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U.S. Issues Travel Warning for Mexico Ahead of Spring Break

The warning is asking travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed."

marako85/Getty Images

The United States is warning travelers heading to Mexico to be aware of their surroundings ahead of the spring break holiday season.

The warning , which was issued this week by the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico, reminds travelers to “travel smart” and “be informed” as “thousands of U.S. citizens visit Mexico during spring break” each year. The embassy continued that “while the vast majority travel safely,” visitors should be aware of issues with crime, drugs, unregulated alcohol, drownings, and more. 

“Crime, including violent crime, can occur anywhere in Mexico, 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,” the embassy warned. “U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution in the downtown areas of popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.”

The warning also reminded American travelers that drug possession and use is illegal in Mexico, including medical marijuana. It also advised that unregulated alcohol may be contaminated, that counterfeit medication is common, and that guns are illegal in Mexico.

When it comes to the country’s popular beaches, the embassy reminded travelers some beaches may have strong rip tides and “may lack lifeguards, warnings, or signs of unsafe conditions.”

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a similar spring break warning last year .

The U.S. Department of State classifies different states in Mexico under different warning levels. While travelers can “exercise normal precautions” when traveling to the Campeche and Yucatan states, the State Department warns them to “exercise increased caution” when heading to places like Baja California Sur (where Los Cabos is), Mexico City, and Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) due to crime.

The State Department also asks American travelers to “reconsider” going to the state of Jalisco, which is home to popular destination Puerto Vallarta , due to the danger of crime and kidnapping.

The State Department recommends Americans who do travel to Mexico keep people at home informed of their travel plans and enroll in the department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to both receive alerts and make it easier to locate them if an emergency occurs.

Travelers heading to international destinations can view all current travel advisories on the State Department's website at  travel.state.gov .

Protect Your Trip »

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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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 through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page . 
• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in most of Mexico, in some states surrogacy is either not legal or is not governed by regulation. 
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Mexico via assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a gestational mother, be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s citizenship. 
• Make sure you understand Mexican law, which can vary from state to state and is ambiguous in its treatment of non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents. Mexican courts, for example, may fail to enforce surrogacy agreements between non-Mexican or same-sex intending parents and gestational mothers.
• Gestational mothers are normally treated as the child’s legal parent with full parental rights in most states. The gestational mother’s name is typically listed on the Mexican state-issued birth certificate.  In Mexico City, the intended parents may be listed on the Mexican birth certificate if they can demonstrate a valid surrogacy agreement was in place regarding the child’s birth.
• Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk criminal prosecution.  Mexican authorities have made arrests stemming from surrogacy cases.

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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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Mexico. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

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⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Mexico.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Mexico. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Mexico.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Mexico take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Mexico.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Mexico. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Mexico, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Mexico. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Mexico, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Mexico. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Mexico—such as dengue, Zika, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Mexico include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Mexico. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Mexico’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Mexico. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Mexico may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Mexico, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Mexico, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Mexico .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Mexico, dial 066, 060, or 080. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Mexico before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Mexico from the US Department of State.

Americans in Mexico have been arrested for purchasing souvenirs that were, or looked like, antiques and that local customs authorities believed were national treasures. Familiarize yourself with any local regulations for antiques and follow these tips:

• When you are considering purchasing an authentic antique or a reproduction, ask if you are allowed to export these items before you purchase them.
• If you buy a reproduction, document on the customs form that it is a reproduction.
• If you buy an authentic antique, obtain the necessary export permit (often from the national museum).

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Mexico for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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How to Choose Between Mexico’s East Coast and West Coast

Given the limited number of vacation days many receive in the U.S., it's not surprising that Americans tend to turn to Mexico – a destination that offers up endless sunshine and relaxation a short distance away – when planning a trip. But which Mexican coast should you spend those precious vacation days on?

While both coasts serve up a beautiful day at the beach, stunning views, and exciting cultural activities, there are slight differences between the two that you may want to consider before booking. To help, we’ve put the two coasts head to head and evaluated their activity offerings, food, safety, weather conditions, beaches, nightlife, ease of getting there, and more. So, who will win your love? Find out below.

Popular Destinations

East Coast: The eastern coast of Mexico is brimming with hot spots, including staples and newly minted favorites – mostly found in the Yucatan Peninsula and along the Quintana Roo coast of the Mayan Riviera. Cancun was built for the purpose of tourism and remains a go-to spot for tourists, though veteran travelers – and those looking to avoid paying U.S. prices and being surrounded by a 24-hour party scene – have started looking beyond the city. Instead, they’re looking at destinations like the extremely walkable beach town of Playa del Carmen , the nature- and wildlife-filled Holbox Island , the historically beautiful Merida , and the unplugged and eco-friendly offerings of Tulum . Outside of this region, but still on Mexico’s east coast, Veracruz remains a popular tourist destination for its annual Carnival festival, stretch of beaches, and a dormant volcano.

