10 BEST hidden gems to visit in Mexico in July

While Mexico’s beaches and big cities are famous year-round, July is the perfect time to explore lesser-known regions that come alive with summer colour, cultural traditions, and lush scenery thanks to the rainy season.

These hidden gems offer fewer crowds, authentic charm, and incredible value, whether you’re chasing waterfalls, ancient ruins, or colonial villages.

Here are the 10 best hidden gems to visit in Mexico in July, ideal for travellers who want more than the usual tourist trail.

1) Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí

Real de Catorce is a mysterious mountain village once known for silver mining, now treasured for its beauty, energy, and history. Perched over 2,700 metres above sea level, it stays pleasantly cool in July, offering a break from Mexico’s coastal heat.

The journey itself is an adventure, you drive through a long, narrow tunnel carved through rock to reach the town. Cobblestone streets, ghostly ruins, and a sacred desert landscape give the place a surreal, almost spiritual feeling.

You can explore ancient churches, old mining shafts, or hike into the nearby Wirikuta desert, sacred to the Huichol people. Local artisans sell handmade crafts, peyote-inspired art, and silver jewellery.

The town also draws spiritual travellers and artists looking for silence and space. Sunsets here are magical, casting golden light across the empty hills. Real de Catorce in July is mystical, high-altitude, and deeply soulful.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí

1) Is Real de Catorce safe for tourists?

Yes, it’s considered safe and peaceful, though it’s best to explore with a guide if you plan to venture into the desert. The locals are welcoming and used to travellers.

2) Can I drive to Real de Catorce?

Yes, but you’ll need to pass through the narrow Ogarrio Tunnel, which is one-lane only. It’s best to use a 4x4 vehicle and drive slowly, especially in wet conditions.

3) Are there places to stay in the village?

There are charming boutique hotels and rustic guesthouses that reflect the town’s historic character. Booking ahead is wise during summer weekends or festivals.

2) Bacalar, Quintana Roo

Bacalar is a small town near the Belize border, known for its stunning Lagoon of Seven Colours, and it remains a peaceful alternative to the more commercial Riviera Maya. In July, the lagoon is warm and calm, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply floating in the shallows.

The rainy season brings short bursts of afternoon showers, but they rarely last long and often cool down the warm air. The vibrant blue tones of the lagoon are even more intense when the sun returns after a rain.

You can swim in cenotes connected to the lagoon or visit the Canal de los Piratas, a sandy-bottom channel with crystal-clear water. The Fort of San Felipe offers great views and insight into the region’s pirate-filled history. Bacalar’s pace is slow, with eco-lodges and local restaurants focusing on sustainability and relaxation.

You’ll find hammocks over the water, fresh ceviche, and quiet sunrise spots all around town. July is less crowded than winter, making it ideal for travellers wanting peace with great weather. Bacalar is serene, stunning, and a slice of true Caribbean calm.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Bacalar, Quintana Roo

1) Is Bacalar safe for swimming during July’s rainy season?

Yes, the lagoon is usually safe and calm, with minimal waves and clear water. As always, avoid swimming during electrical storms or heavy rain for safety.

2) How do I get to Bacalar?

The easiest way is to fly into Chetumal and drive or take a taxi (about 40 minutes). Many visitors also arrive by bus from Tulum or Playa del Carmen, which takes about 3–5 hours.

3) Are there budget and luxury options in Bacalar?

Absolutely. You’ll find everything from eco-hostels and glamping sites to boutique resorts with private decks and water access.

3) Cuetzalan, Puebla

Cuetzalan is a magical mountain town in Puebla that feels untouched by time, with cobbled streets, misty forests, and deep indigenous traditions. Perched in the Sierra Norte, it stays cool and damp in July, perfect for exploring waterfalls, caves, and cloud forest hikes.

The town’s vibrant Sunday market is one of the most authentic in Mexico, filled with embroidered clothing, coffee, vanilla, and traditional Nahua crafts. Rain showers in July only enhance the mysticism of this lush, green region, where everything smells like wet earth and fresh herbs.

