Last Updated
The Mexican Caribbean is home to three stunning Magical Towns: Isla Mujeres, Tulum, and Bacalar, which all rank among the top 10 most visited in the country.
New statistics reveal that travelers are flocking to the Mexican Caribbean’s Magical Towns in record numbers.
Here’s why these destinations near Cancun are soaring in popularity this year:
What Are Mexico’s Magical Towns?
Mexico is home to 132 Magical Towns that are famous for their historical treasures, stunning natural scenery, and thriving culture.
The state-run program is intended to showcase the best magic Mexico has to offer travelers.
Earning the recognition of a Magical Town is not easy; only locations that meet certain requirements, such as having noteworthy cultural or historical elements, can qualify.
In addition, they must meet strict safety and cleanliness conditions due to the high number of travelers that visit them.
Quintana Roo’s Magical Towns See Popularity Rise
The Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo currently has three Magical Towns: Isla Mujeres, Tulum, and Bacalar.
Not only are they some of the most impressive in the country, but they’re also among the most visited, as per new statistics published by Mexican officials this week.
Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week
Easily Earn Points For Free Travel
According to Alejandro Sánchez, a spokesperson for Despegar, one of the country’s largest travel agencies, Tulum is currently the most popular Magical Town in Mexico.
Last year, the destination welcomed over 2 million travelers, a number which is projected to climb further this year.
The seaside resort destination has seen its popularity skyrocket as travelers set off to explore some of the oldest Mayan ruins in Mexico, not to mention the destination’s awe-inspiring tropical scenery.
All three of Quintana Roo’s Magical Towns are firmly in the top 10 of the most visited in the country.
All of the region’s Pueblos Mágicos make for an easy day trip from Cancun, further boosting their travel appeal.
Isla Mujeres, located some 15 minutes by ferry from Cancun, is by far the most popular choice for Cancun visitors.
The Caribbean resort hotspot is often ranked as one of the best island destinations to explore in North America, thanks to its renowned Blue-Flag beaches and quaint old town.
Despite its small size, Isla Mujeres offers some of the most beautiful tropical scenery for travelers to enjoy. It’s also full of native wildlife, and the island is expected to have a record-breaking whale shark season this year.
Tulum, located around 2 hours south of Cancun, is widely regarded as one of the best historical Magical Towns in Mexico.
Tulum’s vast 13th-century Archeological Zone is home to over 70 Mayan relics, as well as several temples and pyramids.
A record number of visitors are expected to flock to the seaside destination this year, largely thanks to the completion of the Maya Train in December, prompting officials to announce a massive investment package to protect the area’s delicate ruins and to improve the visitor experience.
Last but not least, Bacalar also ranks in the top 10 most visited Magical Towns in Mexico.
Situated close to the border with Belize, this small town is known for not only its extensive history but also its majestic lagoons and colorful wildlife.
Bacalar’s most famous attraction remains the Lagoon of 7 Colors, a massive lagoon known for its varying shades of blue, which leave a lasting impression.
Bacalar is also a hotspot for history lovers thanks to its 18th-century Fuerte de San Felipe de Bacalar.
The Mexican Caribbean may soon have a fourth Magical Town.
Cozumel, the largest island in Quintana Roo, is set to apply to become the region’s newest Pueblo Mágico, and it’s very likely officials will want to grant the status to the island, which welcomes millions of travelers per year.
Cozumel is a haven for all sorts of aquatic activities, especially diving, and the island is home to the second-largest coral reef system in the world.
Plan Your Next Cancun Vacation:
Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!
Choose From Thousands of Cancun and Riviera Maya Hotels, Resorts and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties
↓ Join the community ↓
The Cancun Sun Community FB group has all the latest travel news, conversations and tourism Q&A’s for the Mexican Caribbean
Subscribe to our Latest Posts
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Cancun Sun’s latest breaking news affecting travelers, straight to your inbox.