If you’ve been to our site before, you know that we love Mexico! It’s one of the countries we’ve visited the most with a combined total of more than 30 months in the last 10 years. There are many reasons why we spend so much time there that go way beyond it being a perfect tropical vacation spot.
For starters, Mexico is a vibrant and diverse country known for its rich culture and history, delicious cuisine and beautiful landscapes. It is a melting pot of various cultures, including indigenous, European and African influences. This diversity is reflected in its art, music, food and architecture, which have all been heavily influenced by these different cultures.
Furthermore, Mexico is home to many different kinds of plants and animals, making it a great place for people who love nature. Also, because it is between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, it has a lot of water sports and adventure activities to choose from. Overall, Mexico is a unique and special country with a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. Oh, and it is also not the incredibly dangerous country that some may have you believe.
From the weather to the people, from the culture to the natural beauty, from the beaches to the mountains, from the cities to the villages, Mexico has it all. You want proof? Well, here are the facts:
Stats and Facts About Mexico
Mexico is a vast nation with a large and diverse population. Let’s get started with some fundamental figures and facts about Mexico.
1. As of 2022, Mexico is the 10th most populous country in the world, with roughly 130 million people.
2. Mexico City is the most populous city in the country and one of the largest cities in the world, with a population of over 21 million people.
3. Mexico is the 14th largest country in the world by land area, covering over 760,000 square miles.
4. The country is a major producer of oil, and is one of the world’s top ten exporters of crude oil.
5. It is also a major producer of agricultural products, including corn, wheat, beans, and coffee.
6. Mexico is a member of the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and many other international organizations.
7. Mexico is the fifth largest country in the Americas, after the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Argentina.
8. The country’s official name is not Mexico, it’s “The United Mexican States” (Estados Unidos Mexicanos)
9. Although it is commonly spoken, Spanish is not the official language of Mexico. There are more than 65 languages spoken in Mexico, most are indigenous.
Fun Facts About Mexico
Mexico is a lively country. It has something for everyone, from its stunning beaches and historic ruins to its bustling cities and “Magic Towns”. Mexico is the perfect place for adventure, leisure, and fun. Mexico will make your visit memorable with its rich culture, wonderful food, and friendly people.
Here are some fun facts about Mexico that will have you booking your next vacation there.
10. Mexico is home to a wide range of natural environments, including deserts, mountains, rainforests, and coastal areas. It ranks fifth in the world for natural biodiversity.
11. The country is well-known for its beautiful beaches, which include popular resorts such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta. There are over 500 beaches in Mexico.
Take a look at these 35+ things to do in Cancun and the surrounding area.
12. Mexico has a vibrant arts scene, with a rich tradition of painting, sculpture, and other forms of visual art. Frida Kahlo is Mexico’s most famous artist.
13. The country is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many clubs, bars, and music venues found in its major cities.
14. The hairless dog, Xoloitzcuintli, is Mexico’s national dog, but the Chihuahua was named after the Mexican state of the same name.
15. Mexico is the world’s largest beer exporter, with top brands like Corona, Modelo and Pacifico.
16. Mexico is home to the most cenotes on the planet, with more than 6,000 of these magical sinkholes.
17. The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) is a national holiday that celebrates the lives of loved ones that have passed away. Despite the name, it is a joyous occasion.
18. Mexico is the loudest country in the world. Ok, this one is not a fact but after living and traveling in Mexico I’m calling it. They love their music loud and they light fireworks at every opportunity.
19. The Cuexcomate Volcano, just outside Puebla, is the smallest volcano in the world at just 43 feet tall.
20. The annual Monarch butterfly migration from the Canada/US border to Mexico is known to be the longest insect migration in the world (about 3,000 miles). The El Rosario Butterfly Sanctuary welcomes visitors to see millions of butterflies from November to March.
Interesting Facts About Mexico
Anyone who wants to learn more about this unique and interesting country will be interested in Mexico’s long and interesting history, its lively and diverse culture, and its many interesting facts. Mexico offers something for everyone, from its historic sites and breathtaking beaches to its thriving cities and thriving economy.
Here are some interesting facts about Mexico that you may not already know.
21. Mexico is home to 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic center of Mexico City and the ancient city of Teotihuacán.
