The city of Campeche, the capital of the state of Campeche, is located in the southern Gulf Coast region, 387 km (240 mi) northeast of Villahermosa, Tabasco, and 177 km (110 mi) southwest of Merida, Yucatan. The climate is tropical, with an average year-round temperature of 26º C (79º F). The city gets rainfall during the summer and autumn. At this old commercial port, a giant wall still stands that once protected the city from pirate attacks in the 17th and 18th centuries. In this walled city, you’ll see two forts (one of which houses a museum), seven bulwarks and two main gates (the Sea Gate and Land Gate). Thanks to these monuments and the spectacular buildings in the Historic Center, such as the Cathedral and the Templo de Guadalupe, the UNESCO declared Campeche a World Heritage Site in 2002. Without question, Campeche has one of the most well preserved historic centers in the nation. During your stay, we recommend that you visit the Museo de la Cultura Maya, housed in the San Miguel Fort, and the Museo de las Estelas Mayas, which exhibits regional art in the San Pedro Bulwark. At night, don’t miss the fascinating light and sound show at the Fort of San Jose El Alto. After the show, you can take a walk along the Historic Center’s cobblestone streets, where you’ll see a wide variety of stores, restaurants, bars and cafes. You can also take a stroll down the beautiful 3.5-km (2-mi) boardwalk, which leads to a tourist walkway, parks and a bicycle track. In Campeche’s surrounding areas, you can enjoy an outdoor adventure at the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve, which is the habitat of hundreds of pink flamingoes. In addition, you can check out Calakmul, one of the largest biosphere reserves in the nation, which also has an interesting Mayan archaeological zone. Calakmul is a great spot to go camping, mountain biking and hiking. During your visit to Campeche, don’t forget to try the tamales with chaya leaves and the pan de cazon (tortillas stuffed or layered with shark, beans and salsa), among other regional Mayan cuisine. For all that and much more, Campeche is an excellent destination to discover history, traditions and exciting adventures.

It is fortified and surrounded by 18th-century walls. Although it remains an export center for the surrounding region, Campeche’s economy is increasingly linked to the offshore oil fields in the Bay of Campeche. The city, once the site of the pre-Columbian town called Kimpech (whose remains are still observable), was founded in 1540 by the son of the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo. It was sacked frequently by English buccaneers. From 1862 to 1864, French forces blockaded the city. The city has a 16th-century cathedral.

The beaches near Campeche are ideal for doing a wide variety of aquatic sports, basking in the sun and enjoying the excellent services. Punta Seybaplaya – Located 29 km (18 mi) southeast of Campeche. This 3-km (2-mi) coastal strip has large rock formations and white-sand beaches. It is a popular beach destination and has great food, such as the various dishes prepared with octopus, bass, grouper and shark. Punta Xen – Located 62 km (38 mi) south of Campeche, off Highway 180. This beautiful beach with small waves is also the nesting grounds and a sanctuary for the hawksbill sea turtle. Sabancuy – Located 100 km (62 mi) southeast of Campeche, off Highway 180, in the direction of Ciudad del Carmen. This area has several pleasant beaches with gentles slopes and calm waters, some of which receive very few visitors, making it the ideal spot to do various aquatic sports. Playa Bonita – Located 8 km (5 mi) south of the city, off Highway 180. This is Campeche’s closest beach. This beach with calm waters and a pleasant climate invites you to take walks along the soft sand as you enjoy an ecosystem that offers jungle vegetation and colorful marine species.