West Coast: The go-to hot spots on Mexico’s west coast have seen their ups and downs over the last decade or so, thanks to the rise in safety concerns – though Baja spots like Tijuana, the west coast party equivalent of Cancun, and Ensenada have started to see an increase in tourism over the last two years. According to TripAdvisor’s 2017 Best of Mexico top 10 list, travelers are still big fans of the beaches of Cabo , the artful and picturesque Puerto Vallarta , culturally historic vibes and food of Oaxaca , and the easy-going paradise of Zihuatanejo . Newbies to the scene are the low-key surf and art spot of Baja’s Todos Santos and the sleepy beach town (also a great surf spot) of Sayulita in the Riviera Nayarit .

Book Mexico Hotels

Getting There

They say that getting there is half the battle, so depending on where you’re coming from, getting to either coast can either be easy or not worth the hassle. Luckily, both coasts have several ways to reach them – be it plane, boat, or automobile. 

East Coast: With five international airports serving Mexico’s east coast, there are slightly more options available than those heading out west. The most popular airport here is in the tourist- and party-heavy Cancun, giving you access to popular spots like Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Average direct flights to Cancun range from two to five hours if you’re flying from the east coast and six hours from most cities on the U.S. west coast. Other east side airports are in Merida, Tampico, Tabasco, and Veracruz. While there’s really no great access via car, you can opt to book a cruise where popular stops include Costa Maya, Cozumel , and Progreso.

West Coast: Unlike Mexico’s east coast, it’s as easy as hopping in your car to reach Mexico from the west coast. In fact, the 30-minute trip to Tijuana is almost a rite of passage for people in San Diego . Those of us who don’t live so close can book flights into Tijuana, Los Cabos/San Jose del Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, and La Paz . Cabo and Puerto Vallarta seem to have the most options for direct flights from several U.S. cities. Be prepared for flight times between two to four hours from west coast cities and around six hours from major cities on the east coast. If you feel like setting sail, hop on a cruise and hit ports at Acapulco , Cabo San Lucas , Huatulco , La Paz , Ensenada (Baja), Manzanillo , Puerto Vallarta , Mazatlan , or Puerto Penasco (three-day jaunts to Baja are a fairly common and easy way to squeeze in a quick Mexican getaway).

East Coast: Mexico’s east coast, particularly the Caribbean Sea’s turquoise waters in spots like Tulum, are the stuff beach vacation dreams are made of. The east coast also has a reputation for soft white sand and warm, calm waters. Unfortunately, some areas, like the beaches around Cancun, also have a growing reputation for their seaweed-heavy shores . Over the last few years, resorts have found that seaweed is washing up faster than they can clear it away. On the plus side, the nutrient-rich waters bring in underwater wildlife, and you can easily snorkel with turtles in Akumal and have better luck spotting dolphins. 

West Coast: Mexico’s west coast is home to rougher, golden sand on the beaches and not-as-brilliant-blue waters as its counterpart, but you can still count on warm waters and a gorgeous, rugged landscape. Plus, the sparkling Sea of Cortez, with its clear waters and rich marine life, holds its own as a magnificent place to snorkel, kayak, or dive. In fact, its biologically rich waters prompted Jacques Cousteau to deem it "the world’s aquarium." However, while there are plenty of spots to swim, beware that you’ll most likely encounter some waves and possibly strong currents, so you should only swim in designates areas. And it goes without saying that the sunsets are just naturally better on the west coast. 

Hurricane Watch

While it’s hard to find predictable weather anywhere these days, you can usually count on running into a few storms during hurricane season in Mexico. While usually safe, it’s always a risk to travel during hurricane season . Having to hedge bets with possibly bad vacation weather can be a big turn off to travelers, though those willing to brave the storm can usually find better deals on flights, hotels, and packages. 

East Coast: It’s no secret that things can get windy along the eastern coast of Mexico. Officially running from June through November, with August through October typically being the stormiest months, hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico is no joke, bringing throngs of heavy rain, high winds, and cloudy days. Heavy rain and overcast skies may be common, especially in the Yucatan and Riviera Maya, but it’s good to note that 2016’s Hurricane Hermine was the first to form or enter the Gulf of Mexico since 2013’s Hurricane Ingrid – a 130-year record . 

