Campeche is full of colors that make each corner a beautiful postcard. It is a little-known destination but very impressive. The state offers a unique perspective on the Mexican southeast, from its tourist sites, pirates and their treasures, and archaeological structures to Caribbean flavors and sightings of birds and dolphins.
Campeche is a coastal city that is undoubtedly worth returning to, as this destination is home to beautiful beaches with pink sunsets, an impressive historical center, delightful hotels, delicious dishes, and a vibrant culture.
Campeche has a rich historical past. Its walls serve as a reminder of the pirates who ravaged its seas in search of treasure. That is why Campeche is the only walled city in Mexico today, featuring forts that were built to confront the pirates that threatened this area.
Campeche, a World Heritage Site, boasts one of the most beautiful Historic Centers in the Caribbean region, alongside Cartagena and Mérida. The Historic Center is just a few minutes from the airport, so we recommend traveling by road to enjoy the spectacular views from the very first moment. While walking through the city’s streets, you’ll discover the charming Calle 59, which connects two “gates”: the Sea Gate and the Land Gate. The street is painted in pastel tones that give it a unique hue, making it a perfect spot for photography.
The experience would not be complete without visiting the archaeological zones and hidden Mayan treasures such as Edzná, Chicanná, Becán, Xpujil, and Calakmul — which is considered one of the most important archaeological zones in the state.
Sliding down the zip line, hiking, kayaking, or simply observing from the viewpoints are activities that visitors can enjoy at this cenote. Located one hour and forty-five minutes from Campeche, it features nearly 80 meters of height and deep green waters.
At Isla Aguada, travelers can discover its secret: a small and beautiful mangrove home to the Jabiru stork, the largest seabird in America.
After exploring the fauna of Isla Aguada, we suggest going on a boat adventure accompanied by bottlenose dolphins in Laguna de Términos.
Another reason to visit Campeche, besides its tourist attractions, is its delicious gastronomy. Local food combines pre-Hispanic traditions and flavors, where Spanish and Caribbean cuisines converge. Typical dishes include Coconut Shrimp, Pan de Cazón (Dogfish Bread), Pickled Pompano, and Panucho. Don't miss the shrimp in its numerous presentations, such as coconut shrimp, breaded shrimp, and shrimp with garlic.
If we had to capture just one image of Campeche, it could be the stunning sunset with orange and pink hues reflecting against the blue water. Or perhaps, a scene of sitting at a café downtown, admiring the cathedral dome and the distant walls, with the sound of the sea breeze in the background. What better way to end a trip through this picturesque state than with memories to last a lifetime?
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