ARCHAEOLOGY

In Campeche’s surrounding areas you can visit several archaeological zones surrounded by lowland jungle vegetation. These sites allow you to learn about the importance of the Mayan civilization. Edzna – Located 61 km (38 mi) southeast of Campeche, off Highway 180. These are among the most important Mayan ruins due to the ancient city’s advanced technological accomplishments. One of the most striking edifices is the Templo-Palacio, built on a platform that ascends five levels. It has various rooms and a construction on the top. Santa Rosa Xtampak – Located 137 km (85 mi) from Campeche, in the city of Hopelchen. This was an important political center of the Chenes, as you’ll see by its vast territorial extension and its numerous structures. The 9-hectare (22-acre) site was built on a hill that was leveled and then terraced. The buildings are of chenes, puuc and chultunes architectural styles. Calakmul – Located 210 km (130 mi) southeast of the capital, in the Peten zone. Nestled in the jungle, this area has various Mayan lowland sites. Here you can see 120 steles, which is the highest number of monoliths recorded in Mayan territory, and 6,750 structures, more than double that of Tikal. Among the most notable edifices are two acropolises, a ball court and Structure II, perhaps the largest Mayan construction.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

The crafts produced in Campeche stand out for their quality and beauty. They are made with such materials as clay, wood, vegetable products and natural fibers. The notable ceramic objects produced here include flowerpots, jars, ornaments and other useful items. With the natural fibers, artisans make palm jipi hats. They also make picture frames, jewelry boxes, brooches, earrings and necklaces. Yet without question, the most notable items produced here are the colorful handmade embroidered textiles and the traditional hammocks.

FESTIVALS AND TRADITIONS

Campeche is known for its unique way of celebrating and preserving traditional and religious festivities. You’ll come across everything from interesting cultural events to rides and expos, such as the San Roman and San Francisco expositions. But without a doubt, one of the most awaited celebrations of the year is the Carnival, which takes place in February. With more than 450 years of tradition, it is the oldest carnival in the nation. The party begins with the burning of a pirate effigy and continues with performances by costumed dancers, live music and parades, such as El Paseo de las Flores, El Corso Infantil and the traditional Bando. Other notable events are the so-called Campechanidad in August and the city’s Historic Festival in December.

FOOD

Campeche’s cuisine is a blend of Mayan and Spanish influences, giving it a unique local flavor. In the city you can try such delicious dishes as chile X’catic stuffed with shark, panuchos, coconut shrimp, chaya tamales and tamales with ground beef, pork and chicken in annatto sauce. You can also indulge in pibipollo tamales (a combination of pork and chicken), the famous pan de cazon (tortillas stuffed or layered with shark, beans and salsa), the exquisite shrimp dishes, pompano in escabeche sauce, and countless other exotic dishes prepared with armadillo, caiman and venison. To wash it down, order a refreshing drink of fruit water prepared with tamarind, soursop, mango, plum or pitaya. Another option for a cold beverage is agua de horchata (sweetened rice water). For desert, you can order the regional pan dulce (sweet bread).

