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Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the website for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique.

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach.

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Puerto Vallarta

Cabo San Lucas

San Miguel de Allende

Guadalajara

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Plan Your Trip to Mexico: Best of Mexico Tourism

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The Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide: What To See and Insider Tips for Your Trip

Planning a trip to Mexico? You’ll love it. From the best time to visit to unmissable places to see and insider tips – here’s your step-by-step Mexico travel guide.

Get ready people, this is about to get real.

So you’re planning your Mexico travels and you want the full lowdown before you go. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

I just came back from another trip to Mexico and (surprise, surprise), I loved it. Throughout the course of five weeks, I criss-crossed my way up the country from Tulum up to Mexico City and back down again.

But this isn’t about me, it’s about you. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Mexico – from cool places to see, to handy travel tips, you are going to be planning your Mexico trip like a pro.

Mexico is a huge and intoxicating country that draws many people to its sandy beaches, Mayan ruins, stunning landmarks and party towns.

It would be a real shame if you thought that Mexico ended there though. When it comes to landscapes, food or the sheer number of activities, Mexico is pretty much guaranteed to make you fall in love with it.

From the vibrant and sometimes overwhelming capital city to pristine surfing villages on the western Pacific coast to the ancient Mayan ruins amongst lush jungles and picturesque colonial towns, Mexico is a destination that exceeds so many expectations.

But first… watch my practical AF video!

How to Plan a Trip to Mexico: Before You Go

Best time to visit .

Mexico is a huge country and the weather affects different parts of the country at different times of the year.

However, high season generally runs between December to April with the driest and most pleasant weather across most of the country. It can be extremely crowded though, especially around Christmas and Easter holidays with transport and accommodation filling up fast.

The wet season in the south and the hurricane season for the Caribbean coast runs sometime between May to October, depending on the specific region. September tends to be peak hurricane season with heavy rains and storms across the coastal areas. However, the north remains relatively dry with little rain all year round.

Arguably, the best month to explore Mexico is November. The rains have generally all but stopped in the south, the landscapes are nice and green, and the crowds are yet to arrive for December.

Read Next: The Best Time to Visit Mexico

Handy Resources for Getting To Mexico

To help plan your trips to Mexico, these resources and websites will help you with logistics and getting decent prices.

Skyscanner is one of the best resources for finding the perfect flight at good prices, you can also search for an entire month to see when the cheapest dates are to fly for a particular city or country.
Google Maps is a map app that allows you to download countries for offline use and is one of the best all round navigation apps. You can also pin and save locations, allowing you to plan where you want to go and what you want to see, as well as accommodation options and restaurants.
Uber is also a handy app to have downloaded on your phone in Mexico as you’ll be able to use it in most tourist-oriented towns and large cities. It will minimise the language barrier and reduce the haggling required when dealing with taxi drivers. That said, Uber isn’t available everywhere in Mexico, particularly areas like Tulum.
Booking an all-inclusive tour with companies like Intrepid Travel or G Adventures eliminates many of the hassles of planning a trip and logistical challenges compared to doing it independently, and means you’ll get to meet new people on the tour too. Although, of course, it reduces some of your freedom.

Where to Stay

Finding accommodation is not difficult in Mexico as in most of the tourist-oriented towns and cities you’ll be able to book your room or bed online through Booking.com or a similar platform.

You should have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to mid-range hotels and budget hostels, and comparing prices and reviews online is always a good idea before settling on your choice.

Other options for accommodation include Airbnb , where you can often get whole apartments or self-catering homes for not too much more than a hotel room. Mexico City in particular has a great choice of Airbnbs.

Plum Guide is another excellent site for finding brilliant apartment rentals in Mexico. They curate their properties so that only the very best make it onto the site – quality is guaranteed.

Couchsurfing is a popular alternative for those on a budget as it allows you to stay for free in someone’s home. It’s a great way to meet locals and even if you don’t want to stay at their place, you can use the app to arrange local meetups if you prefer to just have an authentic guide for the day.

Packing for Your Mexico Trip

Deciding what to wear in Mexico , it’s almost a given that packing a swimsuit is a must for any trip to Mexico, with most travellers hitting at least one of the coastal towns on either side of the country at some point on their trip.

If your trip to Mexico coincides with any part of the rainy season and you plan on heading to the south, then a rain jacket , at the very least, will be essential.

A pair of good walking sandals or shoes are always a good idea, especially if you plan on exploring the cities on foot or hitting some of the canyons in the north.

Combination locks of different sizes are also a smart addition to your luggage so you can easily lock your valuables away in hotel or hostel lockers and keep your bags secure on public transport.

A money bel t to hold your cash concealed on you while you’re walking around the cities are will help keep your cash safe from pickpockets.

You could also get a sim card for Mexico to make sure you have a good connection for internet data and calls.

Watch my Mexico Packing Tips Video

Travel Insurance

My number one tip for how to visit Mexico (or anywhere else for that matter) is travel insurance.

Guys, as someone who has travelled for years as part of this job, I can tell you that things can and do go wrong.

It’s important to organise and pay for travel insurance before you depart on your trip. This will cover you for illness, injury, theft and cancellations if you pay for full comprehensive cover.

Alpha Travel Insurance and The Post Office both offer comprehensive coverage.

If you plan on hiring a car o r motorcycle, it’s also important to make sure that you take out insurance to cover it.

In Mexico, it’s typically required that you must have Mexican car insurance through the rental company on top of your own insurance. It is often included in the price but do ask as you want to be sure it’s fully comprehensive insurance.

Suggested Guidebooks to Explore Mexico

Lonely Planet and Rough Guides both have a Mexico country guidebook and are widely considered the best in the travel guidebook business.

E-books are also available from both companies if you want to be able to carry it with you on your trip without adding weight to your luggage. I’m not personally a huge fan of e-book guidebooks as they’re difficult to navigate while you’re on the road, but I know others who swear by them.

Mexico Visitor Guide: What to Do During Your Mexico Trip

Top 10 things to do in mexico, mexico city.

Mexico City is a mega-urban sprawl, which can sometimes be overwhelming, but is undoubtedly the capital of the country, both culturally and politically.

Visit the ancient Templo Mayor, hang out at Frida Kahlo’s old house and eat all the ridiculously good street food you can get your hands on.

One of the main tourist towns on the Caribbean coast and a Mexican honeymoon escape , Tulum has incredibly situated Maya ruins and beautiful white sand beaches to match.

Dive into the crystal-clear cenotes, party all night on the beach and hike to hidden lakes in one of Mexico’s coolest spots.

Read Next: Tulum – Mexico’s Laid-Back Paradise

Visit the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza

The famous and most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico, Chichen Itza is regarded as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. The incredible pyramid-style temple is the main attraction, but the complex needs at least half a day to do it justice.

I love Merida with its colourful buildings and AMAZING food scene. The vibrant capital of Yucatan state with a rich colonial and Mayan heritage, this city is the perfect base for exploring the incredible surrounding landscapes.

It’s also firmly on the tourist trail but is less upmarket and more laidback than Tulum.

Read next: It’s Time to Discover Merida

Oaxaca

Oaxaca city is an important cultural hub of Mexico and the gateway for exploring the diverse Oaxaca state. It’s also a foodie’s paradise known for its legendary sauces (moles).

It’s also one of the best places to experience the famous Day of the Dead festival.

Guadalajara

The second largest city in the country and more laidback than Mexico City, Guadalajara has stunning buildings and vibrant public squares.

It is also known as the home of tequila and mariachi, traditional Mexican music, making a visit there a rich cultural experience.

Honour the Day of the Dead

The national and annual Dia de Muertos is one of the most fascinating festivals in all of the Americas. It is widely celebrated in the central and south regions of the country as a day when family members can reunite and celebrate with deceased relatives.

Costumes, rituals and parades are just some of what you can witness at this festival, held in November each year.

Los Cabos

Situated at the southern tip of Baja California Sur, Los Cabos is one of the fastest growing tourist and resort areas in the country. But don’t let that put you off, because the surrounding area has a variety of landscapes to get lost in, including desert, beaches and mountains.

Puerto Vallarta

One of Mexico’s nicest resort towns, Puerto Vallarta sits on the Pacific coast with jungle-strewn mountains as its backdrop. It’s most famous for its nightlife and outdoor activities. There’s no wonder millions of visitors pass through every year.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the prettiest cities in the country, Guanajuato is a former silver mining town during the Spanish era. Its colourful, colonial buildings is what draws most tourists to its picturesque streets

Suggested Mexico Trip Itineraries

Covering everything in one trip to Mexico is difficult to do unless you have months up your sleeve to do so. The country is vast and some of the main cities are quite spread apart from each other.

From the arid deserts and astounding canyons in the north to the dense jungles and white sand beaches in the south, it’s best to pick one region or just a few Mexico highlights to cover to ensure you don’t rush through in a whirlwind.

Most travellers begin their trips to Mexico in Mexico City, the main international transport hub and where most major airlines service.

Mexico City, Oaxaca and The Yucatan: Mexico Highlights

This suggested itinerary covers the capital city, the Caribbean coastline, the most popular tourist attractions as well as Mayan ruins and is a sort-of all-round highlights trip. It’s pretty much the itinerary I followed on my recent Mexico road trip and I’d highly recommend it for getting to see a broad variety of destinations in the course of a couple of weeks.

Two or three weeks would be enough time to cover the classic highlights of:

· Mexico City

· Oaxaca City

· Merida

· Chichen Itza

· Tulum

The Pacific Coast

This second itinerary in our Mexico travel guide covers the capital city and further west towards more colonial and historical areas as well as a popular resort town on the Pacific coast.

This two-week trip itinerary would include:

· Mexico City

· Guanajuato

· Guadalajara

· Puerto Vallarta

Read More: 2 Week Mexico Itinerary – Planning the Perfect Mexico Road Trip

Hidden Mexico – Mexico Off the Beaten Path

Mexico has plenty of tourist-oriented and overly popular places to visit which are mostly on the two southern coastlines of the country. However, the huge, vast country also has plenty of places that are underappreciated and see far less visitors.

Places that are not often included in Mexico travel guides include:

Puebla

This is a town two hours south of Mexico City and is full of historical sights such as the nearby Great Pyramids of Cholula (larger than the ones in Egypt), old plazas and cathedrals.

Copper Canyon

Located in the middle of the Tarahumara Mountains, the Copper Canyon is an enormous and heart stopping natural sight. It’s situated in the north of the country in Chihuahua and despite its beauty, you’ll likely not see another gringo during your time there.

Sayulita

A low-key, bohemian surfing town just 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta is starting to make a name for itself as a quiet alternative to the flashy resort areas, but it still flies under the radar. It’s the perfect place to learn how to surf in the soft waves in the bay.

Not too far from Mexico City, Taxco is a charming colonial town that’s known for its silver mining and production. But there’s more to Taxco than just silver (though paying a visit to the town’s main silver market is a must).

For breathtaking views of Taxco and its surroundings, take a ride on the cable car that runs between Taxco and Monte Taxco. Oh, and while you’re in town, make sure you try the town’s famous dish, pozole de guerrero – a hearty soup made with pork, hominy and chili peppers.

Lake Bacalar

This is a long and narrow lake in the state of Quintana Roo, known for its striking shades of blue that change throughout the day. There are also some interesting Mayan ruins in the surrounding jungle, and you can spend your time kayaking and diving in the turquoise water.

How to See the Best of Mexico for Free

Couchsurfing is one of the best ways to get the best out of Mexico for free. In a sort-of cultural exchange whereby you stay in someone’s home free of cost, you are able to be immersed in the life of a local and see the side of Mexico that few travellers see when they stay at hotels. Quite often, hosts can also provide insider tips and act as informal guides in a city.

Of course, the level of comfort and privacy in Couchsurfing varies and it’s not for everyone, but for those on a tight budget it can be a great way to see the country.

Visiting Mexico would not quite be the same without going to at least one local market , and the best part about them is that they are free to enter and can offer hours of entertainment and cultural immersion.

I also highly recommend taking advantage of the free walking tours in every city. Although a tip is strongly encouraged (and expected – you’ll look very stingy if you refuse), this is a great way to explore the city without splurging. And you’ll also get to see all the best bits with the help of a handy guide.

Mexico City for Free

Mexico City in particular has many markets to choose from such as the century old Mercado Coyoacan for virtually anything you can think of, the Sonora Market for witchy handicrafts and crystals and Mercado de San Juan for all the food and fresh produce.

Mexico City also has plenty of sights and activities that won’t cost you a single peso. Some of the best free things to do in the city include:

· Chapultepec Zoo

· National Palace

· Metropolitan Cathedral in the city centre

· Many of the top museums also offer free entry on Sunday

Dishes to Try When Visiting Mexico

Mexican food in Mexico is almost nothing like what you’ll find in takeaway places in your own country and a hundred times better. The top dishes you need to try include:

Tacos – whether from a street cart or at a bar, they’re a favourite snack and some regions have their speciality like fish tacos on the coastal areas.

Molé – Molé basically means sauce, but it’s so much more than that. Visit Oaxaca, the land of the seven moles, and discover the rich flavours and family traditions that create these complex dishes. I tried a five-year old molé in the world-famous Pujol restaurant in Mexico City and it was like a party in my mouth. Drool.

Quesadillas – a corn tortilla folded over a filling with cheese and grilled until melted, often served with multiple sauces.

Tamales – a dough known as masa filled with beans and cheese and steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf.

Churros – the perfect Mexican dessert of deep-fried dough covered in cinnamon and sometimes even dipped in chocolate.

Top Drinks in Mexico

Coffee – Mexico is one of the world’s largest producers of coffee and stopping in a traditional coffeehouse in Mexico City is a top foodie experience.

Tequila – The real drink people recognise Mexico for, however, is tequila , distilled from the blue agave plant and usually taken with lime and salt.

Mezcal – Or plump for a taste of mezcal, tequila’s lesser-known (well outside of Mexico anyway) cousin – smoky and delicious, you’re sure to want to bring a bottle or two home with you.

Tejate – A traditional zapateco drink made from maize, flor de cacao, mamey seeds and more – it’s earthy, delicious and filling, and the perfect taste of pre-Hispanic Mexico. Find it in and around the state of Oaxaca.

Mexico Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Go to Mexico

Tips for travelling to mexico.

Learn some basic Spanish before you go, as it will help considerably with getting around and communicating with people, although most people in the popular destinations will speak decent English.
Leave expensive valuables at home and don’t flash them around the streets, as pickpocketing and petty theft does occur in the major cities and tourist towns.
When you enter Mexico either through the airport or a land border, you’ll be given a tourist card, which is a part of the immigration form you filled out. You need to keep this and hand it over when you leave the country again.

Tipping in Mexico

Tipping is relatively common across the country and is a good way to show appreciation for good service. Wages are modest in hospitality and tourism and so tipping around 10-15% of the bill is generally considered a decent amount.

Interesting Facts You Should Know Before Visiting Mexico

85% of Mexico’s population is Roman Catholic.
Mexico City is the fifth largest metropolitan area in the world, with over 21 million people living in the greater area.
The government recognises 68 official indigenous languages across the country and there is likely up to 200 other variations.
Mexico is home to the third highest mountain in North America, Pico de Orizaba at 5636m.
Mexico has 34 listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Handy Phrases for Travelling to Mexico

“Hola” (pronounced o-la) – Hello

“Gracias” – Thank you

“Cuanto cuesta?” – How much?

“Donde está…?” – Where is…?

“Lo siento” – I’m sorry

“No hablo español. Habla usted inglés?” – I don’t speak Spanish. Do you speak English?

“Dónde está el baño?” – Where is the bathroom?

“Salud!” – Cheers

Time Zones

There are four different time zones across the country but most of the regions use Central Standard Time. The far west uses the Pacific Time Zone and Mountain Time Zone and the far east uses Eastern Time Zone.

Electricity + Adapters

The plug you’ll find most is Type A, which has two flat parallel pins and is mostly used in North America and Japan. Occasionally, you’ll come across Type B, which is the same, just with an extra pin for grounding, but Type A will fit as well so is the best one to carry with you.

You should get any of the routine vaccines such as measles, typhoid, and Hepatitis A and B, if you aren’t covered already.

Other health concerns lie mostly with malaria and dengue fever which are spread through mosquito bites.

Only some areas of Mexico are at a high risk for these diseases and you should check with your doctor about where you plan on visiting in Mexico to see if malaria medication is recommended.

Otherwise, it’s best to try and prevent mosquito bites yourself by covering your arms and legs and using repellent.

As a general rule, you shouldn’t drink tap water in Mexico because of the risk of contamination with bacteria and viruses. You can rely on bottled water, or a more sustainable approach would be to bring along a purifier such as LifeStraw or SteriPEN to filter and sterilise your own water from the tap.

Generally, the best option for moving between cities is the efficient bus network that is surprisingly comfortable and affordable too. They can vary in quality from luxury coaches to rundown school buses, and what you pay is what you get so if you’re planning on a long-haul journey it’s better to pay for a higher class.

If you have less time or a higher budget, then domestic flights can be convenient and fast, and they operate between over 60 cities. Prices can vary though depending on the airline and it’s best to book in advance.

Check flights on Skyscanner

Hire a Car

If you want to explore the country at your own pace, then renting a car or motorcycle can be affordable and convenient, especially for places off the beaten path.

Check car hire prices on Rentalcars.com

Mexico has for a long time been associated with drug-related violence and crime and there are certainly pockets of the country where this occurs. However, most of the crime happens away from the tourist trail and foreign tourists are rarely the target for any kind of organised crime activity.

That said, petty theft and pickpocketing does happen in the larger cities like Mexico City, and it pays to be cautious of your valuables when out exploring and especially at night.

It’s also important to be aware of the areas in the country where crime rates and instability are higher, like Acapulco City or near the US border region, to steer clear of potential hotspots.

Costs and Budgeting

Mexico is a relatively budget-friendly and good-value country to visit. Although not as cheap as countries further south in Central America, it’s certainly more affordable than its North American neighbour.

A budget traveller can expect to spend around £30/ US$50 per day with a dormitory bed, street food, local transportation and some attraction fees.

A more mid-range, average traveller would spend between £50-90/ US$80-120 per day with a hotel room, three meals at a local restaurant, public transport and some taxis and most attraction fees.

Travelling in low season and away from the more famous coastline will bring costs down.

There we are. The ultimate Mexico travel guide. You know that I’m all about the practical AF details when it comes to planning your travels and I hope this has given you a good steer on everything you need to know before you visit Mexico.

All that’s left for me to say is I hope you have a brilliant trip!

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Mexico Travel Guide

Sun-soaked beaches, tasty tacos, and mariachi beats; Mexico is a fiesta-filled paradise of spicy flavors and caliente vibes!

Best time to visit Mexico

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Mexico’s weather is beautiful, tropical, and warm most of the year. The dry season falls between November and April, with clear blue skies, perfect for beach enthusiasts. The wet season runs from May to October, bringing occasional rain and lush, vibrant landscapes.

How to Travel Safe

How to travel cheap.

Find Hotels via Booking.com
Find Hostels via Hostelworld
Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
Find Flights to Mexico via Skyscanner
Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
Get a Visa via iVisa
How to pack light for your trip
How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Mexico worth visiting?

Packed full of diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and lively cities, Mexico deserves a prime spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, Mexico boasts some of the most vibrant food and culture—making it an absolute must-see destination!

Is Mexico cheap to visit?

Your budget will thank you in Mexico! Luxurious options are available, with plenty of expensive resorts and eateries. However, you can also indulge in mouthwatering street quesadillas, explore historic sites, stay in boho hostels, and relax on pristine beaches—all without breaking the bank.

