If you are planning to visit Mexico City, you have to prepare a list of things to do in Mexico City! Do you ever wonder why the city is so nostalgic and creates melancholia? It is a home of art galleries, overwhelming museums, and a haven for architecture lovers! Read the article to learn more.
Mexico City is an exciting place to be, especially if you enjoy museums with some of the world’s oldest and largest museums. It is a perfect place to be if you want to play tourist for a while!
It has been the capital of New Spain for almost 300 years now, and it is filled with ancient ruins representing an absolute sanctum for history! With sprawling mansions and several world heritage sites, you cannot keep this beauty from your bucket list.
These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City For You
Before we identify the exciting and interesting things you can do while visiting Mexico City, I want to bring to your attention that Mexico City was once called the City of Palaces.
It is also perfect for those who are attracted to a place’s local flavor when traveling! So as a tourist, you must integrate yourself with the delicious food, an electric combination of visiting architectural masterpieces, local villages, markets, and history.
The cultural diversity in Mexico City is incomparable to any in the world. Hence, it is a beautiful travel destination with chaotic yet picturesque views. With historical UNESCO sites around and inside the city, trust me; you will be busy with your visit!
Chapultepec Castle
This castle is mostly a part of tours organized almost daily! The Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology can initially seem intimidating, and you can easily get overwhelmed when you first visit.
However, it is one of the top attractions that is engaging and enjoyable. You can stroll in the Chapultepec Park adjoining the castle and then go inside it to be informed about its features by a guide.
The castle is more like a museum that displays significant artifacts such as Mayan, Mexico, and Teotihuacan exhibits. The castle is open for 5 to 6 hours, and you can get mobile tickets for $90 per head, while entry is free for students with IDs, disabled people, children, and senior citizens.
Bosque De Chapultepec
In Mexico City, Bosque De Chapultepec is one of the largest parks, comprising 686 hectares. The park also has a rock formation located centrally called Chapultepec Hill, one of the park’s main attractions.
It is also considered an ecological space that effectively helps maintain an environmental balance along with the city’s cultural aspects. When you buy tickets for the castle, the park becomes accessible; hence, you do not need to purchase tickets separately for the park.
Parque Zoológico De Chapultepec
One of the 4 zoos in Mexico City, Parque Zoológico De Chapultepec is one of the best. The Zoo is a part of Chapultepec Park and was inaugurated in 1923. The Zoo is free to access, and there are many families along with their children to enjoy themselves.
It is spread across 42 acres, with annual visitors of 5.5 million. They have a collection of 250 species and a total of 1930 animals in the Zoo.
Museo Nacional De Antropologia
It is considered the national museum of Spain as it displays artifacts from multiple civilizations and includes pre-Columbian history. This museum is so big and expands to cover so many periods that it can be exhausting for visitors.
It is the most popular museum in Mexico, and you can take a guided tour to learn about the displays in detail. The tickets to enter the museum are $4 per person. The time to visit is from 9 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Sunday!
Free tours are available on Saturdays in 5 different time durations. They are:
10:30 am.
12:30 pm.
1:30 pm.
3 pm.
5 pm.
Also, if you are a foreigner visiting the museum, avoid Sundays. On that day, the natives receive free admission. Hence, there will be a crowd in the museum.
Basilica De Santa Maria De Guadalupe
The Basilica De Santa Maria De Guadalupe is a mammoth church that is also addressed as the country’s national shrine. It is considered a significant pilgrimage site for the Catholics from 1709 because it contains the famous cloak displaying the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
The church acts as a shrine, and you must be respectful when you visit it, so try to avoid wearing workout clothing or shorts. The tickets to enter the church are 50 cents per head, and it also allows free cancellation.
Coyoacan
Are you on a vacation in Mexico city? Please visit Coyoacan, you will get a feeling of bohemian culture all around you, while a park sits centrally named Jardin Centenario Park. The village can be addressed as a collection of monuments presenting history.
The meaning of the name “Coyoacan” is a place for coyotes. It is a bohemian neighborhood with the Museo de Frida Kahlo, which is blue in color, where you can see a collection of her life and work. Also, there is the preserved home of Leon Trotsky, which you can visit.
