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The 15 Most Beautiful National Parks in Mexico | From Volcano to Maya

Mexico is one of the most popular countries in the world for holidaymakers. Mexico has an incredible amount of things to see and do. With delicious cuisine, amazing archaeological sites and bustling cities, there is something for everyone. And then we haven't even mentioned the expansive coastline with so many incredible beaches! do you have the blog From Maya to Playa Did you read for example? The country's diverse landscapes range from jungles to desert. From snowcapped mountains to rocky canyons, visitors will never tire of exploring all of its sights. There is an abundance of National parks in Mexico waiting to be discovered. Here are the most enchanting places to get you started!

1. Basseachic Falls

The waterfalls that give this national park its name are obviously the main attraction. Visitors will certainly not leave disappointed! The waterfall plunges from a height of 246 meters and is framed on both sides by the sheer rock walls; it looks absolutely gorgeous.

Baseachic Falls National Park
Baseachic Falls National Park

However, the falls are not the only picturesque part of the park. The forests and distinctive rock formations make it a pleasure to walk through. From the tops of the dominant rock faces, panoramic views follow one another. It's a beautiful setting, the diversity is the charm of Basaseachic Falls National Park. One of the most beautiful national parks in Mexico.

2. Isla Contoy

Surrounded by pristine palm beaches and idyllic turquoise waters, this secluded island is truly paradise. The scenic Isla Contoy National Park protects the island it is named after and the tropical seabirds that live within it. An important breeding area for four species of sea turtles, ecotourism to the island is strictly managed to preserve its unique ecosystem.

Isla Contoy National Park
Isla Contoy National Park

Go snorkelling in the clear waters and take a walk along the perfect beaches. Take a boat trip to better admire this amazing natural beauty. Isla Contoy is one of the must-see national parks in Mexico.

3. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

The extensive cave systems in this national park introduce you to an amazing underground world. The park will amaze you with its incredible beauty. The cave systems, which are among the largest in the world, are beautifully lit to entertain visitors.

Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park
Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park

Follow the two underground rivers that run between the rocky canyons. Climb the Limontitla Canyon or simply gaze in wonder at its unique geological features. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa is a national park like you've never seen before.

4. Bahia de Loreto

This beautiful national park in Mexico will lure you right in. With warm waters and sun-kissed shores looking so alluring, you won't be able to resist. Most of its territory consists of waters in the Gulf of California The beaches, sea cliffs and diverse ecosystems that come with it are beautiful to explore.

Bahía de Loreto
Bahia de Loreto National Park

The idyllic turquoise waters of the sandy beaches are the main draw of Bahia de Loreto National Park. In addition, the five uninhabited islands are also very popular with tourists. With dolphins and sea lions, this park paradise is also worth a visit.

5. Cabo Pulmo

Located on the southeastern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo Pulmo National Park protects the oldest coral reef in North America† The beautiful park is essential for the protection and conservation of a number of rare and endangered marine animals. Diving in the park is simply enchanting. Beneath the surface, you are greeted with beautiful coral gardens and a slew of fish and marine mammals swimming around peacefully.

Cabo Pulmo National Park
Cabo Pulmo National Park

A dream to behold, this tranquil world will leave unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

6. Snow-capped Toluca

Nevado de Toluca is named after the volcano that dominates the park. The park has a wealth of hiking trails and the crater is even accessible by car. The volcano is spectacular to see and at over 4600 meters it offers breathtaking panoramas. Nevado de Toluca is for many a favorite in the list of national parks in Mexico.

Also read: Rent a car in Mexico | How to deal with corrupt police

Nevado de Toluca National Park
Nevado de Toluca National Park

The bare slopes contrast beautifully with the forest-covered plains below. Lakes and archaeological sites for visitors to explore are also beautiful. When it snows, the volcano becomes more and more spectacular. The snow-capped peaks towering above everything and dominating the skyline make a big impression on everyone.

7. San Lorenzo Marine Archipelago

This national park consists of the San Lorenzo Archipelago and the waters that surround it. The park has a number of unique ecosystems with a wide variety of marine mammals, seabirds, and fish. While the dry climate means that the islands themselves are quite barren, underwater it's a whole different story. The water is rich in nutrients and you can tell by the liveliness underwater.