Can I drink tap water in Mexico?

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter system to guarantee that your water is always safe to drink while being eco-friendly and reducing single-use plastic.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Mexico?

Good news! Most countries can travel to Mexico without getting a visa before they travel. You’ll get a stamp on arrival with the length of stay, usually between 90 and 180 days, making it easy to travel to this beautiful country.

Tip: Check your country’s entry requirements before you travel.

What language do they speak in Mexico?

The official language spoken in Mexico is Spanish, with a slightly unique dialect known as Mexican Spanish, but the differences are small. Although Mexico is a popular travel spot, many locals don’t speak English, so learning a few phrases can help, and Google Translate will be your best friend!

Do I need travel insurance for Mexico?

Travel the breathtaking country of Mexico worry-free by purchasing travel insurance before your trip. This will protect you against unplanned events like medical emergencies, delayed flights, or lost luggage.

Is Mexico safe?

Despite media representation, most criminal activities happen away from tourism, and an emphasis has been put on protecting travelers. Like any destination, always keep valuables out of site, stay in well-traveled areas, and avoid walking alone at night.

What power plug type does Mexico have?

Mexico uses two plug types: Type A with two flat parallel pins and Type B with two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. Keep your devices connected by purchasing a travel adapter before your travel, and let the exploration begin!

Why do people love Mexico?

From the vibrant street food to breathtaking diversity, Mexico is loved by so many. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites , or jump into crystal blue cenotes, this country offers so many unforgettable experiences!

Travel to Mexico

Imagine a country where ancient ruins whisper tales of the past, vibrant markets tease your senses, sparkling turquoise blue waves crash into palm-tree-lined beaches, and lively fiestas paint the streets with colors. Mexico is a paradise for travelers seeking a perfect blend of culture , adventure, and relaxation.

How to plan your trip to Mexico

Looking to plan the ultimate adventure? Follow our Mexico travel guides ! Whether you’re backpacking around the Yucatán Peninsula , visiting the surfer’s paradise of Baja California, exploring the underwater world of cenotes, or catching rays on the white sand beaches of Isla Holbox , there are so many extraordinary things to do in Mexico .

To really experience this fantastic country, we recommend renting a car and spending at least two weeks exploring and eating lots of delicious Mexican food—yum!

Organizing your dream vacation in Mexico ? With two distinct seasons and cultural celebrations, find out when the best time to visit Mexico is based on your preferences.

Dry Season (November-April): The weather in Mexico during the dry season is usually around 28°C, making it the coolest and clearest time to visit. Although these months see the most crowds and high prices, the dry season is the perfect time to explore ancient ruins, lounge on the sandy shores, and indulge in water activities, particularly in coastal towns like Holbox and Tulum .

Wet Season (May-October): For those seeking more tropical vibes, outstanding surf, and lush landscapes, the wet season is the best time to holiday in Mexico . While brief afternoon showers are expected, these typically only last for a short time, and you’ll often see beautiful sunshine the rest of the day. This is also an amazing time to visit for those backpacking on a budget, as it’s considered the low season, so prices tend to be lower, and crowds are few and far between.

Tip: Hurricane season coincides with these months, particularly in September and October, so always keep an eye out for any warnings and follow the advice of local authorities.

Best time to visit Mexico for festivals: If you’re after something a little different and want to experience the truly unique festival of Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), where streets come alive with colorful processions, traditional costumes, and a profound sense of remembrance, head to Mexico for the 1st and 2nd of November; the atmosphere is like no other!

Coastlines and beaches in Mexico

With over 5,000 miles of coastline, Mexico has countless breathtaking and diverse beaches. To the east, you’ll find the picture-perfect beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, while to the west is the untamed and surfer-friendly Pacific Ocean.

From Cancun to Tulum , the Caribbean coastline invites you to indulge in paradise. With its crystalline turquoise waters and pristine white beaches, these destinations redefine luxury. Cancun, a buzzing resort city, offers vibrant nightlife and water activities, while Tulum’s bohemian charm and ancient Mayan ruins provide a serene escape.

Nearby, nestled off the Yucatán Peninsula , is the untouched beauty of Isla Holbox , a car-free haven and a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility amid nature’s wonders. Accessible by ferry, this island paradise offers miles of unspoiled beaches where soft white sand meets the clear, shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Heading west, the Pacific coastline unveils a different kind of beauty. Puerto Vallarta enchants with its colorful streets, colonial architecture, and long sandy beaches, while the nearby Riviera Nayarit beckons with secluded coves and lush landscapes. Sayulita is a must-visit if you’re in the area; a colorful, bohemian beach town home to incredible surf and stunning deserted beaches.

The Baja California Peninsula is the place to go for those seeking a tranquil retreat and home to out-of-this-world gems From Cabo San Lucas, with the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas, to La Paz, known for Balandra Bay, with half-moon-shaped coves offering panoramic views; two spots not to be missed.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful off-grid retreat, a crazy surf adventure, or boho beach vibes, Mexico has a stretch of sand perfectly suited to meet your vacation needs.

Food, culture and religion in Mexico

Mexico is a sensory fiesta of food, culture, and religion , painting a vivid portrait of a nation steeped in tradition.

Food: Amidst the bustling streets and lively markets, the aromas of flavorsome dishes fill the air, like tamales, tacos, tortas ahogadas, and zesty salsas, enticing locals and visitors alike; you’ll never be short of options and new delicious things to try.

Religion: The iconic churches and cathedrals scattered across the country, such as the Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, stand as architectural marvels, with around 85% of the population following the Catholic faith. Religion isn’t just a set of beliefs in Mexico; it shapes the bright festivals like Día de Muertos, celebrating the beauty of life.

Culture: From the vibrant hues of traditional folk art and the rhythm of mariachi bands to the centuries-old rituals woven into everyday life, Mexico’s cultural heritage is palpable. Wander through the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza or the charming colonial architecture of cities like Oaxaca. The country is filled with magnificent history!

Why you should travel to Mexico

Embarking on a Mexican adventure is a journey that promises memories of a lifetime! Picture yourself on sun-soaked beaches, where you can leisurely sip on a margarita and soak up the laid-back vibes. The country’s culinary scene is a festival for your taste buds – think sizzling street tacos, zesty salsas, and refreshing guacamole.

Delve into Mexico’s rich history by exploring one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites or stroll through charming colonial streets where every building has a story to tell. And let’s not forget the breathtaking landscapes – from the turquoise waters of Holbox to the lush jungles and cenotes hiding ancient secrets. These are just a few of the best places in Mexico waiting to be discovered!

Mexico has it all: mouth-watering food, cultural treasures, and breathtaking natural beauty. With unreal experiences awaiting every type of traveler, traveling Mexico deserves a prominent spot on your bucket list.

Safety and travel advice in Mexico

With its diverse landscapes and colorful cities, Mexico is a fantastic destination. But like any country, being well-informed is crucial for a safe trip. The following information provides a breakdown of essential safety tips to help visitors maximize their travels.

Crime and safety in Mexico : Mexico has a reputation for crime. Still, it’s important to note that most travelers have a safe visit to the country, and many of the issues reported in the media tend to be off the beaten track. Stick to well-traveled, well-lit areas, keep valuables secure and out of sight, and always be vigilant of your surroundings. Engaging with the local culture is encouraged, but exercise the same caution you would in any unfamiliar destination.

Learn more about travel safety .

Natural Disasters: Mexico is susceptible to natural disasters, particularly hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes. Stay informed about weather conditions, register with your embassy to receive emergency updates during your trip, and always follow the local authority’s advice.

Driving in Mexico: If you’re planning to rent a car or motorbike in Mexico, ensure you hire from a reputable rental agency, follow traffic rules, and be cautious of poorly maintained roads. If you take a taxi, use licensed vehicles from authorized taxi ranks or through your hotel, and ensure the meter is turned on before setting off.

Tip: We recommend renting a car through Sunny Cars , as your insurance is included.

Travel Insurance: Make sure to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before you embark on your travels in Mexico . This will protect you from unforeseen issues – for example, flight cancellations due to poor weather, lost baggage, or a hiking injury.

Find the best travel insurances .

25 Top-Rated Things to Do in Mexico

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Jan 31, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

From palm-fringed beaches to plunging canyons, historic cathedrals, and mural-splashed city streets, Mexico is one of the most dynamic countries in the world.

But it doesn't stop there. Mexico has thousands of years of history, epic landscapes, towering mountains, ancient ruins, world-class cuisine, and 5,800 miles of coastline that create an endless list of things to do for travelers. From laid-back beach towns to cosmopolitan culture and historic colonial towns, Mexico really is a paradise for every type of visitor.

But where to begin? It would be impossible to capture the best of Mexico all in one shot. But there are certainly top tourist attractions and places to visit in the country that are iconic to understanding the destination.

If you're ready to dive into one of the most impressive countries in the world, read our list of the top things to do in Mexico.

1. Bask on Mexico's Caribbean Beaches

2. experience the world of xcaret, 3. dive or snorkel cozumel's teeming waters, 4. surf the pacific coast, 5. tap your spiritual side, 6. take a boat trip to el arco de cabo san lucas, 7. explore mexico's cenotes, 8. visit the seaside ruins at tulum, 9. tour mexico's best archaeological sites, 10. soak up colorful history in san miguel de allende, 11. learn about frida kahlo, 12. wander through mexico city's centro historico, 13. see the copper canyon by train, 14. go eco-friendly in bacalar, 15. visit the national museum of anthropology, 16. stroll puerto vallarta's zona romántica, 17. discover the city of oaxaca, 18. hop the caribbean islands, 19. stroll merida's paseo de montejo, 20. see the cliff divers in acapulco, 21. explore the longest malecon in mexico, 22. dive into rio secreto, 23. visit the "other" side of los cabos, 24. marvel at the waterfalls of tamul, 25. get mystical in san cristobal de las casas.

Crystal-clear waters on the Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico has more than 5,800 miles of coastline, but none of its beaches are more impressive than the Caribbean coast. Along the Yucatan Peninsula, from Cancun down to the border of Belize , are some of the most stunning beaches in the world.

Cancun's beaches are lined with world-class hotels and resorts, with miles of expansive sugar-colored sand and shockingly blue water. Farther south, travelers will discover the energy of Playa del Carmen , a thriving city on the sea.

Past Playa del Carmen, discover the once-rugged town of Tulum , which has grown to be a top luxury getaway, with A-list hotels, restaurants, and boutique shopping, all along a beautiful stretch of bleached sand.

Even farther south, travelers will discover undeveloped, remote beaches along the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve , the tiny beachfront community of Mahahual, and the remote beaches that lead the way down to Belize.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Mexico

Thousands of visitors from all over the world flock each year to Mexico's most popular theme park, Xcaret. This ultimate cultural experience is part of Grupo Experiences, one of the largest, most beloved companies in Mexico offering regional entertainment.

Xcaret, their most popular, is dedicated to Mayan heritage and culture, which is indigenous to this part of Mexico. The park has more than 50 natural and cultural tourist attractions, including a jungle, beach, and underground rivers.

Learn about ancient Mayan customs through live performances, or immerse yourself in the natural environment, like the coral reef aquarium.

Grupo Experiencias has other theme parks as well, which include ziplines and lazy rivers, water parks, cultural shows, and more.

Address: Carretera Chetúmal Puerto Juárez Kilómetro 282, Solidaridad, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Official site: https://www.xcaret.com/en/

One of Mexico's largest islands (and by far its most famous), Cozumel is a must-see attraction in Mexico. The Caribbean island sits just off the coast of Playa del Carmen and is one of the biggest cruise ports in the country .

It's known for its sugary, powder-soft sand; crystal-clear, turquoise water; and, most notably, for its diving and fishing, which is among the very best in the world.

The warm waters around Cozumel are teeming with sea life. The destination is legendary among divers for this reef system , which is a part of the Mesoamerican reef system, second in the world in size to Australia's Great Barrier Reef. The reef is protected by the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park and is home to more than 26 coral species and more than 500 species of fish.

If you'd rather frolic with fish above the water, summer is the best time of year for fishing in Cozumel . Sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, and tuna flock to the warmer waters. Within a couple of minutes of the marina, the shoreline plummets about two miles deep, making it a prime gathering point for big game fish.

The island is popular for cruisers and day-trippers but has plenty of hotels, resorts, restaurants, and tourist attractions to offer its own type of vacation. There's even an international airport on the island.

Only half of Cozumel is open to visitors, while the other half is protected as a natural preserve. The western coast has the most popular beaches and hotels, while the eastern Caribbean-facing side has wilder, untamed beaches and more off-the-beaten-path hideaways.

From the Baja Peninsula all the way down to the beaches of southern Oaxaca, Mexico's Pacific Coast is a veritable aquatic playground for surfers of all levels. From big name surf competitions to secret coves with gentle lapping waves, everyone from the international pros to the extreme beginners will be able to catch a perfect wave along Mexico's Pacific Coast.

The Baja Peninsula has been a favorite surf spot for world travelers chasing that endless summer for decades. Spots like Ensenada and Todos Santos are legendary. But it is far from over at the end of the peninsula.

Mazatlan in the state of Sinaloa, Punta Mita along the coast of Nayarit, Troncones in Guerrero, and the area around Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca are other A-list Mexican surf breaks worth diving into. In fact, just off the coast of Puerto Escondido is the world-famous Mexican Pipeline, which is one of the top places to surf on the planet.

Mexico may be a predominantly Catholic country, but its spirituality is rooted in ancient practices. A deep history of shamanism is prevalent in many different indigenous groups across Mexico, from the Mayans of the Yucatan Peninsula to the Huichol in the central Northwest in the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains.

Today, many travelers flock to Mexico for spiritual healing. San Cristobal de las Casas , for example, is a mountain town in the southern state of Chiapas known for its mysticism. Here shamanism is alive and well among the Tzotzil people, an indigenous Maya people who occupy the highlands. Visitors come from all over the world for workshops in meditation and yoga.

One of the most popular healing rituals in Mexico is the temazcal ceremony . The ceremony involves a sweat lodge, combined with a sacred ritual, that leaves participants feeling cleansed - emotionally, physically, and mentally. The 1,000-year-old ceremony includes a spiritual guide, who takes participants on a healing journey within the sweat lodge, combined with songs, chanting, and prayer. Those who participate in temazcal have reported clearer skin, increased blood flow, and relief of stress.

Marking the point where the Gulf of California meets the Pacific Ocean, El Arco de Cabo San Lucas is the most recognizable landmark on the Baja Peninsula.

The naturally formed stone archway is one of the most photographed spots in the world, and a must-see when vacationing in Mexico's luxury capital, Cabo San Lucas. On one side of the arch is the Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach), while the other side of the arch is home to Playa del Divorcio (Divorce Beach).

What's cool about the arch is that it is only accessible by boat. You can visit the arch a few different ways, whether on a private boat charter, tour, or via a water taxi that can be arranged in the Cabo San Lucas Marina.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

All across the Yucatan Peninsula , just a stone's throw from the majority of the area's popular vacation spots, are approximately 20,000 cenotes. Cenotes are underground caverns connected by a series of rivers that vein the entire peninsula, from the coast to deep into the jungle.

The Mayans believed that cenotes were entrances to the underworld, and as such have held cultural importance for hundreds of years. Today, cenotes are integral pieces in understanding Mexico's cultural and topographical history. For tourists, they provide a fascinating way to spend the day understanding the Yucatan's natural environment.

Picture thousands of stalagmites and stalactites, translucent fresh water, and miles of tunnels connecting this mythical, prehistoric underground masterpiece.

Many people take tours from Cancun and Playa del Carmen to see and experience cenotes.

Tulum splashed onto the luxury scene a few years ago, but before that, it was very much a backpacker's paradise, complete with eco-friendly bungalows, cheap eats, and a sparkling beach.

Today, Tulum is very much five-star boho chic, with luxury boutique hotels, A-list cuisine, and high-end shopping. The town still manages to retain a laid-back vibe, but it comes at a premium price tag.

But more than a playground for the posh, Tulum is home to some of Mexico's most iconic ruins. The ruins at Tulum tell the story of an ancient Mayan port, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the pristine beach below.

A trip to the archaeological site is definitely worth a visit, if only to grab the iconic shot of the watch tower against the backdrop of the electric blue sea.

Speaking of Tulum's ruins, Mexico is a veritable treasure trove of archaeological sites . The country has been home to dozens of indigenous tribes, far beyond the Mayans and the Aztecs. Some of the other indigenous groups include the Zapotecs, Olmecs, Toltecs, and Huichols, just to name a few.

As a result, the country is packed with literally hundreds of ruins all across the country. Some are well-known, like the Mayan city of Chichen Itza , which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

There is also Teotihuacan, the ancient Aztec city just outside Mexico City. But other sites include Monte Alban, a Zapotec site near the city of Oaxaca, and Palenque, which is a jungle-shrouded Mayan city in the state of Chiapas. Other sites to know are Calakmul in Campeche, Uxmal in Yucatan, and Guachimontones in Jalisco.

When it comes to colonial cities in Mexico, none is as magical or visually stunning as San Miguel de Allende. Just three hours outside Mexico City is this spectacular jewel, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. The city was the first Spanish settlement in the state of Guanajuato, founded in 1542.

What makes San Miguel de Allende so special is its artistic spirit. For decades, it has lured travelers from all over the world to experience its local art scene, colorful architecture, cobblestone streets, and glorious mountain views.

San Miguel de Allende always acted as a cultural melting pot, as it was part of the Spanish Royal Route to the interior of Mexico. Many of its iconic Mexican Baroque buildings were constructed in the 18th century. Today, it is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its Outstanding Universal Value.

The city has evolved to become one of the top luxury getaways in the country, with five-star boutique hotels, spas, restaurants, and art-forward events.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

One of the most iconic faces of Mexico is that of Frida Kahlo. An icon of Mexican art, culture, and feminism, her influence on Mexico is undeniable. The best way to learn about this incredible woman is to visit her former home in Mexico City, Casa Azul , which has been turned into a museum dedicated to her life and work.

Located in the suburb of Coyoacan, Casa Azul is where Kahlo spent the majority of her time. It is where she was born, and eventually it was where she died. It showcases personal objects that help tell her story, as well as some of her most important pieces of art.

It's one of Mexico's most important museums and helps visitors understand so much more about the depth and layers of Mexico and its people.

Address: Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Official site: https://www.museofridakahlo.org.mx/

Metropolitan Cathedral and Palacio Nacional in Mexico City's Centro Historico

Mexico City is defined by its dozens of diverse, cultural, and colorful neighborhoods. But for first-timers to Mexico City, the most important stop is the Centro Historico. This gives a perfect snapshot of the country's capital over the past several centuries.

Mexico City sits on the former Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan, which the Aztecs founded in the 14th century. Remnants of the original capital can be found in the Centro Historico at the archaeological site of Templo Mayor.

The Templo sits elbow to elbow with magnificent works of Spanish architecture, leftover from the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. The best examples are in the Zocalo, or the main plaza, specifically the Palacio Nacional and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Within the Palacio Nacional are some of the most beautiful murals by Mexican artist Diego Rivera (who was married to Frida Kahlo).

You'll also find the Palacio de Bellas Artes in the Centro Historico. The gorgeous domed building is a cultural center that hosts music, dance, theater, and opera performances.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mexico City

Most people are surprised to learn that Mexico has its own Grand Canyon. In fact, it's even bigger than the one in the United States. Copper Canyon, or Barrancas del Cobre, is a massive canyon in the northern state of Chihuahua, which spans more than 25,000 square miles and is made up of six canyons in the Sierra Madre Occidental.