Just outside town, you’ll find incredible sites like the Yohualichan ruins and the underground rivers of Aventura, ideal for adventurous visitors. The town’s white-washed buildings and red roofs stand in stark contrast to the surrounding jungle, making every corner look like a painting.

Traditional dances and rituals often take place in the main plaza, especially during local festivals. You can enjoy local dishes like pipián and tamales wrapped in banana leaves at family-run fondas. Cuetzalan’s atmosphere is calm, proud, and deeply rooted in Mexico’s indigenous spirit. In July, it's magical, misty, and memorably authentic.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Cuetzalan, Puebla

1) How do I get to Cuetzalan?

It’s about 4–5 hours by car or bus from Puebla City. Roads are winding but scenic — ideal for a weekend road trip.

2) Is Cuetzalan suitable for non-Spanish speakers?

While English isn’t widely spoken, locals are friendly and welcoming. Basic Spanish or a translation app will go a long way, and many places are used to hosting visitors.

3) Are the caves and waterfalls accessible during July?

Yes, most remain open and are even more impressive during the rainy season. Just wear proper shoes, as trails can be muddy or slippery.

4) San Sebastián del Oeste, Jalisco

San Sebastián del Oeste is a quiet mountain town just 90 minutes from Puerto Vallarta, but it feels like a completely different world.

Once a bustling silver mining hub, it's now a peaceful pueblo mágico filled with colonial charm and surrounded by pine-covered mountains. July brings refreshing rain showers that make the countryside bloom with flowers and fill the air with the scent of earth and pine.

You can explore old haciendas, a local coffee plantation, and scenic trails without ever encountering a crowd. The town’s narrow streets, old churches, and traditional homes create an atmosphere of timeless calm. Cloudy afternoons and fog give the town a mysterious beauty that's perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

Local dishes like birria, grilled trout, and handmade tortillas are served in family-run restaurants that haven’t changed in decades. It’s the perfect retreat for those wanting fresh mountain air and cultural depth.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting San Sebastián del Oeste, Jalisco

1) Is San Sebastián worth visiting during the rainy season?

Yes, the rain adds to the town’s beauty and rarely lasts all day. Expect misty mornings, sunny breaks, and cool evenings, perfect for relaxing.

2) Can I stay overnight in San Sebastián?

Absolutely. There are boutique hotels, restored colonial inns, and eco-lodges surrounded by forest, ideal for weekend getaways.

3) Is it easy to get there from Puerto Vallarta?

Very. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and offers beautiful views along the way. You can go by rental car, taxi, or guided tour.

5) Xilitla, San Luis Potosí

Xilitla is a surreal jungle town in the Huasteca Potosina region, best known for Las Pozas, a fantasy garden of surrealist sculptures hidden in the forest.

Created by English artist Edward James, the garden features moss-covered staircases to nowhere, concrete arches among waterfalls, and lush green pathways straight from a dream. In July, rain feeds the waterfalls and brightens the jungle, making it the most atmospheric time to visit.

You’ll hear birds and frogs as you explore, with mist rolling in during early mornings and late afternoons. The town itself is small and artistic, with local cafés, street art, and a relaxed vibe. Nearby, you can swim in turquoise pools, visit caves like Sotano de las Golondrinas, or try canyoning adventures in the surrounding region.

Local food is hearty and delicious, with enchiladas huastecas and fresh river fish. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking something artistic, natural, and way off the tourist radar. Xilitla in July is lush, wild, and wonderfully surreal.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Xilitla, San Luis Potosí

1) Is Las Pozas open during the rainy season?

Yes, it’s open year-round and especially beautiful in the rain, though the paths can get slippery. Wear good shoes and bring a rain poncho just in case.

2) How do I get to Xilitla?

The nearest airports are in Tampico or San Luis Potosí, followed by a scenic drive of several hours. Many travellers visit as part of a Huasteca road trip.