West Coast: Mexico’s west coast may not see many hurricanes, but they do occasionally occur. In fact, the eastern North Pacific region is one of the most active storm basins in the world, though you are much more likely to run into a tropical storm here than a full-blown hurricane since it’s hard for the storms to gain strength on this coast. But for planning purposes, hurricane season on the west coast runs from May 15 to November 30.  

East Coast:  A possible drug cartel-related shooting killed five people at a nightclub in Playa del Carmen on January 16, 2017, and just a day later, four people died after a shooting at an office in Cancun. In the past, the east coast of Mexico has been remarkably free of any major violence in tourist areas, leaving vacationers to primarily worry about pickpockets in crowded spots. Of course it’s important to check for up-to-date travel advisories before booking, but it currently remains travel-warning-free in nearly all of the popular tourist hot spots, giving it a big one up on the west coast. 

West Coast: There has been quite a lot of buzz over the last few years regarding how safe Mexico is for tourists. U.S. State Department warnings of violence, kidnappings, and shootings over hostile drug wars have touched more than half of the country. For the most part, warnings have remained particularly focused on areas surrounding the U.S.-Mexican border towns along the west’s Baja California coast. Truth be told, there are many areas along the west coast with warnings, so be sure to do your research and assess the situation before heading down. 

Let’s face it, food is a huge part of why many people travel. We are strong believers in learning about a culture through its cuisine, though not all dishes and flavors may appeal to the same crowd. While corn, beans, tortillas, and fish (especially whole fried snapper) are easy to find on both coasts, both sides have a definitive flavor profile ready to make your mouth water. 

East Coast: Head down the tourist coastline along the Gulf and you’ll discover a variety of dishes inspired by ancient recipes and that have Spanish and Caribbean influences. You’ll find fresh red snapper covered in capers, tomatoes, onion, garlic and several herbs and spices in the signature Veracruz-style dishes; tons of bright and acidity ceviche; and the crowd-pleasing pork pibil, a type of pulled suckling pig that’s marinated in citrus, seasoned with annatto seed, and then wrapped in a banana leaf before being buried in an underground fire pit. This is also the coast where you’ll find sweets like banana bread and hot chocolate so good it was considered to be a drink of the gods. 

West Coast:  Starting at the Baja Peninsula, you’ll find seafood-heavy dishes made with fresh sauces. The further down the coast you go, the more traditional the menu specialities become. If you are looking for mole, the west coast is where it’s at. Oaxaca, most known for its adapted mozzarella-style Oaxaca cheese, is also well-regarded as a mole capital, serving up seven different versions of the savory, sweet, and sometimes slightly spicy sauce. You’ll also find heavier, more meat-based dishes like stews or sausage and rice, plates focused more around chili powders than citrus, and a variety of unique alcoholic drinks made from fermented corn. 

East Coast: While both coasts offer beautiful beach days, warm water, and water sports, the east coast is where you’ll want to go to explore ancient ruins. The beachside ruins of Tulum or the climbable structure at Coba are great alternatives or additions to the mother of all ruins, Chichen Itza. This is also the best coast for exploring the sparkling underwater caves, or cenotes. Wildlife lovers are more likely to luck out with above-ground species on the east coast, spotting flamingos on Holbox Island or hiking through the Sian Ka’an biosphere. Swimming with turtles in Akumal and spending a day at the Xel-Ha water park are offer great water wildlife experiences. 

West Coast:  Mexico’s west coast is often visited by those looking for a more cultural experience. From art galleries to old traditions and architecture, the west coast provides a strong insight to Mexico’s past and present. Thanks to its Pacific waves, it’s also the best coast for surfers. And the marine life on this coast can’t be beat, so strap on a snorkel and prepare to be amazed. 

East Coast: Cancun brings to mind party-seeking spring breakers, margaritas in hand. And while that’s only one side of the city, it’s a major draw for travelers here. And if all you need is a beautiful beach and a self-contained mega-resort close to the party area, you’ll probably have a great time in the Hotel Zone. Playa del Carmen is another great place for shopping, dining, and going out at night. And those who prefer a quieter vacation might want to head to Puerto Morelos, or south to Tulum.

West Coast: Los Cabos is party central, packed with tequila, conga lines, dancing, and swim-up bars galore. Travelers seeking an experience centered on a bustling nightlife and restaurant scene will probably appreciate the vibrancy of Cabo San Lucas, which is never short of a party that lasts into the wee hours of the morning. It’s home to the party-hearty all-inclusive resorts that Cabo is known for. Puerto Vallarta also stays awake when the sun dips below the horizon. Steamy salsa clubs light up the streets, and rowdy local bars supply a steady stream of cervesa for the thirsty traveler. Downtown Puerto Vallarta is the most happening and diverse area, and has a few gay clubs.