The canyon is named for its reddish hue, and is one of the most naturally stunning places in the country.

One of the best ways to see the canyon in its entirety is to ride the Chihuahua al Pacifico train, or "El Chepe." The train route runs from Chihuahua to Los Mochis in Sinaloa, which isn't far from the beach town of Mazatlan. A perfect vacation combo is to start with the mountains and end at the beach.

For many travelers in the state of Quintana Roo, the vacation ends in Tulum. But if you keep driving just a few hours more, you'll be rewarded with one of the most spectacular places in all of Mexico: Laguna de Bacalar.

Laguna de Bacalar is Mexico's second largest lake and goes by the nickname, "The Lake of Seven Colors." The jewel-colored lake is as expansive and crystal clear as the Caribbean Sea, dotted with small eco-resorts and pebbly beaches perfect for exploring.

The locals of Bacalar are big proponents of sustainable energy and responsible tourism. Non-motorized sports are much preferred over motorboats on the lake. As such, you'll see dozens of kayaks, sailboats, and stand up paddleboards.

Then there are the eco-hotels, like Mia Bacalar with its own organic waste treatment; water filtration system; and a chef's orchard, which supplies many ingredients for the restaurant's menu.

A small town of the same name sits on the shore, with a few historic sites of interest for sightseeing, like an old Spanish fort, and several Mayan ruins nearby.

The lake stretches nearly 40 miles from end to end and is one of the more under-the-radar destinations in Mexico. But, it's only a matter of time before international tourists find it.

National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City

Meet what is perhaps the most beloved museum in the entire country of Mexico. Located in Mexico City's Chapultepec Park, the National Museum of Anthropology is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the capital city. The national museum is the largest in the country and has the most comprehensive collection of archaeological and anthropological artifacts from Mexico's pre-Columbian people.

The most iconic artifact in the museum is the Stone of the Sun, which is the Aztec calendar stone. But within the museum, you'll also find statues, murals, turquoise-decorated artifacts, and even the massive stone head carvings from the Olmec peoples.

Mexico's Indigenous peoples extend far beyond the Aztecs and the Maya. You will have the opportunity to learn about the Zapotecs, Mixtecs, Huichols, and many other groups that helped to create the traditions of modern-day Mexico.

The building itself is a work of art, as well. The building has 23 rooms, including outdoor exhibits with gardens. The courtyard of the building has a massive pond, to boot.

Address: Av. Paseo de la Reforma s/n, Polanco, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX

Official site: https://www.mna.inah.gob.mx/

The heart and soul of Puerto Vallarta can be found downtown in what is known as the "Zona Romantica." The oldest part of the city, the Zona Romantica is known for its cobblestone streets, winding alleyways, whitewashed buildings, and red-tiled roofs. It also happens to be the most energetic part of the city – and the most beautiful.

One of the biggest draws to the Zona Romantica is the Los Muertos Beach, one of the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta . You'll recognize it from its iconic flag-shaped pier, where water taxis dock to take travelers and locals to the beaches that are farther south in the bay.

The best restaurants are found in the Zona Romantica, as well as the charming boutique hotels, galleries, and markets. Visitors can also wander the Malecón (boardwalk) in the Zona Romantica to see the lively entertainment that is always on display.

No time is more beautiful in Puerto Vallarta than at sunset, and the Zona Romantica is the best place to catch the natural show. Hunker down at one of the beach restaurants on the sand, or simply pause on a historic street to watch as the entire city is bathed in beautiful gold.

Few cities encapsulate the spirit of Mexico quite like Oaxaca. The capital city of the state by the same name, Oaxaca is a spectacular example of Mexican traditions mixed with Spanish colonial style. From the breathtaking churches and cathedrals to the brilliant colors of the city, the fabulous food, and the ancient ruins, Oaxaca has a little bit of something for everyone.

The most vibrant part of the city is undoubtedly its Centro Historico, home to the oldest architecture and traditional low-rise, multi-colored buildings that have become synonymous with Mexican colonial cities. This part of the city is where you'll find the two most important churches, as well as the many beautiful boutique hotels, restaurants, galleries, and shops.

A quick 10-minute trip outside the city takes travelers to Monte Alban, an important archaeological site that once belonged to the Indigenous tribes of this region. You can also take a day trip from Oaxaca to visit Hierve El Agua, a petrified rock formation with natural mineral pools that overlook the valleys and mountains in the distance.

Of course, no trip to Oaxaca is complete without all the food. Mole is one of the most traditional dishes you can get in Oaxaca. It is a complicated, ancient recipe made of dozens of ingredients that come together in a rich and decadent sauce.

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Mexico Travel Guide

Last Updated: May 2, 2024

Historic ruins near the ocean in Tulum, Mexico with lush greenery on a sunny day

While most people visit Mexico for its big tourist centers like Tulum , Cabo, Cancun , or Cozumel, there’s a lot more to the country than just its luxurious resorts.

Now, I’ll be honest: I was late to visiting Mexico.

But when I did, I fell in love with it. Mexico is an incredible destination with a rich history, amazing food, and friendly people.

It’s an awesome country to backpack around, drive through, or just vacation in. There’s a ton of stuff to do here, and the locals are some of the friendliest people on the planet.

From Mayan ruins to pristine beaches to Mexico City’s art and food and Oaxaca’s mezcal scene, Mexico has it all.

And the food? World-class. Gorge yourself on delicious tacos, tostadas, tamales, sopas, seafood, and mole (to name a few items from Mexico’s very long list of traditional dishes).

I could go on forever as to why I love this country. Whatever amount of time you’re planning to visit is not enough — you’ll always leave wanting more.

This Mexico travel guide will help you get out of the touristy towns, explore the country, and fall in love with what you discover!

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
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Top 5 things to see and do in mexico.

The famous ruins of Chichen Itza, the Wonder of the World, in beautiful Mexico

1. Explore Oaxaca

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico, Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. A city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and many parks, it’s a center for heritage tourism. It’s also one of the gastronomic hotbeds of Mexico as well as the hub of mezcal production too. With fascinating museums, bustling markets, historic buildings, delicious food and much more, there really is something for everyone in Oaxaca . I loved my time there ! You must visit!

2. Tour Mexico City

Found in the Valley of Mexico at an altitude of around 2,225 meters (7,300 feet), Mexico City is a sprawling, chaotic, messy city in the best way possible. Originally built over a lake, it has some 150 world-class museums, sprawling markets, tons of historic buildings, city squares, and more. In the historic center, you can visit the impressive main square (the only one bigger in the world is Red Square in Moscow). To the south of the city there’s a network of beautiful canals, and Teotihuacan, the City of the Gods, is just a 45-minute drive away. The city also has an incredible foodie scene and is fast becoming one of the centers of gastronomy in the world.

3. Relax on the Pacific Coast

Vacation spots like Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, and Sayulita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offer just as many epic beaches and resort properties as the Caribbean Coast. Go to Puerto Vallarta or Los Cabos to hang out on the pristine white sandy beaches, or head to Sayulita to check out the busy surf scene. Surf and enjoy watersports, visit historical monuments, and check out all the local art by day. By night, you can indulge in sunset cocktails, enjoy fresh shrimp tacos or seafood skewers, and salsa the evening away.

4. See the Mayan Ruins

Mexico is filled with ruins. You have Chichén Itzá, which dates back to 550 CE and is one of the largest (and most popular) Mayan sites in Mexico for its enormous Kukulkan Pyramid (which is considered one of the new Wonders of the World). Other ruins worth visiting are the Tulum Archaeological Zone, the Palenque Archaeological Zone, the Calakmul ruins (which are inside the huge Calakmul Biosphere Reserve), the ruins at Ek Balam, and so many more! Admission is 571 MXN for the Wonder of the World Chichén Itzá while the rest cost anywhere from 80-500 MXN.

5. Visit a volcano

Other things to see and do in mexico, 1. wander through mexico city’s chapultepec park.

Chapultepec is one of the largest city parks in the world, spanning over 1,700 acres. It encompasses the Mexico City Zoo, La Feria amusement park, and the Museum of Anthropology, which houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. The museum costs 85 MXN, as does the Chapultepec Castillo (Castle) which houses the National History Museum. You can also rent a rowboat or paddle boat and go out on Chapultepec Lake for 60 MXN. Entry to the park itself is free.

2. Visit the markets

Just about every town in Mexico has a busy, diverse market where you can enjoy traditional food, pick up some bargain items, and purchase souvenirs. Two of the best are the Mercado Ciudadela in Mexico City (for handmade textiles and artwork), and Oaxaca’s Mercado Benito Juárez (for local foods like fresh ground coffee beans, juices, and grasshopper tacos). If you’re in Merida, check out Mercado Santa Ana for their Yucatecan cuisine, like cochito horneado , a marinated pork dish that is slow-cooked in underground pits, or head to El Mercado Lucas de Galvez for their specialty seafood cocktails (the locals swear by it to cure your hangover).

3. Explore Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución)

Zócalo is the main plaza in the heart of Mexico City. It dates back to the Aztecs, encompassing both the Templo Mayor (an ancient Aztec temple) and the Palacio Nacional (a colonial palace with offices of Mexico’s president). Situated just off the Zócalo is La Catedral Metropolitana, a magnificent cathedral with a gold altar. It’s a perfect example of Spanish colonial architecture.

4. Go diving

The seas surrounding Mexico have some of the world’s best diving spots thanks to their diverse marine life, large coral reefs (including the second largest reef system in the world, the Great Maya Barrier Reef), and excellent visibility. The Gulf of Mexico is home to five different species of sea turtles, blue whales, lemon sharks, and dolphins, and so much more! Aside from diving, the waters are popular for snorkeling, sports fishing, waterboarding, surfing, and more or less any other watersports. A two-tank dive starts at 2,800 MXN. Some of the best places to dive in Mexico are Discovery Bay, Cenote Dos Ojos, Revillagigedo Islands, and Isla Mujeres.

5. Relax in Cancún

Depending on what you’re looking to do, Cancún can offer you a crazy-fun party in the sun or some quiet and hidden local markets and restaurants. You have spas, resorts, and picturesque beaches as well as Mayan ruins, archaeological sites, and little nearby villages. There’s a ton to see and do here if you leave the resorts!

6. Get lost in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and is known for its tequila and mariachi. It’s chock full of museums, such as Cabañas (a UNESCO building with incredible murals), MUSA (paintings & sculptures by local artists), and the Páramo Galeria (contemporary art); nightlife venues, and a labyrinth of old colonial streets. Visit the Hospicio Cabañas, a hospital built in the 19th century, and then spend some time at the Guadalajara Cathedral. The cathedral’s Gothic interior features artworks from famous Mexican artists like Murillo (a Baroque painter).

7. See Teotihuacan

The Aztec empire left an enormous mark on Mexico. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Aztec pyramids at Teotihuacan, located 48 kilometers (30 miles) outside of Mexico City. Teotihuacan was founded as early as 400 BCE, but its biggest structures weren’t completed until around 300 BCE. Its three giant pyramids are known as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, and they dominate the landscape. If you’re going to visit just one Aztec site, this is it. It’s unsheltered here, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Admission is 85 MXN. Full-day guided tours from Mexico City cost 880 MXN.

8. Visit the bizarre Island of Dolls

Known as “La Isla de la Muñecas” in Spanish, this is perhaps one of the creepiest tourist attractions in the world. Decades ago, a hermit named Don Julian Santana moved here, learned a girl drowned in the nearby lake, and started collecting and hanging dolls all over the island to please the drowned girl’s spirit. It’s creepy. Like beyond creepy. You’ll have to hire a boat from Xochimilco to get there but it’s worth it!

9. Honor the Day of the Dead

Yearly on November 1st and 2nd, Mexico celebrates a major festival: Día de Los Muertos. The festival is a vibrant and lively affair with celebrations for those who are gone but not forgotten, including parades and elaborate and colorful costumes. Families also commemorate their dead relatives by setting up ofrendas , or altars, with pictures of the deceased, candles, yellow marigold petals, and food. This meant to encourage the deceased to cross back over into the land of the living and join in the celebrations. Oaxaca or Mexico City are the two best places to experience this celebration.

10. Visit the UNAM Botanical Garden

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of Mexico City for a little while, the Botanical Garden at the National Autonomous University of Mexico is the perfect place. Keeping with the Aztec traditions of having gardens for both medicinal and ornamental purposes, there is also an added focus on conservation and environmental education here. Built on top of and around lava formations from the eruption of the volcano Xitle (which happened over 2,000 years ago), visitors can explore the naturally formed grottoes, ponds, and waterfalls. This garden has the most diverse cactus collection in the world (800 different kinds!), and ponds full of koi and turtles, an orchidarium, and a medicinal garden. Admission is free.

11. Relax on Isla Holbox

Holbox is an island located off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is home to white sand beaches and crystalline waters. It is a relaxing, slow-paced island that’s easy to get stuck on. One day can easily turn into a week. It’s an island paradise where you can relax in a hammock on the beach, hike in the jungles, swim, dive, snorkel, and everything in between! While it used to be a hidden gem, it’s slowly becoming more and more popular (and developed). Be sure to see bioluminescent waters here. From Cancún, you can get to the ferry port at Chiquilá in around two hours by bus. The ferry takes 25 minutes and costs 220 MXN. If you just want to visit for the day, full-day tours from Cancún/Playa del Carmen cost 3,000 MXN.

12. Visit Mérida

Mérida is one of my favorite places in all of Mexico. It is a safe and wonderful city filled with history, cool mezcal bars, and some of the best food in the country. Some of my favorite places to eat and drink in town are La Chaya Maya Casona, Acervo Mezcalero, La Negrita Cantina, and Café Créme. Also, don’t miss the nearby Uxmal ruins, which are just one-hour away. There are also some cool museums here, like the Folk Art Museum of Yucatan, the Yucatan Music Museum, and the City Museum (which has all kinds of Mayan artifacts). For accommodation suggestions, check out this post on where to stay in Merida .

13. Enjoy San Cristóbal de las Casas’ architecture

San Cristóbal is a highland town known for its charming colonial architecture. There are narrow cobblestone streets, local craft markets, and the entire area is enveloped in pine forests. Don’t miss the town’s 16th-century cathedral, and if you want to get out and explore the nearby nature, take a boat tour of the Cañón de Sumidero. You’ll see tons of birds, monkeys, and crocodiles. For a view of the town and surrounding area, visit the Guadalupe Church to enjoy the view from the roof. Free Walking San Cristóbal offers daily tours if you want a guide to show you the highlights.

14. Sample the Cenotes of Yucatan

Cenotes are natural sinkholes that are full of groundwater. They were used by the Mayans as sources for freshwater, however, today they are popular swimming holes for locals and tourists alike (you can even scuba dive in some). There are tons of them all around the Yucatan Peninsula. Some are completely exposed, some are walled in by cliffs, and some are covered entirely by caves. Calavera, Cristalino, Casa Cenote, Yaxmuul, Choo-Ha, and Escondido Cenote are some of the most popular cenotes in the region. If you’d rather do a tour, you can join a cenote tour for around 1,350 MXN.

15. Visit Sayulita

Located on the Pacific coast, Sayulita is a hip beach town with a lively community of expats and surfers. The town has a laid-back vibe owing to the sizable surfing and yoga community. It’s a great place to surf and there are plenty of yoga retreats available here. You can also take a jungle trek, go zip lining, ride ATVs along the coast, and simply soak up the sun on the beach. It’s the perfect place to chill for a few days. Canopy tours start at 1,800 MXN.

16. Explore Campeche

Campeche is located just south of Merida on the Yucatan. It’s home to UNESCO World Heritage colonial architecture, including fortified walls and over 2,000 historic buildings. Visit the Museo De La Arquitectura Maya for Mayan history and antiquities, see the Mayan ruins at Edzná (which is just 45 minutes away and sees very few tourists), and wander the old city wall to take in the view.

For information on specific cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

Cancún Travel Guide
Mexico City Travel Guide
Oaxaca Travel Guide

Mexico Travel Costs

The beautiful beaches and coastline of Cancun, in sunny Mexico

Accommodation – In Mexico, hostels start at 250 MXN per night for a dorm bed, but average closer to 300 MXN. Private hostel rooms cost anything from 600-1,900 MXN per night. Prices are usually a bit lower in the low-season or shoulder-season. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are both common, as are self-catering facilities.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity costs around 200 MXN per night.

For budget hotels, expect to pay 700 MXN for a basic room in a two-star hotel. These two-star rooms typically include an en-suite bathroom and free Wi-Fi, but not always air conditioning.

Airbnb is also an option in Mexico, with private rooms starting around 300 MXN but averaging much more (usually between 600-1,200 MXN). Entire homes and apartments average around 1,000-1,800 MXN although you can find them for as little as 600 MXN if you book early.

Food – You’ll find a lot of rice, beans, fruits, and veggies like tomatoes, corn, avocado, and peppers in Mexican cuisine, which is a mix of Mayan, Aztec, and Spanish traditions. Typical Mexican dishes include tacos, mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, often including chocolate), salsa, enchiladas, tamales (stuffed corn pockets), pozole (hominy stew topped with onion, avocado, and chili), and guacamole.

Street stalls and markets are the best way to go for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadilla, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Mexico, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 150 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. Expect to pay around 300 MXN for a multi-course meal in a mid-range restaurant.

A beer is about 20 MXN in the street but double that at a restaurant, while a cocktail shouldn’t cost more than 80 MXN in most places. A combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 120 MXN and a cappuccino costs around 50 MXN.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. If you’re buying bottles of water, expect to pay 15 MXN (less if you buy in bulk but a more environmentally friendly (and cheaper) solution is to bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 750 MXN per week for groceries including rice, vegetables, chicken, and beans.

Backpacking Mexico Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Mexico, expect to spend around 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few attractions (such as museums and galleries) each day. If you plan on eating out more or drinking, you’ll need to add another 100 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,800 MXN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, visit more attractions, enjoy a few drinks, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,600 MXN or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided trips and tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Mexico Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Mexico is incredibly budget-friendly. Unless you’re splurging on food or resorts, it’s really easy to visit on a budget. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are some ways to save in Mexico:

Shop at the markets for food – Mexico’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Most towns have a local market selling fresh fruits, veggies, and other goods for cheap.
Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats.
Take a free walking tour – Many cities have free walking tours that give you a solid introduction to the main sights. Both Mexico City and Oaxaca have excellent free tours — just be sure to tip your guide!
Travel off-season – By traveling between late April and early December, you can pick up bargain accommodation, food and travel rates as this is low season.
Venture inland – Mexico’s coasts are the most famous, most touristy parts of the country, but the interior has an amazing amount to offer. Prices are cheaper, and you’ll be more likely to meet some locals if you head away from the coast.
Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals and connect with people who can share their insider tips and advice. Just make sure to send your requests early.
Embrace “comida corrida” – This hearty mid-day meal option is usually available between 2pm-4pm and is often quite affordable. It’s a set menu, but it’s much cheaper than most lunch or dinner options. If you plan on eating out on a budget, aim for places that offer comida corrida.
Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
Skip the taxis – Taxis are overpriced and not always safe. Skip them. If you do need a taxi, don’t just hail one on the street. Head into a nearby hotel/hostel and ask them to call one for you. Only get in taxis that use a meter.
Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mexico

Hostels are plentiful in most of Mexico’s cities. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Mexico:

Suites DF Hostel (Mexico City)
Mexico City Hostel (Mexico City)
Hostel Ka’beh Cancún (Cancún)
Mama’s Home (Tulum)
Gran Hostal (Playa del Carmen)
Casa Angel Youth Hostel (Oaxaca)

How to Get Around Mexico

Ancient buildings in bustling Mexico City, Mexico with a MExican flag in the foreground

Public transportation – Public buses (also known as camiones ) are the most common way to get around in cities and towns (and to nearby villages). These buses are also the cheapest, costing no more than a few pesos per journey. In some cities, smaller microbuses have replaced the older buses, but the cost is still the same.

