Four views of: Mexico

A long, thin peninsula stretching from California, this sparsely populated region is home to barren deserts, remote beaches melting into the Sea of Cortez and mountains where condors soar. The exclusive beach resort of Cabo San Lucas, at the tip, has a dramatic coast of jagged rock formations.

YUCATAN

Though this state is famous for its golden Caribbean beaches and ancient Mayan ruins, what makes it unusual are its proliferation of cenotes. The limestone sinkholes were revered by the Mayans as sacred wells and today draw explorers for their beauty. Some are shallow, like jungle swimming pools, while others are deep cathedral-like caverns smothered in vines.

Four views of MEXICO

From the Pacific to the Caribbean, the desert to the steamy jungle, Mexico has an ancient but rich culture

In Mexico’s central highlands, this colonial city is famous for its baroque Spanish architecture. Crowned by the pink spires and turrets of La Parroquia church, the cobbled streets are lined with colourful buildings and pretty plazas and parks. The city comes alive after 11pm, when rooftop bars flow with tequila and street food stalls sizzle.

ZAPOTITLÁN SALINAS

This desert territory is part of the TehuacánCuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, a series of arid but diverse mountain ranges. The Helia Bravo Hollis Botanical Gardens has hills studded with thousands of columnshaped cacti, and local cuisine includes cactus flowers in vinegar. The region is also famous for its vivid night skies.