3) Are there activities beyond Las Pozas?

Definitely. You can go caving, swim in natural pools, visit waterfalls, or hike through dense jungle trails. It’s a paradise for nature and art lovers alike.

6) Valle de Bravo, Estado de México

Valle de Bravo is a peaceful town nestled around a sparkling lake and surrounded by forested mountains, just a couple of hours from Mexico City. In July, the rains turn the hills lush and green, while the lake remains calm and reflective, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat rides.

The cobbled streets of the town are full of charm, with whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and hidden courtyards filled with flowers. The colonial church of Santa María Ahuacatlán and the lakeside promenade are must-visits. July is off-peak for tourism, so you can explore in peace and enjoy lower prices.

Hiking trails around Monte Alto Reserve offer fresh air, misty views, and the chance to spot deer and birds. You’ll also find paragliding for the adventurous, with panoramic views over the entire valley. Local food like trout, tamales, and carnitas is widely available, especially at weekend markets.

The vibe here is relaxed and romantic, especially when the rain taps gently on rooftops. Valle de Bravo in July is tranquil, scenic, and perfect for a refreshing getaway.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Valle de Bravo, Estado de México

1) Is Valle de Bravo a good destination during rainy season?

Yes, showers are usually brief and the rain brings out the full beauty of the landscape. Mornings are often clear, making it ideal for hiking or lake activities.

2) Can I swim or boat in the lake?

Absolutely. The lake is safe for boating, kayaking, and even swimming in designated areas, although it's always wise to check with locals about current conditions.

3) Is it easy to reach Valle de Bravo from Mexico City?

Very. You can drive, take a bus, or hire a private shuttle, it takes around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic.

7) Izamal, Yucatán

Izamal is known as “The Yellow City” because almost every building is painted in a golden hue, creating a bright and unique visual experience.

Located in the heart of Yucatán, this colonial town is built atop ancient Mayan ruins, blending old and older in every direction. In July, the town is hot and humid, but scattered showers cool things down and refresh the air.

You can visit the massive Convento de San Antonio de Padua, built atop a Mayan pyramid and still one of the largest open atriums in the world. Explore the town by foot or horse-drawn carriage to take in its quiet streets, plazas, and hidden pyramids rising behind neighbourhood homes.

The pace here is slow and relaxing, a great change from the crowded beaches of Cancún. You’ll find charming guesthouses, local Yucatecan food like cochinita pibil, and few tourists even in high season. The blend of Spanish and Mayan history makes it feel timeless. Izamal in July is radiant, historic, and deeply atmospheric.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Izamal, Yucatán

1) Is Izamal worth a visit in summer?

Yes, especially if you enjoy culture, architecture, and fewer crowds. Just plan outings in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest midday heat.

2) Are there Mayan ruins in Izamal?

Yes, several small pyramids, including Kinich Kakmó, are located right in town. You can climb some of them for amazing views over the rooftops.

3) Can Izamal be visited as a day trip from Mérida?

Definitely. It’s about an hour and a half by car or bus, making it perfect for a full-day visit or overnight stay.

8) Mineral de Pozos, Guanajuato

Once a bustling mining town and now a semi-abandoned village turned artsy retreat, Mineral de Pozos is one of central Mexico’s most fascinating hidden gems. In July, light rains bring fresh life to the dry landscape, covering the hills in soft green and cooling the air.

The town’s haunting beauty lies in its old stone buildings, empty haciendas, and ghost-town feel mixed with surprising galleries and boutique hotels. You can walk among old mines, visit art installations, or sip mezcal in candlelit bars. It’s quiet, introspective, and full of character, perfect for travellers who love places with a story.

Local artisans make musical instruments, handwoven textiles, and metalwork, often right out of their homes or studios. There's a surreal, cinematic atmosphere here, especially when fog rolls in over the desert hills.

