Backpacking Mexico – 4 Week Mexico Itinerary (2024)

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Planning a backpacking Mexico itinerary?!

Putting together your Mexico itinerary 1 month can be very overwhelming, and believe me, I’ve been there… but fear not, because in this post I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about backpacking in Mexico!

Mexico is a much larger country than you think and I recommend spending at least 1-month to experience some of the top places to see in Mexico.

Backpacking Mexico for one month is a decent amount of time to discover the country’s most beautiful beaches, raging waterfalls, ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine, rich culture, and many more fantastic things that Mexico has to offer.

In this guide, you will find my recommended 1-month backpacking route beginning in Mexico City and ending in Cancun, plus all of the best things to do in each location.

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BACKPACKING MEXICO – OVERVIEW

There is no wrong or right way to go backpacking in Mexico as people have different tastes and different interests.

This 4 week Mexico itinerary is based on my own experience with a mixture of cities, beaches, waterfalls, cenotes, and islands that I visited and that I’m sure you will enjoy too!

Here is a quick overview of how to spend 4 Weeks In Mexico:

  • Mexico City – 3 days
  • Oaxaca – 2 days
  • Puerto Escondido – 3 days
  • Tuxtla Gutiérrez – 2 days
  • San Cristobal De Las Casas – 3 days
  • Comitan – 2 days
  • Bacalar – 3 days
  • Tulum – 4 days
  • Valladolid – 2 days
  • Cozumel Island – 2 days
  • Cancun – 2 days
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Puerto Escondido Mexico

Some other places to visit in Mexico that I haven’t listed on this one month Mexico itinerary are Puebla, Palenque, Campeche, Merida, Holbox, Playa del Carmen, and Baja.

Feel free to chop and change things around on my suggested itinerary with some of the locations I have listed above.

If I had more time, I would’ve loved to have checked out more of these top places to see in Mexico. Unfortunately, I didn’t, but now I have a good enough reason to go back!

MEXICO BACKPACKING ROUTE

See below for an overview of our backpacking route Mexico.

backpacking mexico

HOW TO GET AROUND MEXICO?

The two best ways of getting around Mexico are by bus or renting a car.

BY BUS:

The most common means of transport for the majority of people backpacking Mexico is by bus.

The major roads between each location are generally well maintained, although, they can be windy in some mountainous areas, which might make your gut churn.

Make sure to get motion sickness tablets before setting off, and you’ll be just fine!

The average bus journey will cost around 300 – 400 Pesos for a 10 – 12 hour journey. There are many overnight buses available which are common among backpackers to save money on 1-night accommodation.

Some of the major long-distance Mexican bus companies are ADO, ETN, OCC, and Primera Plus.

Click here to check all routes, timetables, and ticket prices online, and book ahead of time to secure your seat.

If for some reason you can’t book the bus online, you’ll have to head to the main bus station in whichever town you’re in and purchase a ticket.

It’s best to go to the bus terminal the day before you intend to travel to secure a seat on the bus. 

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Traveling by bus in Mexico

RENT A CAR:

Renting a car is another option, although it will cost you a lot more as opposed to taking the bus.

I don’t recommend this option as the distances between the locations are very long.

The upside to renting a car in Mexico is having the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path locations that aren’t on the typical tourist trail.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

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Discover Cars are one of the world’s largest online car rental platforms with vehicles in 10,000+ locations.

Find the right car, in the right place, for the best price guaranteed!

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MEXICO?

The best time to go backpacking in Mexico is in the dry season which is between the months of December – May when temperatures are moderate and there is minimal rainfall.

The wet season in Mexico is from June to November and it can get quite chilly during these months.

The upside to backpacking in Mexico in the wet season is that things are generally quite cheaper as it’s the low season with fewer tourists.

VISA FOR MEXICO

Mexico is visa-free for travelers from over 65 countries and you can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days.

I recommend checking the full list of nationalities that are eligible for the free tourist visa before coming.

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4 WEEK MEXICO ITINERARY

Now that you’ve got a bit of an overview of which Mexico route to take, how to get around, and the best time to visit, let’s get to the fun stuff!

So, without further ado, here is a complete 4 weeks in Mexico backpacking itinerary!

DAY 1, 2 & 3: MEXICO CITY

Let’s start this Mexico 4 week itinerary with Mexico City, also known as CDMX.