You do not need to pay anything to visit the village. However, there are art galleries, sidewalk cafes, and colorful artisan markets that you will love to explore!
Museo Soumaya
Another classic museum that is privately owned, Museo Soumaya, is a non-profit organization with two buildings, Plaza Loreto and Plaza Carso. The time to visit the museum is between 10:30 and 6:30 every day, with free admission.
The architect is Fernando Romero, and the museum’s collection includes artwork and artifacts between the 15th and mid-2th centuries. It is one of the world’s largest museums which houses approximately 70,000 works.
Zocalo
Want to experience the culture of Mexico, you should visit the Zocalo or the Plaza de la Constitución, which is one of the most popular sports in the city. It is a historical public plaza that is quite large and is always alive and buzzing. This is one of the best things to do in Mexico city!
You can find Aztec dancers and performers who showcase traditional skills, integrate cultural performances, and also perform political demonstrations. It is shaped as a square with a sprawling place to host the performances. Admission is completely free!
Landmarks and beautiful architecture surround the place, such as the Temple Mayor and Palacio Bellas Artes! You can start your exploration of the city from here, integrating a historical location that represents the culture.
Catedral Metropolitana De La Ciudad De México
One of the significant monuments, Catedral Metropolitana De La Ciudad De México, is the largest church in Latin America, more dominating than the Zocalo. It is an iconic structure with a must-see!
A feast to the eyes, the church is as innovative and inquisitive as regards the use of Aztec stones used in construction. The Altar de person is elaborately gilded and carved and is an eye-catcher! There is also a dusky Christ figure called the Senor del Veneno on the right.
The cathedral is an artistic delight because of its intricate carvings and 17th-century wooden designs. The ticket prices are $34.99 per head. You can roam around freely; however, people are asked to respect it during mass.
National Palace
The National Palace has served as the official residence of the president of Mexico since 2018. It is also the seat of the federal executive in Mexico. It is one of Mexico City attractions!
The palace is beautifully designed, and the ticket to visit the grounds will cost around $29. You will face grand colonial architecture that you can’t stop but admire. It is also a symbol of the national history of Spain.
Monumento Y Museo De La Revolución
The Mexican Revolution is being commemorated by Monumento Y Museo De La Revolución, which is located in the Plaza de la Republica. The entry fee is $15, while you can also take a bus tour that will take you around the building and guide you through the historical representation.
Torre Latino
A skyscraper in downtown Mexico City, the Torre Latinoamericana is centrally located and considered one of the most important landmarks in history. It was launched on 30 April 1956, and the architect of the building was Augusto H. Alvarez.
The building has 44 stories with a height of 166 meters and is quite popular because it has been successfully developed in a seismic zone. The building is open from 10 am to 9 pm, and the tickets cost $9.
You will find an aquarium in the building, considered the highest aquarium in the world, along with observation decks designed to enjoy the spectacular view of the city. The aquarium is located on the 38th floor.
Biblioteca Vasconcelos
A one of its kind library, Biblioteca Vasconcelos is considered one of the biggest by the Mexican press. It is located in the downtown section of Mexico City. The presidential candidate and the prior president of the National Library of Mexico, Jose Vasconcelos, has inspired this library.
The library was inaugurated in 2006, and with advanced constructions, the library has become an attraction in the 21st century. Entry to the library is free; however, they have certain rules regarding using and accessing the books.
Mercado Roma
It is a multi-level food hall chic in its updo sporting a rooftop beer garden and international eateries. You can have delivery, takeaway, and dine-in here! It is a traditional yet modern take on indie gourmet snacks featuring all the upcoming chefs of the city.
There is no entry fee, but you will spend a lot because the food is delicious! For all you Instagrammers, take advantage of this place because where else would you get pictures thus sumptuous?
El Bazar Sabado
A marketplace with vibrant colors and options is open from morning 10 to evening 7 p.m. It boasts a collection of top traditional Mexican arts, crafts and local artists who display their art for you to buy!
Guys and girls, you will spend a lot of money here, especially with the beautiful clothing items and home decor. You will also get food in stalls in 18th-century homes or mansions belonging to aristocratic residents.