22. There are more than 30 pyramids in Mexico and the Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the world.
23. Mexico has a diverse range of climates, from hot and dry deserts in the north to tropical rainforests in the south.
24. Cinco de Mayo is not a big celebration in most of Mexico. It’s mainly celebrated in the USA and the Mexican state of Puebla. It commemorates the 1862 victory over the French by the Mexican army.
25. Mexico is a major producer of silver and is one of the world’s leading exporters of this precious metal.
26. The country is home to 48 active volcanoes, including Popocatépetl and Colima.
27. Mexico is a major maker of cars and car parts, and it is also home to several of the world’s largest automakers.
28. Mexico is a founding member of the United Nations and has been a member since 1945.
29. Mexico has a number of professional sports teams, including football (soccer) clubs and baseball teams. Soccer is the number one sport in Mexico.
30. The world’s first printing press came from Mexico as did birth control pills and color TV.
31. The country has a number of world-class universities, including the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). This is the oldest university in the world (older the Harvard), however, it was closed in 1910 for over a decade when it was under State control.
32. Mexico sits on the “Ring of Fire,” a 25,000-mile stretch that see 90% of the world’s earthquakes and 75% of the world’s active volcanoes.
33. Mexico City is second only to London for having the most museums in the world. The capital city has more than 180 museums.
34. About 70% of the water for Mexico City is pumped out of the aqueducts under the city. This is causing it to slowly sink at a rate of about 12 cm annually.
35. The Mexico City subway has “women-only” cars.
36. Mexico has the highest number of taxis in the world.
37. Ironically, there are now more US citizens moving to Mexico than Mexicans moving to the US.
38. The meteor that wiped out the dinosaurs hit Mexico full-on. This is what created many of the thousands of sinkholes (cenotes) and underground river systems.
39. The World Tourism Organization ranks Mexico as #10 worldwide and #1 in Latin America for international visitors.
Facts About Mexico for Kids
Kids will love exploring the interesting and adventurous country of Mexico. It is distinguished by its stunning beaches, historic sites, and lively culture. Kids might find it interesting to know that Mexico has the 11th-largest economy in the world, that it is the origin of corn and chocolate, and that it has a wide variety of weather and landscapes.
Here are a few facts about Mexico that kids will find interesting whether they are researching a school project or planning a vacation.
40. Mexico is one of three countries in North America, along with Canada and the United States.
41. It is the largest Spanish-speaking country in the world.
42. Spanish colonists destroyed the Aztec Empire by exposing them to smallpox. They then ruled Mexico until 1821 when the country gained independence. Cities such as Merida exhibit Spanish influence in their architecture.
43. A good part of northern Mexico is desert, with cacti, rattlesnakes and scorpions. Much of southern Mexico is covered in rainforests and jungles with monkeys, jaguars and pumas.
44. More than 25% of Mexico’s population is under the age of 15.
45. The country’s official currency is the Mexican peso.
46. Mexico has the most reptile species in the world, with more than 700 known types.
47. There are 31 states in Mexico plus the Federal District of Mexico City. Mexico City is the capital of the country.
48. The National symbol of Mexico is the Golden Eagle.
49. The country’s flag features a green, white, and red design, with an eagle holding a serpent in its beak.
50. Mexico is home to the rare volcano rabbit, which is one of the smallest rabbits in the world. It is found near volcanoes which is how it got its name.
51. Most Mexicans celebrate Christmas, but gifts are given on January 6th which is Three Kings Day.
52. Sombrero hats were originally made to protect workers from the sun. The name comes from “sombra,” which is “shade” in Spanish.
53. Mexico is the largest consumer of soft drinks in the world and coca-cola is by far the most popular drink.
Facts About Mexico Food
Mexican cuisine is a delectable and diverse cuisine with roots in Mexico’s ancient civilizations. It is known for its use of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and an array of colorful dishes influenced by various cultural and historical influences. It is popular all over the world and is an important part of Mexican culture and daily life.
Tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and guacamole are among the most popular dishes. Whether you like spicy, flavorful dishes or prefer something milder, the world of Mexican food has something for everyone.
Here are a few facts about Mexican food to get you drooling.
54. Mexico’s food is recognized as a piece of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
55. The country has a rich and varied cuisine, with dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and mole poblano being particularly popular.
56. There are 59 varieties of corn grown in Mexico and it is a staple in their diet.
57. Chocolate (cacao plants) originated in Mexico and “hot chocolate” was consumed by the Olmec for rituals and even medicine.