Read the original story: Mexico Face-Off: East Coast vs. West Coast by Katherine Alex Beaven, who is a regular contributor to Oyster.com

More from Oyster.com :

• Face Off: Cancun vs. Punta Cana
• Cancun vs. Cabo: Which is the Best Spot For You?
• 5 Unexpected Day Trips from Cancun

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Άνοιξη - Καλοκαίρι 2024

Στις καλύτερες τιμές όλων των εποχών, αυτοκρατορική βιέννη με μπρατισλάβα (σλοβακία) και εκδρομή στην κοιλάδα βάχαου και τα βιεννέζικα δάση | μάρτιος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, τα διαμάντια της κεντρικής ευρώπης - βιέννη, πράγα, κάρλοβυ βάρυ, μπρατισλάβα, τσέσκυ κρούμλοβ | καλοκαίρι 2024, 4, 5 ημερεσ, σμύρνη και μικρασιατικά παράλια, ταξίδι στη μνήμη και την ιστορία | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, μαρακές ένα ταξίδι-αποκάλυψη στην αυτοκρατορική πόλη | μάρτιος - ιούνιος 2024, σμύρνη και μικρασιατικά παράλια, ταξίδι στη μνήμη και την ιστορία | μάιος (πάσχα) - ιούνιος 2024, 5, 6 ημερεσ, η λισαβόνα με τη ματιά ενός πορτογάλου και η μεσαιωνική έβορα - πτήσεις με aegean | φεβρουάριος - ιούνιος 2024, ινδία – χρυσό τρίγωνο 5* του versus με ματούρα και βρινταβάν | απρίλιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, μαρακές ένα ταξίδι-αποκάλυψη στην αυτοκρατορική πόλη | σεπτέμβριος 2024, η άλλη κωνσταντινούπολη του versus | οκτώβριος 2024, 4, 6 ημερεσ, tαξίδι σαν παραμύθι με διαμονή στη μεσαιωνική μπρυζ και δυνατότητα προέκτασης - πτήσεις με aegean | πάσχα 2024, τυνησία – μεγάλος γύρος οάσεων, βερβέρικα χωριά - πτήσεις με aegean | ιούλιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, μιλάνο – βενετία, με διαμονή σε κεντρικό ξενοδοχείο - βενετσιάνικο αρχοντικό δίπλα στην πλατεία του αγίου μάρκου | 16.03.2024 (κ.δευτέρα), 5, 8 ημερεσ, η ανοιξιάτικη λισαβόνα του versus, με επέκταση στο πόρτο και στη βόρεια πορτογαλία - απευθείας πτήσεις προς και από λισαβόνα με aegean | πάσχα 2024, πλήρης βαρκελώνη του versus | μάιος - ιούνιος 2024, αλσατία με διαμονή και στη χαϊδελβέργη – ρομαντικός δρόμος | φεβρουάριος - απρίλιος 2024, δαλματικές ακτές - ντουμπρόβνικ, με επίσκεψη στο σπλιτ, και στο μαυροβούνιο (κότορ-μπούτβα) | 20.06.2024, η άλλη κωνσταντινούπολη του versus | ιούλιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, ινδία – χρυσό τρίγωνο 5* του versus με δελχί - άγκρα - τζαϊπούρ | 04.05.2024, μιλάνο – βενετία - πτήσεις με aegean | 30.05.2024, ονειρικό παρίσι - το άλλο παρίσι του versus με την αριστοκρατική νορμανδία & τα κάστρα του λίγηρα με air france | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, 6, 8 ημερεσ, τα διαμάντια της νότιας γαλλίας - από τη μασσαλία και την αιξ αν προβάνς στη νίκαια και τις κάννες, με δυνατότητα προέκτασης - πτήσεις με aegean | πάσχα 2024, πόρτο - βόρεια πορτογαλία - γαλικία, στο πορτογαλικό μονοπάτι προς το σαντιάγο, πτήσεις από και προς πόρτο με aegean | ιούλιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, ονειρικό παρίσι - το άλλο παρίσι του versus με την αριστοκρατική νορμανδία & τα κάστρα του λίγηρα με air france | φεβρουάριος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, μαρακές ένα ταξίδι-αποκάλυψη στην αυτοκρατορική πόλη - πτήσεις με aegean | 02.