Acuario Inbursa
One of the largest aquariums in Latin America, with more than 230 diverse species and more than 5000 animals. The aquarium is in the district of Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City. Imagine the beauty of the aquarium while standing below these beauties!
The exhibition space comprises 3500 square meters with approximately 1.6 million liters of Ocean water. The display comprises 5 types of sharks, barracuda, and manta rays. One ticket to enter the aquarium costs $230.
Antara Fashion Hall
The mall is an attraction with an upscale view of the stores in the open-air shopping center in Colonia Granada, Mexico City. There are beautiful displays along which you can carry on your shopping excursion.
Women love shopping, don’t they? Guys, if you do not accompany your girls to this shopping mall, you will miss out big time. With beautiful clothing stores and food restaurants, it is the place to be in Mexico City!
Plaza San Jacinto
Another remarkable public place to visit, perfect for spending time, taking a stroll, or visiting the San Jacinto Church, Plaza San Jacinto is the public square! You can also visit the pre-Hispanic village of Tenanitla, a perfect place to experience bohemian culture.
The Plaza is the apt place to understand the culture of Mexico and experience the way art, baroque, and sculptures come together to create vibrancy and medieval beauty!
Museo De Sitio Teotihuacan
Located closer to the Pyramid Sun at its southern end, Museo De Sitio Teotihuacan symbolizes Teotihuacan’s local culture. It is a refreshing stop, especially if you have been walking around the whole day!
The ticket price to visit the museum is $73.55, where you will find traditions, history, and experience. It is one of the significant features, especially because Teotihuacan boasts of palaces, ruins of apartments, temples, and pyramids.
Ballet Folklorico De Mexico
If you have gone to Mexico City, you must attend this beautiful performance, especially with the impressive performance of the Mexican folkloric ensemble! Ballet performances have been going on for the past 6 decades.
There are costumes and dance numbers presented in the traditional performance by Mexican artists! The ticket price for the ballet is approximately $40.
San Angel
If you are more of a cultural fellow, you have to go to San Angel, a neighborhood in Mexico which is charming to its core! You can go right in your pictures with the colonial homes covered in bougainvillea.
The streets are cobblestone, with upscale restaurants and cafes on the sidewalks. This route connects you to the 17th-century El Carmen Monastery and the Plaza San Jacinto, so get some history and culture!
There are also art markets on the roadside on Saturday, creating a perfect view for the hungry artist in you!
Floating Gardens Of Xochimilco
A mesmerizing place to be, Floating Gardens Of Xochimilco has been announced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the canals, which spread across 100 square miles.
The place is a mixture of culture and nature where the open-air gondolas float while the whole market is established on the gondolas. Flower, food, and beverage sellers are all carrying on in the gondolas.
Mariachi musicians play traditional songs, and you can party in nearby boats with your friends and family while drinking some beer.
Six Flags Mexico
It is for the adrenaline junkies! Also, if you have children, visit Six Flags Mexico, an amusement park closer to the southern edge of Mexico City and in the Tlalpan forest. There are two water rides, and the park is open year-round.
There are 9 roller coaster rides apart from other rides; in total 50 rides in the park. The ticket to entry into the park costs around $57. Get yourself an adrenaline-filled day, people!
El Angel De La Independencia
It is mostly known as El Angel, which is a victory column that is situated in downtown Mexico City! The El Angel De La Independencia is also identified as an independence tribute for the victory of Mexico over Spain after the War of Independence.
You can see the gold statue, the Angel of Independence, almost anywhere in the city. To go to the top of the monument, you must buy a ticket for $16. You can also opt for a private helicopter tour which will cost you more!
The monument is gigantic and represents the victory and the development of the people after independence.
Alameda Central
This place is famous, and why won’t it be? Have you seen the beautiful monument with its sharp corners and the majestic visuals it creates contracting the sky? It is not only beautiful, it is also historically important for the people.
The monument is also a park where people hang around and is considered a marketplace! It was where heretics were burned under the Spanish acquisition, so clearly, this place is a place of sacrifice.
You do not need to pay anything to visit the place! And do remember to take pictures, people!
