group, jump in a taxi and head to Los Rapidos for a really fun activity. You can swim, float, or tube in the lagoon, allowing the gentle current to carry you along. It's a relaxing and enjoyable experience, especially on a sunny day.

Sunset Boat Party

This is a must in Bacalar, get your swim wear on and start your evening by partying hard. 

SUP/ Swim/ Float in the lagoon

After a night of party, get down to the lagoon and hire yourself an SUP or just go for a swim. 

Street Art

Like Tulum, Bacalar has some really beautiful street art, head out during the day to explore the streets near and around Che and Yak to find some awesome pieces. 

Party

The evenings in Bacalar are synonymous with partying. 

Los Rapidos view

Los Rapidos 

Bacalar

Nao Bacalar

Restaurant

Where To Eat In Bacalar

Nao Bacalar

Spectacular Japanese sushi, Nao has you covered, the drinks menu is just as good as the food and the setting is gorgeous, just off the lagoon, higher price point but not overly expensive.

Mr Taco

For cheap local tacos this place on the central square is a very popular choice!

Mango and Chile

Modern fresh food including smoothies and veggie burgers.

La Playita Bacalar

Empanadas, ceviche & fish tacos, another one on the lagoon and a little more expensive but very highly rated and close to both Che and Yak.  

La Burguesía del Pueblo

On the main square highly rated highly recommended hearty burger joint with big cocktails and big shakes

Where To Drink (Other than Che & Yak)

I Scream Bar

just off the main plaza in the center of Bacalar, I scream can start as a casual night but get pretty wild. If Yak or Che are on a quite night then this is the place to go.

La Catrina Bacalar

Music, cheap beers and food a good places to spend a casual evening.

Xolo Itzcuintle taco bar

Much the same as La Catrina, cheap beers food and nice for a casual evening. 

I Scream Bar

I Scream

Bar 

To Belize

or

Image by Josef Faustmann

CHETAMUL 

0.6.

Backpacking Chetamul to Belize (Caye Caulker)

From Bacalar the traditional route for backpackers is to head down to Chetamul before crossing by boat to Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker is a small, laid-back island located off the coast of Belize in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and vibrant marine life, Caye Caulker is a popular destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise. 

The Ferry 

Departing 3:30pm the boat from Chetamul will arrive into Caye Caulker around 5:45pm with San Pedro Belize Express (click below).

With Water Jets International (click below) you can leave at 10am to get to Cay Caulker just after midday.

Both options cost around $77.00 US. 

Arrive early to the dock as you will have exit forms to sort and you may have to pay the exit tax (PESOS$534.00).

Once you are all done jump on the boat for a 90 minute journey to San Pedro where you will have to do you immigration forms for Belize. 

Once everyone from your boat has completed the immigration process you will be go to go for the final 30 minutes of the journey to get to Cay Caulker Dock. 

Where Next

or

Where Next?

Mexico City 

This Way 

To USA

To Guatemala

To Belize

Crowded Street

MEXICO CITY 

0.6.

Mexico City Airport

Mexico City Airport

Benito Juarez

Welcome

Maps Wallet

Arriving Into Mexico City

Fill out your tourism form and make sure you ask for longer on your time stayed then you need. Top tip, if you can speak Spanish in immigration it goes a long long way. The Mexicans tend to be able to speak English but will really appreciate the effort! You will get a green form (DO NOT LOSE THIS FORM) and you may well need to put down the address of your first accommodation stop. Passing through this airport several times, the staff always seemed quite friendly so hopefully you will have a smooth transition through the airport. 

Arrivals come out on the South West near the Terminal de autobuses into a confusing circular road formation. Lets get to the centre of this beautiful city.

Bus

If you want to take on public transport then the bus station is directly at the exit of terminal 2. Bus are regular and around 35 Pesos (less than £2!) but will take you around 50 minutes to get to the city centre. SO if not in a rush and wanting to save some money this is definetly the best option. 

Uber

Much quicker, and not overly expensive if you have arrived into Mexico City super early or super late and just want to get to your accommodation then this is the best option. You can sit back and relax and take in the city. Make sure you message your driver with the exit dorr you are at because they are split over two levels and it is a long walk back into the airport down a set of stairs (or up) if you are at the wrong level!

20 minutes later

0.7.

Backpacking Mexico City 

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If you are going to Mexico City you are in for a treat. This city has the most museums of any city in the world (over 150). A rich history of art and architecture, a nightlife that will keep you up until sunrise, and incredible food that will keep you fueled for your stay. The city is fantastic, but struggling. Built on a drained lake it is quickly sinking into the silty ground below! So it is important to see this city whilst it is still in good(ish) shape. 