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), 5,8,9 ημερεσ, η ανοιξιάτικη πορτογαλία του versus με τη λισαβόνα και επέκταση του ταξιδιού στην κοΐμπρα και το πόρτο - πτήσεις με aegean | πάσχα 2024, η μεγάλη ρουμανία του versus – τρανσυλβανία – βουκουρέστι | ιούλιος – σεπτέμβριος 2024, φλωρεντία – τοσκάνη – ούμπρια: στη χώρα των μεδίκων και του δάντη, απευθείας πτήσεις με aegean | πασχα 2024, εκτεταμένο μαρακές ένα ταξίδι-αποκάλυψη στην αυτοκρατορική πόλη | 01.05.2024 (πάσχα), εξερεύνηση των χωρών της βαλτικής: εσθονία - λετονία - λιθουανία, με ημιδιατροφή | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, πόρτο - λισαβόνα, απευθείας πτήσεις με aegean | 30.05.2024, ρομαντική γερμανία και άλπεις - ο ρομαντικός δρόμος από άκρη σε άκρη, μόναχο - βαυαρικές άλπεις - νυρεμβέργη, άουγκσμπουργκ | 30.05.2024, εξερεύνηση των χωρών της βαλτικής: εσθονία - λετονία - λιθουανία, με ημιδιατροφή | μάιος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, ισπανία χώρα των βάσκων με μπιλμπάο και σαν σεμπαστιάν | μάρτιος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, φλωρεντία – τοσκάνη – ούμπρια: στη χώρα των μεδίκων και του δάντη | μάιος - ιούνιος 2024, μιλάνο – βενετία, με σπάνιες απευθείας πτήσεις με την aegean για τις ημέρες του πάσχα | 01.05.2024 & 02.05.2024, ρομαντική γερμανία και άλπεις - ο ρομαντικός δρόμος από άκρη σε άκρη, mόναχο - βαυαρικές άλπεις - νυρεμβέργη - άουγκσμπουργκ | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, νίκαια – κυανή ακτή – προβηγκία με διαμονή στη νίκαια – χωρίς προαιρετικές εκδρομές | 21.06.2024 (αγίου πνεύματος 2024), πόρτο - λισαβόνα, με απευθείας πτήσεις aegean | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, μεγάλο πανόραμα σικελίας και οι πολεμιστές του ρέτζιο, με μια σπάνια διανυκτέρευση στο ρέτζιο | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, αλσατία με διαμονή και στην κολωνία | 02.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), ινδία – χρυσό τρίγωνο 5* με βαρανάσι | μάιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, πολωνία (κρακοβία, βαρσοβία) - σούπερ προσφορά | 30.04.2024 (πάσχα), αλσατία με κρουαζιέρα στον ρήνο, με σπάνια διαμονή στη χαϊδελβέργη και στο βύρτσμπουργκ – ρομαντικός δρόμος | καλοκαίρι 2024, νίκαια – κυανή ακτή – προβηγκία με διαμονή στη nικαια – χωρίς προαιρετικές εκδρομές – πτήσεις με aegean | 17.10.2024, νίκαια – κυανή ακτή – προβηγκία με διαμονή στη κάννες – χωρίς προαιρετικές εκδρομές – πτήσεις με aegean | 24.05.2024, νίκαια – κυανή ακτή – προβηγκία με διαμονή στη νίκαια – χωρίς προαιρετικές εκδρομές – πτήσεις με aegean | 14.06.2024, tαξίδι σαν παραμύθι με διαμονή στη μεσαιωνική μπρυζ - πτήσεις με klm | 14.03.2024 (κ.δευτέρα), αλσατία με διαμονή και στη χαϊδελβέργη – ρομαντικός δρόμος | 20.03.2024 & 01.05.2024 (πάσχα), η ελβετία από άκρη σε άκρη, με σπάνια διαμονή στη λουκέρνη, περιλαμβάνεται το αλπικό τρένο | φεβρουάριος - μάρτιος 2024, η κρυφή ιταλία του βορρά - τεργέστη, κροατία | 22.06.2024, πλήρης βαρκελώνη του versus - πτήσεις με aegean | πάσχα 2024, νίκαια – κυανή ακτή – προβηγκία με διαμονή στη κάννες – χωρίς προαιρετικές εκδρομές – πτήσεις με aegean | καλοκαίρι 2024, 11-16 ημερεσ, μπανγκόκ - πουκέτ - σιγκαπούρη | απρίλιος (πάσχα) - αύγουστος 2024, φεστιβάλ χόλι, ινδία – χρυσό τρίγωνο 5* - πτήσεις με emirates| 23.03.2024, φεστιβάλ χόλι, ινδία – χρυσό τρίγωνο 5* - πτήσεις με emirates| 21.03.2024, φεστιβάλ χόλι, ινδία – χρυσό τρίγωνο 5* - πτήσεις με emirates| 20.03.2024, ξεχωριστή ιταλία με διαμονή στη φλωρεντία: κρυφές ομορφιές της τοσκάνης – ούμπρια – κρεμαστά χωριά τσίνκουε τέρρε – πορτοφίνο – ιταλική ριβιέρα – πτήσεις με aegean | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, λονδίνο, ένα ταξίδι στον χρόνο και στα παραμύθια | μάιος (πάσχα) - οκτώβριος 2024, η μαγική πορτογαλία του versus, με απευθείας πτήσεις προς και από λισαβόνα | 06.04.2024, αλσατία με κρουαζιέρα στον ρήνο, με σπάνια διαμονή στη χαϊδελβέργη – ρομαντικός δρόμος | μάιος 2024, η μαγική πορτογαλία του versus, με απευθείας πτήσεις προς και από λισαβόνα | φεβρουάριος - μάρτιος 2024, βαλεαρίδες νήσοι: ίμπιζα, μαγιόρκα, μινόρκα - ένας εξωτικός προορισμός στη μεσόγειο | καλοκαίρι 2024, ο μεσαίωνας στην αλσατία και από τις δύο πλευρές του ρήνου | μάρτιος - πάσχα 2024, 10, 11 ημερεσ, το νεπάλ και οι φυλές του, σαφάρι άγριας ζωής, αρχέγονα μονοπάτια στο πρώην βασίλειο των ιμαλαΐων | μάρτιος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, η μαγική πορτογαλία του versus με απευθείας πτήσεις προς λισαβόνα και επιστροφή από πόρτο - πτήσεις με aegean | ιούνιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, ανθισμένες ελβετικές & γαλλικές άλπεις με τη μαγευτική βέρνη και διαμονή στη λωζάνη | 02.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), το νεπάλ και οι φυλές του, σαφάρι άγριας ζωής, αρχέγονα μονοπάτια στο πρώην βασίλειο των ιμαλαΐων | 06.07.2024, τα διαμάντια της νότιας γαλλίας από τη νίκαια και τις κάννες, στη μασσαλία και τη νιμ | 23.03.2024, μπαλί - το νησί των θεών | αύγουστος 2024, η μαγική πορτογαλία του versus, με πτήσεις προς πόρτο και επιστροφή από λισαβόνα | 19.06.2024, 8,12 ημερεσ, η μαγική ανοιξιάτικη πορτογαλία του versus, με προέκταση του ταξιδιού στην νότια πορτογαλία - πτήσεις με aegean | 27.04.2024 & 30.04.2024 (πάσχα 2024), η μαγική πορτογαλία του versus με απευθείας πτήσεις προς λισαβόνα και επιστροφή από πόρτο - πτήσεις με aegean | 20.04.2024 & 14.05.2024, νεπάλ - γιορτή βέσακ: κατμαντού – ποκάρα – πάρκο τσιτουάν – σαφάρι άγριας ζωής | 20.05.2024, εκτεταμένη ανδαλουσία – γιβραλτάρ – πτήσεις της aegean | μάιος - ιούνιος 2024, εκτεταμένη χώρα των βάσκων σαν σεμπαστιάν με μπούργκος | 04.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), εκτεταμένη ανδαλουσία – γιβραλτάρ – πτήσεις της aegean | καλοκαίρι 2024, αλσατία – ρήνος με διαμονή και στη χαϊδελβέργη | 04.05.2024 (πάσχα), η ανοιξιάτικη πορτογαλία του versus, με πτήσεις προς πόρτο και επιστροφή από λισαβόνα | 21.05.2024, τα διαμάντια της νότιας γαλλίας: από τη μασσαλία και το μονπελιέ, στη νίκαια και τις κάννες | 16.07.24, η άλλη καππαδοκία και εκτενής γνωριμία με τα μικρασιατικά παράλια, τελική τιμή με φόρους | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, οι ρωμαίοι και ο μεσαίωνας στις όχθες του ροδανού ποταμού - από τη μασσαλία στην αβινιόν και τη λυών| 03.05.2024 (πάσχα), η ελβετία από άκρη σε άκρη, με σπάνια διαμονή στη λουκέρνη, περιλαμβάνεται το αλπικό τρένο | ιούλιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, η άλλη καππαδοκία και εκτενής γνωριμία με τα μικρασιατικά παράλια, τελική τιμή με φόρους | μάρτιος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, τα διαμάντια της νότιας γαλλίας: από τη μασσαλία και τη νιμ, στη νίκαια και τις κάννες | καλοκαίρι 2024, η ελβετία από άκρη σε άκρη, με σπάνια διαμονή στη λουκέρνη, περιλαμβάνεται το αλπικό τρένο | 21.05.2024 & 08.06.2024, μομπάσα: σαφάρι και εξωτικές παραλίες | 01.05.2024 (πάσχα), η ανοιξιάτικη πορτογαλία του versus, με πτήσεις προς πόρτο και επιστροφή από λισαβόνα | 02.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), η ελβετία από άκρη σε άκρη, με σπάνια διαμονή στη λουκέρνη, περιλαμβάνεται το αλπικό τρένο | μάρτιος - πάσχα - μάιος 2024, η μαγική πορτογαλία του versus με τη μεσαιωνική έβορα - πτήσεις με aegean προς λισαβόνα και επιστροφή από πόρτο | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, σαρδηνία – κορσική: ταξίδι στα μαργαριτάρια της μεσογείου | καλοκαίρι 2024, 8,10 ημερεσ, νορβηγία, ο δρόμος του ατλαντικού - το versus εξασφάλισε διαμονή σε φιόρδ (σπάνιες πτήσεις για μπέργκεν και επιστροφή από όσλο) - πτήσεις με klm | ιούλιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, η μαγική πορτογαλία του versus με τη μεσαιωνική έβορα – πτήσεις με aegean από και προς λισαβόνα | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 ημερεσ, αυθεντικό αποικιακό μεξικό με πουέμπλα και ημιδιατροφή | μάρτιος - νοέμβριος 2024, 7, 9 ημερεσ, τα απόκρυφα μυστικά του ομάν με διανυκτέρευση στην έρημο, ο δρόμος του λιβανιού, με δυνατότητα επέκτασης του ταξιδιού στη σαλάλα | μάρτιος - απρίλιος 2024, μομπάσα: σαφάρι και εξωτικές παραλίες | ιούνιος - οκτώβριος 2024, 9,10,11,12,13 ημερεσ, η 5* κούβα του versus με διαμονή μέσα στην παλιά πόλη της αβάνας | μάρτιος - οκτώβριος 2024, μπαλί - το νησί των θεών - πτήσεις με emirates | 22.06.2024, η μεγάλη ιρλανδία του versus με κρουαζιέρα στα νησιά άραν | ιούνιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, πούκετ - σαμούι - μπανγκόκ: από τη βενετία της ανατολής στο κόσμημα της ασίας - πτήσεις με emirates | 08.08.2024, 7, 8 ημερεσ, ξεχωριστή ιταλία: κρυφές ομορφιές της τοσκάνης – ούμπρια κρεμαστά χωριά τσίνκουε τέρρε – πορτοφίνο – ιταλική ριβιέρα, με προέκταση του ταξιδιού στην μπολόνια – πτήσεις με aegean | 29.04.2024 & 30.04.2024 (πάσχα 2024), νορβηγία, ο δρόμος του ατλαντικού - το versus εξασφάλισε διαμονή σε φιόρδ και πτήσεις aegean από και προς όσλο | ιούλιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, νορβηγία, ο δρόμος του ατλαντικού - το versus εξασφάλισε διαμονή σε φιόρδ και πτήσεις aegean από και προς όσλο | μάιος - ιούνιος 2024, λανθαρότε το εξωτικό νησί της ευρώπης - κανάριοι νήσοι - πτήσεις με lufthansa | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, 8, 9 ημερεσ, οι κρυμμένες ομορφιές της σκωτίας - νησί σκάι (εσωτερικές εβρίδες), χάιλαντς με αμπερντίν | ιούνιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, 13, 14 ημερεσ, πανόραμα βόρειας ταϊλάνδης - μπανγκόκ με διανυκτέρευση σε resort στον ποταμό κβάι | απρίλιος - πάσχα - νοέμβριος 2024, ferias de andalucia – οι μεγάλες γιορτές της άνοιξης: ανδαλουσία – γιβραλτάρ – πτήσεις με aegean | 02.05.2024 ( πάσχα 