HISTORICAL ARCHITECTURE

Campeche, a city rich in history, was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO due to its beautiful historic buildings and fortifications. As you walk along the streets you’ll see various civic, religious and military constructions that were built between the 16th and 19th centuries. You can also appreciate large mansions with high ceilings, iron balconies and majestic arches. The Bulwarks of Campeche – Among the splendid architecture that characterizes Campeche are the old fortifications that were built to wall in the city and protect it from pirate attacks. Some of these structures have been restored, however there are others that have their original constructions intact. The most notable sights are La Puerta de Mar (the Sea Gate), a main entrance which has a large semicircular arch; the Soledad Bulwark, which still has parts of the original wall intact and features a rampart, parapets and garrets on the top floor; the Santiago Bulwark, which has maintained its original main door, however the rest of the structure has undergone restoration. Also of interest is the San Francisco Bulwark, which has an access ramp to a rooftop that offers an excellent view of the city; the San Pedro Bulwark, one of six fortifications with a quadrangular layout and garrets on the corners. On the other side, you’ll see the Puerta de Tierra (the Land Gate), a main door with most of its original construction intact. There you can appreciate an old wall with portholes; inside you’ll see a bronze cannon that was made in France in the 18th century. Nearby, stands the San Juan Bulwark, a small fortification that forms part of the remains of the big wall. There’s also the Santa Rosa Bulwark, which has a pentagonal design and three garrets on the top floor. In addition, you can check out the pentagonal-formed San Carlos Bulwark, named after King Carlos II of Spain. Finally, don’t forget to visit the San Miguel Fort, one of the most impressive fortifications due to its large dimensions; and the San Jose El Alto Fort, a quadrangular construction with three garrets and a patio with the remains of an old well curb. The Haciendas of Campeche – Campeche’s beautiful haciendas are telling examples of the region’s history, architecture and rural lifestyle. At these enormous constructions, they once produced all kinds of raw materials, including grains, seeds, henequen and sugar cane. Today, you can visit many of these impressive haciendas, such as Hacienda Puerta Campeche, located near historic monument Puerta de Tierra. This hacienda, which has been converted into one of the region’s most original hotels, comprises a group of 17th-century houses. The Hacienda de Uayamon, located in the town of Uayamon, initially was a farm, then it became more diversified as a sugar cane, henequen and corn producer; it was one of Campeche’s most important haciendas. Today, it is a top-notch hotel, which still has the original main building and an old hospital. Hacienda San Jose Carpizo, located in the town of San Jose Carpizo, 60 km (37 mi) southeast of the capital, was a farm and it also produced henequen. It is an excellent example of 19th-century-neoclassical architecture; the blue mosaics on the façade stand in contrast to the series of frets and volutes. The hacienda still boasts the main building, the original chapel and the old machine, carpentry and ironworks shops. Finally, there’s the Hacienda Blanca Flor, located in Hecelchakan, 63 km (39 mi) north of Campeche, off Highway 180. This is one of the oldest haciendas. All that remains of the original design is the main building and the grand chapel. Today, it operates as a hotel. Templo de San Roman – Located on the corner of Calle 10 and Calle Bravo. This magnificent edifice houses a sculpture of a black Christ that was brought over by an Italian merchant in 1565. The figure is fastened to a silver-ornamented cross in the presbytery. Many people go before the cross to ask for miracles. Catedral de Campeche – Located on Calle 55, next to the main plaza, in the Historic Center. At this cathedral you’ll see the Jesus Nazareno y La Española chapel and a clock tower facing the sea. You’ll also see a tower called La Campechana, which stands next to the Puerta de Tierra. This tower now has a clock with four bright dials, which still works today.

MUSEUMS

Campeche offers several museums where you can learn about the city’s history and culture. For example, you can learn about the various techniques employed to defend the city from pirate attacks, or you can see objects from the glorious and mysterious Mayan civilization. Museo de la Ciudad (San Carlos Bulwark) – Located at Calles 63 and 8, at the Circuito Baluartes. This museum has an interesting collection of pre-Hispanic and colonial pieces, including photographs and models related to the historical development of Campeche. Open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 to 8:00, Saturday from 8:00 to 2:00, and Sunday from 9:00 to 1:00. Museo de la Cultura Maya – Located in the San Miguel Fort, at Av. Escencia. The ten showrooms in this museum exhibit Mayan art found at various archaeological zones in the state of Campeche. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 to 8:00. Museo de las Estelas Dr. Roman Piña – Located on Calle 8, between calles 55 and 57, in the old Baluarte de la Soledad. This museum houses Mayan objects, such as fascinating steles. Open Monday from 8:00 to 2:00 and Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 to 8:00. Museo Barcos y Armas – Located on Av. Francisco Morazan, in the Bellavista neighborhood. Installed in the San Jose El Alto Fort, this museums displays models that offer a broad overview of the origins of Campeche. In addition to the interesting pirate stories the museum offers, it has an intriguing collection of paintings and weapons.