 

Just outside the city the UNESCO site of Teotihuacan is a must visit location for all explorers. 

Eat

Tacos

Street Food

Drink

Mezcal 

Tepache

Tequila

Do

Architecture

Museums

View points

Party 

Travel

Walk

Uber

Bus

Stay

Hotels

Time

3-5 Days

Where To Stay In Mexico City (Historic Center)

Lets start in the city center here with options for Roma/ Colonia Condesa after. If you want to be in the thick of Mexico City then the historic center is a the place to be. extensive beautiful buildings, live music, extensive culture this city is wonderful, so lets look at some hostels. 

Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral £20 p/n

No thrills basic hostel with a basic breakfast and a nice rooftop bar, ear plugs are a must, especially if you are on one of the upper floors as the bar tends to have the music pumping until early hours! The drinks are not cheap but you are in a beautiful spot directly opposite the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral. For £20 a night to be so central is a treat! (click house below for home page). Beds are not overly private, could use curtains

Casa Pepe Hostal Boutique Ciudad de México

£20-25 with female only dorms

Casa Pepe's is one you will hear on the travel trail and has a reputation of being a good hostel in Mexico city. You will find it to be slightly more expensive than other hostels but is in a fairly central location. There is a roof bar here and the hostel offers all the usual excursions as well as yoga practice as an added plus, Casa Pepe does offer free activities too (House below for the home page). Book through the home page for much better prices (£17-20).

Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral 03

Hostel Mundo 

Roof Bar View

Viajero CDMX

Viajero Mexico

Hostel

VIAJERO MEXICO CITY £10 p/n 14 bed mixed dorm

Viajero in Medellin is one of my favorite hostels, if that one is anything to go by then you should be in safe hand here two. You can get a bed for as little as £10 a night daily activities are on offer. No rooftop bars but a nice courtyard and the location is very central.

 

Suites DF Hostel £10-12 with Female only dorms

(Experience prices are good)

Cheap as chips because its a bit outside the center (around a 10-15 minute walk) but nice bathrooms and a small social courtyard that will have you speaking to your fellow backpacker in no time. The hostel offers activities like 'wrestling experience' and street food experiences that are usually much more competitive in price. Even if staying elsewhere I would check their website to compare you excursion cost and offering. (click on the house below for a link to their homepage. 

Colonia Condesa/

Roma

La Condesa is a more upscale and residential neighborhood compared to Roma but both areas are known as the more boho/hippie areas of the city. 

Roma has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.

La Condesa has a strong focus on culture and the arts, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and cultural centers. Parque México and Parque España are two beautiful parks in the neighborhood, providing green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities. We would reccomened two places (both in La Condesa)

 

Casa Pancha £26-31 with Female only dorms

(boutique hostel)

If you are looking for a very comfertable stay in a beautiful hostel then look no further! At Casa Pancha you will be able to get a good nights sleep in a comfy bed right in the 

Casa Pancha

Casa Pancha

Hostel

Black Obsidian 

Carving 

What To Do In Mexico City

Introduction 

There is so much to see and do in this city we will cover a lot more in blog posts, but lets look at the big ticket/ bucket list/ you should not miss this .... sort of things! 

Teotihuacan Pyramids & Lady of Guadalupe

Naturally the pyramids are a massive draw, but why not couple them up with Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe for a look at a modern cathedral. Booking a day trip of both will include stopping off at Lady Guadalupe a brief look around before heading to a jewelers near Teotihuacan to look at the use of black oxide a taste of Mezcal, before heading to the pyramids, then a spot of dinner before heading home.

Historic Center Walking Tour

The architecture in Mexico's historic center varies from Aztec, to colonial to modern. Styles include art deco, art nouveau, baroque, its so varies and rich a walking tour is essential.

 

Tepache Tasting

Some walking tours offer Tepache tastings, a fermented beverage made from the peel and the rind of fruit. It is sweetened and served cold, big on flavour but low on alcohol and must try whilst in Mexico City. 

Palacio de Bellas Artes

This building is beautiful inside and out. Not open every day but worth a visit to see some contemporary art in a beautiful interior. 

Mirador Torre Latino

Naturally the pyramids are a massive draw, but why not couple them up with Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe for a look at a modern cathedral. Booking a day trip of both will include stopping off at Lady Guadalupe a brief look around before heading to a jewelers near Teotihuacan to look at the use of black oxide a taste of Mezcal, before heading to the pyramids, then a spot of dinner before heading home.

