Looking to tick one of the Seven Wonders of the World off your bucket list? Chichén Itzá is a legendary setting on our Mexico trips, as you can immerse yourself in the incredible history of the Mayan Empire. From its famous El Castillo pyramid to all the different temples and platforms, this vast archaeological site transports you back in time.
Ancient Mayan ruins meet unspoilt stretches of golden sand inside this sun-drenched paradise on the Yucátan coast. Whether you are in the mood to snorkel in the bright turquoise waters, dive into some history or enjoy a chilled beach day, Tulum can match any traveller’s pace. Ready to discover one of Mexico's most iconic destinations?
Submerge yourself in an enchanted underwater land on our Mexico tours. Like a fairytale come to life, cenotes are limestone pools hidden in underground caves, and sacred to Mayan culture. Swimming inside one feels like escaping into a new world, and as they are exclusive to this country, no trips to Mexico are complete without exploring one!
Island life is calling your name! As one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets, Isla Holbox is the dream destination for going with the flow and taking in the tropical scenery. Kick back in a hammock under the shade of emerald palm trees, dip into the crystal-clear ocean or take a boat out to see the island’s pink flamingo residents.
If your heart is set on Mexico’s stunning shoreline, kickstart your travel plans on the Caribbean Coast of Cancún. Spend your days endlessly exploring the iconic stretches of powder-white sand, and your nights dancing until dawn at the vibrant beach clubs. More than a party hotspot, Cancún is the perfect base for island-hopping.
Mexico City is one of the most electrifying capital cities on the planet, promising everything from colourful nightlife and a legendary food scene to a wealth of cultural sights. Get inspired by Frida Kahlo's paintings, before kicking back on the emerald stretches of Chapultepec Park. Once you have had a taste of CDMX, you are never the same!
If there is one destination that you need to experience on our Mexico tours, it has to be Playa Del Carmen. A melting pot of amazing nightlife, mouthwatering street food and a rugged coastline dotted with cenote pools, Playa Del Carmen makes an unforgettable first impression. Whatever you are looking for, you will find it here.
A little slice of heaven on Mexico’s southern shores, Bacalar is made for escaping into nature. This hidden gem floats on the waters of the Lagoon of Seven Colours, which is every bit as breathtaking as the name suggests. From turquoise to violet blues, get ready to glide through the ocean and settle in for a magnificent sunset.
Can you call yourself a foodie until you have visited Oaxaca (pronounced “Wa-ha-ca”)? Get a taste of the local specialities on our Mexico tours, indulging in everything from quesadillas and tlayudas (Mexican pizzas) to chocolatey mole sauce. After one of the best meals of your life, dive into the nightlife inside this local favourite destination.
One of Mexico’s greatest off-the-beaten-path adventures has to be Sumidero Canyon: a spectacular natural landmark featuring rugged cliff edges, deep emerald rainforest and waterfalls that reach the sky. The best way to take it all in is by boat, especially since there is so much wildlife waiting to be spotted - including monkeys and crocodiles!
Mexican food is famous and popular the world over and is well-known for its spicy flavours and wrapped tortillas in various shapes and sizes. Spanish in origin, Mexican food is based on a diet of corn, beans and chilli peppers. Stuffed tortillas with a variety of meat, refried beans and vegetables come as burritos, quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas and more! Meat, cheese and fresh fruit are widely eaten and available across Mexico. Different regions have their own specialities. Salsa and sour cream are often served as accompaniments to Mexican meals. A well-known Mexican breakfast dish is Huevos Rancheros, made up of fried corn tortillas topped with fried eggs and a spicy tomato sauce. You can drink beer and tequila, delicious hot chocolate, or try the hot corn drink atole.
The weather in Mexico is generally good most of the year, although coastal and low-lying regions can get very hot and humid between the months of May-September. The North and centre of the country can get cold from November-February. Peak tourist times are July-August, December and around Easter.
Visas may be required depending on your nationality, travel plans, and length of stay. Below are the FCDO travel advice for British travellers. Entry rules can change at any time, so always check with the relevant embassy before travelling.
To make things easier, we’ve partnered with The Travel Visa Company, a UK-based visa specialist. Their team can guide you on requirements and, for a fee, apply for visas on your behalf.
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Mexico set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Mexican Embassy in the UK.
To enter Mexico, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
The Mexican Embassy in the UK recommends passports be valid for at least 180 days because this is the longest you can stay in Mexico as a tourist.
If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from Mexico, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport.
When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
If you’re visiting Mexico as a tourist, you do not need a visa. You’ll get a stamp in your passport with the number of days you are allowed to stay.
