Category Archives: Adventure

Adventures Off The Beaten Track: Copper Canyon

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A couple of years ago, Don Mankin, an award-winning travel writer and adventure enthusiast (among many things), joined Journey Mexico for a pulse racing trip through the Copper Canyon. To our delight, Don published an article about his trip which ran in the Spring 2012 issue of Active Over 50. The article became award-winning and we would like to congratulate our friend Don for receiving the Gold Award in the ”50+ Travel and Travelers” category for print articles from the North American Travel Journalists Association.

photo by Alejandra Villalobos Palacio

Here is an except Zipping Over Copper Canyon, Mexico by Don Mankin:

 I’m scared of heights. So what the hell was I doing zipping across a 1,500 foot deep canyon on nothing more than a cable, some pulleys and assorted safety equipment? The adrenaline rush is part of it. I’m not too old for that but it was the views more than anything. As I soared faster than I have ever traveled before without mechanical propulsion, I had plenty of time to look at the maze of canyons below.

The Copper Canyon in northern Mexico is one of the biggest canyons in the world, even bigger than the Grand Canyon – 6,000 vs. 4,500 feet deep and four times the volume. The Copper is more vast than steep, made up of seven major and over 20 minor canyons rather than vertical walls plunging down to a single river at the bottom like the Grand.

It’s not only the scale and the views that make the Copper Canyon so attractive. It is also the home to the Tarahumara Indians, whose isolation in the rugged Canyon has produced many world famous long distance runners and a culture that is still relatively untouched by the modern world.

To read the entire article, you can download  it from Active of 50 here.

DonMakin2

 

2013 Mexico Travel Bucket List

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As we enter the new year of 2013 and a new era of the 14th baktun, it is time to start not only planning new adventures and travels — but also completing them! If you’re looking for the most exhilarating trips to add to your 2013 Travel Bucket List, Mexico has some of the best!

With a majority of Mexico’s destinations deemed safe for traveling and increasingly more tourists visiting, Mexico is back on the map for many international travelers. The world is starting to understand the message that not only does Mexico have incredible beaches and luxurious resorts, it also has a wealth of culture and vast offerings of nature and wildlife. Here are Mexico’s most invigorating experiences and destinations to add to your 2013 Travel Bucket List:

1) El Rosario Monarch Reserve
One of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world is the annual migration of the North American Monarch Butterfly. Arriving in late October, they travel up to three thousand miles to their warm wintering grounds in Michoacán, Mexico. The butterflies transform Michoacán’s El Rosario Reserve to vibrant shades of orange as they completely envelop the trees and cover the grounds–a truly spectacular sight to see.

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2) Chiapas
Inhabited with lush jungles, exotic native communities, colonial cities  and Mayan archeology, Chiapas is an incredibly diverse state in Mexico. The Sumidero Canyon, with its towering walls and exotic wildlife, is a popular attraction; but not to be missed are the radiating waterfalls of Misol-Ha and Agua Azul within the Lacondon Jungle. Other highlights include San Cristobal de las Casas, appointed one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (Magical Towns) which is an extreme contrast from San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan, where indigenous customs and traditions are still very much present.AguaAzul

 

3) Xilitla & The Famous Gardens of Sir Edward James
Hidden in  state of San Luis Potosi, the Magical Town of Xilitla is known for its abundant vegetation and surrealism. Among Xilitla’s waterfalls, mountains and tropical rain forest is where an eccentric Englishman, Sir Edward James, decided to create his own fantasy world of surrealist inspiration. Towering concrete sculptures and fantastical figures create a dreamlike castle and gardens that await to be discovered.
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4) Isla Holbox &  Swimming With Whale Sharks 
Isla Holbox is beautiful island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula (close to Cancun) known for its white sand, crystal waters, and incredible sunsets. While beautiful to visit any time of the year, it is May through September when the world’s largest fish, the Whale Shark, come to migrate. Growing over 40ft in length, they pose no threat to humans, which makes swimming with these giant creatures in the natural habitat a must-do for every adventurer.

