Hailed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it’s worth devoting a day to exploring Chichén Itzá. Alternatively, if you’re staying in the Cancun region and find yourself hankering for activities beyond the beach, book a Chichén Itzá tour with added adventure — take your pick from ziplining, driving amphibious vehicles, and rafting underground caves.
Talking of caves, if you’re feeling brave, the Yucatán Peninsula is known for its cenotes — underwater limestone caves that deliver refreshing dive experiences. Discover the cool places to visit in Mexico.
Meanwhile, Sumidero Canyon National Park, located in the state of Chiapas and accessed via boat, offers a smorgasbord of outdoor activities, from kayaking and abseiling to zip-lining and mountain biking. Or you could always book a nature-oriented trip that includes visiting Chiapa de Corzo, where craft markets and ancient ruins await.
Given the country’s diverse offerings – we haven’t even mentioned all those beautiful Mexican beaches and Mexico's incredible food — you might want to read up on things not to miss in Mexico before booking your trip.
Rough Guides’ customisable Mexico itineraries also offer plenty of inspiration, whether you want to immerse yourself in Mayan culture during a self-drive trip around Yucatan, or fancy an authentic experience in Central Mexico. If you're travelling with little ones in tow, don't miss our guide to visiting Mexico with kids.
Where to stay in Mexico
The perfect base from which to explore the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve and a tonne of Mayan sites, eco-minded, jungle-surrounded
Casa Kaan Calakmul is a top place to rest your head.
10. Kauai, Hawaii: best hiking holidays
Adventure awaits: hiking, helicopter-riding, kayaking and feasting
Known as Hawaii's Garden Island, Kauai is a lush and lesser-visited destination that made it into the Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places on Earth.
With over half its 550-square miles reserved for conservation and preservation and tonnes of tropical forests, hiking trails, zip lines, and excellent surf, Kauai epitomises adventure, with its iconic Na Pali Coast delivering peak pulse-quickening activities and scenery.
Often featured in Hollywood adventure movies, the Na Pali Coast is inaccessible to vehicles, which means you’ll have to get into Jurassic Park mode to see its staggering rock spires. Take your pick from paddle-boarding, kayaking, or booking a private plane or helicopter trip that offers exhilarating views of both the coast and Waimea Canyon.
Hardcore hikers will want to consider hiking Na Pali’s Kalalau Trail. Definitely not for the inexperienced or faint-hearted, this showcases why Kauai is regarded as one of the world’s best hiking destinations.