ENTERTAINMENT

In a city as fascinating as Campeche, you’ll witness interesting cultural events just about everywhere you go. At night, in the surrounding areas, you can hear trios belt out serenades. In addition, the city hosts various religious and cultural festivals throughout the year, which are always entertaining for locals and tourists alike. El Lugar del Sol Light and Sound Show – This takes place at the Puerta de Tierra, at Calles 59 and 18, in the San Jose El Alto Bulwark. This show narrates the history of Campeche while colorful lights are projected on a wall. The show begins at 8:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Un Centro Historico Vivo – This event is held in the Parque Principal, in the downtown area. It features traditional dance, music and folkloric performances. It takes place on Saturdays and Sundays at 8:00 p.m. Francisco de Paula Toro – This theatre is located on Calle 12, between calles 51 and 53. It has a portico with columns and semicircular seating areas on each of its four floors. The theatre hosts various cultural events, including theatrical performances, recitals and concerts, among others.

NIGHTLIFE

Campeche offers many options for a night out on the town, including dances with music and folkloric performances in the Historic Center, which take place on Saturdays and Sundays at 8:00. Or you can witness the romantic sessions of Serenata en mi Barrro (Serenade in my Neighborhood), songs belted out by trios who play in such neighborhoods as San Roman, Santa Ana, Guadalupe and San Francisco at 7:00. In the downtown area, you’ll find numerous bars and nightclubs, where you can enjoy bohemian atmospheres and great music while hanging out with friends. Some of the other clubs offer the best in tropical, electronic and pop music.

SHOPPING

If you’d like to go shopping, you’ll find various options in Campeche, including crafts shops, malls, and markets. A good place to shop for clothes and crafts and try some delicious regional food is the Pedro Sainz de Baranda market. You can also find clothes and crafts at the Casa de Artesanias Tukulna and the Baluarte de San Pedro, to mention just a few places. In addition, you can visit such shopping centers as the Plaza del Mar and Plaza Universidad, which have department stores, movie theaters, fast food joints, boutiques and parking lots. All of these places offer excellent products and quality service.

KAYAKING

Near Campeche you can do kayaking outings on the sea or at one of the region’s ecological reserves, which allows you to have direct contact with nature. Playa Bonita. Located 8 km (5 mi) south of the city, off Highway 180. This is Campeche’s closest beach. The waves are very gentle here, making it a prime location for kayaking. You can rent all the equipment you’ll need on the beach. Thanks to the excellent weather and water conditions, you can go on a very long kayaking excursion. Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve. Located 145 km (90 mi) from Campeche along the state highway. This reserve has one of the largest mangrove areas on the Gulf Coast. It’s a great place to relax and is also the breeding grounds of the pink flamingo and the hawksbill sea turtle. This biosphere reserve is ideal for kayaking and discovering the estuaries of the Yucatan Peninsula. Along the 20-km (12.4 mi) route, you’ll pass through tunnels of overhanging branches. In Campeche you’ll find tour companies offering excursions of up to three to five days.

ECOTOURISM

Campeche is surrounded by important ecological reserves where you can observe diverse types of plant and animal life. Many of them are protected areas in order to sustain the survival of such endangered species as the hawksbill sea turtle and the jaguar. Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve – Located 145 km (90 mi) from Campeche along the state highway. This reserve has one of the largest mangrove areas on the Gulf Coast. It’s a great place to relax and is also the breeding grounds of the pink flamingo and the hawksbill sea turtle. This reserve has coastal dunes and petenes (small floating island formations with vegetation). The animals inhabiting this area include manatees, octopuses, crown conches, horseshoe crabs, seagulls, white herons, diving ducks, Yucatan quails, wildcats, Jabiru storks and boa constrictors, among other species. Calakmul Biosphere Reserve – Located 210 km (130 mi) southeast of the capital. This protected tropical reserve is the largest in Mexico, with 723,185 hectares (more than 1.7 million acres). It’s an ideal place to observe flora and fauna, as it has lowland jungle vegetation and animal species such as jaguars, ocelots, wildcats, spider monkeys, howler monkeys, anteaters, great curassows, harpy eagles and tapirs. Laguna de Terminos – Located 181 km (112 mi) southwest of Campeche, off Highway 180, in Ciudad del Carmen. This protected area, which covers 705,000 hectares (1.7 million acres), forms part of Mexico’s most important delta. In addition, it is the largest and most voluminous estuary-lagoon system in the nation. This area is ideal to observe a wide variety of coastal and aquatic plant species. Zona de los Petenes – Located 90 km (56 mi) north of the capital. This zone includes the cities of Calkini, Hecelchakan, Tenabo and Campeche. It has small floating island formations that develop in the mangroves. The sinkhole here plays a key role in sustaining life in this ecosystem, as it maintains a natural equilibrium between the freshwater on the surface and the salt water on the bottom. Here you’ll see diverse flora, including red, black and white mangroves near the ocean, and buttonwood mangroves in the lowland jungle areas. La Estacion de la Vida Silvestre en Hampolol – Located 15 km (9 mi) from the city of Campeche, off the Campeche-Tenabo Highway. This 100-hectare (247-acre) area provides ideal conditions for lowland flora. The region has swamp zones, which are the habitat of various reptiles, amphibians, mammals and songbirds, making it one of the state’s important ecological areas, largely because of its key water sources.