Sagrario Metropolitano
The visiting charge for Sagrario Metropolitano is $84 per person, which might be a little pricey, but it is worth it! The church has been made of stone, standing brave in its elegance and architectural beauty.
The facades of the church have been lavishly ornate, and if you are a monument fan, you cannot miss the baroque architecture reflecting the Greek side of the monument.
Unam Biblioteca Central
Book lovers, here you go! Another library is located in Mexico City, you have to visit it! Unam Biblioteca Central belongs to the National Autonomous University of Mexico and is the main library for students in Ciudad Universitaria.
The book collection in this library is one of the largest and most multidisciplinary in providing books for adjacent faculties. The library has beautiful murals, and you do not need to pay any charge to visit it.
Los Dinamos
Are you a hiker? Or a nature lover? Go for Los Dinamos, as it is the perfect place for rock climbing, camping, and hiking across the wooded valley with waterfalls and large streams. It is open from 6 am and is a protected area.
You can take a bus to Los Dinamos, which will cost $19.58! It is situated near the southwest area of the city with trails across the terrain! Happy hiking!
Territorio Capitan
Sports lovers, Territorio Capitan is the home of the Capitanes, which was founded in 2016. The beauty of the stadium is more beautiful in person and it boasts of being the first Latin American franchise across the NBA G League.
For the historical tours, the price of the tickets is $149 for one person. However, it changes with the size of your visiting group!
Day Of The Dead
If you are planning on traveling to Mexico City, aim for your dates around November, as the Day Of The Dead. is celebrated on 1 and 2 November. It varies with different localities, which will give you a glimpse of Mexican heritage.
Remember Daniel Craig’s James Bond making his way across the city in the opening scene? It was the Day Of The Dead when the people of Mexico celebrated the dead as it is said, “The dead are alive.”
Concerts across Mexico City are organized, and everyone has different ticket prices, but yes, take advantage of this celebration as you will learn about Mexico City more closely.
Now You Know!
I have made a list keeping in mind that only some are of the same practices and choices, and you might prefer adventure or a museum! But overall, all these places are perfect for that list you are making of things to do in Mexico City.
What can be more interesting and exciting if you do not learn about the culture and the people of the place you are visiting? Traveling across the world and learning about different cultures is mind-opening.
Comment down below about the place you liked the most out of all the places and why!
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.
Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.
However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.
Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.
Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place.
Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.
Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace
December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.
Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.
1. Audubon Zoo Visit
https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1
Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans
Contact Number: (504) 861-2537
Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed)
Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children
Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.
However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.
I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.
Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!
Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.
Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures.
2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids
Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.
Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.
As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.
Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.
A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.
3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids
Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.
Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.
Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves.
Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.
Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!
4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River
There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.
Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.
So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.
They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.
Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.
5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park
Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans
Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park
A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.
Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.
Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.
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Spotting the burrows of the black petrels at Glenfern Sanctuary and the hillside was like magic! The burrows had eggs in a cream shade with tan freckles. They almost looked like the eggs of a hen, though slightly larger.
Also, some chicks were chirping their hearts out inside the burrows. They looked like those squishy dog toys. Now, spotting birds is one of the most fulfilling activities when you are camping on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.
Furthermore, if days were about hiking and spotting the birds, the nights were about indulging in the surreal beauty of the celestial bodies at this designated Dark Sky Sanctuary.
Moreover, camping in Great Barrier Island is a true off-grid and remote experience.
No Streetlight!
No Public Rubbish Bins!
And, No Powered Camping Sites!
It’s just you, the camping tent, and the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s Hauraki Gulf.
Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Great Barrier Island camping tips. Here, you will learn about the must-book DOC sites, the non-negotiable biosecurity rules, and everything else you need to plan your adventure.
Camping In Aotea, Great Barrier Island: Setting The Right Mindset For Biosecurity And Sustainability
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Aotea isn't a place that just hands you its beauty. It's a place that makes you earn it. It's a true adventure that rewards you for being self-sufficient.
It's the thrill of waking up to the raucous call of a Kākā parrot, not an alarm clock. It's the magic of watching the Milky Way rise over the dunes at Medlands Beach, and the peace of having a rugged, white-sand cove all to yourself.