58. Tomatoes also originated in Mexico and were brought to Europe by the Spanish.
59. Tamales date back 8,000 thousand years and were considered a sacred food of the Gods by the Aztecs and Maya.
60. Insects, including grasshoppers and worms, are a part of traditional Mexican food. Worm salt is often served with mezcal and snacks.
61. It is believed that tacos were invented between 1,000 and 500 BC.
62. The traditional and delicious meal of Chiles en Nogada displays the green, white and red of the Mexican flag.
63. Mole is a traditional sauce made from a lot of different ingredients including chillis and chocolate.
64. Caesar salad was invented in Mexico by Ceasar Cardini at his restaurant in Tijuana.
65. Fajitas are not a traditional Mexican dish. They were created in the 1970s by Mexican cowboys in Texas.
66. Tortillas are a staple in Mexico for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A family can consume as much as 2 lbs of tortillas per day.
67. Chili spice is often used in Mexican food even fruit. When you buy freshly sliced mango or coconut for a snack they will cover it in chili sauce or powder if you don’t say no.
68. A popular street food treat is “elote” which is grilled corn on the cob covered in mayonnaise, cheese and chili.
Facts About Mexico History
Mexico has a colorful and fascinating history. Many great civilizations have called it home, including the Olmecs, Maya, and Aztecs. These ancient cultures left a wealth of artifacts, ruins, and artifacts that provide insight into the lives of the people who lived in Mexico thousands of years ago.
Mexico’s history also includes Spanish colonization in the 16th century and its fight for independence in the 19th century. Mexico is a vibrant and diverse country that is still being shaped by its rich history.
Here are some historic facts about Mexico to give you an idea of how long this country has been around.
69. Mexico has a long and complex history, with a diverse array of indigenous civilizations that developed in the region before the arrival of Europeans. These include the Olmecs, the Zapotecs, the Maya and the Aztecs.
70. Mexico is a major transit point for illegal drugs entering the United States and has struggled with drug-related violence in recent years. However, as a whole, Mexico is quite safe and, in fact, Mexico City is considered safer than NYC.
71. The Mexican flag colors of green, white and red stand for Independance, Unity and Religion.
72. Legend says the Aztecs chose Tenochtitlan, which is today Mexico City, as the spot to settle after seeing an eagle on a cactus eating a snake (this symbol is on the Mexican flag). This sighting was said to have been fortold as a sign of where to settle.
73. Choula is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas, dating back to between 800 and 200 BC.
74. Mexico is home to a number of important cultural and historical sites, including the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum.
75. Mexico is one of the six cradles of civilization along with Peru, Egypt, India, China and modern-day Iraq.
76. Evidence of humans dating back 22,000 years was found at the Tlapacoya archeological site near Mexico City.
Cultural Facts About Mexico
Mexico has a rich culture. Its people are kind and enjoy music, art, and dance. Mexican culture emphasizes family and community, blending indigenous and European influences. Mexican food is rich in flavor and reflects the country’s history and different geographies. The varied and vibrant culture of Mexico is found in both its cities and villages as well as the countryside and coastline.
Here are some facts about Mexican culture that may help you better understand this great country.
77. Mexico has a rich and diverse culture, with influences from indigenous peoples, Europeans, and other groups.
78. It also has a rich tradition of music and dance, with styles like mariachi, cumbia, and salsa being popular.
79. The country is home to a number of important religious sites, including the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.
80. Mexico has a long tradition of literature and poetry, with writers like Octavio Paz and Gabriel García Márquez being well-known internationally.
81. The country also has a long history of making movies, and Mexican actors and directors are known all over the world for their work. Guillermo del Toro is one of the most famous Mexican directors with works like Pan’s Labyrinth and The Hobbit. Famous actors include Anthony Quinn and Salma Hayek.
82. Much of the country is Christian/Roman Catholic (near 80%)
83. The site of Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
So, what do you think of these fun and interesting facts about Mexico? Do you see why it’s such a special country worthy of high praise? Did you learn some new factoids to share at the next dinner party? We hope at the very least we’ve piqued your interest if you weren’t already in love with Mexico!
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Born in England, Sarah developed her wanderlust at a young age as she traveled around Europe with her parents. As a young adult she spent every penny she could on experiences as opposed to possessions. Eventually she found a way to earn a living doing what she loved: traveling, writing and capturing images of the wondrous world we live in. When not on the go Sarah enjoys time in her “sometimes home” of Vancouver.