From the canals of Xochimilco to the surf of Sayulita: Mexico’s Treasures on a Budget

Mexico is deservedly the most popular tourist destination in Latin America, offering historic treasures, guaranteed sunshine and wonderful beaches. Keeping to a strict budget while staying in Mexico can be easy, too, if local produce and street food is consumed, while cheap hotels, hostels and lodgings can be found anywhere if you choose to stay in less crowded areas. Even those on a low student budget of around £15 – £20 per day should be easy enough to please. Using local transport will also cut holiday costs immensely.

There are a number of gems to consider when planning itineraries for any proposed Mexico holidays. Below are five of the best:

Xochimilco

Xochimilco is a World Heritage site, famed for the grandeur of its 110-mile-long canal system, and it is an easy, inexpensive train journey away from Mexico City. It's possible to ride the canals in colourful gondola-type boats, known as trajinera, and also view the remains of the ancient Aztec city. Those looking for food on a budget should try the local market, where the scents of exotic fruits, tamales and spices mingle in the air.

Copper Canyon

Copper Canyon is a six-hour train ride away from Chihuahua City, but well worth the visit. This fantastic canyon is more spectacular than the Grand Canyon in the USA, and visitors are able to explore the surrounding waterfalls, hot springs and rock formations and also enjoy a tour of a native Tarahumara village. Why not stay overnight at a local campsite to save money and really experience life in the Copper Canyon?

Campeche

Campeche is a colonial jewel, featuring lovely pastel-coloured buildings, seaside forts and watchtowers and illustrating the colonial heritage of Mexico. Many of these buildings are now popular museums, and just outside the town is the ancient Mayan site Edzna, with its temples and underground canals.  Those looking to escape the resort crowds with an inexpensive activity should try the beaches here.

Akumal, near Cancun

Beach lovers will not be able to resist the charms of the small and little-known seaside town of Akumal, or “Place of the turtles”. This beautiful bay is the year-round home to large populations of green and loggerhead sea turtles, and it's possible to hire snorkel gear for unforgettable swims with these graceful creatures.

Sayulita

Surfers everywhere will have heard of Sayulita; it's a great choice for surf holidays to Mexico, whether beginner or expert surfer. There are a range of alternative holiday activities available in the area for visitors, such as sailing, rainforest canopy tours, horse riding, bird watching (which is of course free) or golfing, and the town offers a thriving restaurant and bar culture, alongside a range of English-speaking services.

It's not difficult to understand why Mexico holidays have become so popular with tourists, as the range of destinations and visitor attractions is so diverse and it is possible to enjoy an inexpensive trip too.