Campeche

The state

Get to know Campeche

Campeche occupies the western part of the Yucatán Peninsula, on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. It is a region of low jungle, mangroves and shallow coast, with less bustle than its neighbors and a Maya and colonial heritage that often surprises visitors.

The capital, San Francisco de Campeche, was attacked by pirates in the 16th and 17th centuries and built walls and bastions for defense. The historic center, with low houses painted in bright colors, is a World Heritage Site, and the bastions and the forts of San Miguel and San José on the city hills house museums. Strolling along the malecón by the gulf is the late-afternoon activity.

About 55 km from the capital is Edzná, with the Five-Story Building overlooking a large plaza. To the south, the Calakmul biosphere reserve protects one of the largest jungle areas in Mexico, with the Maya city of the same name whose pyramids rise above the tree canopy; the site is a mixed natural and cultural World Heritage Site. The base for visiting is Xpujil, on the road that crosses the peninsula.

In the cuisine, pan de cazón—tortillas with shredded cazón and tomato sauce—and gulf seafood. The city of Campeche is about 180 km from Mérida, and the two are often visited on the same trip.