While famous beaches and the Mayan history link the Yucatán Peninsula to several favorite tourist destinations worldwide, including Cancun and Tulum, few know its actual value. On the other hand, while still not discovered, several destinations have places where one could uniquely experience almost anything far away from the maddening crowd. Thus, traveling through less crowded spots will improve one’s journey experience and contribute to locals and their culture.
The Importance of Lesser-Known Yucatán Destinations
Visiting such hidden treasures allows you to impact your personal travel experiences while reinforcing sustainable tourism in Yucatán. While tourists are looking for options other than places that have become too crowded, local economies are benefiting because of increased patronage of smaller sites and businesses. While these smaller places might not have the entertainment variety of some hotspots, the convenience of our devices can change that. Be it spending time on Hello Millions or playing video games, the fun is always in between sightseeing.
According to recent statistics from Mexico’s tourism board, travelers are showing a preference for off-the-beaten-path destinations over traditional tourist spots. In 2024 alone, visits to lesser-known archaeological sites rose about 30%, reflecting the trend of travelers toward authentic cultural experiences.
Moreover, the discovery of such sites contributes to the preservation of the cultural heritage in Yucatán by raising the awareness of historical significance that would otherwise be lost in the more well-known locations of visitors.
Cenote Choj Ha
Located near Valladolid, Cenote Choj Ha is a fantastic underground cave that has not been commercialized for tourists. Guests enter via a small opening into a vast cavern with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. Crystal-clear waters invite one for a swim, although not necessarily so to appreciate this beauty. Entrance fees are about 150 pesos, making it an affordable option for those seeking tranquility in nature.
Xcambó Archaeological Zone
Only an hour’s drive from Mérida, the Xcambó Archaeological Zone represents a glance into the long-lost Mayan civilization. This place served as a commercial port and a site for salt mining from 350 to 550 CE. Unlike other famous ruins, visitors can freely climb the pyramids and temples at Xcambó; the entrance fee is about 95 pesos. The climb up to the pyramids yields a panorama of the surrounding environment – a really quite satisfying sight for history buffs.
Dzibanché Archaeological Zone
Located about 80 minutes from Bacalar, Dzibanché is another one of those archaeological sites that are not as well known. This place boasts impressive temples and pyramids constructed between the 4th and 10th centuries. Visitors can climb certain pyramids, offering a unique perspective on the ancient structures and their historical significance. The entrance fee is modest, allowing access to one of the few sites where climbing is permitted.
Cenotes de Cuzamá
The adventure lovers, for whom Cuzamá might be an unexplored haven, can only reach this destination by horse-pulled carriage through the jungle. It is a set of three beautiful underground pools that form one big cenote: Cenote Chac-Sinic-Che, Cenote Bolochohool, and Cenote Chan Ucil. The travel through lush scenery adds to the charm. One group ride takes two to three hours and costs about 800 pesos in all. Each of these cenotes is a peaceful site to swim and relax in.
Holbox Island
Holbox Island is often overlooked due to its distance from mainland attractions. This tranquil island boasts pristine beaches and beautiful marine life, making it perfect for those looking to escape commercialized tourism. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking in mangroves or simply relaxing on the beach while observing flamingos and other wildlife. The island’s laid-back atmosphere contrasts sharply with more crowded destinations like Cancun.
Chacchoben Archaeological Zone
Chacchoben is an archaeological site near Bacalar, dating back to about 200 BC. The name means “the place of red corn,” and it has several enormous pyramids and temples amidst the greenery. It is still not very crowded, unlike other tourist spots, and visitors can take their time exploring the place without being rushed and also see the restoration work being done by archaeologists. Entrance is moderately priced, hence affordable for travelers.
Cenote Atik Tulum
Cenote Atik Tulum combines nature and art. Only a little past Tulum, this facility has a jungle park complete with sculptures and spots that offer unique photo opportunities. The high walls and waterfall around it make it an ideal place for swimming or just enjoying the serenity of nature sans the hustle and bustle of too many tourists. Because it is near Tulum, this is a suggested stop if one desires to explore the place.
