As one of the most biologically diverse mountain systems in Mexico, The Sierra Norte is giving all it can give for hikers.  The Sierra Norte covers 6,500 square miles in the northern part of Oaxaca, and includes steep mountain slopes covered in pine and oak, cactus-covered 5,000-foot valleys and a beautiful tropical coastline, with an elevation range form sea level to 10,000 feet.  This area is part of a bioregion designated by Conservation International as one of the richest and most endangered in the world.  Here you will find unique species of orchids and wildlife such as southern flying squirrels, Pacific orange rip butterflies, Oaxaca hummingbirds and white-throated jays.

 Companies such as Journey Mexico offer tours through this rich tapestry of ecosystems.  Their nine-day tour starts with an exploration of the city of Oaxaca, and follows with visits to the pre-Columbian ruins of Monte Alban and Mitla, then to the mountains, where a few days are spent hiking and living in the Sierra Norte with Zapotec communities.  With this trip you get the chance to meet with local people and learn about the sacred traditions of the rural region, and get to stay two nights at a beach-side lodge in the fishing village of Puerto Escondido.  As you enjoy your stay here you can take pleasure in the surroundings through kayaking, hiking, scuba diving and snorkeling.

 What do you look for in your perfect beach?  Beautiful, soft sand, pristine water, and breathtaking views?  Well in Mexico you can find these plus many other important features in their beaches.  When you find a beach that embodies all these traits, you then come down from your high when you realize that everyone else is looking for these same things in a beach, therefore making the beach too crowded to allow you relaxation.  That’s why you need to keep an eye out for the secluded, but beautiful, beaches of Mexico.

 In Mexico you can find beaches which mix the attractions you look for, and the privacy you wish for.  You will be able to find large areas of beautiful soft sand with the crashing waves on one side, and the jungle on the other.  Also you will be able to pleasure in viewing the relics of Mayan Civilization located right on the beach.  Many hotels (such as Four Seasons and Fairmont) have reserved private beaches for their guests.  But since Mexico is growing more popular by the day, the beaches – even the little-known paradises – are at risk for being over run by tourists and locals alike. 

 Though Mexico’s popularity keeps growing, you can still find many options for a secluded beach in Mexico.  One you may come across if you look hard enough is Tulum, found south of Cancun and has very soft and beautiful sand.  Or Playa del Carmen, its beautiful white sands are roomy and private, even though this beach is rather popular.  Another is if you go to the western side of the country.  Most beaches on the western side are very popular among surfers, as the beaches offer rocky coasts and stronger waves.  Or Cabo San Lucas which is protected and hidden; some of the best beaches of Mexico are in North Cabo.  And Oaxaca, where the beaches are more difficult to reach, but are worth it, offering less-trafficked but equally pristine beaches.