Experience the laid-back lifestyle of this pastoral region on the Yucatán Peninsula and learn about Maya heritage and colonial landmarks.
The municipality of Hecelchakán is a captivating country getaway tucked into the northerly reaches of the state of Campeche. The municipality’s name is derived from the Maya word for “savannah.” In this area you will find townships and winding rural roads set in verdant landscapes, pretty plains and broad pastoral acres. Find hidden treasures amid the unhurried streetscapes or embark on an adventure into the municipality’s neighboring national parks.
A great starting point for your exploration of the municipality is its seat, the city of Hecelchakán. Visit the Museo Arqueológico del Camino Real de Hecelchakán to learn about the city’s Maya heritage and some of the colonial-era events that took place here. A stroll down the city’s main strip will bring you past some of its architectural landmarks, such as the Palacio Municipal and the Iglesia De Hecelchakán. Take a seat in the tree-lined public park fronting the church and admire the historic structure’s imposing design. Two square towers rise up above the surrounding palm trees from the front façade and dominate the city’s low-lying streetscape.
Venture west into Hecelchakán’s rural settlements and observe the landscape begin to change as you draw closer to the coast. Hecelchakán’s western seaboard is protected by the vast and varied Petenes and Celestún Biosphere Reserves. Join a tour of these spectacular national parks and learn about the region’s intricate ecosystems.
Cruise down the Ría Celestún by boat and you might see petrified forests and rich estuarine marshland. Look out for the colony of flamingos that resides in this region, as well as 150 other species of birds. Spot the stealthy caiman peeping out of the water and check out the pelicans that squabble by the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.
Hecelchakán is located to the north of the state of Campeche on the Yucatán Peninsula. The city and municipality are about an hour’s drive northeast from the city of Campeche. North of Hecelchakán you’ll find the historic municipality of Calkiní. Visit Hecelchakán on a road trip or use the city as a base when exploring the rich local landscapes.
