From sun-kissed beaches in Zihuatanejo to the famed turtle-nesting shores of Puerto Arista, the southern stretch of Pacific Coast in Mexico is magical. Inland, Oaxaca's vibrant capital is known for its textile prowess and distinct cuisine. Now, the Oaxacan coast is a hub for surfers and backpackers alike.

Chiapas is mountainous and verdant, home to dramatic Mayan ruins such as Palenque. Shrouded in mystique, former state capital San Cristóbal de las Casas has colourful streets and a fresh climate.

Between here and the Guatemalan border, the dense Lacandon Jungle both preserves indigenous cultures and conceals relics of their enchanting heritage. At the frontier, Lagunas de Montebello are a cluster of picturesque lakes.