Historic Center

Catedral Metropolitana 

CDMX

Museo Nacional de Antropología

If you want to get really deep into the history of Mexico, this is undoubtable the best place to do it. It is vast however, pace yourself and take it slow! There is a cafe here that will allow you to get some food and have a break as your brain absorbs the information. If you get here at opening I highly reccomend coupling your day with a visit to Chapultepec Castle which is with in walking distance away and in a beautiful park.  

Chapultepec Castle

Naturally the pyramids are a massive draw, but why not couple them up with Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe for a look at a modern cathedral. Booking a day trip of both will include stopping off at Lady Guadalupe a brief look around before heading to a jewelers near Teotihuacan to look at the use of black oxide a taste of Mezcal, before heading to the pyramids, then a spot of dinner before heading home.

Museo Nacional sculpture of the history of Mexico

Museo Antropologia

Mexico

To Puebla

Usually we would put something in here about where to eat and where to drink, but given the size of Mexico we are going to leave it to dedicated blog posts. This being the case lets get over to the next city down the road Puebla. 

Book your tickets on the Ado website, jump in an Uber to head to:

 

Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente

 

Puebla is just two and a half hours down the road and has a lot to offer.  

Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente
Palacio De Bellas Artes art work

PALACIO DE BELLAS ARTES

2 hours

30 minutes later

Pueblar Backpackers Blueprint

PUEBLA

0.8.

Backpacking Puebla

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Puebla was founded in 1531 by Spanish colonists and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. It played a significant role in Mexican history, particularly during the Mexican War of Independence and the Battle of Puebla in 1862, where Mexican forces defeated the French, an event celebrated on the 5th of May. You do not need long in Puebla but it is a great stopping point for exploring markets and architecture before heading on down to Oaxaca. If you are a hiker then the nearby Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuatl Volcanos are  

Eat

Local Cuisine

Drink

Coffee

Do

Architecture Tours

Explore Markets

Nights Out

Hike Volcanoes

Travel

Walk

Stay

Hotels

Private Rooms

Time

2 Days

Where to Stay In Puebla

The great thing about Puebla is you will be able to find super cheap accommodation that is pretty comfortable! Perhaps because they do not have the footfall that Mexico City does! But either way lets look at your options in Puebla. 

Casa Pepe £15-18 standard dorm

Probably the best option to meet people in Puebla and get immersed in the city. You will have a comfortable stay, a more social atmosphere and friendly staff.

Casa Vee Yuu

If you are on a budget then Casa Vee Yuu is a good option. A no thrills hostel but with a nice common area and roof area. Slight disadvantage. Some dorms are a walk across the open courtyard to get to the showers or toilets, but a great central location. 

Casa Pepe Puebla

Casa Pepe

Hostel

Puebla Backpackers Blueprint 01

Catedral de Puebla 

Puebla

What To Do In Puebla

Explore the Cathedrals

If you have not partied the night away (or if you are still up) The sun rises over the lagoon. Head down and sit on one of the piers for a beautiful way to start your day.

Visit The Templo de Santo Domingo

Just up the road from the Catedral de Puebla you will find what is regarded as one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Mexico. Not only this inside you will find the Capilla del Rosario or Chapel of the Rosary, one of the finest chapels in the world. Adorned with gold leaf and featuring intricate sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The chapel's interior is covered with gilded stucco work and polychrome decoration. Inside you will also find the Rosary Portico, an elaborately carved arch that frames the entrance. 

Check Out The Markets

Find youself a group, jump in a taxi and head to Los Rapidos for a really fun activity. You can swim, float, or tube in the lagoon, allowing the gentle current to carry you along. It's a relaxing and enjoyable experience, especially on a sunny day.

Visit Cholula

Adjoined to Puebla city, Cholula is home to the Santuario de la Virgen de los Remedios. A church atop a hill with a beautiful outlook. Just a little further east and you will find Cerro Zapotecas. Take a backpack and your hiking boats as you will plenty of trails to keep you busy. 

Parque Nacional Iztaccíhuatl - Popocatépetl

Finally, guided tours are available for trekking the volcano, however if you want to take it on alone click below for a link to All trails where you will find numerous trails for you to get stuck into. 

Oaxaca coming soon

or

Puebla Backpackers Blueprint 16

Markets 

Puebla

Where Next?

To USA

To Belize

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