Mexico City is most famous for being one of the oldest and largest cosmopolitan cities in the world and what better place to begin your Mexico itinerary than right here in the country’s capital?!

There is no shortage of things to do here, and this is only one of the reasons to visit Mexico City!

For instance, experience the rich cultural heritage, marvel at the colonial architecture, discover unique street art, check out the Teotihuacan Pyramids (UNESCO World Heritage site), and much much more!

TOP THINGS TO DO IN MEXICO CITY

Here is a list of top places to see and fun things to do in Mexico City which will be sure to keep you busy for 3 days:

  • Metropolitan Cathedral in Constitution Square
  • Palacio de Bellas Artes
  • Xochimilco
  • Coyoacan
  • Frida Kahlo Museum (La Casa Azul)
  • Arena Mexico (Lucha libre wrestling)
  • Teotihuacan Pyramids
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Palacio de Bellas Artes – Mexico Backpackers
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Frida Kahlo Museum
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Streets of Coyoacan in Mexico City
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Teotihuacan Pyramids

BEST TOUR IN MEXICO CITY

Teotihuacan Guadalupe Shrine Tlatelolco Tequila Tasting Tour

The best trip you can join is the Teotihuacan, Guadalupe Shrine, and Tlatelolco Tour!

It includes transportation, Tequila tasting, the entrance fees, and a fun guide to spend the day with!

MY EXPERIENCE IN MEXICO CITY

I happened to be in Mexico during the time of Dia de Los Muertos (the Day of the Dead festival) and I spent my 3 days in Mexico City enjoying all of the festivities around this!

Click here to see the full blog post of my experience at the Day of the Dead festival in Mexico City!

Needless to say, if you plan your Mexico one month itinerary around this period, I highly recommend you stop and enjoy the festival.

Day of the Dead Parade IMG 7165
Day of the Dead Festival

WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY

There are thousands of accommodations in Mexico City, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations in CDMX that I personally recommend to start your Mexico travel itinerary 1 month.

LUXURY: Viadora Apartments
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MID RANGE: Ibis Styles Zona Rosa
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BUDGET: Mexico City Hostel
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For More Options In Mexico City, Search On Booking.com

DAY 4 & 5: OAXACA

Oaxaca, pronounced wah-hah-kah, is one of the best cities to visit when backpacking Mexico!

Located in the Central Valley Region of the state, this incredible city within Mexico is full of hidden gems, amazing architecture, and beautiful cobbled streets.

Oaxaca is most popular for its vibrant street scene, tequila and mezcal distilleries, the ancient Monte Alban and Mitla ruins, Hierve El Agua petrified waterfalls, and much more!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN OAXACA

There are a number of epic things to do in Oaxaca so I recommend booking a tour to make the most out of your time during your visit and ensure you get to see and experience as much as possible. 

I’ve written a separate blog post of awesome tours in Oaxaca that you can check out and see which tour best suits you, otherwise, scroll down to see my top recommended tour of Oaxaca. 

I’ve also written two more detailed guides of Hierve El Agua and Mitla Ruins, both of which are located in Oaxaca. 

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Vibrant streets in Oaxaca Mexico
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Hierve el Agua
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Mitla Ruins in Oaxaca
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The world’s widest tree El Tule

FULL-DAY TOUR OF OAXACA

Embark on a day of adventure around the city of Oaxaca.

This tour in Oaxaca is perfect for you to experience basically everything Oaxaca has to offer, in just one day.

A few of the highlights en route include Hierve el Agua’s petrified waterfalls, Mezcal factory, El Tule Tree, and the archeological zone of Mitla.

Air-conditioned transportation is included as well as a bilingual tour guide, entrance fees, and Mezcal tasting.

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Monte Alban Ruins – Mexico Backpackers
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Old Cathedral in Oaxaca City
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BEST TOUR IN OAXACA

Hierve el Agua Tule Tree Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour

The best tour you can join in Oaxaca is the Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour!

It includes transportation, a fun guide, and they have hundreds of positive reviews!

WHERE TO STAY IN OAXACA

Oaxaca City has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend for a rest on your backpacking Mexico route:

Luxury: Quinta Real Oaxaca
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Mid Range: Hotel Casa De La Tia Tere
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Budget: Selina Hostel
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For More Options In Oaxaca, Search On Booking.com

DAY 6, 7 & 8: PUERTO ESCONDIDO

When you backpack Mexico, Puerto Escondido is one of the most popular destinations to see on the southwest coast of Oaxaca state.