Mexico City and Guadalajara have subway systems. One-way tickets for the subway and the bus system are around 5 MXN. In Mexico City, you’ll have to buy a rechargeable Metro Card at any of the Metro stations for 15 MXN, and you can use the card for the Metro, Metrobús, Light Rail, Ecobici, Trolleybus, RTP buses, and on Cablebús.

Bus – Most of Mexico is served by buses. On longer journeys, make sure to take an express bus (called a “directo”) if you can as they are much faster and stop less. A bus from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara (5.5 hours) costs around 585 MXN. A bus from Cancún to Mexico City (27 hours) costs around 1,800 MXN. A bus from Puebla to Mexico City (2 hours) costs around 200 MXN.

Some of the biggest and most reliable bus companies include:

Primera Plus
Estrella de Oro
Omnibuses de Mexico
ETN (Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales)

Most cities have a central bus terminal from where all long-distance buses depart. You can show up to buy your ticket, or research routes and ticket prices via each company’s website.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There are virtually no passenger train services remaining in Mexico. For long-distance travel, you’ll need to fly or take the bus.

Flying – For long journeys, consider flying. The route from Cancún to Mexico City by bus takes 27 hours and costs around 1,800 MXN but a flight starts around 470 MXN and only takes two hours. A one-way fare from Mexico City to Guadalajara is about 525 MXN. Even a four-hour flight from coast to coast from Cancún to Puerto Vallarta is just 1,200 MXN one-way.

Aeroméxico is the biggest airline in Mexico, but low-cost carriers are becoming more popular. These include:

VivaAerobus

Car rentals – Car rentals are surprisingly affordable in Mexico. You can find week-long rentals for around 3,000 MXN. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years. Some companies require renters to be over 25 and it’s best to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). Avoid driving at night, when crimes against drivers are more likely to occur. Also, don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight as break-ins can occur.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Mexico

Summer (June to October) is the rainy season in Mexico, but this is mostly just in the center of the country. You can expect it to rain each day heavily, but the downpour is usually short. It hardly ever rains in the northern part of the country, and humidity is thick in the south and along the coastal areas. Temperatures during this time hover somewhere between 26-32°C (79-90°F).

September to the middle of October is hurricane season and is not a good time to visit.

December to the end of April (winter) is the busiest tourist season as temperatures are hot, but the coastal areas provide plenty of relief for vacationers. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to take advantage of Mexico’s tropical environment. It’s the dry season, so you’ll experience very little rain. You can expect big crowds as people flock to the resort areas around Cancún and Puerto Vallarta.

The average daily temperature during this time is 28°C (82°F). But if you’re in the mountains, pack lots of layers! It can get frigid, especially in the evenings.

How to Stay Safe in Mexico

The media (especially the American media) likes to paint Mexico as a dangerous place to visit but the reality is far more complex. While petty theft is very common in Mexico, most of the serious conflicts occur between the authorities and Mexican drug cartels. The people who tend to be involved in major incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid those, and you’ll drastically increase your chances of staying safe.

Moreover, where you are greatly influences how safe you are. Yucatan and Oaxaca are incredibly safe states to visit while states near the US border are less so and more likely to experience violence and crime.

Officials looking for bribes are pretty common in Quintana Roo, as is drug-related violence due to tourists looking for drugs there. States near the southern border can also be sketchy and it’s wiser to keep an eye out on your stuff there though violent crime is pretty uncommon.

So don’t believe the media that “Mexico is unsafe.” Mexico is like any big country – some parts are safe, and some parts aren’t. Use some common sense when you travel: don’t flash your money, avoid wearing expensive watches or jewelry, don’t walk along drunk at night, make copies of your passport and official documents, and tell people where you are regularly.

Another important safety tip to keep in mind is about the water. While Mexico’s water purification and treatment systems have improved, it still is not safe to drink ordinary tap water when visiting. Luckily, bottled water is available everywhere. Bringing water filter like LifeStraw is advised as it has a built-in filter so your water is always clean and safe.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

The emergency services number in Mexico is 911. However, if that doesn’t work (since it isn’t in use in every region of Mexico), try 066.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Mexico Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Mexico Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Mexico

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Mexico is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations with over 20 million foreign visitors a year. Famous for its tequila, the Aztecs and the Mayas , Salma Hayek, Day of the Dead, drug wars, Lucha libre, Corona beer and the beach resorts on the Pacific and Caribbean side, Mexico can offer something for every sort of traveler.

From Pre-Columbian ruins and historic colonial towns to white powdery beaches and huge canyons, this country offers visitors a wide range of things to do. For ideas on the best places to visit check out our list of the top tourist attractions in Mexico.

25. Monte Alban

Monte Alban, or White Mountain, was once the ancient capital of the Zapotec people. Overlooking the Valley of Oaxaca, Monte Alban is one of the top archeological sites in Mexico. In addition to spectacular views over the valley, visitors will be able to see the ruined buildings around a broad, flat hilltop terrace, the Gran Plaza, that runs north to south.

Two large pyramid mounds terminate the great plaza at the ends, and the sides of the space are lined with stepped platforms and terraces.

24. San Miguel de Allende

In the Bajio mountains of Central Mexico, there is a small colonial destination known as San Miguel de Allende. The city is bursting with history: It was founded by a San Franciscan Monk, played a big role in the war for Mexican independence from Spain and was a vital spot on the Mexican silver trail.

Today, it is best known for its colonial architecture and enchanting cobblestone streets. Historic buildings like the pink Teatro Angela Peralta and the Santuario de Atotonilco, an enormous church complex, are among the top attractions in the city.

23. Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

The annual Monarch butterfly migration is one of nature’s great spectacles and a top attraction for visitors to Mexico’s central highlands. Each year, millions of Monarch Butterflies make the journey from eastern Canada to the forests of western central Mexico, a journey that spans up to 3,000 miles.

The Monarch butterflies spend their winter hibernation clustered in small areas of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Michoacan, before they travel to the north again.

22. Great Pyramid of Cholula

Outside of Puebla is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, an archeological site that is home to the largest pyramid in the world. Also known as Tlachihualtepetl, the Great Pyramid of Cholula was built in four stages, the first of which began 2,300 years ago. Much of the pyramid is now overgrown though and appears to be a natural hill topped by a Catholic church.

This is the “Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios” which was built by the Spanish in 1594. Visitors are able to tour more than four miles of underground tunnels that showcase the sheer size and scope of this incredible landmark.

21. El Malecon

The boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta , also known as El Malecon, is a marvelous seaside promenade that border the blue waters of the Pacific. Most of El Malecon is exclusively for pedestrians, making it a safe place to take photos and admire the view.

Statues line the boardwalk, there are often elaborate sand displays on the beach, and there are also countless local establishments that cater to visitors. It is possible to stroll along El Malecon and stop for handmade souvenirs, some fresh seafood or a few tropical drinks at a local bar.

The ancient Mayan city of Uxmal is one of the most historically and culturally significant attractions in Mexico. Roughly 55 km (35 miles) south of Merida in Yucatan, the city was constructed primarily in the ninth century. Uxmal was once the capital of the region, and it is a prime example of Puuc architecture.

Various stone levels, along with elaborate stonework, gives the pyramid structures a grand appearance. Not to be missed is the Magician’s Pyramid, the tallest of the pyramids at Uxmal.

19. Zipolite

Along the Pacific Coast in the Oaxaca region is Zipolite, a one-mile beach that retains a progressive, hippie vibe. In decades past, Zipolite was a nude beach, although that is far less common today.

Zipolite attracts travelers in search of a counter-culture vibe, and it still retains an authentic Mexican atmosphere despite the tourists from all around the world. While the beach itself is the main attraction, Zipolite is also well known for Av Roca Blanca, a street just off the beach that offers bars, shops and cafes.

18. Museo Nacional de Antropologia

The Museo Nacional de Antropologia, or National Museum of Anthropology, is both the largest and most visited museum in all of Mexico. Located in Mexico City’s Chapultepec Park, the museum boasts an enormous collection of artifacts and exhibits relating to the pre-Columbian heritage of the country. This includes Mayan and Aztec pieces, such as the famed Stone of the Sun, which is the original Aztec calendar stone.

17. El Tajin

El Tajín was an important gulf coast city, founded by the Classic Veracruz culture. Most of the buildings at the site were constructed between 600 – 900 AD. Surrounded by the green jungle, these ruins are believed to have been the political and administrative center of the entire civilization.

Today, visitors can see more than 150 identified buildings, although just a dozen are restored and open to the public at any given time. Of note is the Pyramid of Niches, the most impressive structure at the site.

16. San Ignacio Lagoon

There are several places to go whale watching in Mexico, but none is so spectacular than San Ignacio Lagoon. Located off the coast of Baja California Sur, the lagoon is the winter home to a number of Eastern Pacific gray whales.

During the winter months, gray whales come to give birth in the shallowest parts of the lagoon. San Ignacio Lagoon is now Latin America’s largest wildlife sanctuary, and there are many guided boat tours that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the gray whales.

15. Bonampak Murals

Bonampak is an ancient archeological site in the state of Chiapas. While there are many Mayan structures at Bonampak worth exploring, the most famous is the Temple of Murals. This temple is where the Bonampak Murals can be found, a collection of ancient art that helps explain the history and culture of the Mayans. Hundreds of figures were painted in three different rooms, each of which tells a part of a narrative in bold turquoise, red and yellow hues.

14. Isla Mujeres

Surrounded by the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, just eight miles from Cancun , is Isla Mujeres. This island is a hotspot today, but it also has significance for the region’s cultural heritage. Isla Mujeres, which translates to the island of women, was sacred to the Mayan goddess of childbirth.

Today, travelers arrive by ferry from Cancun to relax on the scenic beaches, visit the local turtle farm, scuba dive or snorkel in the clear waters or just relax away from the Cancun beach crowds.

13. Santa Prisca Church in Taxco

El Templo de Santa Prisca, or the Santa Prisca Church, is a magnificent Baroque structure located in the city of Taxco . Built in the 18th century, the church is a colonial landmark that was commissioned by a prosperous Spanish mine owner.

Made from pink stone, boasting large twin towers and decorated with tiles, this is an ornate monument that no architecture enthusiast would want to miss. Inside, nine enormous altarpieces stretch from the floor to the ceiling, and each is covered in gold.

12. Acapulco Cliff Divers

Acapulco is the original Mexican resort town which came into prominence by the 1950s as a getaway for Hollywood stars and millionaires. No visit to Acapulco is complete without watching the cliff divers perform their impressive jumps into ocean.

They have been doing it since the 1930s, although today the divers are professionals. You can see the dives from a small platform by the cliff for a small entrance fee, or eat at the La Perla restaurant which offers a good view of the divers.

11. Cenote Dos Ojos

Just outside of Tulum is Cenote Dos Ojos, one of the country’s largest underwater cave systems. The name means the cavern of two eyes, referring to the two sinkholes connected by a long passageway.

The water in the caverns is filtered through limestone, making it exceptionally clear. As a result, Cenote Dos Ojos is wildly popular with both snorkelers and more serious scuba divers, some of whom head deep into the underwater cavern.

10. Catedral Metropolitana

There is no shortage of things to do, see and explore in Mexico City, but a top attraction is unquestionably the Catedral Metropolitana. It is the oldest and the largest cathedral in Latin America, and the 16th century structure dominates the city’s central plaza, known as the Zocalo.

The architecture is a blend of styles, including heavy influences from baroque and Mexican churrigueresque design. In addition to the architecture, the Catedral Metropolitana boasts an extensive art collection as well as catacombs beneath the main structure.

9. Guanajuato

Nestled in the mountains of the Sierra de Guanajuato lies the beautiful colonial city of Guanajuato . The city was founded in 1554 next to one of the richest silver mining areas of Mexico. The 16th-century mining boom led to the construction of beautiful haciendas and fine colonial buildings.

Guanajuato streets and many colorful alleyways spread out in every direction while most of its traffic is served by a network of underground tunnels making it an excellent city for pedestrians.

8. Dias des los Muertos, Oaxaca

The city of Oaxaca is well-known for having one of the best Dia de Los Muertos festivals in Mexico, a holiday celebrated in many parts of Latin America. In Mexico the festival can be traced back thousands of years ago to indigenous cultures such as the Zapotec and Aztec.

In Oaxaca the Day of the Dead Festival starts at the end of October when families prepare the tombs for the return of the spirits. During this time tombs and home altars are decorated with flowers and families leave offerings for the spirits in the cemeteries.

Located just off the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is a popular destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling. The underwater world around Cozumel was discovered by Jacques Cousteau in 1959 who called it one of the best diving areas in the world. Since that time Cozumel has become a National Marine Park to protect the delicate balance of it’s beautiful coral reefs and amazing variety of tropical fish.

El Arco is an incredible arch found in Cabo San Lucas . This unique rock formation marks the spot where the Pacific Ocean becomes the Gulf of California. The arch has become an icon of Cabo San Lucas, and it can be viewed from several angles.

A stroll along the beach gives the opportunity for amazing pictures of El Arco, not to mention views of the blue waters, the gray whales that frequently frolic in the ocean and additional rock formations along the coastline.

5. Palenque

Palenque is an archaeological site that was located on the western edge of the Maya empire in the present-day state of Chiapas, Mexico . Palenque is much smaller than some of its Mayan neighbor cities, but it contains some of the finest architecture and sculptures the Maya ever produced. Most structures in Palenque date from about 600 AD to 800 AD including the Temple of Inscriptions, the only Mesoamerican pyramid built as a funerary monument.

4. Copper Canyon

The Copper Canyon is in fact a network of canyons which together are several times larger than the Grand Canyon. The most popular way to explore the Copper Canyon is on the “Chihuahua al Pacifico” Railway. The track passes over 37 bridges and through 86 tunnels, rising as high as 2,400 meter (7,900 feet) above sea level featuring spectacular views of the canyons below.

Tulum is situated on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It once served as the major port of the Mayan city of Coba. Tulum was built around 1200 AD when the Mayan civilization was already in decline and therefore lacks the elegance of some other famous sites.

The tropical beach backdrop however makes this a stunning top attraction which should not be missed. Accommodation in Tulum can range from simple cabanas to 5 star luxury resorts.

2. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is the largest of the Maya cities in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations. The most famous landmark of Chichen Itza is the temple-pyramid of El Castillo. The design of the temple has special astronomical significance.

Each face of the pyramid has a stairway with 91 steps, which together with the shared step at the top, add up to 365, the number of days in a year. Other highlights of Chichen Itza include the Great Ballcourt and El Caracol, a circular temple which served as an astronomical observatory.

1. Teotihuacan

In the 2nd century BC a new civilization arose in the valley of Mexico. This civilization built the flourishing metropolis of Teotihuacán and it’s huge pyramids. The Pyramid of the Sun was built around 100 AD and is the largest pyramid in Teotihuacán and all of Mexico. The construction of the smaller Pyramid of the Moon started a century later and was finished in 450 AD.

Seven centuries after the demise of the Teotihuacán empire the pyramids were honored and utilized by the Aztecs and became a place of pilgrimage. Mesoamerica’s greatest city is just 31 miles (50km) northeast of Mexico City and can be reached by bus or taxi.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Mexico

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Reader interactions.

June 17, 2019 at 2:08 pm

Acapulco with all its problems is still absolutely gorgeous and always has been. It’s ashamed they don’t protect it more.

February 5, 2017 at 7:41 pm

Monarch butterfly is pretty good place to visit mostly during February and March

August 22, 2016 at 9:21 am

We just went this summer to Teotihuacan, it was awesome!!! We have been to Mexico 5 times in the last 15 years but this is the first time we have gone anywhere besides visiting my husband’s family. We need to see some of these other places also someday!!!

March 31, 2016 at 1:41 pm

Don’t forget Uxmal ruins, much more beautiful than Chichen Itza in my opinion.

October 28, 2014 at 8:59 pm

What about Guadalajara?!

March 17, 2014 at 1:51 pm

This is a great list of attractions in Mexico. Those who are visiting should consider trying to visit at least a couple of these during their vacation.

February 26, 2013 at 11:41 pm

Attractive Pictures, makes one feel like Catching a Plane immediately to few destinations as above. Good Luck to the people from Touropia who made the research. Thanks and best regards. Raj

January 23, 2013 at 2:42 pm

Excellent research! This is a wonderful resource for travellers to the region.

November 13, 2012 at 3:51 pm

Nice job on the tourist attractions! They are beautiful and acurrately correct. This also helped me very much on my project about Mexico. So thank you so so so much!!!!!!!!!! The only flaw is the paragraph about Palenque because where it says Palenque is much smaller than it Mayan neighbor cities, “it” is supposed it’s.

August 19, 2012 at 4:50 pm

Guanajuato is really an amazing little city, happy to see it made the list!

January 31, 2012 at 12:40 pm

Chichen Itza is a beautiful place ! I was there viewing the temple pyramid . It is amazing ! You should visit , xoxo Day Day

August 31, 2011 at 12:53 pm

Acapulco and Tulum have beautiful beaches. I was there watching the cliff divers jump into the see. Awesome. But cozumel will make you fall in love with the underwater.

MEXICO TOURIST GUIDE

Find all the information you need to plan your next trip to Mexico and to enjoy it to the fullest!

STATES OF MÉXICO

Capital cities.

Folklore, gastronomy, literary culture, art and exhibitions, is what you will find in the capitals of the states of Mexico. To the north, colonial Mexico, Puebla, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, the Sonoran desert and the California peninsula. To the east Veracruz and the gulf. To the west Acapulco, Oaxaca and Tuxtla Gutiérrez. And to the south the Riviera Maya and the pyramids of Chichén-Itzá, Tulúm and Cobá in Yucatán, Palenque in Chiapas, the cenotes, and the Central American jungles.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES

Magical towns.

A Magical Town is a place with symbols and legends, towns with history that in many cases have been the scene of transcendent events for our country, they are places that show the national identity in each of its corners, with a magic that emanates from its attractions ; visiting them is an opportunity to discover the charm of Mexico. The Magical Towns Program contributes to revalue a set of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation and that represent fresh and varied alternatives for national and foreign visitors. A town that through time and in the face of modernity, has conserved, valued and defended its historical, cultural and natural heritage; and manifests it in various expressions through its tangible and intangible heritage. A Magical Town is a town that has unique, symbolic attributes, authentic stories, transcendent events, everyday life, which means a great opportunity for tourist use, taking into account the motivations and needs of travelers.

ECOTOURISM AND ADVENTURE

More interesting sites and traditions....

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States of Mexico
Capital Cities
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Travel Advisory August 22, 2023

Mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates, and the removal of obsolete COVID-19 page links.