Also, it is one of the rare islands that serve as sanctuaries, and with 60% of its area protected by the Department of Conservation, Great Barrier Island demands the utmost care for biosecurity and the adoption of sustainable practices.
So, before you want to explore the best camping spots on Great Barrier Island New Zealand, you have to build your mindset.
This is your invitation to join a small community of travellers who value wild, authentic, and responsible adventure.
1. Offering The True Off-Grid Experience
The campsites of the Great Barrier Island are exactly what the island is. They are not powered, and they have basic amenities. Furthermore, open fire is not allowed in these campsites.
So, you will have to bring fuel-powered or gas cookers. Furthemore, the Department of Conservation camping sites have only a specific number of tents. So, you need to make the booking well in advance. Contact the Department of Conservation (DoC) at 0800 275 362.
2. The Golden Rule: "Pack In, Pack Out”
Zero waste and recycling are important for the sustainability and environmentally friendly practices of the Great Barrier Island. However, the island does not have public rubbish bins.
So, whatever you carry to the island, you will have to take it back. You must use the official Orange Council bags with stickers for trash disposal.
3. Biosecurity Is Most Important
Protecting the Kauri trees from the infamous “Kauri Dieback disease” and the island's endemic animals requires a high level of biosecurity.
So, when you leave for the Great Barrier Island from Auckland, you will have to check for ants and rats. Also, when you leave Great Barrier Island, check the tents and packs for skinks.
In addition, the Phytophthora Agathidicida attack on the kauri trees has been a serious concern. Stopping the soil movement is crucial to stopping the attack of this dieback disease. Soil movement can happen through pigs, footwear, and vehicles.
Therefore, the Department of Conservation (DoC) cleaning stations play an important role in cleaning and removing soil from your gear and footwear before entering a kauri forest on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.
In addition, you have to stick to the marked routes when hiking through the best Great Barrier Island hiking trails.
4. How To Book The Camping Sites: DOC Vs. Private
If you are camping in any of the DoC sites, you have to make the booking online well in advance. Private camping sites can be booked directly.
Here is the step-by-step guide for booking a DoC Campsite on the Great Barrier Island.
First, visit the Department of Conservation site for the particular campsite. For example, let’s talk about the Akapoua Bay Campsite.
On the dedicated Akapoua Bay Campsite page, you will get to know about the campsite and the fees.
The fees for the Akapoua Bay Campsite are $18 per night for adults, $9 per night for children ages 5 to 17, and $0 per night for infants ages 0 to 4.
In addition, you can book a campsite pass from the Department of Conservation of New Zealand. It will give you access to all the bookable and non-bookable campsites in the country.
If you need any assistance in booking the campsite pass, you can avail of that at a service tax of $10. For adults, the camping pass will cost $295.00 (365 nights), and for children between 5 and 17 years, the pass will cost $147.50.
Moreover, for children below 5 years, the camping pass is free.
If you need any assistance regarding the booking of the 1-year campsite pass or a pass for any specific site, you can contact Whakatū/Nelson Visitor Centre at +64 3 546 9339 or email them at nelsonvc@doc.govt.nz.
The Kauaeranga Visitor Centre (+64 7 867 9080/kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz) also offers the same assistance.
What Are The Best Camping Spots On Great Barrier Island New Zealand?
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Digital detox has been a trending thing these days, and if you want to truly experience that and shut all the noise in your head, the camping spots on the Great Barrier Island will be the best for you.
Further, the real magic of camping on Aotea starts after sunset. You haven't lived until you've watched the Milky Way rise over your tent from the dunes at Medlands.
However, along with the Medlands Beach, there are 5 other DoC campsites in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Here are the details.
1. Akapoua Bay Campsite
The sheltered waters of Port FitzRoy have a beautiful camping ground, which is like a gateway to the many walking tracks of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.
From waking up with a 60-second dash of a cold shower to exploring the paths graced by the pohutukawa trees, the Akapoua Bay Campsite will offer you a peaceful and off-the-grid experience.
The maximum number of campers on this site can be 75. Moreover, the camp is hosted from Christmas to the end of January.
2. Harataonga Campsite
This campground is very close to Harataonga Beach. So, it is an ideal camping site for swimmers and snorkeling enthusiasts.