There are many awesome things to do in Puerto Escondido and I guarantee that once you arrive, you won’t want to leave!

Puerto Escondido has made its mark on the map for its world-renowned surf beaches, but there are plenty of other great things to do other than surfing.

From secluded beaches to raging waterfalls and everything in between, Puerto Escondido is definitely not to be missed!

FULL BLOG POST → THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO

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Cascada La Reforma
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Sunset at Zicatela Beach
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Playa Zicatela – Mexico Backpacking

BEST TOUR IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO

BIOLUMINESCENT LAGOON RIDE PUERTO ESCONDIDO

The best tour in Puerto Escondido is the Bioluminescent Lagoon Boat Ride!

It includes transportation, the boat ride, and endless memories to make in the lagoon!

WHERE TO STAY IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO

Puerto Escondido has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

Luxury: Posada Real Puerto Escondido
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Mid Range: Casa Losodeli
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Budget: Casa Daikiri
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For More Options In Puerto Escondido, Search On Booking.com

DAY 9 & 10: TUXTLA GUTIÉRREZ

Tuxtla Gutiérrez often gets overlooked by most travelers on their Mexico travel route but it’s not to be missed, in my opinion. 

Home to the incredible Sumidero Canyon and Cascada El Aguacero, an overnight stay in Tuxtla to visit these two epic locations is 100% worth adding to your Mexico itinerary. 

CASCADA EL AGUACERO

Cascada El Aguacero is one of the most impressive waterfalls I have ever seen!

Located just 1-hour drive from Tuxtla City, El Aguacero Waterfall features a downpour of silvery curtain-like falls with multiple tiers that flows seamlessly into Cañon Río La Venta.

I guarantee you will be in complete awe once you take your first steps upstream and see the towering canyon walls that envelop the river.

Cascada El Aguacero will soon present itself as you come around the bend, so be prepared for that also!

El Aguacero is broken up into different streams that flow down the cliff face in a curtain-like way and a number of freshwater rock pools have been formed because of this. 

My friends and I climbed up to explore the multiple cascades beneath the main falls. We also found some epic caves and tunnel shoots behind the curtain of falls and enjoyed a natural shower while we were at it.

I have put together a separate blog post on El Aguacero Waterfall which includes a detailed guide on how to get there, how much it costs, and what to expect.

FULL BLOG POST → CASCADA EL AGUACERO

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Walking upstream to Cascadas El Aguacero
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El Aguacero Mexico

BEST TOUR IN TUXTLA GUTIÉRREZ

Sumidero Canyon Chiapa de Corzo from Tuxtla Tuxtla airport

The best day trip in Tuxtla Gutierrez is the Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa de Corzo Tour!

It includes hotel transfers, the river cruise, a fun local guide, and you’ll see countless stunning spots!

SUMIDERO CANYON

Sumidero Canyon (Cañon Del Sumidero) is one of the best day trips to be had from Tuxtla!

Cruise along the river in a boat between the towering Sumidero Canyon walls and drive the road at the top of the canyon to 5 different panoramic viewpoints.

Canñon Del Sumidero is widely known for its abundance of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and even crocodiles that reside in and around the canyon, and for its grandeur size which is something you have to see with your own eyes!

The Sumidero Canyon Tour is a full-day activity that begins at 9:30 am with a hotel pick-up, a short 45-minute drive west to Cañon de Sumidero, a visit to the 5 panoramic viewpoints, a boat trip along the river ‘Rio Grijalva’ down inside the canyon and a stop into the magical town of Chiapa de Corzo before returning to Tuxtla in the afternoon.

You can book the Sumidero Canyon Tour online in advance with Viator, which has great reviews and dozens of bookings.

This will save you from having to haggle for a good price with the local tour companies in the city.

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Cañon del Sumidero 
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Panoramic viewpoints at Sumidero Canyon
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Towering canyon walls

WHERE TO STAY IN TUXTLA

Tuxtla City has dozens of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

LUXURY: Marriott Tuxtla Hotel
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MID RANGE: Holiday Inn Tuxtla

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BUDGET: Hostal Tres Central

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For More Options In Tuxtla, Search On Booking.com

DAY 11, 12 & 13: SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS

San Cristobal de las Casas is definitely not to be missed on your Mexico itinerary!

Boasting European architecture, vibrant street art, artisan markets, buzzing nightlife, nature parks, cultural experiences, and much more!