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5) Copper Canyon
The largest canyon in North America, Copper Canyon is nearly four times the volume of the Grand Canyon found in the USA.  There are many adventure activities such as hiking, mountain biking  and wildlife viewing but the highlight of this region is the famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Train. Crossing numerous bridges and tunnels, the changing landscapes offer unbelievable photo opportunities.  Along the ride you can stop off to experience historic haciendas, visit the frontier mining outpost of Batopilas and learn about the indigenous Tarahumara traditional culture.Copper-Canyon-Bucket-List

Best Winter Vacation Tours to Mexico 2012/2013 – The Archaeological Mayan Journey

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If you’re looking for a winter vacation to Mexico that is out of the ordinary, the Archeological Mayan Journey is one of the best winter vacation tours for 2012/2013.

This guided tour will give you the opportunity to explore the area once dominated by the Mayan Civilization, and enjoy the beauty and warmth of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

The Mayan civilization once spanned much of what is now Mexico and Central America and influenced the surrounding cultures to a significant degree. The Maya developed written language, created complex calendars and performed feats of architecture that still merit admiration today. Exploring this vibrant lost culture is the goal of the Archeological Mayan Journey, an exclusive tour that seeks to provide insights into the various periods of Mayan civilization and the achievements of this fascinating native culture.

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The Ancient Legacies of the Mayan Civilization

Estimates vary as to when the Mayan civilization first took root in the area now known as Belize, but archaeological discoveries put that date at somewhere around 2600 B.C. These early Mayans built monuments and may have constructed calendars. As time passed, the Mayans expanded their territories considerably and began creating permanent settlements. These were often the sites of the stepped pyramids, palaces and intricate stone carvings that continue to delight and amaze modern travelers to the area. Mayans engaged in trade with other cultures and maintained small-scale political systems that governed specific areas and regions of control. The development of written language and the detailed records preserved in stone carvings continue to provide the greatest degree of insight into the complex traditions and rituals of the Mayan people.


Tour Highlights – Tracing the Path of the Ancient Mayans

For most travelers, retracing the steps of the ancient Mayans can provide a real sense of connection with this ancient civilization. The Archaeological Mayan Journey provides this connection with the help of an expert tour guide knowledgeable about every aspect of the Mayan way of life. The journey begins upon arrival at the Cancun International Airport. Guests spend one night in this glamorous cosmopolitan city before traveling to Merida, the capital of the Yucatan. While en route, the tour visits a traditional Mayan Indian marketplace to allow travelers to interact with the native people and get a sense of the traditions that still shape the culture today. A stop at the archaeological site of Chichen Itza will allow guests on the tour to catch a glimpse of the famed Kukulcan-Quetzalcoatl temple and ceremonial complex for themselves.

Chichen

After a night in Merida, guests will have a chance to examine the gorgeous temple carvings in Uxmal and enjoy a traditional Mayan lunch; the afternoon is reserved for individual exploration of this beautiful and significant cultural area. The Archaeological Mayan Journey also includes expeditions to Palenque and Bonampak, both archaeological dig sites of great importance to researchers and scholars. Both sites have been painstakingly restored; Palenque is especially significant due to the exquisite Temple of the Inscriptions, which features exceptional architecture, well-preserved historical inscriptions detailing the lives of the dynastic line that once ruled this area. Throughout the journey, travelers will be immersed in the culture and the way of life still practiced in this legendary area of the world.

PalenqueArchJourney

The Mayan culture still influences many aspects of life in the Yucatan and continues to inspire and attract travelers to this exotic region of the world. The Archaeological Mayan Journey is an excellent way to explore the mysteries of the Maya and experience the wonder of this ancient civilization firsthand.

For more vacation tours to the Riviera Maya and Mexico you can visit our Destinations page.

Adventure Travel in Mexico

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Journey Mexico recently traveled to Veracruz for Mexico’s first adventure trade show, ATMEX, where participants not only learned about Mexico’s adventure offerings, but also about the importance of sustainable tourism. Speaking on the subject was Shannon Stowell, President of Adventue Travel Trade Association (ATTA): “Green, sustainable, and eco travel are still on the rise. Adventure travel is at the forefront.”

Now more than ever, travelers are searching for more than just the cookie-cutter getaways. Adventure tourism has grown approximately 16% in comparison to general travel at 4%. Travelers are done with the flop and drop beach resorts and are ready to experience and explore the destinations they travel. They want to return home with amazing stories and lifetime memories.