It can accommodate 120 campers, and this campsite is surrounded by bush and farmland. and camping takes place between Christmas and mid-February. Harataonga is for the romantic escape.
3. Awana Beach Campsite
The Awana Beach Campsite is a surfer’s dream. It has beautiful dunes and farmlands around. It can accommodate 120 campers, and the campground remains open from Christmas to the end of January.
The only problem with this camping site is mosquitoes. So, you have to carry mosquito repellents.
4. Medlands Beach Campsite
The sound of the waves at Medlands. This is the music you will listen to when you go to sleep or wake up at the Medlands Beach Campsite.
Medlands is like an all-rounder. It is ideal for families and surfers alike. The campsite remains open from Christmas to mid-February, and it can accommodate 120 campers.
5. The Green Campsite
You can boat in or walk in the Green Campsite, which remains open from 1st December to the end of February. With a capacity of accommodating only 30 campers, this campsite has a rich history associated with whaling, kauri logging, and timber milling.
The waters of the Whangaparapara Harbour make it an idyllic retreat, and it is also the base of the Aotea Track.
6. Whangapoua Campsite
The Whangapoua Campsite is a surfer’s paradise, and it is located on the edge of the Whangapoua estuary. It is also a favorite camping site for fishing.
With an accommodation capacity of 150 people, this campsite remains open from Christmas to the end of February. However, the biggest highlight of this camping site is the views of Rakitu Island and Mount Hirakimata.
A Comparison Summary Table Of The DoC Camping Sites On The Great Barrier Island, New Zealand
DoC Campsite Access Landscape Facilities Activities Dog Access Fees Akapoua Bay Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Boating, Fishing, Walking, and Tramping No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Harataonga Beach Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Swimming, Snorkeling, Fishing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Awana Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Kayaking and Canoeing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Medlands Beach Campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Boat Launching, Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and Women Fishing, Surfing, Swimming No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free The Green Campsite Boat, Foot Coastal Cooking Shelter, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenHiking, Boating No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free Whangapoua campsite Campervan, Car and Caravan Coastal Cooking Shelter, Cold Shower, Non-Flush Toilets for Men and WomenFishing, Surfing No Adults: $18 per night, Children of 5-17 years, $9 per night, and Children below 5 years: free
Insider Tips For Camping At DoC Campsites On The Great Barrier Island
If you are camping in a caravan or campervan, remember that the gravel roads leading to the camping sites, especially the Harataonga Campsite, are steep and winding. Also, the sites are off-the-grid.
Furthermore, the campervans are not usually allowed on the beaches.
The Best Private & Unique Camping Options On The Great Barrier Island
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1. Great Barrier Island Campground
The Great Barrier Island Campground, spanning over an area of 12 square acres, is an ideal camping ground for access to different beach activities.
The camping site is located at a distance of just 200 meters from the beach. The camping fee at the Great Barrier Island Campground is $10 per person per night. You can contact them at 021 298 8905 for booking.
2. Mickeys Place
The O'Shea Family farm in Awana houses the Mickey's Place camping ground. It is a family-friendly camping site with the following facilities.
A Communal Cooking Area
Flush Toilets
Showers
Patrick, Sean, and Mickey are the hosts of this campsite, and you can contact them at 09 4290 140.
3. Stray Possum
Stary Possum in Tryphena is an ideal camping site for backpackers. If you are camping here, you will have access to the kitchen, toilets, and showers of the adjacent Stray Possum Lodge.
This camping site has 14 tents, and you can call 09 4290 109 for booking details.
21 Essential Great Barrier Island Camping Tips
I promised you tips, and here they are. Do not go to Great Barrier Island without reading this checklist.
• Packing And Food
1. Bringing a Gas Cooker
Open fires are banned in the Camping sites of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to bring a gas burner for preparing your food.
2. Packing Your Food
Groceries are not available everywhere, and they are even very expensive. So, it is better to collect and pack the groceries you will need before leaving Auckland.
3. Bringing a Good Chilly Bin
You will need this insulated chest for storing warm and cold food items.
4. Bringing a Red-Light Torch
The island is a Dark Sky Sanctuary. A red torch lets you stargaze without ruining your night vision.