THINGS TO DO IN SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS

Here is a list of the top things to do in San Cristobal that will keep you entertained for a few days:

  • Climb the stairs to Guadalupe Church
  • Try the wine and tapas at La Viña de Bacco
  • Buy souvenirs at the Artisan Market
  • Wander through the Municipal Market
  • See the natural archway at Arcotete Park
  • Day trip to Cascada El Chiflon
  • Visit the Casa Na Bolom Museum
  • Chocolate tasting at the Kakaw Museum
  • Get lost in the streets of San Cristobal
  • Cañon Del Sumidero Tour
  • Have lunch at Casa De Familia
  • Check out the De Dulces Artisan Market
  • Discover the many churches in San Cristobal

FULL BLOG POST → THINGS TO DO IN SAN CRISTOBAL

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Arcotete Park in San Cristobal de las Casas
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Cascadas El Chiflon
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La Viña de Bacco
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Beautiful Casa Na Bolom

BEST TOUR IN SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS

Tour cascadas de Agua Azul Cascada Misol Ha y Zona Arqueologica de Palenque

The best tour you can take in San Cristobal is a Tour of Agua Azul, Misol-Ha Falls and Palenque Mayan Ruins!

It includes hotel transfers, breakfast, all entrance fees, travel insurance, and a fun guide to share the day with!

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN CRISTOBAL

San Cristobal de las Casas has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

LUXURY: Hotel Bo
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MID RANGE: Hotel Casa De Familia
casa familia e1590540896133
BUDGET: Puerta Vieja Hostel
Puerta Vieja Hostel
For More Options In San Cristobal, Search On Booking.com

DAY 14 & 15: COMITAN

Comitan is the fourth largest city in Chiapas state, but it’s not the city that you come here for, it’s the nearby lagoons, waterfalls, and ancient ruins that make this place a worthy addition to your itinerary of Mexico!

2 days in Comitan is a decent amount of time to get a taste of this beautiful region when backpacking in Mexico.

THINGS TO DO IN COMITAN

The 3 main tourist spots to check out in Comitan are:

  • Cascadas El Chiflon
  • Lagunas de Montebello
  • Archaeological Zone Chinkultic

I personally only visited one of these locations, Cascadas El Chiflon, which is easily one of the most incredible waterfalls I have ever seen! 

Boasting not just one but five EPIC waterfalls and turquoise-colored cascades flowing down a lush green valley which can all be explored via an easy walking trail.

Full Blog Post → Cascadas El Chiflon

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Cascadas El Chiflón
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Turquoise-colored cascades at El Chiflón
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Cascadas El Chiflón – Mexico Backpackers

BEST TOUR TO CASCADAS EL CHIFLON

El Chiflon Waterfalls and Montebello Lakes Day Trip from Tuxtla Gutierrez

The best way to discover the waterfalls is to join a Tour To Cascadas El Chiflon & Montebello Lakes!

It includes hotel transfers, national park fees, a stop at Cascadas El Chiflon, and a fun guide!

WHERE TO STAY IN COMITAN

Comitan has dozens of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

LUXURY: City Express by Marriott
City Express by Marriott Comitan

MID RANGE: Hotel La Finca

210859338

BUDGET: Hotel Clasico Colonial

Hotel Clasico Colonial

For More Options In Comitan, Search On Booking.com

DAY 16, 17 & 18: BACALAR

Bacalar is home to the biggest and most beautiful lagoon in all of Mexico!

Bacalar Lagoon is commonly referred to as Laguna de Siete Colores (lagoon of 7 colors), boasting 7 different shades of blue and it’s truly one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

Bacalar is one of only a few Pueblos Magicos (Magical Towns) in the country, located less than one hour from the Belize border in Quintana Roo, Southeast Mexico.

THINGS TO DO IN BACALAR

There are plenty of things to do in Bacalar to keep you entertained for a few days!

See the list below of 9 Awesome Things To Do In Bacalar:

  • Sunrise kayaking on Bacalar Lagoon
  • Visit Fort San Felipe 
  • Have dinner at La Playita
  • Go sailing on Bacalar Lagoon
  • Watch the sunrise in Bacalar
  • Visit the Bacalar Cenotes
  • Eat vegan burgers at Mango y Chile
  • Take a photo at the Bacalar sign
  • Visit the Pirates Channel Shipwreck

FULL BLOG POST → AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN BACALAR

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Bacalar Lagoon
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Castle of San Felipe
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Shipwreck at Pirates Channel Bacalar

BEST TOUR IN BACALAR

Bacalar Lagoon Sightseeing Boat Tour with Open Bar and Snacks

The best trip you can join is the Bacalar Lagoon Sightseeing Boat Tour with Open Bar!