Mexico has great potential to develop and cater to this segment of travelers as it is one of the five countries with the widest range of biodiversity in the world. Whether you are looking to take to the land, the air, or the sea, Mexico offers adventure travel opportunities to suit all interests and skill levels. There are also a wide array of eco-friendly lodging options to help off-set your carbon footprint! Below is an overview of some of Mexico’s most exciting adventures and green lodging:

 

River Rafting and Kayaking – The Gulf Coast state of Veracruz contains more than 40 rivers that wind through rugged topography, offering world-class white water rafting and kayaking experiences. Mexico Verde, provides plenty of these adventurous activities and even has their very own lodging– or better called, ‘glamping’ (glamour camping) –with luxury tents each with private bathrooms.

On the other side of Mexico, between Baja California and the Pacific Coast, lie tranquil and scenic kayaking experiences on the Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau called “The World’s Aquarium.”

Mountain Biking – The cycling and mountain biking opportunities in Mexico are limitless. The wildly varying climates and geography of Mexico ranging from arid deserts, lush tropical jungles, temperate plateaus, and lofty mountainous and volcanic regions provide breathtaking backdrops for all types of biking adventures.

A great place to explore on bike is the Copper Canyon region– here you will find adrenaline pumping downhill missions and scenic tours through mountain trails. The Sierra Lodge is a great option to stay at when looking to choose an eco-friendly hotel. Here, there is no electricity, no telephones, no TV’s, no radios — but there is hot water and beautiful spacious rooms!

Snorkel and SCUBA – Bordered by four oceans, Mexico is home to some of the finest snorkeling and SCUBA diving opportunities in world.

Legendary snorkel and scuba areas in Cancun now offer underwater sculpture parks http://bit.ly/djyF09 where you can literally watch new ecosystems flourish, and Mexico’s Pacific coast is littered with secluded, lesser known underwater paradises perfect for day trip exploration.

Swimming with Sharks – Thousands of whale sharks (the world’s largest fish) migrate to an island off the coast of Cancun annually, allowing for incredible opportunities to swim with these docile giants that can grow to over 60 feet in length!

Xaloc Resort, located at the prime migrating area for the whale sharks at Isla Holbox , is an eco-friendly getaway composed of bungalows that have been constructed with care. The owners of Xaloc Resort have paid careful attention to all the small details that make an eco-friendly getaway a truly remarkable experience.

For the extremely adventurous, a to the Guadalupe Island, 150 miles off the coast of Baja, California, will have you swimming in crystal clear waters to photograph enormous great white sharks.

Mountaineering and Hiking – Enormous mountains, snow-capped glaciers, and towering volcanoes make Mexico a world-class destination for serious mountain climbers. Mexico’s Copper Canyon, Oaxaca’s Sierra de la Laguna, and the Sierra Madre Sur of Chiapas all offer a range of hiking experiences from cultural jaunts through the countryside to back-country wilderness treks – perfect for all levels of hikers.

Escudo Jaguar Hotel is located on the Usamacinta River in the state of Chiapas. This  eco-tourist resort/camping is operated by a group of native people called the Choles. The owners have worked hard to ensure that guests enjoy the enchanted land surrounding the Usamacinta in a fashion that is eco-friendly and beneficial to the local economy.

 

Ziplining – Flying through the jungle across lakes and over rivers on a zipline is one of Mexico’s most exciting adventure activities. With world-class canopy courses set up in several regions of Mexico, a day trip of ziplines is a great way to add excitement to a Mexico vacation.

Puerto Vallarta is a prime spot for zipling. Offering various courses through the Sierra Madre Mountains, guests zip tree to tree with a background of the most beauitful views. Nearby Puerto Vallarta you can find Xinalani Retreat a serene resort is surrounded by both the Pacific Ocean and a lush jungle. Composed entirely of high-class suites, it is designed for guests to be close to nature without sacrificing the conveniences of modern living.

Surfing – The fact that Mexico is one of the world’s greatest surfing destinations is indisputable. Whether you are a beginner looking to practice on some long, mellow waves of the Riviera Nayarit or a ripper looking to hide out in the barrels of Baja and the mainland, Mexico has waves for people of all ages and abilities.

Cabo Surf Hotel, is a great option whensurfing the beaches in Los Cabos. Located on  the best surfing beach in the area, Cabo Surf Hotel takes very seriously the consequences that result from damage to the environment and climate change on our planet.

