A Treasure Trove of Natural Beauty

With over 60 national parks, Mexico is a kaleidoscope of sparkling lagoons, lush tropical forests, vibrant coral reefs, and golden beaches. Managed by the Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas, these parks offer a rich tapestry of biodiversity and natural splendor. Let’s embark on a journey to explore five of Mexico’s most iconic national parks and discover what makes each one unique.

1. Nevado de Toluca National Park: A Hike in the Clouds

Just a two-hour drive from Mexico City, the Nevado de Toluca, Mexico’s fourth highest peak, offers a surreal landscape. Visitors can drive up to the volcano, experiencing a tundra-like environment with arid slopes and dense forests. The park features two crater lakes, Laguna del Sol and Laguna de la Luna, which are among the highest of their kind globally. For bird watchers, the park is a haven with species like peregrine falcons and red-tailed hawks soaring overhead.

2. The Marietas Islands: A Biodiversity Showcase

Off the coast of Nayarit, the Marietas Islands are a transformed military area now teeming with dolphins, humpback whales, and diverse birdlife. Famous for its white sandy beaches and hidden gems like Playa del Amor, this archipelago is a marine sanctuary where nature thrives in harmony.