The best way to explore Mexico depends on your interests.  

Some travellers prefer the exceptional gastronomic scenes, while others dive deep into the heritage of famous figures like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera or visit ancient Maya and Aztec sites. 

We know that choosing a starting point is hard, so here are a few ideas: 

• Embrace the wonders of Mexico City – We recommend stopping by Mexico’s capital for at least a day. Start with the Museo Nacional de Antropología and enjoy an extensive collection on anthropology, archaeology, and history. In the evening, see a genuine lucha libre match at the Arena México or uncover Mexico’s culinary culture, with restaurants, streetside eateries, and hidden gems to delight any palate. For those with an artistic flair, check out Diego Rivera’s murals at Palacio Nacional or José Clemente Orozco’s own contributions at Palacio de Bellas Artes. Both locations also offer an important glimpse into the country’s rich cultural tapestry, so be sure to invest in a tour if possible.  

• Explore Mexico’s most famous archaeological site – Residing not far from Mexico City lies the fascinating site of Teotihuacan. This impressive complex was an ancient city that predated the Aztecs and, at its peak, housed one of the largest populations of the ancient Americas. There’s plenty of debate about the people who founded Teotihuacan, but we do know that their ingenuity led to the Avenue of the Dead—an inspiring walk connecting the Pyramid of the Moon and the Pyramid of the Sun, as well as several other compounds. We recommend booking a day trip here and uncovering Mexico’s ancient origins for yourself. 

• Discover the city of Guadalajara – Stepping back into modern times, Guadalajara is Mexico’s third-largest metropolitan area. It has ties to many famous facets of Mexican culture, including mariachi music, the equestrian sport of charrería, and indoor markets. Specifically, it is home to Mercado San Juan de Dios, the largest indoor market in Latin America. Other must-see spots include Guadalajara Cathedral, a testament to  Spanish Renaissance architecture, and the neoclassical Teatro Degollado, a hub of the arts. For a reprieve from city life, you can visit nearby Lake Chapala and enjoy boat tours, quiet walks, golf courses, and bird-watching.  

• Live it up at Cancun – Located in southeast Mexico, Cancun is a dream holiday destination for many. This sliver of white sand is one of the best nightlife locations in Mexico, with an assortment of first-rate resorts, clubs, and bars inviting tourists to kick back and relax. If you’re travelling with kids, you can instead enjoy endless beach days, visit the family-friendly Xcaret water park, or get up close with animals at Crococun Zoo. Further out lies Chichén Itzá and Tulum, two respective Maya cities. Making time for either is essential to every Mexican holiday due to the historical and cultural importance of the sites. 

Climate 

Mexico’s climate varies because of its size. For example, the east and west coastal areas have tropical weather, with May to October being the rainy season.  

Meanwhile, central Mexico is more temperate. Expect cooler winters and warm summers, whereas northern states of Mexico such as Baja California or Chihuahua are arid. Summers can be quite extreme in these parts due to desert heat so prepare appropriately if you’re going to be out and about during the day.  

The best time to visit Mexico will depend on where you go. We recommend December to April when the weather is generally cooler and drier throughout the country.  

Culture and language 

Although unified under one national identity, Mexico is a diverse country. The traditions and mannerisms of one region won’t always align with that of another. Consequently, it’s best to research the local people before setting off. 

It’s also important to pick up some Spanish. There are 68 indigenous languages in Mexico, but Spanish is the de facto national language. English is also widely spoken in major cities and areas closer to the Mexican-United States border but fluency varies.  

Invest in a reliable translation app and study basic etiquette in Spanish as well.  

Culturally, Mexicans are courteous and considerate. Many will help you out if you have questions and will be patient if you have trouble communicating.  

Even so, it’s good to mind your manners. Using terms such as señor, señora, and señorita is the norm for people you’re not familiar with. Likewise, greeting people in passing is seen as polite, even if you don’t know them well. 

Getting around  

Thanks to Mexico’s thriving economy and tourism sector, there are many safe and easy ways to get around the country. 

For example, if you prefer to rent a vehicle, you can use your Australian driver’s licence while in Mexico. Some car rental companies may also require an international driving permit.  

Be sure to learn the local rules and stick to toll roads if you go cross-country. Do not travel at night or go into regions with high road crime. 

Alternatively, buses are popular options. In cities, buses are called camiones or autobuses and run consistently. Fares are minimal, being just a few pesos.  

For longer-distance travel, first and second-class buses offer comfort. Ideally, opt for first-class buses as they provide more amenities, such as air conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard restrooms. Additionally, they’re faster and have fewer stops compared to second-class buses. 

Taxis are another common, budget-friendly option while in cities. Choose taxis with fare meters or fixed pricing for specific areas. Otherwise, be prepared to haggle before you set off. Never travel in unmarked or unofficial taxis as these are often scammers or thieves. 

Accommodation 

Accommodation in Mexico suits different needs. For instance, hotels are one of the most popular choices. Identifiable as posada or hoteles, Mexican hotels range from small with bare amenities to luxury resorts with extensive upgrades.  

Review the options available in your chosen destination and bring insect repellent as nuisances like mosquitoes are often unavoidable.  

For a more unique selection, cabañas are romantic beachside huts provided by hotels and resorts. Amenities can vary greatly. Some rustic experiences don’t provide electricity, while others are equipped with the smaller comforts of home.  

Finally, hostels are available for budget-conscious solo travellers. You’ll find most hostels to be in tourist areas and major cities. Outside of these areas, we recommend staying at a larger establishment like a hotel as quality can vary greatly.  

Entry requirements 

Australians do not need a visa to travel to Mexico, but you will receive a tourist permit upon arrival. Permits are valid for up to 180 days or less. It’s likely your permit will only last for as long as you state your visit will be, so do not anticipate the full 180 days. 

The time validity of your permit will be stamped on your passport. Pay attention to this stamp as you won’t be able to extend it in most circumstances. 

Before you travel, visit the Smartraveller website. Travel requirements can change quickly, so it’s important to stay up-to-date before and through your trip.  

All set for your trip to Mexico?  

Make sure you’ve ticked all of these items off your checklist before you head off: 

• Ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date 

• Speak to your doctor to find out if you require any travel vaccinations. You also need to take measures to protect yourself against malaria, Zika virus, dengue fever, chikungunya, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis. Use insect repellent to prevent insect-borne diseases  

• Be cautious of food-related and waterborne illnesses. Only eat and drink at reputable restaurants  

• Do not travel to dangerous areas or travel alone at night. Do not travel on highways at night. Use toll roads as they’re safer. Report any incidents to the local authorities as soon as possible 

• Watch out for petty crime. Never leave your personal items alone in public areas or on public transport. Only stay at reputable accommodation 

• Notify your financial institution of your plans to travel 

• Set up a travel currency card or another payment option before your trip. While most places accept debit or credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry some Mexican pesos (MXN) in case of emergencies. Secure any cash on your person while travelling 

• Contact your phone provider to ensure your phone plan will cover you while you’re away or purchase a prepaid international sim card 

• Book tours, activities, and reputable accommodation in advance 

• If you’re travelling solo, provide details of your travel plans to a family member or close friend so you can be contacted in case of an emergency 

• Save emergency numbers and consular assistance contact details. Create safety plans and educate your children on what to do if you’re separated 

• Organise your travel insurance with PassportCard.