Filming in Mexico: 5 Locations That Offer the World in One Country
Mexico is a filmmaker’s paradise, offering an unparalleled variety of landscapes and ecosystems that can double for almost any location on Earth. From dense jungles and arid deserts to snow-capped mountains and pristine beaches, Mexico’s natural beauty is as diverse as it is breathtaking.
The region’s versatility makes it a cost-effective alternative to filming across multiple countries. Whether you’re recreating the Sahara Desert, the Mediterranean coast, or the Amazon rainforest, Mexico has the perfect setting.
Beyond its natural beauty, Mexico boasts a rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and modern infrastructure that make it a top choice for filmmakers. The country’s film-friendly policies, experienced local crews and competitive production costs further enhance its appeal. Here are five standout locations outside Mexico City that highlight Mexico’s cinematic potential and have served as backdrops for renowned films and commercials.
Chiapas: A Natural Paradise
Chiapas is a visual wonderland, offering filmmakers a treasure trove of natural beauty. This southern state is home to dense jungles, cascading waterfalls, dramatic canyons, and towering volcanoes. Its landscapes can effortlessly mimic South American rainforests or Southeast Asian tropics, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of productions.
One of the most iconic spots in Chiapas is the Agua Azul waterfalls, a series of turquoise cascades surrounded by lush greenery. These waterfalls provide a breathtaking backdrop for adventure films and nature documentaries. Another must-see location is Sumidero Canyon, a dramatic gorge with towering cliffs that rise over 1,000 meters above the Grijalva River. The canyon’s sheer scale and natural beauty make it ideal for epic scenes. Beyond its natural beauty, Chiapas is rich in cultural heritage, with indigenous communities and archaeological sites adding depth and authenticity to any production.
For filmmakers seeking authenticity and natural beauty, Chiapas is a top choice. Its diverse ecosystems and dramatic landscapes make it a versatile and visually stunning location.
Campeche: Where History Meets Nature
Campeche, located on the Yucatán Peninsula, is a unique blend of tropical forests, ancient Mayan ruins, and colonial architecture. This combination of natural and historical elements makes it an ideal setting for period pieces, adventure films, and documentaries.
The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest tropical forests in the Americas, is a prime location for jungle scenes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to ancient Mayan ruins hidden deep within the forest, offering a sense of mystery and adventure. The reserve’s dense foliage and wildlife make it a perfect stand-in for the Amazon or other tropical rainforests.
In contrast, the historic city of Campeche provides a well-preserved colonial backdrop. Its cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and fortified walls transport visitors back in time. The city’s colonial charm was featured in Che (2008), directed by Steven Soderbergh, where it was used to recreate an old-world atmosphere.
Campeche’s mix of history and nature makes it a versatile filming location. Whether you’re shooting a period drama, an adventure film, or a nature documentary, Campeche offers a wealth of opportunities.
Baja California: Desert Meets Ocean
Baja California is a filmmaker’s dream, offering dramatic desert landscapes and turquoise waters in close proximity. This duality makes it a favorite for international productions, as it can double for a variety of global settings.
The Valle de los Gigantes, with its towering rock formations, is a popular location for desert scenes. Its arid landscapes can easily stand in for the American Southwest or the Sahara Desert. On the other hand, the beaches of Los Cabos offer a tropical paradise akin to the Maldives or the Caribbean. Additionally, high-end commercial campaigns for brands like YETI have been filmed in Baja’s stunning desert landscapes.
The region’s proximity to California makes it a convenient and cost-effective option for international crews. With its diverse landscapes and world-class facilities, Baja California is a top choice for filmmakers.
Yucatán: A Cultural and Natural Wonderland
Yucatán is a versatile filming location, offering everything from cenotes and colonial architecture to tropical forests and biosphere reserves. This diversity makes it a popular choice for filmmakers looking to capture a wide range of settings.
The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is a standout location, home to pink flamingos and mangrove forests. Its unique ecosystem can resemble the Everglades or African wetlands, making it ideal for nature documentaries and wildlife films. The region’s crystal-clear cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water, are perfect for underwater filming and add a mystical element to any production.
Yucatán’s colonial architecture is another major draw. The city of Mérida, with its colorful buildings and historic charm, has been a popular location for commercial shoots and period dramas. The Hacienda Temozón Sur, a restored 17th-century estate, was featured in Blink Twice (2024), where it provided a paradisiacal island setting.
But Mérida is not just a city frozen in time—it’s a vibrant blend of old and new. In recent years, the city has undergone a cultural and architectural renaissance, with modern developments seamlessly integrating into its colonial framework. Contemporary art galleries, boutique hotels, and innovative restaurants now sit alongside historic mansions and centuries-old churches. This fusion of old and new creates a dynamic backdrop for filmmakers, offering a unique juxtaposition of tradition and modernity.
For example, the Paseo de Montejo, Mérida’s grand boulevard, is lined with both colonial-era mansions and sleek, modern buildings. This mix of architectural styles has made it a popular location for fashion shoots, commercials, and films that require a blend of historical and contemporary aesthetics.
Yucatán’s natural beauty and cultural richness blend ensures a captivating filming experience. Whether you’re shooting a nature documentary, a period drama, or a commercial, Yucatán offers endless possibilities.
Quintana Roo: From Jungles to Beaches
Quintana Roo is perhaps Mexico’s most famous filming destination, thanks to its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and ancient ruins. This southeastern state is home to iconic locations like Tulum, Cancún, and Playa del Carmen, which have been featured in countless films and commercials.
The jungles of Tulum and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve can double for the Amazon, offering lush greenery and abundant wildlife. Meanwhile, the beaches of Cancún and Playa del Carmen resemble the Caribbean or Southeast Asia, making them ideal for tropical settings.
Quintana Roo has hosted numerous international productions, including 3 Jours Max (2023) and Sugar (2022), which used its iconic locations to depict luxurious and exotic settings. The region’s film-friendly environment and diverse landscapes make it a top choice for filmmakers, from high-end lifestyle content to documentaries.
Conclusion
Mexico’s unparalleled diversity allows filmmakers to recreate almost any global setting within one country. From deserts and jungles to colonial cities and tropical beaches, Mexico offers endless possibilities. Combined with its film-friendly infrastructure and competitive production costs, it’s no wonder Mexico has become a go-to destination for filmmakers worldwide.
The country’s experienced production teams, like Kanan Films, provide top-notch support, ensuring a smooth and successful shoot. Whether you’re planning a blockbuster film, a commercial campaign, or a documentary, Mexico’s stunning locations and professional resources can bring your vision to life.