It includes hotel transfers, the boat ride, unlimited drinks and fruits, and a fun guide!

WHERE TO STAY IN BACALAR

Bacalar has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

Luxury: Hotel Makaabá Eco-Boutique
Hotel Makaaba Eco Boutique

Mid Range: Hotel & Suites Oasis

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Budget: Yaxche Centro Hostal

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For More Options In Bacalar, Search On Booking.com

DAY 19, 20, 21 & 22: TULUM

Next up on this Mexico backpacking itinerary is Tulum!

Full of tropical beaches, amazing cenotes, Mayan ruins, and vibrant nightlife, it’s no wonder everyone seems to be flocking to Tulum as it’s one of the must-see places to include in your Mexico backpacker route!

THINGS TO DO IN TULUM

There are many things to do in Tulum that you could easily spend weeks or even months here!

See the list below of Epic Things To Do In Tulum: 

  • Swim at Playa Paraiso
  • Visit the Tulum Ruins
  • Take a photo of the bent palm tree
  • Visit Grand Cenote
  • Watch the sunrise at Sunrise Beach
  • Clan Destino Bar & Cenote
  • Mirador Tulum Beach
  • Raw Love art installation
  • ‘Follow That Dream’ sign
  • Discover El Cenote Encantado

FULL BLOG POST → EPIC THINGS TO DO IN TULUM

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Playa Paraiso
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Tulum Ruins
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Gran Cenote – Mexico Travel Guide
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Raw Love art installation
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Sunrise in Tulum – One month in Mexico

BEST TOUR IN TULUM

Magical Cenote and Paradise Lagoon Snorkeling Adventure

The best trip you can join in Tulum is the Magical Cenote and Paradise Lagoon Snorkeling Tour!

It includes hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and a fun guide to share the day with!

WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM

Tulum has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend in Tulum during your one month in Mexico trip.

Luxury: The Beach Tulum
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Mid Range: Playa Esperanza Hotel

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Budget: Che Tulum Hostel & Bar

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For More Options In Tulum, Search On Booking.com

DAY 23 & 24: VALLADOLID

The small charming town of Valladolid is another one of my favorite places to visit in Mexico!

Widely known for its colorful street scenes, colonial architecture, and phenomenal Cenotes, Valladolid is totally worth exploring! 

Oh and I forgot to mention, Valladolid was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. So yeah, another great reason to check this place out!

THINGS TO DO IN VALLADOLID

During your visit, I recommend doing these few things to make the most of your experience in Valladolid:

  • Explore the town on foot
  • Visit the Valladolid Cenotes
  • Discover the Chichen Itza ruins
valladolid
Streets of Valladolid

BEST TOUR IN VALLADOLID

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The best trip you can join in Valladolid is the Chichen Itza and Izamal Tour With Cenotes!

It includes hotel transfers, lunch and bottled water, the entrance to the cenote, and a fun guide!

VALLADOLID CENOTES

If you don’t know what a Cenote is, it’s basically a natural sinkhole filled with fresh groundwater which is typically a vibrant blue or crystalline color due to the surrounding limestone rocks. Pretty awesome right?!

Not sure what to wear when spending 1 month in Mexico? Check out this Mexico Packing List for some outfit inspo!

The 4 Best Cenotes in Valladolid that you absolutely must see are:

Click on the links above to see detailed guides on each of these Valladolid Cenotes including where to find them, how much they cost, and what to expect!

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Ik Kil Cenote in Valladolid
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Suytun Cenote
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Cenote Oxman Valladolid
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Cenote Zaci

CHICHEN ITZA TOURS

Chichen Itza is one of the most impressive and most preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico and it’s definitely not to be missed.

You can visit these incredible ruins near Valladolid either DIY or with a tour.

See below the Best Chichen Itza Tours and book online in advance.