The town is very walkable, and every alley feels like a photo waiting to be taken. Mineral de Pozos in July is moody, creative, and hauntingly beautiful.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Mineral de Pozos, Guanajuato

1) Is Mineral de Pozos really a ghost town?

It’s partially abandoned, but many artists and small business owners have revived it over the years. You’ll find working hotels, restaurants, and a small community living there year-round.

2) How do I get to Pozos?

It’s about an hour from San Miguel de Allende or two hours from Querétaro. Driving is the easiest option, though some tours also operate day trips.

3) What’s the best way to explore the old mines?

You can go with a local guide who’ll explain the town’s mining past, or explore on your own. Be cautious near old structures and wear sturdy shoes.

9) Tepoztlán, Morelos

Tepoztlán is a magical mountain town just south of Mexico City, known for its bohemian vibe, mystical energy, and lush surroundings. In July, the rain brings the surrounding cliffs and trails to life, making everything vibrant and fresh.

One of the top hikes is to the Tepozteco Pyramid, perched on a cliff above town, a spiritual site with views that are even more spectacular in the post-rain mist. The town is full of artisan markets, holistic centres, and vegetarian cafés that appeal to spiritual travellers and creatives.

Weekend energy picks up with local festivals, live music, and colourful street food. But midweek, Tepoztlán is calm and quiet, ideal for slow mornings and long walks. The mix of indigenous culture, colonial charm, and new-age energy makes it feel totally unique.

You can also visit nearby waterfalls, eco-retreats, and natural pools hidden in the forest. Local food, like itacates and blue corn quesadillas, is fresh and satisfying. Tepoztlán in July is mystical, lush, and the perfect mix of nature and spirit.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Tepoztlán, Morelos

1) Is the hike to the Tepozteco Pyramid safe in July?

Yes, though the trail can be slippery, so wear good shoes and hike early in the day. The mist and clouds actually add to the atmosphere — it’s breathtaking.

2) Can I visit Tepoztlán on a weekend trip from Mexico City?

Absolutely. It’s just 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bus, making it one of the best short getaways from the capital.

3) Is Tepoztlán suitable for families or just spiritual travellers?

It’s great for both. While it does attract holistic tourism, the food, markets, and trails are fun for families and all types of travellers.

10) Yelapa, Jalisco

Yelapa is a small beach village tucked into a jungle cove south of Puerto Vallarta, and it’s only accessible by boat, making it feel like a true hideaway. In July, the village is calm and green, with occasional tropical rain showers that keep temperatures pleasant and the scenery lush.

The beach is quiet, with golden sand and calm waters great for swimming when the weather allows. You can hike to a nearby waterfall or enjoy seafood right on the sand with your feet in the water. There are no cars here, just sandy paths, donkeys, and a few ATVs, which adds to its charm.

Evenings are peaceful, often with soft music playing from local homes or restaurants. Most accommodations are rustic-chic bungalows and eco-lodges set in the hills or along the beach.

It’s a haven for artists, yogis, and anyone looking to unplug. July brings fewer tourists, making it ideal for true relaxation. Yelapa in July is tropical, tranquil, and delightfully untouched.

FAQs/Things to know before visiting Yelapa, Jalisco

1) How do I get to Yelapa?

You can take a water taxi from the pier in Puerto Vallarta or Boca de Tomatlán. The ride takes about 30–45 minutes and offers beautiful views of the coastline.

2) Is it safe to visit during the rainy season?

Yes, but it’s best to check local weather before setting out. Rain usually falls in short bursts, and storms are rare in early July.

3) Are there modern amenities in Yelapa?

Basic comforts are available, but don’t expect fast Wi-Fi or luxury resorts. That’s part of the magic, it’s a place to truly disconnect and slow down.

There you have it! These are 10 of the best hidden gems located in Mexico, perfect for your next adventure in July! Whether you plan to do a road trip around Mexico in July or are visiting for a long weekend, you should definitely check out some of these places!

When exploring these hidden gems, always consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group, as some locations may require local expertise for the best experience.

Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 13,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!