SOUTHERN MEXICO AND THE GULF OF MEXICO

This region, which boasts some of the most amazing and diverse ecosystems on the planet, lies between two major bodies of water: the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean. Rich in natural resources, culture and tradition, the states of Veracruz, Chiapas and Tabasco have tropical and semi-tropical climates (temperatures exceed 25° C, or 77° F).

The Olmeca region not only has numerous places to visit, but it ?s also home to the manatee, the Atlantic spotted dolphin and the whale shark. The strip of beach resorts in Veracruz, known as la Costa Esmeralda (the Emerald Coast), which stretches from Nautla to Tecolutla, is ideal for scuba diving, sportfishing, rock climbing, rappelling, rafting and kayaking.

In addition to such natural wonders as el Parque Chachalacas (Chachalacas Park) and waterfall la Cascada Salto de Eyipantla, the state of Veracruz offers sites including El Pico de Orizaba, Mexico?s highest mountain, and El Tajin, an archeological zone where you can witness the famed Flying Men of Papantla.  There?s also the port of Veracruz, the nation?s busiest commercial seaport.

Southeast of Veracruz lies the state of Tabasco, with such natural attractions as the Parque Museo de la Venta (La Venta Park and Museum), ecological parks Yumka and Kolem Jaa in Tacotalpa, and las Grutas de Cocona (The Cocona Caves). Another main attraction is the Carlos Pellicer Camara Regional Anthropology Museum, which you can visit while in Tabasco?s modern capital, Villahermosa.

Heading toward the Pacific coast, the state of Chiapas provides spectacular sights like the Lacandona jungle, the Sumidero Canyon and the Agua Azul waterfalls. Other impressive places in Chiapas include religious center San Juan Chomula, world famous cities San Cristobal de las Casas and Tapachula, and Palenque, where you can discover the magic of Mayan ruins.