EXTREME SPORTS

Near Campeche there is a very accessible spot to go mountain biking along narrow trails that cut through a jungle. During the ride, you’ll see abundant vegetation, and if you’re lucky, you might even spy some small animal species. Pueblo de Miguel Colorado – Located 65 km (40 mi) from the city of Campeche. The terrain at this spot is not mountainous, however the muddy and rocky paths are ideal for mountain biking. To reach the jungle area, you’ll pass by agricultural fields and pastures.

FISHING

Near Campeche you’ll find good spots for fly-fishing, as well as other lowland areas where you can catch a wide variety of species throughout the year. Ensenada de Xpicob – This is the nation’s first fish hatchery, making it the perfect spot to hook pampano, bonito, hogfish and yellowtail, among other species. Punta Varaderos – Located 86 km (53 mi) northeast of Campeche, off Highway 180, near the Sabancuy Estuary. This beach has a gentle slope and small waves, allowing you to catch various fish species, including yellow jack, snapper and croakers. You’ll certainly enjoy the spectacular scenery as you wait for a bite. You can rent fishing equipment in Champoton or Ciudad del Carmen. Club Nautico de Pesca Campeche Siglo XXI – Located 8 km (5 mi) southeast of Campeche, off Highway 180, in Lerma. This place offers a long clean beach that is ideal for fishing thanks to its calm waters and pleasant scenery. Each year, in July, it hosts a fishing tournament called the Torneo Nacional de Sabalo, which draws about 200 fishermen.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

In Campeche’s environs there are large nature reserves where you can go hiking in areas with abundant vegetation and excellent weather. In addition, you can go cave diving in caverns, allowing you to see beautiful rock formations with stalactites and stalagmites. These sites have guides offering their services so that you can be assured of having a pleasant and safe experience. Grutas de Xtacumbilxunaan – Located 110 km (68 mi) from the city of Campeche, near the town of Bolonchen de Rejon. This underground cavern is 200 meters (660 feet) long and 80 meters (264 feet) deep. In the cavern’s depths, you’ll see numerous stalactite and stalagmite formations. This is the ideal spot for cave diving, as it offers unparalleled natural beauty, such as a large cave with an opening in the ceiling. Also of interest is a formation known as El Rincon de la Bruja (The Witch’s Corner). Ensenada de Xpicob – When the tide drops, you can take a pleasant walk along this beach’s soft sand. Along the way, you can observe the abundant marine life and jungle vegetation.

SCUBA DIVING

Near the city of Campeche you can discover a beautiful underwater world brimming with life. At this spot you’ll see various rock formations, sandy bottoms and coralline plains in an unusual environment with a wide variety of colors and forms. El Remate. Located 130 km (81 mi) northwest of Campeche, in Tankuche. This recreational retreat offers a spring, which is 15 meters (50 feet) in diameter and 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) deep. It has cold clear waters and provides ideal conditions for diving.