 

Top Adventure Travel Trips in Mexico

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Adventure travel trips and tours in Mexico are one of our specialties at Journey Mexico. For those of you planning adventure vacations this summer, we’ve put together a list of our favorite adventure tours.

From pristine beaches and remote jungles to spectacular mountains, lakes and rivers – these travel adventures get to the heart of this grand destination: Mexico.

 

1)      Baja Multisport: Sea Kayaking and Hiking Trip

On this adventure trip you’ll visit both the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez coastlines of Baja California, Mexico. Perfect for active travelers, it combines remote hiking and paddling in intact wilderness settings, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and visits to local villages.

This trip includes a full day Sea-Kayaking expedition in the Sea of Cortez. Experience the turquoise waters of the protected beaches of the Island of Espiritu Santo.  We will also visit the resident sea lion colony where you can opt to swim and snorkel with these marine mammals.

During our day hike, you will indulge in the seascapes of the rugged Pacific Coast of Southern Baja California. In this hike into the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere reserve you will also experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls in the stunning cactus forests.  A visit to the fishing village of Todos Santos and a day of surfing provides a taste of the old Baja.

2)      Chiapas Adventure Trip – Ziplines, Waterfalls, and Ruins

On this fabulous adventure trip to Chiapas, Mexico, you will zip line through the tree-tops of the jungles and mountains of the region. Take in the magnificent beauty of one of the area’s waterfalls, measuring over 100 feet in height, and swim in the refreshing water from the falls. This journey also includes a visit to the archaeological site of Palenque, an ancient Mayan city known as one of the greatest achievements of ancient man, and to San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming colonial city where you can converse with the indigenous people of San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan, and learn about their colorful ceramics and textiles.

 

3)      Swim With Whale Sharks and Visit Ancient Ruins Trip

This adventure trip to the Riviera Maya in Mexico, is perfect for wildlife lovers. One of the highlights of this adventure includes swimming and snorkeling with docile whale sharks (ranging from 10 to 65 feet in length) on a secluded island. After a few days of nature immersion, explore the ancient Mayan ruins at the world renowned Chichen Itza. Your private guide will explain the significance of this archeological site and the achievements of the Maya civilization. You will also have the chance to cool off in a beautiful sinkhole before enjoying a picturesque lunch nearby. Accommodations at the Isla Holbox (a tranquil island 3 hours from Cancun) are in a quaint eco-friendly hotel.

 

 

4)      Copper Canyon Hiking Trip – Lower Rio Urique Wilderness

The Copper Canyon hiking trip is an expedition style adventure where hikers follow the Urique River as it winds through the Mexican canyon. This tour offers stunning views, trails through narrow slot canyons and a crossing of the magnificent suspension bridge at Vado de la Cueva. You will also visit the native communities and the historic settlements of El Fuerte, Cerocahui, Creel, Chihuahua, and Batopilas.

A train journey on the world famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Mexican railroad offers a panoramic view of the amazing transition between the Sea of Cortez and the canyons of the Sierra Tarahumara.

 

5)      Mainland Mexico Surf Trip

This surfing adventure trip is 10 days of non-stop surfing combined with luxury accommodations to relax and recharge in the evening. On this trip you will stay in 2 magnificent villas right on the water. You will also go on exciting road trips on private SUVs and take a private fight to some of the region’s best kept secret surfing spots.

An expert guide will be with you providing insider access and a professional photographer will shoot video and photos of the adventure.

 

6)      Oaxaca Cycling Excursion

This exciting tour lets you experience a bike tour like you never have before. During this cycling excursion you will not only see great bike routes but you will also discover Oaxaca’s amazing culture, food, and natural beauty.

You will visit Teotitlan del Valle, where the world-famous, traditional, woven, wool blankets and rugs come from, as well as other remote villages with XVI century churches, old plazas and vibrant markets and galleries.  On this tour, you will also see Monte Alban – an archeological site from around 500BC.

 

7)      The Volcano Mountain Climbing Expedition

This adventure tour is 10 days of amazing mountain climbing. Explore two Mexican volcanoes: The Malinche volcano, named after the Indian lover and interpreter for Cortez , and the Iztaccihuatl, the 3rd largest in Mexico famous for its shape of a sleeping woman.