Country Summary: Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior parts of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, and between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

Colima state due to crime and kidnapping .
Guerrero state due to crime .
Michoacan state due to crime and kidnapping .
Sinaloa state due to crime and kidnapping
Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping.
Zacatecas state due to crime and kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

Baja California state due to crime and kidnapping .
Chihuahua state due to crime and kidnapping .
Durango state due to crime .
Guanajuato state due to crime and kidnapping .
Jalisco state due to crime and kidnapping .
Morelos state due to crime .
Sonora state due to crime and kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

Aguascalientes state due to crime .
Baja California Sur state due to crime .
Chiapas state due to crime .
Coahuila state due to crime .
Hidalgo state due to crime .
Mexico City due to crime .
Mexico State due to crime .
Nayarit state due to crime.
Nuevo Leon state due to crime and kidnapping .
Oaxaca state due to crime .
Puebla state due to crime and kidnapping .
Queretaro state due to crime .
Quintana Roo state due to crime .
San Luis Potosi state due to crime and kidnapping .
Tabasco state due to crime .
Tlaxcala state due to crime .
Veracruz state due to crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

Campeche state
Yucatan state

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and Twitter .
Review the Country Security Report for Mexico.
Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel.

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

Mexicali Valley: U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions. The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours. Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as Tijuana , Ensenada , and Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Chiapas state.

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

Ciudad Juarez: U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border. Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted. Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura): U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes. Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
City of Chihuahua: U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport).
U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south.
Ojinaga: U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
Palomas: U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña: U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions:

Manzanillo: U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.
Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state.

Durango state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

West and south of Federal Highway 45: U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state. Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Areas south of Federal Highway 45D: U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in: San Miguel de Allende , Guanajuato City , and surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following area with the noted restrictions:

Taxco: U.S. government employees must use Federal Highway 95D, which passes through Cuernavaca, Morelos, and stay within downtown tourist areas of Taxco. Employees may visit Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park during the day with a licensed tour operator.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in Acapulco , Zihuatanejo , and Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110: U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
Federal Highway 80: U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in: Guadalajara Metropolitan Area , Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) , Chapala , and Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

Federal Highway 15D: U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
Morelia: U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
Lazaro Cardenas: U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the Monarch Butterfly Reserve located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

Isthmus region: U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east. This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.
Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa: U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in: Oaxaca City , Monte Alban , Puerto Escondido, and Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations. Travelers should maintain a high level of situational awareness, avoid areas where illicit activities occur, and promptly depart from potentially dangerous situations.

While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured innocent bystanders. Additionally, U.S. citizens have been the victims of both non-violent and violent crimes in tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. However, personnel are advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen, and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Mazatlan: U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
Los Mochis and Topolobampo: U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora. Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales: U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
Nogales: U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes. 
Puerto Peñasco: U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry: U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos): U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits. U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo. In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state.

U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo: U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
Overland travel in Tamaulipas: U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in: Chichen Itza , Merida , Uxmal , and Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Passport must be valid at time of entry

One page per stamp

Yes, if visiting for more than 180 days

See Travelers’ Health section

Embassies and Consulates

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR U.S. CITIZENS IN MEXICO From Mexico: 800-681-9374 or 55-8526-2561 From the United States: 1-844-528-6611

U.S. Citizen Services Inquiries: Contact Form

U.S. Embassy Mexico City

Paseo de la Reforma 305 Colonia Cuauhtémoc 06500 Ciudad de México

U.S. Consulate General Ciudad Juarez

Paseo de la Victoria #3650 Fracc. Partido Senecú 32543 Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua

U.S. Consulate General Guadalajara

Progreso 175 Colonia Americana 44160 Guadalajara, Jalisco

U.S. Consulate General Hermosillo

Monterey, Esqueda 141 El Centenario 83260 Hermosillo, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Matamoros

Constitución No. 1 Colonia Jardín 87330 Matamoros, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Merida

Calle 60 No. 338-K x 29 y 31 Colonia Alcalá Martin 97050 Mérida, Yucatán

U.S. Consulate General Monterrey

Avenida Alfonso Reyes 150 Colonia Valle del Poniente 66196 Santa Catarina, Nuevo León

U.S. Consulate General Nogales

Calle San José s/n Fracc. Los Álamos 84065 Nogales, Sonora

U.S. Consulate General Nuevo Laredo

Paseo Colon 1901 Colonia Madero 88260 Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas

U.S. Consulate General Tijuana

Paseo de las Culturas s/n Mesa de Otay Delegación Centenario 22425 Tijuana, Baja California

Consular Agencies

Acapulco Hotel Continental Emporio Costera M. Alemán 121 – Office 14 39670 Acapulco, Guerrero Cancun

Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 ZH Torre La Europea, Despacho 301 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo

Los Cabos Las Tiendas de Palmilla L-B221, Km. 27.5 Carretera Transpeninsular 23406 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur

Playa Gaviotas 202, Local 10 Zona Dorada 82110 Mazatlán, Sinaloa

Oaxaca Macedonio Alcalá 407, Office 20 68000 Oaxaca, Oaxaca

Piedras Negras Abasolo 211, Local 3, Centro 26000 Piedras Negras, Coahuila

Playa del Carmen Plaza Progreso, Local 33 Carretera Federal Puerto Juarez-Chetumal, Mz. 293 Lt. 1. 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Puerto Vallarta

Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros 85 Sur, Local L-7 63732 Nuevo Nayarit, Nayarit

San Miguel de Allende Plaza La Luciérnaga, Libramiento Jose Manuel Zavala 165, Locales 4 y 5 Colonia La Luciérnaga 37745 San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

Destination Description

See the State Department’s Fact Sheet on Mexico for more information on U.S.-Mexico relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

A valid passport book is required to enter Mexico by air, and those attempting to enter at an airport with a U.S. passport card only may be denied admission.

Review the Mexican government’s most current entry, exit, and visa requirements ( Spanish only ) or visit the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C., for more information.

For travelers entering Mexico by air only, Mexican immigration authorities implemented a process to replace the previous paper Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM with a Forma Migratoria Multiple Digital or FMMD. The FMMD process is in place at all 66 international airports in Mexico. Upon arrival at an airport, Mexican immigration authorities will determine a traveler’s authorized length of stay and either place a date stamp in the traveler’s passport or direct the traveler through a self-service electronic gate (E-Gate) that will generate a printed receipt with QR code. Air travelers who wish to download a record of their FMMD or find more information on the FMMD process may visit the National Migration Institute’s (INM) website .

Travelers entering Mexico by land should have a valid passport book or card. If you enter Mexico by land and plan to travel beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles or 20 kilometers into Mexico), you must stop at an INM office to obtain an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM), even if not explicitly directed to do so by Mexican officials. INM may opt to allow tourists entry of up to 180 days without a visa or may limit authorized stays to shorter periods at their discretion; visitors should confirm the specific length of authorized stay written on the entry permit (FMM) or by the stamp in their passport. Mexican immigration authorities could ask you to present both your passport and entry permit if applicable at any point and may detain you while they review your immigration status if you are not carrying your passport and proof of legal status in Mexico, or if you have overstayed your authorized stay. Immigration check points are common in the interior of Mexico, including in popular tourist areas far from the border.

You will also need a temporary vehicle import permit to bring a U.S.-registered vehicle beyond the border zone. These permits are processed through Banjercito and require a deposit that will be refunded once the vehicle leaves Mexico. For more information, visit the Banjercito website ( Spanish only ).

Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Sonora have a “hassle-free” zone that allows cars traveling without an entry permit or car registration within the zone.

Mexican authorities can impound a vehicle that enters the country without a valid U.S. registration, a vehicle driven by a Mexican national who is not resident in the United States, or a vehicle found beyond the border zone without the temporary import permit.

Mexican law permits Mexican immigration authorities to deny foreigners entry into Mexico if they have been charged with or convicted of a serious crime in Mexico or elsewhere.

Travelers bringing in goods beyond their personal effects worth $300.00 or more must declare those goods with Mexican customs (SAT) Mexican customs ( Spanish only ) or risk having them confiscated. This also applies to used goods or clothing, including items for donation. U.S. citizens driving such items into Mexico without declaring them or without sufficient funds to pay duty fees are subject to having their vehicle seized by Mexican customs authorities. For further information about customs regulations, please read our customs information page .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents in Mexico.

A parent or legal guardian departing Mexico with minor children should carry a notarized consent letter from the other parent if traveling separately. INM requires at least one parent to complete a SAM ( Formato de Salida de Menores, Spanish only ) for all Mexican or foreign minors with Temporary Resident, Temporary Student Resident, or Permanent Resident status departing Mexico alone or with a third party. Further information about the prevention of international parental child abduction is available on our website.

Find information on dual nationality , and customs regulations on our websites. Both Mexico and the United States allow dual nationality.

Safety and Security

Travelers are urged to review the Mexico Travel Advisory for information about safety and security concerns affecting the country on a state-by-state basis.

U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Mexico should not expect public health and safety standards like those in the United States. Even where such standards exist, enforcement varies by location. Travelers should mitigate the risk of illness or injury by taking standard health and safety precautions.

The phone number to report emergencies in Mexico is “911.” Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.

Crime: Crime in Mexico occurs at a high rate and can be violent, from random street crime to cartel-related attacks. Over the past year, Mission Mexico has assisted U.S. citizens who were victims of armed robbery, carjacking, extortion, homicide, kidnapping, pick-pocketing, and sexual assault. Increased levels of cartel-related violence have resulted in territorial disputes and targeted killings, injuring or killing innocent bystanders. Travelers who find themselves in an active shooter scenario should flee in the opposite direction, if possible, or drop to the ground, preferably behind a hard barrier.

Drivers on roads and highways may encounter government checkpoints, which often include National Guard or military personnel. State and local police also set up checkpoints in and around cities and along the highways to deter criminal activity and enforce traffic laws. In some parts of Mexico, criminal organizations and other non-governmental actors have been known to erect unauthorized checkpoints and have abducted or threatened violence against those who fail to stop and/or pay a “toll.” When approaching a checkpoint, regardless of whether it is official, cooperate and avoid any actions that may appear suspicious or aggressive.

While Mexican authorities endeavor to safeguard the country’s major resort areas and tourist destinations, those areas have not been immune to the types of violence and crime experienced elsewhere in Mexico. In some areas of Mexico, response time of local police is often slow. In addition, filing police reports can be time consuming. See our Mexico Travel Advisory for more information.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Protesters in Mexico may block traffic on roads, including major thoroughfares, or take control of toll booths on highways. Travelers who encounter protesters who demand unofficial tolls are generally allowed to pass upon payment. U.S. citizens should avoid participating in demonstrations or other activities that might be deemed political by authorities, as Mexican law prohibits political activities by foreign citizens and such actions may result in detention or deportation.

Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
Past demonstrations have turned violent.
Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Mexico. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

Romance/Online dating
Money transfers
Lucrative sales
Grandparent/Relative targeting
Free Trip/Luggage
Inheritance notices
Bank overpayments

Mexico’s consumer protection agency, PROFECO (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor, Spanish only), can sometimes provide assistance (Spanish only) to victims of such scams. In addition, there have been allegations of banking fraud perpetrated by private bankers against U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens who believe they have been victims of fraud can file a police report file a complaint (Spanish only) with the Mexican banking regulatory agency, CONDUSEF (Comision Nacional para la Proteccion y Defensa de los Usuarios de Servicios Financieros, Spanish only), or consult with an attorney.

Victims of Crime: U.S. victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate for assistance. Report emergencies to the local police at 911, report crimes already committed to the Ministerio Publico, and contact the Embassy or Consulate at +52-55-85262561. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

U.S. citizen victims of crime should contact the local authorities to file a Mexican police report before departing Mexico. In most instances, victims of crime will file reports with the Ministerio Publico (equivalent to the office of public prosecutor or district attorney in the United States) and not with police first responders. U.S. citizens should also inform the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulat e .

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can:

help you find appropriate medical care,
assist you in reporting a crime to the police,
contact relatives or friends with your written consent,
provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion,
provide a list of local attorneys,
provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States ,
provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution,
help you find accommodation and arrange flights home,
replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate for assistance.

Kidnapping: Mexico experiences very high rates of kidnapping. If you believe you or your U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) relative has been kidnapped, please contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately.

Robbery: Mexico experiences robberies, typically in cities, in which abductors force victims to use their debit or credit card to withdraw money from ATMs in exchange for their release. Perpetrators commonly work in cooperation with, or pose as, taxi drivers. To minimize the risk of such robberies:

Only use a reputable taxi company or a trusted ride-sharing app.
Book taxis through your hotel or an authorized taxi stand.

Extortion: Extortion schemes are common in Mexico. In a typical scheme known as a virtual kidnapping, criminals convince family members that a relative has been abducted, when, in fact, the person is safe but unreachable. The purported abductors will often use threats to persuade victims to isolate themselves, making communication with family members less likely. Unable to reach their loved ones, family members often consent to paying the “ransom” demand. Criminals use various means to gather information about potential victims, including monitoring social media sites, eavesdropping on conversations, or using information taken from a stolen cell phone. Some of these extortions have been conducted from Mexican prisons. You can reduce the risk of falling victim to this type of extortion through the following:

Do not discuss travel plans, your room number, or any other personal information within earshot of strangers.
Do not divulge personal business details to strangers in person or over the phone, especially when using hotel phones.
If you are threatened on the phone, hang up immediately.

Sexual Assault: Rape and sexual assault are serious problems in some resort areas. Many of these incidents occur at night or during the early morning hours, in hotel rooms, on hotel grounds, or on deserted beaches. In some cases, assailants drug the drinks of victims before assaulting them. Pay attention to your surroundings and to who might have handled your drink.

Credit/Debit Card “Skimming:” There have been instances of fraudulent charges or withdrawals from accounts due to “skimmed” cards. If you choose to use credit or debit cards, you should regularly check your account to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions. Travelers should limit the amount of cash they carry in public, exercise caution when withdrawing cash from ATMs, and avoid ATMs located in isolated or unlit areas.

Alcohol: If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill. There have been reports of individuals falling ill or blacking out after consuming unregulated alcohol. The Mexican Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk, COFEPRIS ( Comision Federal para la Proteccion contra Riesgos Sanitarios, Spanish only ), is responsible for inspecting hotels, restaurants, and other establishments for health violations, including reports of unregulated alcohol. Please email COFEPRIS at [email protected] for more information or if you wish to file a report. You can file a report online (Spanish only) via the COFEPRIS website, by calling the COFEPRIS call center at 800 033 50 50 (from Mexico) or +52 (55) 5080-5425 (from the United States), or by scheduling an appointment (Spanish only) to visit a COFEPRIS office.

There have also been instances of criminals drugging drinks to rob or sexually assault victims. Additionally, if you feel you have been the victim of unregulated alcohol or another serious health violation, you should notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate . You may also contact the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries).

Drug Smuggling: Mexican criminal organizations are engaged in a violent struggle to control trafficking routes. Criminal organizations smuggling drugs into the United States have targeted unsuspecting individuals who regularly cross the border. Frequent border crossers are advised to vary their routes and travel times and to closely monitor their vehicles to avoid being targeted.

Tourism: In major cities and resort areas, the tourism industry is generally well-regulated. Best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas and activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and/or provide life-saving assistance. In smaller towns and areas less commonly frequented by foreign tourists, the tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .

Since 2016, Mexico has opened seven multilingual Centers for the Care and Protection of Tourists (CAPTA) and Tourist Assistance Centers (CATTAC) in Los Cabos, La Paz, Acapulco, Playa del Carmen, Mazatlan, Ciudad Madero, and Queretaro. These offices have proven helpful assisting U.S. citizen visitors in resolving disputes with merchants and government entities, filing criminal reports, securing needed services, and locating special needs accommodations.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate immediately. See our webpage for further information.

The Mexican government is required by international law to contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate promptly when a U.S. citizen is arrested if the arrestee so requests. This requirement does not apply to dual nationals.

Firearms and Other Weapons: Weapons laws in Mexico vary by state, but it is generally illegal for travelers to carry weapons of any kind including firearms, knives, daggers, brass knuckles, as well as ammunition (even used shells). Illegal firearms trafficking from the United States to Mexico is a major concern, and the Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against taking any firearm or ammunition into Mexico. If you are caught entering Mexico with any type of weapon, including firearms or ammunitions, you likely will face severe penalties, including prison time. U.S.-issued permits allowing an individual to carry weapons are not valid in Mexico. Visit the Department’s Traveling Abroad with Firearms webpage .

Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by a Mexican embassy or consulate.

Drugs: Drug possession and use, including medical marijuana, is illegal in Mexico and may result in a lengthy jail sentence or fines.

Electronic Cigarettes (Vaping Devices): It is illegal for travelers to bring electronic cigarettes (vaping devices) and all vaping solutions to Mexico. Customs will confiscate vaping devices and solutions and travelers could be fined or arrested. Avoid delays and possible sanctions by not taking these items to Mexico.

Real Estate and Time Shares: U.S. citizens should exercise caution when considering time-share investments or purchasing real estate and be aware of the aggressive tactics used by some sales representatives. Before initiating a real estate purchase or time-share investment, U.S. citizens should consult with a Mexican attorney to learn about important regulations and laws that govern real estate property.

Mountain Climbing and Hiking: The Mexican government has declared the area around the Popocatepetl and the Colima volcanoes off limits. In remote rural areas, there can be limited cell phone coverage and internet connectivity, and it may be difficult for rescue teams and local authorities to reach climbers and hikers in distress.

Potential for Natural Disasters: Mexico is in an active earthquake zone. Tsunamis may occur following significant earthquakes. Please visit our disaster and crisis preparedness webpage for more information. For additional information concerning disasters, see:

U.S. Embassy Mexico City website
Civil Protection ( Proteccion Civil, Spanish only ) provides information from the Mexican Government about natural disaster preparedness
U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides general information about natural disaster preparedness
U.S. Geological Survey provides updates on recent seismic and volcanic activity

Storm Season: Tropical storms in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Caribbean and Pacific Coast between May and November can produce heavy winds and rain. Please visit our disaster and crisis preparedness webpage for more information.

Spring Break: Millions of U.S. citizens visit Mexican beach resorts each year, especially during “ spring break ” season. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18. See the “Alcohol” section above to learn more about the risks associated with drinking, as well as reports of illnesses associated with the possible consumption of unregulated alcohol.

Resort Areas and Water Activities: Beaches in Mexico may be dangerous due to strong currents, rip tides, and rogue waves. Warning notices and flags on beaches should be taken seriously. Not all hazardous beaches are clearly marked. If black or red warning flags are up, do not enter the water. Strong currents can lead to dangerous conditions for even the most experienced swimmers. U.S. citizens simply walking along the shore or wading have been swept out to sea by rogue waves, and some citizens have drowned or disappeared at Mexican beaches. Avoid the consumption of alcohol while engaging in water activities and do not swim alone.

Boats used for excursions may not be covered by accident insurance and sometimes lack adequate life jackets, radios, and tools to make repairs. Participation in adventure sports may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards. Visit our website and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about adventure travel.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also be subject to fines or forced to relinquish the goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

Faith-Based Travel Information
International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
Human Rights Report – see country reports
Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or on the organization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Intersex (LGBTQI+) events in Mexico. However, due to sporadic reports of violence targeting LGBTQI+ individuals, U.S. citizens should exercise discretion in identifying themselves publicly as LGBTQI+. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and Section 6 of the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Mexico for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: Mexican law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in more rural and remote parts of the country, and more common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure in major cities. U.S. citizens with disabilities should consult individual hotels and service providers in advance of travel to ensure they are accessible.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: There were several reports of sexual assault or domestic violence involving U.S. citizen women over the past year. See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Excellent health facilities are available in Mexico City and other major cities. Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi to a health provider. Mexican facilities often require payment “up front” before providing medical care, and most hospitals in Mexico do not accept U.S. health insurance. A list of doctors and hospitals is available on the U.S. Embassy or consulate website.

