Northern Mexico Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, things to do, and much more in Northern Mexico. Plan your trip today!
- Introduction to Northern Mexico
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Mexico
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Mexico
- Best Things to Do in Northern Mexico: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Mexico
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Mexico
- Where to Stay in Northern Mexico: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Mexico: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Mexico
- Best Time to Visit Northern Mexico
- Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Mexico
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Mexico: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Mexico
- Where to Go Next from Northern Mexico: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Northern Mexico
Northern Mexico is a region located in the northern part of the country, right on the border with the United States. It is characterized by unique culture, beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and outstanding hospitality. The region is made up of six states: Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Nuevo Leon, Sonora, and Tamaulipas, each with its own idiosyncrasies and tourist attractions.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Mexico
Southern Mexico has long been a popular travel destination, but Northern Mexico offers a unique experience with less tourist crowds. Here are some must-see places in Northern Mexico:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The region has a rich history and is home to several important museums and historical places. Here are some notable ones:
- The Chihuahua Cathedral in the city of Chihuahua.
- The Museum of the Revolution in Torreón.
- The Desert Museum in Saltillo.
- The Francisco Villa Museum in Durango.
Natural Attractions of Northern Mexico: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Northern Mexico’s natural beauty is spectacular. The landscape is diverse and ranges from deserts to mountains, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best natural attractions:
- The Copper Canyon in Chihuahua.
- The Parque Fundidora in Monterrey.
- The Cumbres de Monterrey National Park.
- The Rio Grande in Tamaulipas.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Mexico
Another way to experience Northern Mexico’s stunning natural landscape is through hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes:
- The Huasteca Canyon Trail in Monterrey.
- The Sierra Tarahumara Trail in Chihuahua.
- The Cerro de la Silla Trail in Monterrey.
- The Chipinque Ecological Park Trail in Monterrey.
Best Things to Do in Northern Mexico: Activities and Tours
Apart from hiking and biking, Northern Mexico offers a diverse range of activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do:
- The Parras Wine Route in Coahuila.
- The Caves of Sor Juana in Nuevo León.
- The Ojo Caliente Hot Springs in Coahuila.
- The Sandboarding in Samalayuca Dunes in Chihuahua.
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Mexico
If you have a week to spend in Northern Mexico, here’s a recommended itinerary:
| Day | Destination |
|---|---|
| 1 | Monterrey |
| 2 | Chihuahua |
| 3 | Hidalgo del Parral |
| 4 | Creel |
| 5 | Torreón |
| 6 | Saltillo |
| 7 | Nuevo Laredo |
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Mexico
Northern Mexico’s cuisine is a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and Anglo-American influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Cabrito (roasted goat).
- Asado de Boda (beef roast flavored with spices).
- Ceviche (raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice and chilies).
- Tamales (cornmeal dough steamed with meat filling).
Local Beverages
- Pulque (a fermented drink made from agave).
- Tequila (made from the blue agave).
- Mezcal (a distilled spirit made from agave).
- Margarita (a tequila-based cocktail with lime juice, triple sec, and salt on the rim).
Where to Stay in Northern Mexico: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Northern Mexico has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some popular options:
- Hotel Habita in Monterrey.
- Hotel Palacio del Sol in Chihuahua.
- Hotel Araiza in Torreón.
- Quinta Real in Saltillo.
What to Buy in Northern Mexico: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring back home, here some options:
- Pottery and ceramics from Coahuila.
- Woolen blankets from Chihuahua.
- Leather goods from Nuevo León.
- Silver jewelry from Durango.
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Mexico
Northern Mexico has a rich culture that is reflected in its food, music, architecture, and festivals. Here are some interesting facts about the local culture and customs:
- The regional music style is called “norteño,” which combines elements of Spanish and indigenous music.
- The most popular festival is the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), which is celebrated on November 2nd.
- People are generally conservative, with traditional gender roles and a strong family structure.
Best Time to Visit Northern Mexico
The best time to visit Northern Mexico is from October to May when the temperatures are comfortable. The summer months can be very hot, especially in the desert areas.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Mexico
Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when traveling to Northern Mexico:
Do:
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases.
- Respect the local culture and customs.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Try the local cuisine.
Don’t:
- Wear flashy jewelry or display large amounts of cash.
- Wander around at night alone.
- Take pictures of strangers without permission.
- Drink tap water.
Safety and Health
Safety and Health should always be a priority when traveling. Here are some tips to stay safe and healthy in Northern Mexico:
Safety in Northern Mexico
- Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings.
- Avoid displaying wealth or carrying large amounts of cash.
- Stay in the tourist areas and avoid areas with a high crime rate.
Health in Northern Mexico
- Drink bottled water or water that has been sterilized.
- Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and protect yourself against mosquito-borne illnesses.
Getting to Northern Mexico: Transportation Options and Logistics
Getting to Northern Mexico relatively easy, with several international airports and bus stations available in the region.
Airports Near Northern Mexico
- Monterrey International Airport (MTY).
- Chihuahua International Airport (CUU).
- Saltillo International Airport (SLW).
- Torreón International Airport (TRC).
Bus Stations Near Northern Mexico
- Central de Autobuses de Monterrey (Monterrey Bus Station).
- Central de Autobuses de Chihuahua (Chihuahua Bus Station).
- Central de Autobuses de Saltillo (Saltillo Bus Station).
- Central de Autobuses de Torreón (Torreón Bus Station).
How to Get Around in Northern Mexico
The best way to get around Northern Mexico is by car, either by renting one or hiring a taxi. There are also bus routes that connect major cities in the region.
Where to Go Next from Northern Mexico: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have more time to explore, here are some destinations that are nearby Northern Mexico:
- Big Bend National Park in Texas, United States.
- Santa Fe in New Mexico, United States.
- Copper Canyon in Chihuahua, Mexico.
- Cabo San Lucas in Baja California Sur, Mexico.
Conclusion
Northern Mexico offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From its natural beauty to its rich culture and cuisine, there’s something for all types of travelers. Plan your trip now and explore this fascinating region!