In addition to exploring the mountaintops, caves, and glaciers of central Mexico, you will also visit the charming towns of Puebla and Cholula outside of Mexico City.

This trip also includes a visit to Teotihucan, a world-famous archeological site, and the Basilica de Guadalupe. This Basilica is the 3rd most important religious center worldwide.

8)      Yucatan  Adventure

This adventure trip on the Riviera Maya takes you through the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula and brings you to incredible archeological sites designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Visit the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, Chichen Itza, Celestun, Ex-balam and Sian Ka’an.

This ecotourism tour includes a visit to a local Maya family where age old traditions are still maintained. It also takes you to Tixkokob where locals still practice the age old tradition of Hammock weaving.

The Riviera Maya, with its turquoise waters and soft powder sand beaches awaits you.

 

We hope you embark soon on your adventure travel tour and discover the wonders that Mexico has to offer.

 

Exotic Mexico Vacations

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Exotic Mexico Vacation - Centoe Diving Yucatan PeninsulaMexico expects a busier holiday season than last year. According to the Secretary of Tourism, Mexico expects more than 10.4 million visitors just in the last 2 weeks of 2011. Last year, Mexico was the 10th most visited country in the world! Why? There is such a diversity of incredible places to visit in Mexico. One in particular we are very fond of is the underwater cave system in the Yucatan peninsula: the Sistema Sac Actun.

Divers flock to the Caribbean to explore the coral reefs and warm ocean waters, but this area in Mexico offers an entirely different type of diving experience. Positioned on the coast of the Yucatan peninsula near Tulum, an extensive network of underwater caves lies in wait for the more adventurous visitor. Sistema Sac Actun, or the White Cave System, meanders for 113.8 miles making this structure Mexico’s longest cave. If you’re looking for an exotic Mexico vacation and are interested in cave diving, this is the place to be!

Cenote Diving

The less-experienced diver can get a taste of Sistema Sac Actun by exploring one of the many local cenotes, or sinkholes, that have been made available to the public. Just a short drive from nearby Cancun or Cozumel, tourists can bring their own equipment or rent anything they need at a local dive shop. The Grand Cenote, located on Coba Road to the west of Tulum, is the most popular due to its easy access. Other well-known entryways include:

  • Pet Cemetery – This shallow dive is filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and blind fish.
  • The Pit – Take the 24-foot plunge straight down to enter this deep cenote. The maximum depth in The Pit reaches 370 feet, the deepest part of the entire system.
  • Dreamgate – The roots that reach into this cave from the surface give it a dreamlike appearance. A shallow dive, Dreamgate is one of the most decorated sections of Sistema Sac Actun.

Cave Diving

Expert divers use the cenotes to access the entire cave system and travel through 500,000 feet of surveyed areas and pathways. Note that new areas are being discovered by the official exploration team all the time, but no one else should venture outside of charted territory. Maps are available for most of the established paths that wind through this network of caves and cenotes, and navigational markers are positioned along the way.

Once inside this system of underwater caves, the sights vary from ghostly limestone to dramatic formations that look even more beautiful than similar structures found in dry caves. Depths are fairly constant and rarely extend below 40 feet. The water is crystal clear, and temperatures hover around 77 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. Some cenotes include seaweed and other vegetation that gives the environment an otherworldly appearance. In these areas, tropical fish are often seen.

Safety Considerations

Sistema Sac Actun isn’t for everyone. No one should attempt to explore the shallowest cenote without proper instruction. A beginner SCUBA class only takes a few hours and could be enough to allow you to venture into one of the easier cenotes with the help of a guide. To explore the cave system, expect to spend at least two days in class to go with a guide or a week to obtain cave-diver certification assuming you already have your open-water certification. To minimize the time needed for training during your vacation in Mexico, contact a local dive shop at home for advance preparation.

With a little planning, this beautiful and mysterious network of underwater caves can be an exciting part of your active vacation in Mexico. Although the water is not as deep or wide as the open ocean, it’s just as dangerous. Caution should always be taken to ensure your safety.

Let us help you plan an exotic Mexico vacation today!
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Traveling to Mexico in 2012: The Mayan Calendar Challenge!