U.S. citizens have lodged complaints against some private hospitals in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, and Los Cabos to include exorbitant prices and inflexible collection measures. Travelers should obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care in these locations. Be aware that some resorts have exclusive agreements with medical providers and ambulance services, which may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention. Some hospitals in tourist centers utilize sliding scales, deciding on rates for services based on negotiation and on the patient’s perceived ability to pay. In some instances, providers have been known to determine the limits of a patient’s credit card or insurance, quickly reach that amount in services rendered, and subsequently discharge the patient or transfer them to a public hospital.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism.

For emergency services in Mexico, dial 911 . Although there may be English-speaking operators available, it is best to seek the assistance of a Spanish speaker to place the call.

Ambulance services are:

widely available in major cities but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards,
not present in many remote and rural areas of the country,
not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills: Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation as well.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check the Mexican government’s Drug Schedule to ensure the medication is legal in Mexico.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information :

World Health Organization
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on Medical Tourism.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Mexico. Several foreigners have successfully enlisted the support of PROFECO (Spanish only) in order to resolve disputes over medical services.
Although Mexico has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Mexico, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.

Pharmaceuticals

Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
The Drug Enforcement Agency reports counterfeit prescription pills are sold by criminals on both sides of the border. These pills are sometimes represented as OxyContin, Percocet, Xanax, and others, and may contain deadly doses of fentanyl. Counterfeit pills are readily advertised on social media and can be purchased at small, non-chain pharmacies in Mexico along the border and in tourist areas. U.S. citizens have become seriously ill or died in Mexico after using synthetic drugs or adulterated prescription pills.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.
Visit the Mexican Health Department website (Spanish only) or contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C., for more information about obtaining a permit to import medicine into Mexico.
For a list of controlled substances in Mexico, visit the COFEPRIS website (Spanish only) and the Mexican Drug Schedule (Spanish only). U.S. citizens should carry a copy of their prescription or doctor’s letter, but it is still possible that they may be subject to arrest for arriving in Mexico with substances on these lists. Note that a medicine considered “over the counter” in some U.S. states may be a controlled substance in Mexico. For example, pseudoephedrine, the active ingredient in Sudafed, is considered a controlled substance in Mexico. For more information, contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

If you are considering traveling to Mexico to have a child using assisted reproductive technology (ART) including surrogacy, visit the State Department’s ART and Surrogacy Abroad page for general information regarding U.S. citizenship for the child.
Surrogacy in Mexico presents serious risks that must be considered before U.S. citizens begin the surrogacy process.
If you decide to pursue parenthood in Mexico via ART with a gestational mother, be prepared for possible long delays to document your child’s birth in Mexico and their U.S. citizenship by obtaining a U.S. passport.
Ensure you understand Mexican law, which varies by state. The only four states with a legal framework for surrogacy do not permit foreigners and/or same-sex couples to use the procedure. In the other 28 states, surrogacy is largely unregulated.
In most states, Mexican courts may not enforce surrogacy agreements between non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents and a gestational mother should disputes arise, due to a lack of legal framework for surrogacy. The U.S. Embassy is aware of several cases where surrogacy agencies presented a partial, or false, interpretation of Mexican surrogacy laws.
In most Mexican states, the gestational mother is the child’s legal parent with full parental rights, and the gestational mother’s name is typically listed on the Mexican state-issued birth certificate. In certain states, a court may amend the birth certificate to remove the name of the gestational mother.
The U.S. Embassy is aware of cases of foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, being arrested for attempting to circumvent local law related to surrogacy.

Carbon Monoxide

Many hotels and other lodgings are not equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, even if they contain sources of this potentially lethal gas. U.S. citizens have died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning throughout Mexico. If your lodging is not equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, consider traveling with a portable one.

Water Quality:

In many areas in Mexico, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks might be made using tap water.

Altitude:

Many cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, are at high altitude, which can lead to altitude illness. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes .

Adventure Travel

Participation in adventure sports and activities may not be covered by accident insurance and safety protections and regulations for these activities may differ from U.S. standards. Visit our website and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about adventure travel.

General Health

The following diseases are prevalent:

Typhoid Fever
Travelers’ Diarrhea
Chikungunya
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Parasitic Infections
Chronic Respiratory Disease
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Mexico.

Air Quality

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Mexico. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.

For further health information, go to:

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Private Residential Treatment Facilities:

These facilities provide care to U.S. citizens throughout Mexico and include child behavior modification facilities, rehabilitation facilities, and assisted living centers.
There is a wide range in standards for education, safety, health, sanitation, immigration, and residency. Staff licensing may not be strictly enforced or meet the standards of similar facilities in the United States.
The State Department has received reports of abuse, negligence, or mismanagement at some of these facilities. U.S. citizens should exercise due diligence and do extensive research before selecting a residential treatment facility.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of U.S. citizen deaths in Mexico. If you have an emergency while driving, dial “911.” If you are driving on a toll highway (“ cuota ”) or any other major highway, you may contact the Green Angels ( Spanish only ), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico. Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Avoid driving on Mexican highways at night. Travel with a charged and functional cell phone capable of making calls in Mexico. Travelers should exercise caution at all times and should use toll (“ cuota ”) roads rather than the less secure free (“ libre ”) roads whenever possible. Do not hitchhike or accept rides from or offer rides to strangers anywhere in Mexico. Travelers encountering police or security checkpoints should comply with instructions.

Road conditions and maintenance across Mexico vary with many road surfaces needing repair. Travel in rural areas poses additional risks to include spotty cell phone coverage and delays in receiving roadside or medical assistance.

Vehicular traffic in Mexico City is subject to restriction Monday through Saturday, according to the license plate number, in order to reduce air pollution. For additional information, refer to the Hoy No Circula website ( Spanish only ) maintained by the Mexico City government. See our Road Safety Page for more information. Also, visit Mexico’s national tourist office website , MexOnline, and Mexico’s customs website Importacion Temporal de Vehiculos ( Spanish only ) for more information regarding travel and transportation.

Traffic Laws: U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico. Mexican law requires that only owners drive their vehicles or that the owner be inside the vehicle. Failing to abide by this law may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

Mexican citizens who are not also U.S. citizens or LPRs may not operate U.S.-registered vehicles in Mexico. Mexican insurance is required for all vehicles, including rental vehicles. Drivers involved in accidents, even minor incidents, may be subject to arrest if they are found to be driving without proper insurance, regardless of whether they were at fault. Driving under the influence of alcohol, using a mobile device while driving, and driving through a yellow light are all illegal in Mexico.

If you drive your vehicle into Mexico beyond the immediate border area (approximately 12 miles into Mexico), you must apply for a temporary vehicle import permit with Mexican customs, Banjercito , or at some Mexican consulates in the United States. The permit requires the presentation of a valid passport and a monetary deposit that will be returned to you upon leaving Mexico before the expiration of the permit. Failing to apply for a temporary vehicle import permit may lead to impoundment and a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

Vehicles crossing into Mexico must have a valid license plate and registration sticker. Mexican authorities will often refuse to admit vehicles with temporary or paper license plates. Vehicles with expired registration or unauthorized plates will likely be confiscated and the operator could be charged with a fine equal to the value of the vehicle.

The Mission Mexico Vehicle Recovery Unit assists with the return of stolen U.S. vehicles recovered by Mexican authorities.

If you have an emergency while driving, dial “911.” If you are driving on a toll highway (“cuota”) or any other major highway, you may contact the Green Angels (Spanish only), a fleet of trucks with bilingual crews, by dialing 078 from any phone in Mexico. Generally, individuals involved in an accident who do not require immediate medical care should contact their insurance providers, who may come to the site to provide an immediate assessment.

Public Transportation/Taxis: Security on public buses varies throughout the country but is considered a relatively safe transportation option in Mexico City and other major tourist centers. Passengers should protect their personal possessions at all times as theft is common. Intercity bus travel should be conducted during daylight hours in preferably first-class buses using toll roads.

Robberies and assaults on passengers in taxis not affiliated with a taxi stand (known as “libre” taxis) are common. Avoid taking any taxi not summoned by telephone or contacted in advance, including “libre” taxis. When in need of a taxi, telephone a radio taxi or “sitio” (regulated taxi stand) and ask the dispatcher for the driver’s name and the taxi’s license plate number. Application-based car services such as Uber and Cabify are available in many Mexican cities, and generally offer another safe alternative to taxis. Official complaints against Uber and other drivers do occur, however, and past disputes between these services and local taxi unions have occasionally turned violent, resulting in injuries to U.S. citizens in some instances.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Mexico’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Mexico should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .

If you enter by sea, review the Mexican boating permit requirements prior to travel or contact the Embassy of Mexico in Washington, D.C., for more information.

Maritime Safety Oversight: The Mexican maritime industry, including charter fishing and recreational vessels, is subject solely to Mexican safety regulations. Travelers should be aware that Mexican equipment and vessels may not meet U.S. safety standards or be covered by any accident insurance.

For additional travel information

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Mexico . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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Check passport expiration dates carefully for all travelers! Children’s passports are issued for 5 years, adult passports for 10 years.

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Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Travel and tourism in Mexico - Statistics & Facts

Tourism in mexico during covid-19, international and domestic tourism in mexico, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Share of tourism contribution to GDP in Mexico 2010-2022

Tourism spending in Mexico 2010-2022, by type

Quarterly tourism workforce in Mexico 2018-2023

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Inbound tourism volume in Mexico 2016-2022

Largest hotel companies in Mexico 2022, based on revenue

Further recommended statistics

Premium Statistic Countries in the Americas with the highest inbound tourist arrivals 2019-2022
Basic Statistic Number of tourism jobs in Latin American countries 2022
Basic Statistic Number of Latin American and Caribbean World Heritage Sites 2022, by country
Premium Statistic Leading countries in the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2021
Premium Statistic Leading countries in the Americas in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2021

Countries in the Americas with the highest inbound tourist arrivals 2019-2022

Countries with the highest number of international tourist arrivals in the Americas from 2019 to 2022 (in millions)

Number of tourism jobs in Latin American countries 2022

Number of jobs related to travel and tourism in Latin America in 2022, by country (in millions)

Number of Latin American and Caribbean World Heritage Sites 2022, by country

Number of World Heritage properties in Latin America and the Caribbean in 2022, by country

Leading countries in the Travel & Tourism Development Index 2021

Leading countries and territories in the Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) in 2021

Leading countries in the Americas in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2021

Leading countries in the Americas in the Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) in 2021

Key economic figures

Premium Statistic Share of tourism contribution to GDP in Mexico 2010-2022
Premium Statistic Tourism GDP in Mexico 2010-2022
Premium Statistic Tourism GDP in Mexico 2022, by activity
Premium Statistic Tourism FDI in Mexico 2010-2022
Premium Statistic Tourism establishments in Mexico 2010-2020
Premium Statistic Quarterly tourism workforce in Mexico 2018-2023

Tourism sector as a percentage of gross domestic product in Mexico from 2010 to 2022

Tourism GDP in Mexico 2010-2022

Contribution of the tourism sector to the gross domestic product in Mexico from 2010 to 2022 (in billion Mexican pesos)

Tourism GDP in Mexico 2022, by activity

Contribution of the tourism sector to the gross domestic product in Mexico in 2022, by economic activity (in billion Mexican pesos)

Tourism FDI in Mexico 2010-2022

Foreign direct investment in the tourism sector in Mexico from 2010 to 2022 (in million U.S. dollars)

Tourism establishments in Mexico 2010-2020

Number of establishments in the tourism sector in Mexico from 2010 to 2020 (in 1,000s)

Number of employees in the tourism sector in Mexico from 1st quarter 2018 to 2nd quarter 2023 (in millions)

Tourism volume and expenditures

Premium Statistic Inbound tourism volume in Mexico 2016-2022
Premium Statistic Inbound tourism spending in Mexico 2016-2022
Premium Statistic Per capita spending of inbound tourists in Mexico 2016-2022
Premium Statistic Number of domestic hotel guests in Mexico 2010-2020
Premium Statistic Domestic tourism spending in Mexico 2010-2022
Premium Statistic Cruise passenger traffic in Mexico 2022, by port
Premium Statistic Most visited archeological sites in Mexico 2022
Premium Statistic Quarterly accommodation and holiday package spending in Mexico 2016-2020

Number of international tourists in Mexico from 2016 to 2022 (in millions)

Inbound tourism spending in Mexico 2016-2022

Expenditure of international tourists in Mexico from 2016 to 2022 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Per capita spending of inbound tourists in Mexico 2016-2022

Average expenditure per trip of international visitors in Mexico from 2016 to 2022 (in U.S. dollars)

Number of domestic hotel guests in Mexico 2010-2020

Number of domestic tourists in hotels in Mexico from 2010 to 2020 (in millions)

Domestic tourism spending in Mexico 2010-2022

Expenditure of domestic tourists in Mexico from 2010 to 2022 (in billion Mexican pesos)

Cruise passenger traffic in Mexico 2022, by port

Number of cruise passengers in Mexico in 2022, by port (in 1,000s)

Most visited archeological sites in Mexico 2022

Most popular archeological sites in Mexico in 2022, by number of visitors (in 1,000s)

Quarterly accommodation and holiday package spending in Mexico 2016-2020

Quarterly expenditure on accommodation and tour packages in Mexico between 2016 and 2020 (in billion Mexican pesos)

Hotel industry

Premium Statistic Number of hotels in Mexican states 2023
Premium Statistic Largest hotel companies in Mexico 2022, based on revenue
Premium Statistic Hotel room occupancy in Mexico 2010-2022
Premium Statistic Hotel room occupancy rate in Mexico 2019-2022, by type of location
Premium Statistic Occupancy rates in key Mexican hotel markets 2022
Premium Statistic Main tourist destinations in Mexico 2020-2022, by number of occupied rooms
Basic Statistic Top Mexican resorts 2023, by user ratings

Number of hotels in Mexican states 2023

Number of hotel establishments in Mexico as of June 2023, by federal state

Leading companies in the hotel industry in Mexico in 2022, by net revenue (in billion Mexican pesos)

Hotel room occupancy in Mexico 2010-2022

Occupancy rate of hotel rooms in Mexico from 2010 to 2022

Hotel room occupancy rate in Mexico 2019-2022, by type of location

Room occupancy of hotel establishments in Mexico from 2019 to 2022, by type of location

Occupancy rates in key Mexican hotel markets 2022

Tourist destinations with highest hotel room occupancy in Mexico in 2022

Main tourist destinations in Mexico 2020-2022, by number of occupied rooms

Leading travel destinations for overnight tourism in Mexico from 2020 to 2022, by number of occupied hotel rooms

Top Mexican resorts 2023, by user ratings

Best-rated resorts in Mexico in 2023, based on user scores

Traveler preferences

Premium Statistic Most popular holiday destination type for Mexicans 2022
Premium Statistic Most popular domestic holiday destinations in Mexico 2022
Premium Statistic Favorite aspects of domestic holiday trips for Mexicans 2022
Premium Statistic Favorite aspects of outbound holiday trips for Mexicans 2022
Premium Statistic Favorite type of holidays for Mexicans 2022
Premium Statistic Breakdown of Mexican holidaymakers 2022, by travel companion

Most popular holiday destination type for Mexicans 2022

Most common type of travel destination for leisure travelers from Mexico as of June 2022

Most popular domestic holiday destinations in Mexico 2022

Most common domestic travel destinations in Mexico as of June 2022

Favorite aspects of domestic holiday trips for Mexicans 2022

Preferred amenities of domestic leisure tourists in Mexico as of June 2022

Favorite aspects of outbound holiday trips for Mexicans 2022

Preferred amenities of international leisure tourists from Mexico as of June 2022

Favorite type of holidays for Mexicans 2022

Preferred type of vacation trips by tourists from Mexico as of June 2022

Breakdown of Mexican holidaymakers 2022, by travel companion

Distribution of leisure tourists from Mexico as of June 2022, by travel companionship

Further reports

Get the best reports to understand your industry.

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Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm (SGT)

Mon - Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm (JST)

Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 5pm (GMT)

Sick of the U.S.? Here's How Much Money You Need to Live in Mexico

I moved to Mexico in 2018. Back then, I got tons of “but it’s so unsafe” warnings, and “are you sure?” inquiries from well-meaning friends, family and co-workers.

However, after the you-know-what in 2020, many of those same people were able to work remotely, and they traveled to Mexico in droves to do so. (Guess it was safe enough after all 🤷‍♀️)

Today, as the cost of living in the U.S. and Canada continue skyrocketing at alarming rates, more and more people are moving to Mexico, or at least considering it.

Are you next? Check out the info below to see roughly how much it will cost, but more importantly, what to expect that you’re probably not anticipating.

Is Retirement in Mexico Right for You?

Mexico’s appeal lies in its varied climates, landscapes, communities, and friendly locals who rank as some of the happiest people in the world .

Whether you’re drawn to the eternal summer of coastal regions or the temperate, culturally rich highlands, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

The proximity to the U.S. and Canada is a bonus, ensuring that familiar products and brands are readily available.

The cost of living in Mexico remains one of its most attractive features — and I’m definitely going to break that down for you in a bit, but I want to make sure you understand what you’re signing up for.

I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018, and I love it, but I also know it’s not all sunshine and rainbows (OK, there’s a lot of sunshine; but still).

While it’s true that daily expenses, healthcare, and housing are significantly more affordable in Mexico than in many parts of North America, you actually have to like the country if you’re going to live in it full time.

What’s the Best Place for You to Retire in Mexico?

Mexico offers a range of environments to suit any preference.

Coastal areas like Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Maya are perfect for beach lovers, while Central Mexico cities such as San Miguel de Allende and Ajijic offer cooler weather and rich cultural experiences.

For those who prefer city life, big cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara provide the hustle and bustle of urban living alongside historical sites and delicious tacos .

When considering where to live, think about your priorities — climate, community size, access to healthcare, public transport, and lifestyle are all important factors.

Many retirees choose to start with a temporary stay, renting in various locations before settling down. I did this before buying a home in Mexico.

In fact, I lived in Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, Oaxaca City, Guadalajara and Merida before choosing a place to live. Spoiler: I didn’t buy my home in ANY of those!

This exploratory phase is crucial for finding your ideal Mexican home, and in fact, whenever anyone asks me about moving to Mexico, my advice is always to spend six months in a few cities in Mexico before you decide.

One of the longest travel visas of any country, Mexico offers a six month tourist visa — so I encourage you to take full advantage of that before fully moving.

Healthcare in Mexico is High Quality and Affordable

One of Mexico’s biggest perks is its healthcare system, known for being both high-quality and affordable.

Many doctors and dentists are U.S.-trained, and the country is renowned for its medical tourism with more and more Americans traveling to Mexico for their health care needs each year.

Major cities boast well-equipped hospitals that are often much more accessible than those in the U.S. or Canada.

For residents, Mexico offers health insurance options through the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) and Instituto de Salud para el Bienestar (INSABI), providing comprehensive care at a low cost.

Private health insurance is also an option for those seeking broader coverage. I personally have Nomad Insurance with SafetyWing , and always recommend them.

Mexico Real Estate: Renting and Buying

Housing costs in Mexico can vary widely depending on the location and property type.

Coastal and tourist-heavy areas generally feature higher prices, but it’s possible to find affordable homes just about anywhere in the country.

The process of renting or buying can be streamlined with the help of local real estate agents and online expat communities, particularly Facebook groups. (To find them, search “city name in Mexico + expats” on Facebook).

Long-term rentals often require a lease agreement and a deposit, along with proof of income. Online platforms like Airbnb or VRBO work well for this.