WHERE TO STAY IN VALLADOLID

Valladolid has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

Luxury: Mayan Majesty Boutique Hotel
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Mid Range: Hotel 41 Valladolid

Hotel 41 Valladolid

Budget: Hostal Tunich Naj

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For More Options In Valladolid, Search On Booking.com

DAY 25 & 26: COZUMEL ISLAND

Cozumel Island is one of the best tropical island destinations in the country and a must-visit when backpacking Mexico.

Daily ferries depart Playa del Carmen bound for Cozumel Island and the journey takes around 45 minutes.

THINGS TO DO ON COZUMEL ISLAND

See the list below of 9 Fun Things To Do In Cozumel Island to help you plan your trip: 

  1. Rent a Jeep and drive around the island
  2. Cozumel snorkeling tour
  3. Watch the sunrise at the beach
  4. Check out Chen Rio Mirador
  5. Beach hop on the east coast
  6. ATV and Cenote adventure tour
  7. Live music at Woody’s
  8. Visit Punta Sur Eco-Park
  9. Swim out to the Cozumel shipwreck

FULL BLOG POST → THINGS TO DO IN COZUMEL ISLAND

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Cozumel Island
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Cozumel snorkeling tour – Mexico Backpacking
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Exploring the island by Jeep

BEST TOUR IN COZUMEL

Cozumel Snorkeling Tour

The best trip in Cozumel Island is the Snorkeling Tour to Palancar, Columbia and El Cielo Reefs!

It includes snorkeling gear, drinks and snacks, a stop at the famous reefs, and a fun guide!

WHERE TO STAY IN COZUMEL

Cozumel has hundreds of accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend.

Luxury: Fiesta Americana Cozumel All-Inclusive
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Mid Range:  Hotel Mary Carmen
Hotel Mary Carmen
Budget: Hostel Tropico 20º
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For More Options In Cozumel, Search On Booking.com

DAY 27 & 28: CANCUN

Last but not least on this backpacking Mexico travel guide is Cancun, one of the most well-known destinations in Mexico and perhaps the entire world.

Cancun is most famous for its buzzing nightlife scene, pristine white sand beaches, and all-inclusive resorts. Safe to say that Cancun is an awesome place to spend your last couple of days!

I personally didn’t check out the town or book any activities in Cancun, I booked into an all-inclusive beach resort, put my feet up, and enjoyed the sun, the sand, and the ocean!

If you want to explore more of what Cancun has to offer, scroll down to see a list of recommended tours I suggest joining on your Mexico backpack route.

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Cancun Beach Mexico
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All-inclusive resort in Cancun

BEST TOUR IN CANCUN

Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel Open bar and Transportation from hotel

The best trip in Cancun is the Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour!

It includes the catamaran ride, open bar, snorkeling equipment, free time in Isla Mujeres, and a fun guide!

WHERE TO STAY IN CANCUN

Cancun has countless accommodations to choose from so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers and budget backpackers.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend in Cancun when backpacking through Mexico.

LUXURY: Kempinski Hotel Cancun
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MID RANGE: Hotel NYX Cancun

Hotel NYX Cancun

BUDGET: Hotel Casa Mallorca

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For More Options In Cancun, Search On Booking.com

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BACKPACKING MEXICO

The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN) and the exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = 18 MXN.

Mexicans generally prefer to receive cash for goods rather than a credit or debit card payment.

For any online bookings such as tours, accommodations, or private shuttles, using your credit or debit card is acceptable.

There are plenty of ATMs in Mexico where you can easily withdraw cash.

To be on the safe side, I recommend purchasing a Hidden Money Belt to keep your cash out of sight.

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WHAT TO PACK FOR MEXICO

When planning your Mexico 1 month itinerary, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you.

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden Money Wallet

anti theft money belt

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!


Reusable Water Bottle

grayl geopress

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!


Travel Backpack

Nomatic 20L Bag

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!


Quick-Dry Travel Towel

travel towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!


Portable PowerBank

anker powerbank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Mexico Travel Guides

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Click the button below to view all articles related to Mexico!

FINAL THOUGHTS – MEXICO ITINERARY

Having only done only a little bit of research before backpacking in Mexico, I can honestly say this incredible country exceeded expectations.

The epic landscapes, kind people, delicious food, and perfect weather were just some of the reasons that made this a trip to remember!

If you have any questions about this itinerary for a month in Mexico or want help with your Mexico itinerary 4 weeks, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

bookingcom

Search and book accommodation worldwide.


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Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.


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Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.


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Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.


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Search all rental cars in your next destination.


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Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this Mexico backpacking itinerary 1 month!

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