British nationals entering Mexico by land must fill in an immigration form online.
The Mexican Embassy has information on applying for a visa in the UK.
See information on applying for a visa in Mexico (in Spanish).
As a public health measure, Mexico may introduce temporary border measures for travellers arriving from countries affected by the Ebola outbreak.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared this a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
If you are travelling or transiting through the USA to or from Mexico, see entry requirements in USA travel advice or contact the US Embassy in London. If you do not have an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver or the correct visa, you will not be allowed to travel to the USA.
Tourists cannot do any type of voluntary or paid work or activity, including human rights work. To work or volunteer, you must get the correct visa from the Mexican Embassy before you travel.
You may need a visa for some adventure or ecotourism activities like caving, potholing or entomology, especially if they involve any scientific or technological research. The Mexican authorities may define scientific or technological research activities far more broadly than other countries. If in doubt, ask the Mexican Embassy in UK well before you travel and ask for written confirmation if necessary.
If you are a tourist aged 18 or over, you can use e-gates in some of the main international airports in Mexico. You must show the printed e-gate ticket when you leave the country, so be sure to collect it.
You can download digital proof of entry and how long you are allowed to stay in Mexico from Portal de Servicios del INM (in Spanish) within the first 60 days of your visit.
At Mexican border control, you may need to:
If you’re staying in someone’s home, immigration officials may also ask for a ‘letter of invitation’ from the person you’re visiting. This should include as much information as possible, including the host and travellers’:
Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry and exit.
If you’re entering Mexico from the USA, and there is no immigration officer to stamp your passport, find the nearest immigration office before continuing. Immigration offices are usually near the border, and customs officials should be able to direct you. It is often more complicated to correct immigration issues once you leave the border area.
If you are travelling with a child, you may be asked for:
Children with dual nationality of Mexico who are travelling without a parent or legal guardian must apply for a permit to leave the country.
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Mexico guide.
There are strict rules about goods you can bring into and take out of Mexico. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Check whether you will need to declare anything to customs officials. If you have goods to declare, you must submit a customs form online before travelling to Mexico. If you do not declare goods, customs officials may seize them and you could get a fine.
You must pay an entry tax to visit the state of Quintana Roo – you can pay the entry tax online before or during your stay. You can get help paying online at Cancun Airport. You must show proof of payment at the airport before leaving.
To leave Mexico, you must show your passport with the entry stamp showing how many days you were allowed to stay.
If you lose your passport, you must pay a fee to replace the entry stamp. The fee is about 700 Mexican pesos, to be paid at the immigration office by card or in a bank with cash. Migration officers do not accept cash. You can replace the stamp at the immigration office at any international airport in Mexico or start the entry stamp replacement process online. Updated fees should be displayed at the immigration offices.
Fake immigration officers can operate in international airports. Always refuse offers of help and head directly to the immigration office.
You may need to pay a departure tax when leaving Mexico by air or land. The cost can vary, and some airports or border crossings only accept cash. Most airlines include the cost within the ticket price. If in doubt, check with your airline or tour operator.
Police may stop travellers and ask you for a form of identification, so you should always carry a photocopy of your passport and leave the original somewhere safe.
Avoid any involvement with drugs while in Mexico, as drug penalties are severe and convictions can be for up to 25 years.
Same-sex civil unions are legal in Mexico City and the state of Coahuila, but homosexuality is tolerated rather than accepted and public displays of affection may be frowned upon.
It is illegal to bring meat or dairy products into Mexico from the EU through customs.
We have selected what we believe to be the key points that you should be aware of when travelling in Mexico.
Gap 360 follows advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and we recommend that you frequently check the FCDO for updated travel advice. You can find the website here: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-development-office
Mexico is a relatively safe destination, but it does have a problem with crime and so travellers should stay alert and only travel during daylight hours. In major tourist destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta levels of crime are lower.
Pickpocketing is common in major cities and tourist resort areas, especially on the Mexico City metro. You should dress down and avoid carrying or wearing expensive items and limit the amount of cash and cards you carry. Keep your luggage in sight at all times.
We advise that you only use ATMs during daylight hours and in commercial areas.
Take particular care in the Parque Nacional de las Cumbres del Ajusco in the south of Mexico City, as coordinated muggings have taken place here in the past, with some assaults reportedly carried out by masked men posing as police officers.
If you drive in Mexico, avoid isolated roads and use cuotas (toll roads) when possible. Car doors should be kept locked and windows closed, especially at traffic lights. Take care if you are driving the Pacific Highway as robberies and car-jackings have been reported on this route. Campers vans and SUVs can be a particular target.