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Chichen Itza Mayan Calendar 2012Don’t be taken in by hyped-up claims that the world is ending in 2012 or that this is what the Mayans predicted thousands of years ago. The media and movie industry have purposely misinterpreted this historical information to attract attention, boost ratings, and scare school children. Once you understand more about this misconception, you’ll be ready to visit charming Mexico to celebrate the beginning of a whole new cycle and take the Mayan Calendar challenge!

The Real Deal on the Mayan Calendar
The Mayans, an ancient civilization that existed in southern Mexico and much of Central America from 250 to 900 A.D., used two different calendars. The first, the Calendar Round, covered a 52-year period, or 18,980 days. At that time, this period represented a single generation or the average lifespan of a typical person of that age. This was the measurement tool that this culture used on an everyday basis.

If the Mayans needed to refer to a date that was more than 52 years in the past or future, they moved to the “Long Count,” the long-term calendar. This measurement tool is based on a numerically predictable algorithm that used a beginning date of 3114 B.C. according to our modern calendar. From there, they calculated forward for 5,126 years for an ending date that just happens to be in 2012 A.D. This gave the Mayans a historical measure that reached over 3,000 years into their past and more than 1,000 years into their future.

If you think about it for a few minutes, common sense will tell you that it’s only a coincidence that the calendar is running out in 2012 A.D. The Mayans didn’t predict the end of the world; they just got tired of crunching the numbers. After all, the world existed long before the calendar started, so why shouldn’t we expect it to last long after the calendar ends? This doomsday theory has no more credibility than any of the countless end-of-the-world claims that have been proven false in the past.

Don’t Let the Doomsday Gang Ruin Your Plans
What could be better than leaving the naysayers and pessimists behind to celebrate the beginning of a whole new cycle in the very place that started all this controversy? The Mayan Long Count Calendar is scheduled to end on December 21 of next year, and Mexico is warm and sunny at that time of the year! To make this trip even more attractive, you can bet that the locals are planning quite a few festivals and fiestas to celebrate their continued existence as well as the upcoming holidays!

How can you resist the chance to snap a souvenir photo to prove you survived the “End of the World” in a beautiful Mexican paradise? Whether you’re partying on the beach or living it up in Mexico City, you’ll be able to tell everyone how you won the Mayan Calendar challenge!

Still doubtful? Well, you’re not alone. On Thursday, Mexico’s archaeology institute  acknowledged that a second reference to the date exists on a carved fragment found at a southern Mexico ruin site.  Here’s a link to the full article!

Has the Adventure Travel World Summit inspired you? Four amazing experiences in Mexico.

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Waterfalls In Chiapas MexicoFor 2011, the Adventure Travel World Summit was held in Chiapas, Mexico. Can you think of a better choice to get the adventure-travel movers and shakers ready for another year of excitement? If you’re up for it, here are four of Mexico’s most heart-pounding adventure trips:

Waterfalls, Ruins and Ziplines in Chiapas, Mexico – What More Could You Want?
This adventure trip to Chiapas combines physical excitement with a little mental stimulation! Start off exploring the highs and lows of Gully Canyon Park, an eco-tourism favorite. After you enter the park by boat and pass through the mile-high canyon walls, you’ll have a chance to zip-line through the tree-tops to see it all from a completely different perspective!

That’s just a taste of what this trip includes! Here are a few more highlights:
• Swim at the base of Las Cascadas de Agua Azul.
• Explore ancient Mayan ruins in the midst of the jungle at Palenque.
• Tour the cities of Villa Hermosa and San Cristobal de la Casas.
• View ancient artifacts at the La Venta Park Museum.

Adventure Family Style – A Great Bonding Opportunity!
Explore lovely Baja California Sur with the entire gang this year! This trip will keep everyone so busy that no one will even thing about mentioning the dreaded “B” word. That stands for boring, by the way!

Start off getting to know Todos Santos like a native! Stroll the colonial streets, visit the fishing village and pick out a new masterpiece in the artist’s colony. When you’re ready to explore, go kayaking or hike the sea cliffs to view the coastline from above. Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere to experience waterfalls in the midst of a dry desert.

Next, La Paz and Espiritu Santo Island await your arrival! In this tropical paradise, you’ll swim with seal lions and schools of tropical fish, hike the canyons and paddle a kayak through the Sea of Cortes under dramatic volcanic cliffs.

To end your trip, plan your own itinerary in Cabo San Lucas! Choose from a variety of extreme activities suitable for the entire family including whale watching, deep-sea fishing, a desert Hummer tour or simply soaking up the sun on the beach!