5. Bringing Cash
EFTPOS (debit) is unreliable, and many camping sites only accept cash.
6. Packing Warm Clothes
The weather can suddenly become cold, even on summer days. So, you will have to pack layered clothes.
7. Carrying Mosquito and Insect Repellent
Sandflies and mosquitoes are notorious on Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry an insect repellent.
• On-Site & Facilities
8. Cold Showers
Most shower stations on the Great Barrier Island are cold water shower stations. This is great as the dash of cold water in the morning, literally works as the eye opener.
9. Long-Drop Toilets
The long-drop toilets are basic and waterless. Using these pit toilets can be challenging for some campers.
10. Drinking Water
The tap water available at these sites is not ideal for drinking unless it is purified or boiled.
11. Pet-Friendly
The DoC camping grounds are not accessible to dogs. This is crucial for the protection of wildlife, the safety of the pets, and soil movement, causing the resurrection of pets and parasites affecting the local flora and fauna.
12. Booking
The slots for camping sites such as Medlands, Akapoua get sold more than 6 months in advance for the Christmas and New Year periods. So, it is indeed a year-long planning.
13. Alcohol Rules
The consumption of alcohol can be banned in various camping sites, especially during the peak seasons. So, check with the camping site authority.
• Transport & Logistics
14. Having a Vehicle
Having a vehicle is a must for moving around the rugged and large Great Barrier Island. You cannot walk between the sites.
15. Renting a 4WD (or 4WD-Capable)
The roads to various campsites are challenging. The road to Harataonga, especially, is very difficult. So, you will have to rent a 4WD-capable vehicle.
16. The Motorhome/Campervan Reality
The gravel roads are narrow, steep, and winding, and if you are planning to camp in a large RV, you will definitely struggle.
17. The Dump Station Nightmare
There is only one dump station in Claris, and it is only for black water or toilet waste. You will have to carry your grey water or sink with you.
18. Freedom Camping
Freedom camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a fascinating idea. However, the reality is quite different. It is heavily restricted, and sticking to the DoC sites is the best option.
• Safety & Etiquette
19. Using a Paper Map
Mobile network and GPS will not function in various parts of the Great Barrier Island. So, you will have to carry a paper map.
20. Tell Someone Your Plans
If you are hiking on the Great Barrier Island, you have to keep someone informed. The wilderness and remote locations of the hiking trails can throw many challenges, despite having an easy to moderately difficult level.
21. Being a Good Neighbour
You must respect the quiet, off-grid, and nature-first vibe of the Great Barrier Island. So, you have to keep the noise level down.
How To Reach The Aotea Great Barrier Island With Your Camping Gear?
For campers, especially the ones with campervans, traveling by the ferry from SeaLink is the best option. It is the only mode of transportation in which passengers and cars are both transported.
It is a 4.5-hour picturesque journey from Auckland.
Your Great Barrier Island Camping Adventure Is Calling
Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the right mix of adventure, soaking in nature, and cherishing the off-the-grid living of the island. However, it’s not going to be easy with the amenities at the campsites being basic, and even the gravel roads posing challenges for the big RVs and campervans.
Also, you will have to take care of biosecurity and all the sustainability guidelines to ensure that the island, a sanctuary of wildlife, does not get impacted negatively. Conservation as a pristine sanctuary is the reason why camping in the Great Barrier Island allowed us to see a billion more stars and birds than I have ever seen in my life.
Tahiti is one of the French Polynesian countries, which is largely known as a paradise for the French people and the rest of the world. Hence, every year, thousands and thousands of tourists visit Tahiti to bathe in the warm sun near the sea. Not only that but brilliant seafood, which shows the meeting point of indigenous culture and French cuisine.
So, if you are a vagabond like us and looking to find a new version of yourself, visiting Tahiti can be the solution for you. From warm beaches to hospitable people and brilliant nightlife, you get everything you want. Pack your bags, and let us sail to see the best landscape on the face of the earth.