San Lorenzo Marine Archipelago
San Lorenzo Marine Archipelago

Lucky visitors to the national park can catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming by. There are also many species of whales that live in the water. Book a Whale Watching tour for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

8. Cumbres de Monterrey

Spectacular peaks aren't the only thing that will greet you in this dazzlingly beautiful national park. With beautiful canyons, roaring rivers and waterfalls and vast pine forests surrounding the mountains; Cumbres de Monterrey is an incredible place to visit.

Cumbres de Monterrey National Park
Cumbres de Monterrey National Park

The scenery on offer is simply breathtaking. The beautiful mountains that dominate the park make for fantastic trekking and mountaineering. The vast cave system of Garcia Caves in the park is one of the natural wonders on display. Cumbres de Monterrey definitely belongs on the list of the most beautiful national parks in Mexico.

9.Canon del Sumidero

Sumidero Canyon is the main feature of this national park. The sheer cliffs cut so dramatically into the Grijalva River below are impressive to say the least.

Canon del Sumidero National Park
Canon del Sumidero National Park

The canyon was formed over the centuries by the river cutting through the rocks. There are some delightful rapids and waterfalls for visitors to enjoy. The landscape looks beautiful. The green rainforest forms a beautiful contrast with the bare walls of the gorge. A real must see in Mexico.

10. Peak of Orizaba

Pico de Orizaba is the highest national park in Mexico. At a towering 5.636 meters, Pico do Orizaba is absolutely gigantic. It is also the highest mountain in all of Mexico. The snow-capped peak rises dramatically to the sky and has nine glaciers scattered across the higher realms. Beautiful to look at, the caldera of this stratovolcano is also worth a look and from above, the panoramic views are mesmerizing.

Pico de Orizaba National Park
Pico de Orizaba National Park

International climbers flock to the national park because of the impressive mountain. A number of trails wind around the lower slopes for hikers to enjoy.

11. Lagunas de Montebello

The lakes that give the park its name are the main draws of this enchantingly beautiful national park. With 59 lakes spread over a vast pine forest, the lakes' perfect blue hues contrast stunningly with the endless greens of the vegetation around them. Visitors can enjoy swimming and kayaking in their waters here.

Lagunas de Montebello National Park
Lagunas de Montebello National Park

There is also an interesting cave system to visit and one of the most spectacular sites is the ancient Mayan ruins of Chinkultic. The highest pyramid gives a fantastic view of the lower lakes.

12.Tulum

Visiting this well-preserved Mayan site is like stepping back in time. The ruins of the civilization you encounter surround you on both sides. The coastal town is fascinating to wander around. The God of Winds Temple overlooking the ocean is particularly impressive. The perfect beaches below only add to the beauty of the scene.

Tulum National Park
Tulum National Park

The central pyramid of the complex dominates the surrounding area. The many sights to see make Tlum one of the most popular national parks in Mexico.

13. Izta-Popo Zoquiapan

The two towering peaks that give this national park its name are impressive to behold. The snow-capped peaks stand out from their surroundings and stand out clearly above the environment around them.

Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park
Izta-Popo Zoquiapan National Park

The second (Popocatépetl) and third (Iztaccihuatl) highest mountains in the country provide wonderful walks. The forests that cover the lower slopes of the volcanoes only add to the breathtaking scenery. From the higher realms of the mountains, incredible panoramas of the world below stretch before you. Simply spectacular.

14. Marietas Islands

These uninhabited islands are a popular tourist attraction and offer a wealth of things to see and do; it's easy to see why. The protected waters around them teem with marine life. Boat trips and scuba diving are particularly great ways to delve into the riches of the aquatic world below. There are a number of pristine beaches to choose from. The undisputed crown jewel is the spectacular and hidden 'love beach' that only emerges at low tide.

Islas Marietas National Park
Islas Marietas National Park

With humpback whales, dolphins and manta rays all passing by, you must visit Islas Marietas National Park for an unforgettable experience.

15. Palenque

For a glimpse into Mexico's formidable history and heritage, a visit to Palenque National Park is a must. It is simply a must in this incredible country. This vast complex of Mayan ruins is awe-inspiring. In the middle of the jungle, they certainly provide a spectacular viewing experience.

Palenque National Park
Palenque National Park

The well-preserved temples and palaces are fascinating to wander around. No visitor to Palenque will leave without a sense of awe at the ingenuity of the Maya. One could spend a lifetime admiring all the wonders of these Mesoamerican ruins; breathtaking and unforgettable, they are sure to leave memories that will last forever. Palenque is the last national park in Mexico on this list but it could very well be the first!

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