Explore Mexico’s Ecotourism Gem: Mayan Ruins, Pristine Beaches, and Lush Rainforests

Tabasco, Mexico, may fall under the radar of most travelers, but its historic capital city, jaw-dropping natural wonders, and archeological sites make it a destination worth exploring. Tabasco, located in southeastern Mexico, is home to a blossoming ecotourism industry, thanks to its white-sand Gulf coastline, mountain villages, and vibrant rain forests, teeming with wildlife such as parrots and monkeys, as well as Mayan ruins. However, as tourism continues to grow, industrialization may rise alongside it. Furthermore, Tabasco is the home state of Mexico’s populist president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, and houses the country’s largest oil refinery, as well as the Tren Maya, a rail line poised to connect Mexico’s five southernmost states, with projections for completion in 2024.

For now, however, Tabasco remains somewhat under the radar, making it an up-and-coming tourist destination to visit before it booms. Here’s where to go and what to see.

Villahermosa

Fly into the state capital of Villahermosa, just a short hop from Mexico City or Cancun, and stay at Hotel Boutique Menta & Cacao, housed in a government-protected, century-old, robin’s-egg-blue building. Conveniently located in Villahermosa’s historic downtown, it’s just a short drive from the open-air Parque-Museo La Venta. More of a garden than a museum, this museum-park houses a collection of colossal Olmec heads, which are considered the first known civilization of Mesoamerica. These heads, expertly sculpted from gigantic basalt boulders, are believed to date back to as early as 900 BCE.

Villa Luz Ecological Reserve

From Villahermosa, it’s an hour-and-40-minute drive to this ecological reserve, home to the Cascadas de Villa Luz waterfalls. Enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear pool at the base of the falls, or take a leisurely walk across swinging suspension bridges, enveloped by lush greenery. Later, retire to one of the vibrantly painted bungalows at the nearby eco-retreat Kolem Jaá, which also offers thrilling activities such as ziplining, caving, and rappelling excursions. The nearby mountain village of Tapijulapa — recognized for its picturesque white houses with red tile roofs — is among the 132 towns designated as a “Pueblo Mágico” (magical town) by the ministry of tourism.

Cocina Chontal

One of the world’s best restaurants, Cocina Chontal, is located just outside the archaeological site at Comalcalco, the westernmost city established by the Mayans. This traditional restaurant specializes in authentic cuisine cooked over an open flame, serving generous portions. When you visit, come hungry, and unwind in one of the hammocks as you await your meal.

Chiapas

A visit to the archaeological site of Palenque, historically known as Lakamha (“big water”), is also worthwhile. Located in the neighboring state of Chiapas, it is a mere two-hour drive from Villahermosa. This remarkable Mayan city-state was one of the most dominant during the Classic Maya period, reaching its peak population in the 7th century. An overnight stay in nearby El Panchan, where backpacker hostels abound, can help break up the trip.

Additionally, Chiapas is home to El Chichón, an active volcano that provides a magnificent day hiking opportunity. Those who reach the summit will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the emerald-green crater lake nestled within the volcano’s center.

Tours

For adventure enthusiasts, local outfit Jungla Experience operates in Tabasco and Chiapas, allowing for custom ecotourism itineraries. Their standard options include three-day tours of both the picturesque Chiapas and Tabasco, exploring Mayan ruins like Palenque, Yaxchilán, and Bonampak, as well as two-day hikes of Chichonal Volcano and Pico de la Pava, the highest peak in Tabasco.

Moreover, you can embark on a one-day city tour of Villahermosa with Mexitours, which features a stop at Museo La Venta and Yumka, an ecological reservation complete with wetlands, savannas, and picturesque lakes.