Things To Do In Tahiti
Tahiti has many beautiful beaches and places to see, but you are not a Schrodinger’s cat and are available everywhere. That’s why, we will recommend places to visit and things to do in those places, as stated by Tahiti Travel Services -
La Plage de Maui
Most of the area in Tahiti is known for its volcanic black hue, La Plage de Maui is one of the places where you can see white beaches. It's one of the places that attracts customers from all over the world and sees the clear water and nearby lagoon. Hence, it makes the best place to visit your family and friends.
Besides, at La Plage de Maui, you can taste brilliant seafood, which is absolutely fresh and exquisite in every bite. It is another reason why tourists love the place, and visit every year to taste brilliant fishes and lobsters. Lastly, if you are an amateur snorkeler, you can visit the place and enjoy the beautiful crystal-clear water.
Fautaua Valley
Tahiti is a country for all seasons. You can visit during the rainy season from November to April to see Fautaua Waterfall. You can hike up the Fautaua Valley to see the dramatic nature of the waterfall. To reach the waterfall, you have to pass through Cascade de Fachoda to see the 450-foot waterfall, which turns into a big pool.
Therefore, if you are an adventure seeker, you can visit Fauntana Valley, embrace the beautiful natural wonders, and breathe in fresh air in your lungs. In many cases, the valley has steep slopes, so it's better to wear close-toed shoes. That way, you can complete the hike within the sunfall.
Moorea
How about having your lunch in Moorea? It is one of the sister islands of Tahiti, where you have to visit Te Honu Iti, which serves the most delicious food. Moreover, their service is brilliant and incredibly friendly.
Moorea has more rugged terrain than Tahiti and jaw-dropping scenic beauty, with Magic Mountain being the biggest attraction. You can hike up the mountain or take a bike to see the panoramic view from the top. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you might see sharks.
Plage du Taharuu
If you want to recreate the scenes of Vikings, then visiting Plage du Taharuu is a must. The volcanic black sands and palm trees will give a glimpse of solitude and atonement. Consequently, you can take your kids and other family members to play beach ball and swim around the area.
Moreover, Taharuu Beach is clean and picturesque, which is perfect for relaxing and forgetting the world beyond still exists. You can take a beer or any other drink from the snack bar and enjoy your day. However, you pay to access the beach and enjoy the serene nature of frothy white waves and deep blue water.
Mont Aorai
Another place you should visit is Mont Aorai. It stands at 6,778 feet high and is filled with lush rainforest terrain and brilliant scenery with misty fresh air looming around. Therefore, if you are planning to trek, you can walk around the rough terrain and experience the beautiful landscape.
Moreover, when you complete the lost calories, you can adjust it by visiting O Belvédère. You can try some of the best French cuisine and also see the beautiful vantage point. Just carry an umbrella, in case it may rain up top, as the weather is unpredictable at the peak.
Teahupoo
While talking about Tahiti, how can we miss out on Teahupoo? It is the place to enjoy surfing and racing against the high tides. In Teahupoo, tides can reach up to 25 feet high, which is the place for surfers to test their surfing board and their surfing skills.
Also, you can see the beautiful coral reef, which is an absolute feast for the eyes. Take good pictures for your Instagram and Facebook. Lastly, if you want to test your metal in surfing, in Teahupoo every year a surfing competition is held, participate in it.
James Norman Hall Home
James Norman Hall is a place for history lovers and nerds. The beautiful gardens in the area will highly impress the caretakers of maintaining the place. It is the place that highlights the bond of friendship between James Norman and Charles Nordhoff.
Both met during World War I and since then, they have stayed together and written novels together. Later, in 1920, they moved to Tahiti, where they wrote many novels together. The hall showcases the authors' lasting memories and belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Here are a few frequently asked questions -
What is Tahiti popular for? Tahiti is popular for its beaches and sand. How many days is enough in Tahiti? 10 days are enough to visit all the places in Tahiti. What is the best time to visit Tahiti? Even though you can visit Tahiti all season, it's best to visit them between May and October. Is Tahiti tourist-friendly? Tahiti is warm and welcoming to foreign tourists. What is the crime rate in Tahiti? The rate of serious crime is low in Tahiti.
The Bottom Line
In the end, if you are looking for an escape, you can visit Tahiti. It has the best natural landscape with mountains and beaches, which you can easily visit and enjoy. So, read the discussion and visit those places to do some fun activities.
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