Quintana Roo is the state in Mexico that’s home to several of the country’s top tourist spots. Many people know about, or have spent time in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and many others, but what about the towns of Chetumal, Bacalar, and Isla Holbox? Fortunately for the adventure and explorer types, there are even more great cities waiting to be visited in Quintana Roo.
That is the beauty of Quintana Roo. In one state, you have dozens of cities to book your vacation.
The Tourism Board of Mexico launched a unified governing board to help promote the less-traveled destinations in Quintana Roo, including Chetumal, Bacalar, and Isla Holbox. Although these destinations are a bit far from the traditional tourist trek, there are many eco-friendly sanctuaries, Mayan ruins, and a gorgeous multi-colored lagoon in Bacalar.
Chetumal is pretty well known, but mainly for being the capital of Quintana Roo and the gateway connecting travelers to Belize. Chetumal is 3 hours south of Tulum and is home to some of the most enchanting Mayan archeological sites in Mexico. They include; Dzibanché, Kinichná, Kohunlich, and Oxtankah. Because the location is less frequented than cities like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, that also means the crowds visiting the ruins are much smaller.
Another reason to add Chetumal to your travel plan is the fantastic and inexpensive ceviche. Being a coastal town, they have access to some of the best seafood on the Yucatan Peninsula. Besides ceviche, you can also enjoy fresh fish found at restaurants located along the water’s edge. After dinner, take a walk on Boulevard Bahia to enjoy the city nightlife that includes carnival rides and artisans setting up shop.
About 40 minutes north of Chetumal, you’ll come across a quiet and quaint town called Bacalar. It’s most notably known for its Laguna de Siete Colores, which means the Lagoon of Seven Colors. It received this name because there are seven underwater cenotes that give the lagoon it’s multi-colored appearance. Bacalar is a place visitors come for relaxation, the experience of authentic culture, and of course to be in awe of the breathtaking lagoon. With all the appeals Bacalar has to offer, the Tourism Board believes it will soon be one of the biggest hotspots south of Tulum.
Speaking of Tulum, this town has gained tremendous popularity over the last several years. Celebrities are flocking here as a vacation destination for its wellness offerings, holistic experiences, yoga studios, vegan restaurants, eco-friendly hotels and of course, the Mayan ruins.
Last but not least, let’s talk about Isla Holbox. It’s located only 2 hours northwest of Cancun and offers a unique island getaway for all those who have the pleasure of visiting. The island can only be navigated on foot, or with a bicycle. There are numerous beach bars with a very mellow island vibe, lovely beaches, shallow lagoons, crystal clear water, and incredible wildlife. Many tourists who visit Isla Holbox go there to dive with Whale Sharks, the world’s largest fish.
By now you may be thinking, wow, there is so much more to see and do in the Mexican Caribbean than just staying at hotel resorts. That is the beauty of Quintana Roo. In one state, you have dozens of cities to book your vacation.