The risk of theft is greater on public transport, at airports and in bus stations, so keep an eye on your belongings at all times. There have been some reported bus hijackings, especially in the border states of Tamaulipas and Nuevo Leon. It is safest to travel on first-class buses using toll roads.
Unlicensed taxi drivers are a problem, particularly in the Ixtapalapa area of Mexico City, where thefts by taxi drivers have been reported. When in Mexico City, only use regulated ‘sitio’ taxis from authorised cab ranks. At airports, use only authorised pre-paid airport taxi services.
Bogus immigration officers may operate at international airports, and you should ignore unsolicited offers of help and only deal directly with the official immigration office.
Some incidents of rape have been reported on urban buses (known as ‘micros’) on routes in the south of Mexico City, and in tourist areas in Cancun, usually occurring during the early morning or late at night, so female travellers should take care and stay vigilant.
Some short-term opportunistic kidnappings, known as ‘express kidnapping’ has been a problem in Mexico, mostly in urban areas. The kidnappers force their victims to withdraw funds from an ATM before they are released, or local friends or relatives may be asked to pay a ransom. If you are targeted by kidnappers you should comply with their requests and not attempt to resist. There have been occasional incidents of longer-term kidnapping for financial gain, with allegations that police officers may be involved.
Never leave food or drinks unattended in case of drink or food spiking.
There have been reports of bogus police officers operating scams. If a person presenting themselves as a police officer tries to fine or arrest you for no apparent reason, ask for identification and try to note down the officer’s name, badge number, and patrol car number. If a stranger approaches you or contacts you by phone asking for personal information or financial help, or if you, your relatives or friends are asked to transfer money to Mexico then check out the legitimacy of this claim as it may be a scam.
Mexico has a problem with drug-related violence, mostly concentrated in specific areas such as Baja California (Norte), Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacán, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Sinaloa, Sonora, Veracruz and Tamaulipas. If visiting Acapulco, keep to the main tourist areas. Drug traffickers have been known to set up temporary vehicle checkpoints and roadblocks in Monterrey and other major cities in Nuevo Leon, carrying out car and bus jackings. Avoid travel to the area of San Juan Copala in Oaxaca. Border crossings into the USA at Nogales and Agua Prieta in Sonora are known drug routes so take particular care in these areas.
Drug groups frequently clash with security forces and these attacks can come at any time without warning.
Political demonstrations can take place throughout Mexico and can be tense and confrontational. Monitor local media and avoid all demonstrations. Political activity by foreigners is illegal and participation in demonstrations may result in arrest. Occasional outbreaks of politically-motivated violence have been reported, particularly in the southern states of Chiapas, Guerrero and Oaxaca.
Driving standards and road safety are poor in Mexico, and some restrictions are in place in Mexico City and other areas, in order to reduce air pollution. Based on number plates, cars may be banned from entering certain areas on particular days, and these regulations are strictly enforced. Unofficial local roadblocks may be set up by groups seeking money so stay vigilant.
We do not recommend hiring motorbikes, scooters, ATV vehicles, quad bikes or other types of motorised vehicles whilst abroad. Safety and quality of vehicles vary considerably and the traffic conditions can be much more dangerous than what UK travellers are used to. Should you wish to go against this advice, you should ensure you are hiring from a reputable company and that your travel insurance covers you for such activities.
Take care when scuba diving, parasailing or jet-skiing as water sports equipment may not meet safety standards meaning your insurance may not cover you. There are sharks in the water around Mexico, but shark attacks are relatively rare. However do be cautious of the sea, particularly when surfing.
Please note that in some hotels in Mexico, the balcony balustrades may not be as high as you are used to, and can pose a danger, so take extra care.
The Popocatepetl and Colima volcanoes are still active, with specified danger zones, and therefore these areas are closed to the public. Earthquakes and tremors regularly occur, particularly in Oaxaca. Mexico’s hurricane season is typically between June and November and affects the Pacific and Atlantic coasts.
Visit your GP around 8 weeks before you travel to check if you require any vaccinations. You should not drink tap water in Mexico, use only bottled or boiled water and avoid ice in drinks.
In Mexico City or other areas of high altitude, you may experience short periods of breathlessness, dizziness or headaches, but your body will soon adjust to the altitude, so allow for a couple of days to get used to the change in environment.
If you require medical treatment when in Mexico, you should come prepared to pay for treatment upfront and then seek a refund, so make sure you have travel insurance which can cover medical costs.
Mexico’s Ministry of Health has recently reported a cholera outbreak in central Mexico so take extra precautions when in this area.
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