Mexico

Mexico

Overview Mexico

At a glance: Mexico

  • Difficulty travelling: easy

  • Distances between photo spots: sometimes very far, as Mexico is a large country

  • Safety: safe depending on the region, to be avoided areas from updated safety reports

  • Language: Spanish

  • Photo spots: lots of culture, lots of architecture and lots of nature

  • Drones: officially only permitted for locals, regional no-fly zones (including national parks), see the RPAS aviation authority website HERE

  • Mobile internet: eSIM available here

From cenotes to the desert

Mexico offers travellers and photographers a wealth of subjects – from ancient Mayan ruins and vibrant cities to dramatic landscapes and hidden cenotes. 

For photographers, there are subjects for every genre here: cityscapes, landscapes, nature and wildlife, street photography and portraits. Here you will find just a selection of beautiful places in this large and beautiful country.

General

With an area of approximately 1.96 million square kilometres, Mexico is the third largest country in Latin America and the eleventh largest in the world. With a population of over 128 million (as of 2023), it is also one of the most populous countries in the world. The capital, Mexico City (Ciudad de México), is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, with more than 21 million inhabitants in the metropolitan region.

Mexico is divided into 32 states and offers remarkable scenic and cultural diversity. From the tropical coasts of the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean to the arid deserts in the north, the dense rainforests in the south and the imposing volcanic landscapes in the central highlands – the country’s diverse regions invite you to explore your photographic creativity.

Yucatan

Yucatan is ideal for photographers interested in Mayan ruins and fascinating water landscapes. The ruins of Tulum, Cobá and Chichén Itzá offer impressive architecture amidst tropical landscapes. It’s worth taking photos early in the morning to take advantage of the soft light and avoid the large crowds of visitors. Cenotes such as Ik Kil and Dos Ojos are fantastic subjects for underwater photography – especially when you capture the clear water and the sun’s rays illuminating the caves.

  • Must-sees: Chichén Itzá, at least two cenotes and a trip to the beach.
  • Tips: Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and, above all, the heat. The cenotes are ideal for cooling off from the heat.

Palenque

The ancient Mayan city of Palenque, located in the state of Chiapas, is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Mexico and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The ruins lie deep in the rainforest, giving them a mystical atmosphere.

  • Must-sees: The ruins and the huge Agua Azul waterfalls
  • Tips: Allow enough time for bus journeys and make sure you are home before dark.
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San Cristobal de las Casas

This city in Chiapas is located on a high plateau and surrounded by mountains. The narrow streets, traditional markets and indigenous culture offer unique photo opportunities. San Cristobal is particularly suitable for portraits and street photography.

  • Must-sees: The old town with its many narrow streets and the Canon del Sumidero.
  • Tips: A telephoto lens will help you capture the wildlife in Canon del Sumidero.

Oaxaca

Oaxaca is known for its vibrant art scene, colourful streets and fascinating blend of colonial and indigenous architecture.

  • Must-sees: In addition to the beautiful city, a trip to the petrified waterfall Hierve el Agua is definitely worthwhile.
  • Tips: Find out about local events and parades so you can watch the colourful festivities, which usually include fireworks.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a paradise for photographers. Whether it’s modern skyscrapers, the historic centre, colourful neighbourhoods such as Coyoacán or green parks such as Chapultepec – you’ll find a wealth of photo opportunities here.

  • Must-sees: Explore the old town and ancient temples on foot and take at least one trip to the nearby ruins.
  • Tips: Pack a lightweight camera bag, as you will be walking a lot in the city.

Tips for taking photographs

  1. Time: In Mexico, the intense sunlight during the day often creates harsh lighting conditions. It is best to take photographs early in the morning or late in the afternoon to take advantage of the soft, warm light of the ‘golden hour’. This is especially important at Mayan sites such as Chichén Itzá and Palenque, as these places are usually less crowded in the morning.
  2. Climate: Mexico can have a hot and humid climate, especially in tropical regions such as Yucatán. Use protective bags and silica gel to protect your camera and lenses from moisture. In dusty environments, such as near volcanoes or in desert regions, bellows are useful for keeping sand and dust away from your equipment.
  3. People: Mexico’s streets offer vibrant photo opportunities with colourful markets, street art and traditional clothing. Street photography is particularly interesting in cities such as Oaxaca, Puebla and Mexico City. However, always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas and indigenous communities. Respect and courtesy are essential.
  4. Fast lens: In cenotes and when shooting at dusk, you will often encounter difficult lighting conditions. Here, it is helpful to work with higher ISO values and adjust the camera so that you can take sharp pictures even in low light. Some cenotes have unique natural light that makes your pictures particularly atmospheric.
  5. Drones: Drones can capture spectacular views, but there are many restrictions on their use in Mexico, especially in archaeological zones such as Chichén Itzá and Palenque. Check local regulations before using a drone and follow the rules to avoid penalties.

Fazit

The country has a rich history dating back to the ancient cultures of the Maya, Aztecs and Zapotecs. Mexico’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its architecture, art, music and cuisine, making it a fascinating destination for photographers. The interplay of colonial and indigenous culture is evident in every city, creating unique photo opportunities – from magnificent churches and historic buildings to lively festivals and traditional markets.

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FAQ: Photographing Mexico

Good basic equipment for Mexico consists of a camera with interchangeable lenses, a wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens for wildlife and details, and a tripod. An ND filter can be useful for long exposures, especially at waterfalls and cenotes. A waterproof bag or protective pouch helps to protect your equipment in wet or sandy environments.

Drones are not permitted in many tourist and archaeological areas, such as Chichén Itzá and Palenque. In other areas, a permit may be required. It is advisable to find out about local regulations in advance and always use your drone considerately so as not to disturb people or animals.

The dry season from November to April usually offers clear weather and less rain, which is ideal for landscape photography. However, the rainy season from May to October can create dramatic skies and lush green landscapes that are particularly suitable for atmospheric photos.

Yes, some archaeological sites, including Chichén Itzá and Palenque, have restrictions. The use of tripods or professional equipment is often only permitted with permission. Find out about the rules on arrival and respect any notices and barriers.

Night photography can be relatively safe in popular tourist areas, but caution is advised in certain neighbourhoods. Avoid taking photographs alone at night in remote areas or unsafe neighbourhoods, and refrain from carrying expensive equipment. In larger cities such as Mexico City and Oaxaca, busy squares and tourist attractions are often safer.

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