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Adventure Travel in Mexico: Discovering Hidden Gems and Volunteering Opportunities

Petrina Darrah

Posted: March 16, 2023

Mexico is a country of incredible diversity and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for adventure travel. Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, scuba diving, or zip-lining, Mexico offers a range of activities that are sure to get your heart racing. But adventure travel isn’t just about adrenaline-fueled activities; it’s also about immersing yourself in new cultures and exploring the world in a way that broadens your horizons. In this article, we’ll explore the top adventure activities in Mexico, as well as opportunities for volunteering with GVI to make a positive impact while travelling.

Top Adventure Activities in Mexico

Choose from diverse adventure activities in all corners of the country.

Surfing in Sayulita

Sayulita is a small town on the Pacific coast of Mexico that has become a popular destination for surfers in recent years. With its consistent waves and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect place to learn how to surf or improve your skills. There are plenty of surf schools in town that offer lessons for all levels, and the town itself is full of great restaurants and bars.

Hiking to the Sumidero Canyon

The Sumidero Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in the state of Chiapas. It’s a deep, narrow canyon that stretches for miles, with walls that rise up to 1,000 metres high in some places. The best way to experience the canyon is by taking a boat tour, which will give you a close-up view of the sheer cliffs and the wildlife that calls the canyon home.

Scuba Diving in Cozumel

Cozumel is an island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula that’s famous for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. There are dozens of dive sites around the island, ranging from shallow reefs to deep walls, and you’re likely to see everything from colourful tropical fish to sea turtles and even sharks.

Whitewater Rafting in Veracruz

Veracruz is a state located on the Gulf of Mexico, known for its rugged mountains and pristine rivers. It is a popular destination for whitewater rafting, with rapids ranging from Class II to Class V. The Rio Antigua and Rio Pescados are two of the most popular rivers for rafting in Veracruz.

Zip-lining in the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula is a region located in southeastern Mexico, known for its stunning beaches, Mayan ruins, and underground rivers. It is also a popular destination for zip-lining, with several zip-line parks located throughout the region. The parks offer thrilling zip-line rides over the jungle canopy.

Cave Exploration

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to a vast network of underground rivers and caves, known as cenotes. Volunteers can explore these cenotes with trained professionals, rappelling down into the depths, swimming through crystal-clear waters, and marvelling at the stunning rock formations. These cave exploration activities provide an unforgettable adventure experience and a unique opportunity to learn about the geology and ecology of the Yucatan Peninsula.

The ultimate adventure: Volunteering with GVI in Mexico

Volunteering with GVI in the Yucatan region of Mexico not only offers the chance to make a positive impact but also provides a unique adventure travel experience. GVI partners with local organisations to address environmental and social issues in Mexico, giving volunteers the opportunity to engage in hands-on conservation and community development projects.

Volunteers with GVI in Mexico can participate in sea turtle conservation projects, such as patrolling beaches to protect sea turtle nests from poachers, releasing hatchlings into the ocean, and collecting data on nesting behaviour. These activities take place on the beautiful beaches of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, providing volunteers with the chance to snorkel and surf during their free time.

In addition to these adventure activities, volunteering with GVI in Mexico also offers the opportunity to learn about Mexican culture and language, meet new people, and gain personal growth.

Life on base in Puerto Morelos with GVI is a unique and enriching experience. The base is located in a peaceful residential area, just a short walk from the beach and the charming town centre. During free time, volunteers can enjoy the local beaches, go snorkelling or diving in the nearby coral reef, or explore the town’s lively restaurants, cafes, and bars. Life on base with GVI in Puerto Morelos is not only an adventure-filled experience but also a chance to connect with like-minded individuals and make lifelong memories.

Mexico offers a diverse range of adventure travel opportunities for those seeking a unique and enriching experience. Whether you are interested in exploring natural wonders, immersing yourself in Mexican culture, or making a positive impact through volunteering, Mexico has something for everyone. Volunteering with GVI in Mexico provides the perfect combination of adventure and social impact, allowing volunteers to engage in hands-on conservation and community development projects while exploring the natural beauty and cultural richness of the country. With stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes, Mexico is a destination that should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.

By Petrina Darrah

Petrina Darrah is a freelance writer from New Zealand with a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable travel. She has been writing about travel for more than five years and her work has appeared in print and digital publications including National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Travel, Business Insider, Atlas Obscura and more. You can see more of her work at petrinadarrah.com.

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