A city in the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico, Palenque is the gateway to the significant UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site of the same name. Set among thick rainforest, home to plenty of howler monkeys and parrots, the city was founded 200 years before anyone realised the remains of a Maya city-state was nearby – it was rediscovered in the 18^th century by an official expedition after being stumbled upon hundreds of years earlier by a Spanish priest.
The city and surrounding area has a significant indigenous population, mainly Ch’ol, an ethnic group of Mayan descent, and also gives access to natural attractions, like the spectacular Agua Azul waterfalls. With plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes, there is plenty to keep you entertained when you’re not out exploring nearby.