Surfs Up in Sunny Mexico!
Surf ‘til you drop on the sun-kissed Pacific coast of Mexico! A surfer’s dream vacation, the luxury accommodations included in this trip put you right in the middle of the action. You’ll split your time between two luxury beach-front villas. This doesn’t mean you’ll sit on the beach waiting for the waves. To reach the secret surfing hot spots, expect to take a few road trips and even a flight to find Mexico’s hidden treasures.

Leave the Beach Behind to Climb a Volcano
Retrace the steps of that famous explorer Cortez as you enjoy your own adventure through the mountainous regions of Mexico. During your 10-day stay, you’ll test your skills on two different rugged volcanoes, a series of mountains and even get a chance to see the glaciers that cover the most extreme areas in this part of central Mexico.

Between climbs, explore the small towns of Puebla and Cholula as well as Mexico City. The contrast between sleepy Mexican villages and one of the biggest cosmopolitan areas of the world will give you a special insight into the Mexico of yesterday and the country of today!

If you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime, book your trip to exciting Mexico today! The beaches, the mountains and everything in between are waiting for you to arrive.
Contact us:
From Mexico or international: +52 (322) 225 9821
Toll free: 1-800-513-1587

 

Violence in Mexico Old News for Travel Agents

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beautiful square in mexico

A delegation of tourism officials from Mexico recently returned from a tour of several US cities including LA, Seattle, Atlanta, Houston, New York, and Washington DC, where the delegates met with hundreds of travel agents from across the United States. The delegation, headed by Secretary of Tourism Gloria Guevara, are pleased to report that for most of the agents, the safety of Mexico was old news.

Instead, Travel Weekly reports, travel agents were interested in “[Mexico's] upcoming events, promotions and winter season offerings.” COO of the Mexico Tourism Board, Rodolfo Lopez Negrete, remarked, “We are starting to turn the corner. The crime topic is old news now, and agents were eager to hear our tourism updates.”

Travel agents have a lot to be excited for in terms of upcoming events in Mexico. Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta are set to host the 2011 Pan American Games from Oct. 14th to the 30th, where more than 6,000 athletes from 42 countries (including 275 from the U.S) will face off in international competition.

Overlapping the Pan Am. Games is the Adventure Travel World Summit, which will be held in Chiapas, Mexico Oct. 17th to the 20th. 2011 marks the eighth annual Adventure Travel World Summit – an important event in the travel industry held in a different country each year. Mexico is proud to have been chosen as this year’s host and is eager, as a country, to show off the endless amount of world-class adventure experiences to be found throughout the nation.

As 2011 draws to an end, Mexico will launch a year long celebration of the Mayan culture with a focus on Dec. 21st of 2012, when the Mayan calendar is believed to end. Special events are scheduled in the southern states of Campeche, Chiapas, Tabasco, Quintana Roo and Yucatan, and travel companies like Journey Mexico are offering trips like The Archeological Mayan Journey – a ten day excursion which takes travelers to the most renowned cultural and archeological sites of the Yucatan Peninsula in the company of one of the region’s most well-respected guides.

When it comes to travel, especially internationally, safety always comes first. Mexico enthusiasts are happy to see that US travelers and travel agents are beginning to once again understand that Mexico has traveler-safety covered.

The Journey Mexico ATWS FAM Trip to the Copper Canyon

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man taking photo of the copper canyon

Now that we’re less than two months away from this year’s Adventure Travel World Summit in Chiapas, Journey Mexico is excited to offer attendees our Pre-Summit Copper Canyon FAM Trip.

The Copper Canyon FAM will run from October 12th-16th and is free of charge for ATWS attendees! Trip members will explore the Sierra Madre Mountains on one of the greatest train adventures in the world, the famous Chihuahua al Pacifico! In addition to the train trip, adventure enthusiasts will have the opportunity to go zip lining, rappelling, rock climbing, and to marvel at the world’s longest cable car high above the canyon floor.

Trip members will be introduced to local communities of the Sierra Madre and have the chance to visit craft cooperatives and markets. Site-inspections of several iconic hotels and dinner at the finest restaurants in the region will also be a part of the experience.

For more information about the Copper Canyon FAM Trip, visit our Pre-Summit Adventure page here >>