Buying property might involve more complex steps, but local advisors and lawyers can guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.

When the time comes to buy, you should be able to find a comfortable two-bedroom option in a good neighborhood for less than $200,000 USD.

As housing costs fluctuate, check out Propiedades and Inmuebles24 , two of the biggest Mexican real estate sites, to get a better idea of current prices.

Safety and Community in Mexico

While concerns about safety in Mexico can be daunting, most expatriate communities are located in areas known for their low crime rates and welcoming locals.

Common sense precautions like avoiding risky areas at night and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Mexico.

With so many expats in Mexico, the local expat communities in various areas are vibrant and supportive, offering a built-in social network for newcomers.

These communities often organize events, cultural activities and holiday gatherings that make it easy to socialize, meet people and get settled.

Just How Much Money Do You Need to Retire in Mexico?

So, how much does it cost to live this dream in Mexico?

With more than 1.6 million Americans already calling Mexico home , this country offers a diverse array of living options, from bustling cities to tranquil beach towns .

What you spend will vary a lot based on your location, but also your needs, wants, and deal breakers.

As it would be impossible to tell anyone the exact dollar amount they’d need, here’s a guestimation:

A couple can live comfortably in Mexico on about $3,000 per month , and this includes housing, utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare.

Depending on where you are, a modest but comfy two bedroom in a safe area should be about $750-$1,500 USD. Of course, you can spend less, or you can spend much more.

If you want a spacious two-bedroom apartment with a nice view and a doorman in Mexico City or other high-cost areas like Puerto Vallarta, you’ll likely spend $1,500-2,500 USD.

🔌 Utilities

The thing I was shocked most by in Mexico was the cost of utilities, and how low they are — though if you run the AC all day everyday, your bills can add up.

Electricity : Some expats pay less than $10 USD per month for electricity, but they really keep their electricity consumption in check by limiting use of air conditioning or space heaters.

If you don’t use electricity sparingly, as in heavy air conditioning and heating use, and using the dryer and other high-wattage appliances daily — you could be looking at a $50-75 USD per month electricity bill.

Water: Tap water is inexpensive in Mexico, and unless you water your lawn or hose down the patio frequently, you’ll likely spend about $20 per month.

Internet : Mexico has several internet providers, like Telmex, Izzi, Total Play, which offers packages for high-speed internet (10 Mb+) and cable TV for as low as about $25 USD per month.

Cell Phone: Cell phone plans are much cheaper in Mexico, and you can get one for about $20 USD per month with unlimited calling in North America, and 2 Gb of data.

Drinking Water: Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not potable, so most people get garrafones (five gallon jugs) of purified water delivered to their house. They cost about $3 USD each with delivery, and less if you fill them yourself.

Nearly everything at grocery stores in Mexico costs less than in the U.S. or Canada, and in my opinion, the quality is much better too.

My household of two spends about $250 USD per month at the grocery store, and another $250 eating out — though we can easily keep our food cost down if we wanted to.

🚙 Transportation

In many places, you don’t need a car. If you don’t have one, that will cut down significantly on your transport costs.

Many cities are walkable, and also have at least decent public transportation. You can also take Ubers or taxis, which average about $3 USD for a 20 minute ride.

The process for buying a car in Mexico can be a bit confusing for foreigners, but you’ll also need a Temporary Residency Permit (Green Card) to do so, which usually comes after being in Mexico a while.

🩺 Health Insurance

I have Nomad Insurance with SafetyWing , and always recommend them because their plans are affordable at less than $150 USD per month for up to $1.5 million USD in coverage.

This is about 25 million MXN pesos, and for reference, a normal doctor check-up is about $1,500 pesos, so it would take a lot to see a 25 million peso doctor bill.

I also know people who don’t have insurance because the cost to see a doctor or even a surgeon is so much less than in the U.S., and they just pay as needed and put money aside in a health emergency fund.

🍻 Entertainment

Things like sporting event tickets or going to the movies in Mexico will cost about $5-10 USD. A gym membership is also inexpensive at about $20 USD per month.

Going out to eat at a nicer restaurant will be about $20 USD per person, and a Mexican beer will cost you about $2-3 USD.

As mentioned, these costs were all a guesstimation — but this budget allows for a lifestyle that might cost twice or three times as much as in the U.S. or Canada.

…But Can You Embrace the Mexican Lifestyle?

Retiring in Mexico isn’t just about enjoying a lower cost of living — it’s about embracing a new lifestyle at a much slower pace than you might be used to.

The warm weather, delicious food , and rich cultural tapestry offer an enriching experience that many retirees cherish.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Mexico provides a backdrop for a truly memorable retirement.

With careful planning and consideration, you can make the most of what Mexico has to offer and retire in style and comfort.

As you consider your options for retirement, think of Mexico not just as a place to live, but as a place to thrive.

The combination of affordable living, high-quality healthcare, and a supportive expat community makes it an ideal destination for starting your new life chapter.

Considering a move to Mexico? As someone who's been living in Mexico since 2018, I'm going to break down the costs for you, and much more.

Video shows bull attack tourist who was feeding the animal on a Mexico beach

One tourist in Mexico forgot the saying, “don’t mess with a bull or you'll get horns.”

Video shows a woman being attacked by a bull while on a beach in Los Cabos, Baja California Sur. In a rage, the bull is seen striking the woman as other tourists watched with horror and disbelief.

Prior to the attack, the bull can be seen accepting food from the woman that she was feeding him under a canopy. The two became brief friends until the unexpected retaliation occurred.

The bull knocked the woman to the ground and continued to attack her as she lay on the sand while making several attempts to escape.

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On the video, a beachgoer is heard saying, “I’m going to help.”

There’s no word of the status of the woman or her injuries. USA TODAY reached out to Los Cabos travel authorities for more information.

Bulls are native to the area

According to local news outlet El Sudcaliforniano , farm animals live in the area and there are several farms located not far from the beach.

Víctor Manuel Torres García, an operational coordinator of the Federal Maritime Land Zone, told the outlet the animals often come to the beach. However, Torres García does not recommend tourists feed the animals for risk of the animals retaliating.

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at [email protected] . Follow her on Instagram , Threads and X (Twitter) .

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This LGBTQ+-friendly Beach Town on Mexico's Iconic Pacific Coast Is Getting a New Boutique Hotel With Stunning Ocean Views and a Rooftop Infinity Pool

Located in Zona Romantica, the new Tryst Puerto Vallarta will debut on Sept. 15.

Oscar HernÃ¡ndez/Courtesy of Tryst Hotels

Puerto Vallarta's Zona Romantica has long been a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers in Mexico. While the area has no shortage of excellent resorts , the newest addition to Puerto Vallarta's hospitality landscape is a chic oceanfront hotel designed for gay travelers with a penchant for luxury boutique stays.

Tryst Puerto Vallarta is the flagship property of Tryst Hotels, a luxury hospitality brand catering to the LGBTQ+ community that will open its doors on Sept. 15. The property will offer just 54 guestrooms and suites, a rooftop pool and bar, and a Mexican restaurant.

“While Puerto Vallarta is already a premier LGBT travel destination, The Tryst Puerto Vallarta introduces an unprecedented combination of inclusivity, luxury, and commitment to the local community,” Tristan Schukraft, CEO of Tryst Hospitality, told Travel + Leisure.

For the decor, Schukraft tasked renowned Mexico City-based Estudio Esterlina, which is also behind the award-winning interiors of the Four Seasons Tamarindo . The brightly lit rooms are clad in a soothing color palette complemented by minimal aesthetics and Mexican influences. Natural materials and textures abound, while five-star amenities such as private balconies with ocean views and hammocks, outdoor showers (in some of the rooms), and spacious bathrooms create a luxe ambiance for a relaxing Mexican getaway.

The hotel's most noteworthy facility is its rooftop, though. Boasting an infinity pool with unobstructed views over the Pacific and a bar, the space was certainly made with daytime relaxation and nighttime entertainment in mind (pool parties and DJ sessions are already in the works).

Guests won't even have to leave the hotel to enjoy a delicious meal as the property's signature restaurant will serve modern Mexican flavors. And if you're here on a weekend, the hotel will also host "drag brunches with a mix of globally known and local performers," Schukraft explained.

“Our award-winning design team has established a new standard in luxury for LGBT travelers. We’re providing a unique blend of poolside glamour and brunchtime drama every weekend,” Schukraft said.

The Tryst's other property in San Juan is set for a property-wide renovation later this year, with one more property in New York’s Fire Island set to open in 2025.

Reservations for Tryst Puerto Vallarta are now open, and nightly rates start from $199.

British tourist stranded in Mexican hospital after collapsing while on holiday with insurers refusing to pay out for heart attack treatment

WATCH: South Texas Mayor reveals daily issues with migrants from Mexico

By George Bunn

Published: 20/05/2024

The family of Trevor Dealey have taken emergency flights to Mexico

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A British tourist has been left stuck in a hospital in Mexico after after insurers refused to pay out.

Trevor Dealey, 59, collapsed on May 11 in Cancun and is still in a critical condition and has now developed sepsis.

The family of the 59-year-old from Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, said he has been left with large medical bills.

His sister, Megan, claimed that because of apparently "undeclared medical conditions" Trevor would not be covered.

Trevor Dealey has been left with large medical bills

She told the Daily Mail: "He got treatment straight away but has been in hospital in Mexico since then and has developed an infection and needed blood dialysis and is now on a ventilator.

"We have been hit with huge medical bills, insurance won’t pay out and there is simply no way we can just pay these and he is likely to need further treatment. If there’s anything you can do to help, it would be really appreciated.

"He is in critical condition and the hospital are demanding payments. It is an incredibly stressful time for us all. Me and my brother have took an emergency flight out to be with his partner to support her during this difficult time.

"Everything is up in the air at the moment with flights, hotels etc… we just want him healthy and home."

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Dealey collapsed on a Cancun beach (file pic)

Averil Longhurst, Trevor's sister, also told the Mail that he has moved to another hospital.

She said: "The last update was that he was still in intensive care and was being treated for sepsis and is on a ventilator.

"Tui have been very good. But we are having problem with the travel company, Admiral. They say they don't cover this. I don't understand what the problem is.

"All I know is I have friends who are going abroad shortly and they are examining their travel insurance policies with a magnifying glass."

An Admiral spokesperson said: "When a customer takes out a travel insurance policy, we ask them to declare all medical conditions. This is so that we price cover accurately based on the individual risk.

"Declaring previous medical history and pre-existing conditions is extremely important when purchasing travel insurance.

"Not doing so could leave someone under insured if they need to make a claim or could invalidate their insurance entirely.

“As part of our process of confirming cover for any claim where a medical incident is involved, we will check a customer’s previous medical history to ensure they have declared everything they need to.

The spokesperson added: "We do not take the decision to refuse a claim lightly as we appreciate the financial implications this can have.

"However, if a customer requires medical treatment while abroad which is related to medical conditions that haven’t been declared to us we may, in some situations have to decline their claim.

"Our emergency assistance team will continue to provide non-financial support and medical assistance to Mr Dealey and his family if they require this."

GB News has approached Tui and the Foreign Office for a comment.

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6 things to know as Memorial Day kicks off ultra-busy summer of travel

Airports will be crowded for Memorial Day. But flying this summer might also be cheaper.

When it comes to summer travel this year, one word keeps coming up: busy.

“This will be the busiest summer travel season we have on record,” David Pekoske, administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, said at a news conference last week.

The agency expects to screen more than 18 million people at airports between Thursday and May 29; Pekoske said he anticipates days later this summer on which security checkpoints will see a record 3.1 million or 3.2 million people.

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release forecasting nearly 44 million travelers between Thursday and Monday. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

Travel advisers say the numbers are bearing out the enthusiasm they’ve seen from clients. John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Group , said families have been planning for this summer since last year — and already are booking trips for spring break and the summer of 2025. He said people realized early in the pandemic how much travel brought to their lives and have since made it a priority.

“What we’re hearing every single day is that people are just so joyful to get out into the world again,” said Mel Burton, coordinator at CruCon Cruise Outlet .

For the millions of people traveling over the upcoming weekend or months, there are some key tips to remember.

Airfare is giving us a break

It should cost less to fly over the holiday weekend (or throughout the summer) this year compared with last — and even compared with pre-covid times.

According to flight-booking app Hopper, the cost of domestic flights for Memorial Day weekend was averaging $260 as of last week, a decrease of 9.5 percent year over year.

“It’s a trend that’s going to continue through the summer,” said Hayley Berg, Hopper’s lead economist.

For June, July and August, domestic airfare is averaging $305 a ticket, a 6 percent drop, Hopper said in its summer outlook . Even flights to Europe are trending cheaper after last summer’s sticker shock. Berg said the average airfare for Europe flights of $950 for June through August was down 8 percent.

Still, that’s about 15 percent higher than the cost of flights in 2019.

More seats are available

Part of the reason behind the higher travel numbers and lower airfare is simple: There are more seats to fill.

According to Hopper, there are about a million more seats flying domestic routes over the Memorial Day weekend from Thursday until the following Tuesday — more than a 6 percent increase in capacity.

“We fully expect airlines are ready for it,” Berg said. “They’ve added back only capacity that they can maintain because of the disaster of cancellations and delays in 2022 coming out of the pandemic. We’re not expecting any major meltdowns barring any unexpected weather.”

Cirium , an aviation analytics company, said that there are over 15 million more seats flying domestically between June and August this year compared with last, an increase of 5.6 percent.

That all amounts to a little bit of potential relief for travelers, said Scott Keyes, founder of the cheap-flight alert service Going .

“Airlines just have more capacity and more flights on the schedule, which results in cheaper fares and more elbow room,” he said.

New refund rules won’t help you yet

Maybe this summer will be free of airline meltdowns, but it’s better to prepare for the worst. Passengers should be aware that they are entitled to their money back if their flight is canceled or significantly delayed and they end up not traveling.

By the winter holidays, new rules will be in place requiring airlines to automatically refund passengers in those cases. But that rule — which also covers refunds for significantly delayed bags and extra services that aren’t provided — won’t be in place for summer travelers.

To get a refund before the rules kick in, travelers will need to request it from their airline and be prepared to push for money back instead of vouchers or flight credits.

To find out what else they might be entitled to in case of delays or cancellations that are caused by airlines, travelers can turn to a Department of Transportation customer service dashboard . That will reveal which airlines will, for example, book passengers on an alternate carrier, provide meal vouchers, offer ground transportation or pay for a hotel if a traveler is stranded.

Bag fees are up

Alaska Airlines started a pricing trend in January when it raised its fee for a checked bag from $30 to $35. American Airlines did the same the next month, followed by price hikes from United, Delta and JetBlue . It was the first time some airlines had raised checked-bag prices in years.

Keyes, who predicted that multiple airlines would raise bag fees at the beginning of the year, said it will be interesting to see whether any bag pricing will change after the new DOT rule on fees goes into effect.

For now, he warned, “don’t be shocked when each bag costs $5 more than the last time you traveled.”

Deals in Florida, Mexico and Canada

Travel experts rounded up some of the most budget-friendly summer flights for The Washington Post: look to Colorado, the Caribbean, rural Europe and beach regions in Mexico.

In its summer forecast , booking site Kayak also has suggestions for the cheapest average airfare for the summer. Florida, Mexico and Canada are all at the top of the list.

The top cheap flights domestically include Minneapolis, Orlando and a handful of locations in Florida (Tampa, Fort Myers and Fort Lauderdale). Canada (Toronto, Montreal, Calgary) and Mexico (Guadalajara, Mexico City) top the list internationally.

Guns are not carry-ons

Pekoske reminded travelers that firearms aren’t allowed at security screening areas, in secure parts of an airport or in airplane cabins. Passengers who want to travel with a gun have to follow a list of rules that include keeping them unloaded, locked and stored in checked bags. People who bring a gun through security could be arrested or cited by local authorities and could be subject to a TSA fine and loss of PreCheck eligibility.

“As you can imagine, whenever there’s a firearm at a checkpoint, it slows down the process certainly for that individual, but for everybody else in that checkpoint,” he said.

So far this year, there have been 2,300 firearms detected at security checkpoints, Pekoske said; last year, the number was more than 6,700 .

“We’re not seeing that go down like we’d like to see it,” he said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas has also warned travelers heading to the Turks and Caicos Islands to carefully check bags for weapons or ammunition. Five Americans have been arrested on ammunition charges while traveling in the Caribbean destination and face a sentence of 12 years in custody.

“If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody,” the embassy said.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

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Vote for your favorite chocolate shop!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Independent chocolate shops across the country offer a variety of delicious and distinctive chocolates that are made with premium ingredients and infused with unique flavors. Whether you're looking for creative bars, glossy truffles, chocolate-covered fruits, or whimsical bonbons, you can find them at these 20 stores, nominated by a panel of experts. Which chocolate shop is your favorite? Vote once per day until polls close on Monday, June 10 at noon ET. The winning shops, as determined by your vote, will be announced on Wednesday, June 19. Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Best Chocolate Shop Nominees

Photo courtesy of Ed Rudolph

andSons Chocolates

Beverly Hills, California

A second-generation chocolatier, andSons Chocolates features handcrafted bonbons in a variety of flavors. These include passion fruit, salted caramel, s'mores, pistachio rose, and many more. Other treats include selections of truffles and dark chocolate orange peels.

Photo courtesy of Ximena Ortega

Atelier Ortega

Jackson, Wyoming

At Atelier Ortega, chocolate lovers will find more than enough to fulfill their need for this sweet treat. Choose from chocolate truffles, caramelized pecans, turtles, chocolate bars and chocolate tarts, to name a few. Grab some Mexican hot chocolate mix to take home, too.

Photo courtesy of Mar Mnz-Brock

Bon Bon Bon

This Hamtramck-based artisan chocolate company, with stores in Michigan, creates bonbons with clever flavor combinations and eye-catching designs that look as delicious as they taste. In their handiwork, Bon Bon Bon’s confectioners — lovingly nicknamed "The Babes Babes Babes" — apply classic French techniques with Detroit ingenuity, along with local ingredients, to make these delectables. Orders avoiding nuts or gluten, along with vegan options and a special Bon Of The Month, are all available.

Photo courtesy of apomares / E+ Getty Images

Castronovo Chocolate

Stuart, Florida

If you're looking for a way to protect the rainforest and get your chocolate fix, too, head to Castronovo Chocolate. Cacao beans for their products are sourced from communities that protect the rainforest and Indigenous cultures, and are used to make chocolate bark, chocolate bars, and specialty treats including bourbon caramel pralines.

Photo courtesy of Callie Lipkin

Chocolat Uzma

Chicago, Illinois

Chocolat Uzma wows both Chicago residents and visitors with such decadent sweets as chocolate bars, nut bark, and Himalayan turtles. There are even vegan and dairy-free options available so everyone can enjoy their favorite treat.

Photo courtesy of fcafotodigital / E+ Getty Images

Condor Chocolates

Athens, Georgia

Using cacao from Ecuador, Condor Chocolates crafts delicious sweets ranging from English toffee to chocolate bars to truffles and much more. For those who like to include chocolate in their own baked treats, you even can purchase chocolate nibs and chips along with cocoa powder.

Photo courtesy of Capuski // Getty Images

Eldora Chocolate

Albuquerque, New Mexico

This bean-to-bar chocolate shop practices a commitment to using natural, organic, and fair trade ingredients in their artisan confections. The end result is a refined assortment of drinking chocolate powders, chocolate truffles, bonbons, and single origin chocolate bars. Eldora Chocolate also schedules in-store private tours, and a percentage of their profits support Kiva, Heirloom Cacao Project, and Rainforest Project.

