13 Places In Northern Mexico That Prove It's Way Cooler Than You Think

Beauty is everywhere just south of the border.

1. Cataviña, Baja California

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This is a place for ecotourists: a desert in the middle of the Baja California Peninsula full of different cactus species, oases, wild animals, and other surprises that will make you fall in love with the region. Who said deserts are boring?

2. Barrancas del Cobre, Chihuahua

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Ride the old train El Chepe and travel through the Barrancas del Cobre to see the most amazing views of canyons, rivers, and indigenous towns of the region.

3. Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California

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So you thought Mexico had no production of wine, huh? Well, surprise! This is a wine sanctuary in Northern Baja. Drink a glass of the most delicious creations by local vineyards while enjoying beautiful Baja sunsets.

4. Cuatro Ciénegas, Coahuila

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These water springs are in the middle of the desert of Coahuila. Wild, right? It's a paradise worth visiting because of the color contrasts you'll find between the crystal water (Caribbean blue) and local vegetation.

5. Grutas de García, Nuevo León

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The García Caves are located about 18 miles from Monterrey, the capital of Nuevo León, so it's really easy to visit them. You'll find marine fossils, beautifully unique rock formations, and other underground curiosities that will make you feel as if you're on another planet.

6. Tijuana, Baja California

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Tijuana has an amazing nightlife! Just go barhopping on La Sexta (Sixth Street) and you'll see it for yourself.

7. Samalayuca Dune Fields, Chihuahua

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These dunes in Northern Chihuahua are a sea of sand that can be enjoyed in different ways, from sandboarding to sunset viewing. Samalayuca will win your heart. <3

8. Cabo San Lucas, South Baja California

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Yes, this may be obvious, but it's worth mentioning! In Los Cabos, you'll find the perfect place for having aquatic adventures, a relaxing vacation, or a party fest. Or all of them in the same trip!

9. Boca de Potrerillos, Nuevo León

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This archaeological wonder boasts rock cave paintings that have been declared a national treasure. Amazing representations of hands, peyote (a hallucinogenic cactus), animals, and knives/other hunting gear have been found in the area.

10. El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve, Sonora

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There are lots of things found in this biosphere reserve called El Pinacate: dunes in the shape of stars, the crater of an old volcano, and unusual plants and animals of the desert.

11. Cabo Pulmo National Park, Baja California Sur

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Cabo Pulmo is home to one of the biggest coral reefs in the world. This is the reason why it's a great place to have a diving trip. You'll find a vast amount of sea creatures swimming all around you!

12. Pegüis Canyon, Chihuahua

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This geological formation of the Conchos River will take your breath away. You can either paddle your way through it or see its wonders from above.

13. Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí

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This beautiful and mysterious ghost town is said to have healing powers hidden in it. You'll get there through Ogarrio tunnel (crossing it is an experience in itself), and on the other side you'll find magical old buildings and a beautiful mountain landscape.

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