Photo courtesy of FRENCH BROAD CHOCOLATE

French Broad Chocolate

Asheville, North Carolina

This bean-to-bar chocolate maker carefully sources cacao from trusted farmers, resulting in sustainable and stunning confections, including their vibrantly colored bonbons. Check out their schedule for tours and tastings offered at the Cafe and Factory. And don't miss their Chocolate Lounge, where the menu not only features their bonbons, but also various cakes, ice cream, brownies, cookies, and beverages.

Photo courtesy of Goo Goo Cluster

Goo Goo Chocolate Co.

Nashville, Tennessee

Home of the famous Goo Goo Cluster, a combination of milk chocolate, caramel, peanuts, and marshmallow nougat, Goo Goo Chocolate Co. offers much more than just this tried-and-true favorite. You also can take classes, such as how to pair wine and chocolate or create your own candy bar.

Photo courtesy of Katherine Anne Confections

Katherine Anne Confections

Founded by confectionista Katherine Duncan, who began making old-fashioned caramels when she was 10, this Chicago chocolate shop sells a variety of truffles, caramels, and pillowy soft marshmallows. There are flavors that rotate seasonally, but regular options include caramel latte, lemon poppyseed, and vegan raspberry champagne rose truffles.

Photo courtesy of AnnaPustynnikova / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Lady Chocolatt

Los Angeles, California

Set your taste buds ablaze at Lady Chocolatt with handcrafted Belgium chocolate served up in a variety of forms, including truffles, ganache, bonbons, and more. Not a chocolate fan? Try the fruit jellies!

Photo courtesy of Brogan Jackson

LaRue Fine Chocolate

Greenville, South Carolina

Chocolatier Elizabeth Logan McDaniel is known for her specialty truffles with fun names and refined flavor infusions. Selections may include the Sweet Kentucky, a dark chocolate with a salty and tipsy caramel, or the Dora Larue, a peanut butter and graham cracker crunch covered in milk chocolate. This chocolate shop not only sells her creations, but also has a cafe space with boozy beverages and a menu of small plates.

Photo courtesy of Litterally Divine

Litterally Divine Chocolates

Indianapolis, Indiana

Litterally Divine Chocolates in Fountain Square was started in 2008 by Suzanne Litteral, a classically trained dancer and chocolatier. It centers on small batch chocolates, using organic ingredients whenever possible. Their signature Indy Truffle consists of 70% dark chocolate, with locally sourced whole milk and a ganache with butter and vanilla. Other truffle varieties include Barrel Mocha and Butterscotch Tea.

Photo courtesy of Adam Milliron

Mon Aimee Chocolat

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Showcasing chocolate from both local and international chocolatiers (from over 60 countries), Mon Aimee Chocolat offers plenty to choose from to satisfy your sweet tooth. Selections include bonbons, caramels, chocolate-covered pretzels, and other mouthwatering treats.

Photo courtesy of C. Nobles

Piety and Desire Chocolate

New Orleans, Louisiana

With a “bean to bar to bonbon and beyond” tagline, this chocolate cafe founded by New Orleans native Christopher Nobles is described by reviewers as having a cozy Old World setting, but Piety and Desire chocolates are lively in design and taste. Guests will find a range of options to enjoy from bean-to-bar chocolate and bonbons to Cajun drinking chocolate, ice cream, and affogatos.

Photo courtesy of Lauri Patterson / E+ Getty Images

Pizzelle's Confections

Huntsville, Alabama

Made with fair trade Felchlin chocolate, Pizzelle's Confections look almost too good to eat. Almost. After all, who could resist their eye-catching and uniquely flavored bonbons and chocolate bars that taste as good as they look? For a taste of Alabama, try the Steel Magnolia, crafted with chicory and coffee.

Photo courtesy of Winky Lewis

Ragged Coast Chocolates

Westbrook, Maine

Ragged Coast Chocolates is known for their signature truffles and sea salt caramels, is committed to using direct and fair trade chocolate from Latin America and sourcing ingredients from local farmers and producers. Vegan and dairy-free chocolate are available, along with baking mixes, chocolate bark, drinking chocolate, and even fanciful treats such as their dark chocolate almond-date hedgehogs.

Photo courtesy of Saratoga Chocolate Co.

Saratoga Chocolate Co.

Saratoga Springs, New York

No matter how you like your chocolate, Saratoga Chocolate Co. has you covered. From an extensive selection of bars and unique barks to a variety of hot chocolates and chocolate-covered nuts, you'll find exactly what you're looking for at this independent, woman-owned, and family-run chocolate shop.

Photo courtesy of Evan Sung

Stick With Me Sweets

New York City, New York

Started by chocolatier Susanna Yoon, this shop in Nolita makes hand-shelled bonbons with shiny and colorful shells and exquisite fillings. The selection includes white, milk, or dark chocolate with flavors extending to green tea, yuzu, passion fruit, and dulce de leche.

Photo courtesy of Bob Ranew

Videri Chocolate Factory

Raleigh, North Carolina

This artisan chocolatier has their factory open to the public for tours that can be either guided, with a paid advance booking, or self-guided for learning about their chocolate making process. Videri Chocolate Factory sells their signature chocolate bars and single origin bars and bonbons, and it also has frozen drinks and milkshakes. Soft serve ice cream can be topped with housemade sauces and toppings. Vegan products are also available.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

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A tourist admiring the beautiful stained glass windows along a corridor inside Chapultepec Castle.

Mexico City

A high-octane megalopolis boasting old-school cantinas, intriguing museums, inspired dining and boating along ancient canals, Mexico City is the sun in the Mexican solar system.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Alameda Central

Immense murals by world-famous Mexican artists dominate the top floors of this splendid white-marble palace – a concert hall and arts center commissioned…

Fountain in the courtyard of a government building, National Palace, Zocalo, Mexico City, Mexico

Palacio Nacional

Centro Histórico

As the seat of the federal branch of the Mexican government, the Palacio Nacional (National Palace) is home to the offices of the president of Mexico and…

Torre Latinoamericana

The Torre Latinoamericana was Latin America’s tallest building when constructed in 1956, and remains the dominant focal point of Centro Histórico. It's an…

Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

House Studio Museum of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo

If you saw the movie Frida (2002), you’ll recognize this museum, designed by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's friend, architect and painter Juan O’Gorman…

Leon Trotsky grave with the Soviet symbol in his House Museum in Mexico City.

Museo Casa de León Trotsky

The Trotsky home, now a museum, remains much as it was on the day when one of Stalin's agents, a Catalan named Ramón Mercader, caught up with the…

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

This museum is home to one of Diego Rivera’s most famous works, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the…

Top picks from our travel experts

10 top things to do in mexico city.

Trajinera or punt on the canals and floating gardens of Xochimilco Mexico City

Xochimilco Canals

Hundreds of colorful trajineras (gondolas) await passengers at the village’s 10 embarcaderos to paddle you through the waterways dotted with birdlife and…

Biblioteca de México

Mexico City's mega-library holds over 500,000 volumes and an extensive maps collection. Design and architecture fans should visit just to witness the…

11 of the best free things to do in Mexico City

Museo Soumaya

Polanco & Bosque de Chapultepec

Someone ought to tell Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim that bigger isn't always better. Named after his late wife, this six-story behemoth (plated with 16…

Museo Nacional de las Culturas del Mundo

Constructed in 1567 as the colonial mint, this renovated museum exhibits the art, dress and handicrafts of Mexico's and the world’s cultures. Mixed in for…

Palacio Postal

More than just Mexico City’s central post office, this golden palace built in 1907 is an Italianate confection designed by the Palacio de Bellas Artes’…

Ex Teresa Arte Actual

Mexico City was built atop a sloshy lake bed and it's sinking fast, as evidenced by this teetering former convent. The 17th-century building now serves as…

500px Photo ID: 90987349 - Trumpet player in Mariachi band

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Museo Jumex

Museo Jumex was built to house one of Latin America's leading contemporary art collections. Temporary exhibits draw on a collection of around 2600 pieces…

The heart of Mexico City is the Plaza de la Constitución. Residents began calling it the Zócalo, meaning ‘base,’ in the 19th century, when plans for a…

Created in the late 1500s by mandate of then-viceroy Luis de Velasco, the Alameda took its name from the álamos (poplars) planted over its rectangular…

The Metropolitan Cathedral seen from the Zocolo in Mexico City.

Catedral Metropolitana

One of Mexico City’s most iconic structures, this cathedral is a monumental edifice: 109m long, 59m wide and 65m high. Started in 1573, it remained a work…

Castillo de Chapultepec

A visible reminder of Mexico’s bygone aristocracy, the ‘castle’ that stands atop Chapultepec Hill was begun in 1785 but not completed until after…

Zona Rosa & Reforma

The symbol of Mexico City, known as 'El Ángel' (The Angel), this gilded Winged Victory on a 45m-high pillar was sculpted for the independence centennial…

Tianguis Cultural del Chopo

A gathering place for the city’s various youth subcultures – especially goth, metal, indie and punk – with most of the outdoor vendor stalls selling new…

Mexico, Mexico City. The Basilica of Guadalupe, considered to be the second most important sanctuary of Catholicism after the Vatican City.

Basílica de Guadalupe

A cult developed around this site after a Christian convert named Juan Diego claimed in December 1531 that the Virgin Mary appeared before him on the…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Be a better traveler with this guide to health, safety and etiquette in Mexico City.

Best Neighborhoods

Location is everything in Mexico City, and we've put together a list of the best neighborhoods that are easily walkable and full of charm and character.

While there is plenty to keep you busy in Mexico City, the central region of Mexico is filled with pueblos mágicos that are well worth your time.

Money and Costs

If you want to visit Mexico City but have a tight budget, these practical travel, accommodation, and going-out tips have got you covered.

Transportation

Whether it's cycling, tackling the sprawling subway, or crossing the city by cable car, here is how to navigate Mexico's mighty capital.

Free Things to Do

Stretch your pesos even further with our round up of the best free things to do in Mexico City.

Traveling with Kids

Heading to Mexico City with your kids? Check out these top family-friendly activities and tips for planning your trip.

Spending Diaries

A detailed diary of how to book accommodation, take in superb museums and eat very well in the Mexican capital for under $500.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mexico

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Mexico City

Food and Drink

Mar 21, 2024 • 6 min read

The best bites that locals love in Mexico City.

Mar 16, 2024 • 5 min read

View of Teotihuacán from a hot air balloon during a weekend tour.

Feb 2, 2024 • 10 min read

Mom And Kids Shopping In Mexico Street Market.

Nov 4, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 2, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 21, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Woman and man sitting and chatting on a bench in the Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City.

Oct 8, 2023 • 7 min read

A man drives a convertible car while a woman rides in the passenger seat down a street lined with Jacaranda trees on their way out of town for a day trip from Mexico City

Oct 1, 2023 • 8 min read

Sep 23, 2023 • 5 min read

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Mexico City and beyond

IMAGES

Top 25 Things to Do in Mexico City
Mexico City Travel Guide
Top Tourist Spots in Mexico City You Should Visit
Top attractions in Mexico City: discover all the must- see locations!
21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Mexico
10 Best Attractions in Mexico City

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Puerto Vallarta Historic 1999 Video Mexico by PromovisionPV.com
Travel To Mexico Unveiled: Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations
Puerto Vallarta is the Friendliest City! Visit Puerto Vallarta Jalisco Mexico
México se posiciona, históricamente, como el tercer país más visitado del mundo en 2020: OMT

COMMENTS

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Mexico is a great mosaic that combines beautiful natural settings, cities with pre-Hispanic, colonial and modern heritage, a wide variety of exquisite delicacies that delight palates, and fascinating traditions that captivate the visitor. From the beach to the mountains, from the desert to the jungle, from the archaeological zone to the vibrant ...
15 best places to visit in Mexico
Discover Mexico's stunning landscape, rich culture, and diverse attractions with this guide. From Mexico City to Isla Holbox, explore the country's top destinations for art, history, nature, and adventure.
Tourism in Mexico
Mexico has traditionally been among the most visited countries in the world according to the World Tourism Organization, and it is the second-most visited country in the Americas, after the United States. In 2017, Mexico was ranked as the sixth-most visited country in the world for tourism activities.
Complete guide to Mexico
Discover the diverse and vivid dreams of Mexico, from palm-fringed beaches and chili-spiced cuisine to steamy jungles and teeming cities. Explore the best attractions, experiences and tips from Lonely Planet experts and local insiders.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Mexico
1. Museo Nacional de Antropologia. 20,237. Natural History Museums. Admission tickets from $12. Considered one of the world's most comprehensive natural history museums, this famous institution houses four square kilometers of exhibits in 23 exhibition halls. See full details. See ways to experience (55) 2023.
Best Places to Visit in Mexico for 2023-2024
Punta Mita. #15 in Best Places to Visit in Mexico for 2023-2024. This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis ...
21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Mexico
Discover the best places to visit in Mexico, from sunny beaches and ancient ruins to vibrant cities and natural wonders. Explore the Mayan Riviera, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Copper Canyon, Mexico City, and more.
17 things to know before you go to Mexico
6. Embrace long distance bus travel. Unless you need a car, take long distance buses to explore Mexico. Countless bus companies crisscross the country, providing reliable and efficient transport. Always opt for primera clase (first class) service, which is only slightly more expensive than segunda clase (second class), but much faster and vastly more comfortable with cushy reclining seats ...
Mexico: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)
Mexico. With 26 UNESCO-declared world heritage sites, charming colonial towns and dozens of thrilling cities, there's plenty to explore in this country of 109 million. Outside the cities, stunning Pacific beaches, stark deserts, mangrove swamps and swimming holes provide all you need for a relaxing, romantic or adventurous vacation.
The Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide I Places to Visit + Travel Tips
Guadalajara. The second largest city in the country and more laidback than Mexico City, Guadalajara has stunning buildings and vibrant public squares. It is also known as the home of tequila and mariachi, traditional Mexican music, making a visit there a rich cultural experience.
50 incredible places to visit in Mexico from all states [with map]
1. Teotihuacan Pyramids. Teotihuacan Pyramids, located just outside Mexico City, is an ancient city known for its massive pyramids, the Sun and the Moon. With a history dating back to 100 B.C., these structures stand as testament to a powerful Mesoamerican civilization. @chlo_et_anto / Instagram.
Mexico Travel Guide 2024 · Itineraries, Top Places, Safety
A Travel Guide to Mexico with ️ Travel Itineraries, ️ Top places to visit in 2024, ️ Safety and more! Discover our Mexico guides. Mexico. Travel Guide. Sun-soaked beaches, tasty tacos, and mariachi beats; Mexico is a fiesta-filled paradise of spicy flavors and caliente vibes!
25 Top-Rated Things to Do in Mexico
22. Dive into Rio Secreto. Rio Secreto's underground caverns. Cancun is a treasure trove of activities and things to do, but one of the best things to do in Cancun is also one of the best things to do in Mexico overall, and that is to visit Rio Secreto. Rio Secreto is, in a word, spectacular.
Mexico Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Mexico Travel Costs. Accommodation - In Mexico, hostels start at 250 MXN per night for a dorm bed, but average closer to 300 MXN. Private hostel rooms cost anything from 600-1,900 MXN per night. Prices are usually a bit lower in the low-season or shoulder-season.
The 6 Best Mexico Itineraries (With Maps + Tips!)
Quick Answers. Best for first-time Mexico: the Yucatan for beaches, or central Mexico for cities & culture. Best for backpackers: the classic route from Mexico City to the Yucatan. Best for beaches: Yucatan, the Oaxaca coast, or Baja California. Best for resorts: Cancun or Cabo is where you'll want to be!
INICIO
Descubre los 32 estados de México, sus playas, cultura, aventura, gastronomía y pueblos mágicos. Explora las postales imperdibles de México y planifica tu próximo viaje con VisitMéxico.
25 Top Tourist Attractions in Mexico (+Photos)
2. Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza is the largest of the Maya cities in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of Mexico's most visited tourist destinations. The most famous landmark of Chichen Itza is the temple-pyramid of El Castillo. The design of the temple has special astronomical significance.
Mexico Tourist Guide
In March 2024, Mexico witnessed a notable increase in international tourism, with a 10.6% rise in tourist arrivals compared to the same month in the previous year. This surge brought the total number of international visitors to 4.12 million, up from 3.73 million in March 2023. The data, released by the National Institute of Statistics and ...
19 best things to do in Mexico
Here are the best things to do in Mexico. 1. Admire the monumental power of a pyramid. Pyramids humble you. Gaze skywards at the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacán , and it's easy to feel tiny. It's the third-largest ancient pyramid in the world, bringing the ancient priests closer to the heavens at its summit.
Mexico International Travel Information
You can file a report online (Spanish only) via the COFEPRIS website, by calling the COFEPRIS call center at 800 033 50 50 (from Mexico) or +52 (55) 5080-5425 (from the United States), or by scheduling an appointment to visit a COFEPRIS office.
Travel and tourism in Mexico
Nonetheless, Mexico has also felt the impact of COVID-19 on its tourism sector. In 2020, travel and tourism accounted for less than seven percent to the Mexican GDP. And despite the recovery ...
Sick of the U.S.? Here's How Much Money You Need to Live in Mexico
A couple can live comfortably in Mexico on. about $3,000 per month. , and this includes housing, utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare. Housing. Depending on where you are, a modest but ...
Bull attacks tourist who was feeding animal on Los Cabos, Mexico beach
One tourist in Mexico forgot the saying, "don't mess with a bull or you'll get horns." Video shows a woman being attacked by a bull while on a beach in Los Cabos, Baja California Sur.
This LGBTQ+-friendly Beach Town Is Getting a New Boutique ...
Tryst Puerto Vallarta is the flagship property of Tryst Hotels, a luxury hospitality brand catering to the LGBTQ+ community that will open its doors on Sept. 15.
This tiny taco stand in Mexico has just earned a Michelin star
A tiny, no frills taco stand in Mexico with just four items on its menu has been awarded a star by the coveted Michelin Guide.. Taquería El Califa de León, located in the San Rafael neighborhood ...
Must-see attractions Mexico, North America
Zona Arqueológica de Tula. Two kilometers north of Tula's center, ruins of the main ancient ceremonial site are perched on a hilltop. The highlight is standing atop a pyramid,…. Discover the best attractions in Mexico including Tulum Ruins, Parque Nacional Isla Contoy, and Teotihuacán.
British tourist stranded in Mexican hospital after collapsing while on
A British tourist has been left stuck in a hospital in Mexico after after insurers refused to pay out. Trevor Dealey, 59, collapsed on May 11 in Cancun and is still in a critical condition and has now developed sepsis.
6 things to know as Memorial Day kicks off ultra-busy summer of travel
Airports will be crowded for Memorial Day. But flying this summer might also be cheaper. When it comes to summer travel this year, one word keeps coming up: busy. "This will be the busiest ...
What is the Best Chocolate Shop for 2024?
Eldora Chocolate. Albuquerque, New Mexico. This bean-to-bar chocolate shop practices a commitment to using natural, organic, and fair trade ingredients in their artisan confections. The end result is a refined assortment of drinking chocolate powders, chocolate truffles, bonbons, and single origin chocolate bars.
Mexico City travel
Mexico City. Mexico, North America. A high-octane megalopolis boasting old-school cantinas, intriguing museums, inspired dining and boating along ancient canals, Mexico City is the sun in the Mexican solar system. Best Time to Visit. Best Things to Do.

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