2024), ferias de andalucia – οι μεγάλες γιορτές της άνοιξης: εκτεταμένη ανδαλουσία – γιβραλτάρ – πτήσεις με aegean | 29.04.2024 (πάσχα), μαλαισία – σιγκαπούρη, ζούγκλα ταμάν νεγκάρα | μάρτιος - απρίλιος 2024, πλήρες ουζμπεκιστάν – επτά λίμνες (τατζικιστάν) με επιπλέον νύχτα στην θρυλική μπουχάρα | ιούνιος - σεπτέμβριος 2024, κανάρια νησιά - με τα ηφαιστειογενή μαργαριτάρια τενερίφη και γκραν κανάρια | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, η μεγάλη ιρλανδία του versus με κρουαζιέρα στα νησιά άραν | πάσχα 2024, το πλήρες ουζμπεκιστάν με την ημιαυτόνομη περιοχή της νουκούς - γιορτή νοβρούζ | 17.03.2024, πλήρης βόρεια ισπανία με τη χώρα των βάσκων | 03.05.2024, η μεγάλη ιρλανδία του versus με κρουαζιέρα στα νησιά άραν | 03.05.2024 (πάσχα), μαλαισία – πούκετ – σιγκαπούρη: ναοί – εξωτικές παραλίες – ουρανοξύστες – πολύχρωμες αγορές | 10.08.2024, μπαλί - το νησί των θεών με διαμονή στο ούμπουντ - πτήσεις με emirates | 28.06.2024, νορβηγία, ο δρόμος του ατλαντικού - το versus εξασφάλισε διαμονή σε φιόρδ (πτήσεις για όσλο και επιστροφή από σταβάνγκερ) - πτήσεις με lufthansa |20.05.2024, μογγολία – nότια έρημος γκόμπι | καλοκαίρι 2024, φεστιβάλ χόλι, ινδία - χρυσό τρίγωνο με βαρανάσι και κατζουράχο - εθνικό πάρκο πάννα - πτήσεις με emirates| 14.03.2024, φεστιβάλ χόλι, ινδία - χρυσό τρίγωνο με βαρανάσι και κατζουράχο, πτήσεις με emirates | μάρτιος 2024, πυρηναία: από τη μεσαιωνική καρκασσόν μέχρι το μπιλμπάο - πτήσεις με aegean | 14.09.2024, η μεγάλη ιρλανδία του versus με κρουαζιέρα στα νησιά άραν | 25.06.2024, 11,12 ημερεσ, μπανγκόκ - σιγκαπούρη αγιούταγια, ποταμός κβάι - ταξίδι πίσω στο χρόνο | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, 14,15,16 ημερεσ, μπανγκόκ – σαμούι – πούκετ – σιγκαπούρη: από τη βενετία της ανατολής στο κόσμημα της ασίας | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, μπαλί - το νησί των θεών με διαμονή στο ούμπουντ | 19.07.2024, βιετνάμ 5* μι σον – φυλές κοιλάδας μάι τσάου με διανυκτέρευση εν πλω στο χαλόνγκ μπέι και διαμονή και στην αυτοκρατορική πόλη χουέ | aπρίλιος - πάσχα - οκτώβριος 2024, πλήρες ουζμπεκιστάν – νούκους – επτά λίμνες (τατζικιστάν) | 29.05.2024, ferias de andalucia – οι μεγάλες γιορτές της άνοιξης: ανδαλουσία – γιβραλτάρ – εστρεμαδούρα | 28.04.2024 & 30.04.2024 (πάσχα 2024), βαλεαρίδες νήσοι: ίμπιζα, μαγιόρκα, μινόρκα - ένας εξωτικός προορισμός στη μεσόγειο | 03.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), το βιβλίο της ζούγκλας, σαφάρι στα εθνικά πάρκα της κεντρικής ινδίας | οκτώβριος - δεκέμβριος 2024, ανδαλουσία σε βάθος - εστρεμαδούρα με τη γιορτή feria de abril στη σεβίλλη | 17.04.2024, 13, 15 ημερεσ, βιετνάμ 5* και σιγκαπούρη: με διανυκτέρευση εν πλω στο χαλόνγκ μπέι και διαμονή στην αυτοκρατορική πόλη χουέ | μάιος - οκτώβριος 2024, μπαλί- μαλαισία - πτήσεις με emirates | 09.08.2024, η μεγάλη ιρλανδία του versus με κρουαζιέρα στα νησιά άραν | καλοκαίρι 2024, μπαλί - το νησί των θεών με διαμονή στο ούμπουντ και σιγκαπούρη | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, 11, 13 ημερεσ, μαλαισία – σιγκαπούρη, ζούγκλα ταμάν νεγκάρα | καλοκαίρι 2024, βιετνάμ 5* και σιγκαπούρη - με διανυκτέρευση εν πλω στο χαλόνγκ μπέι και διαμονή στην αυτοκρατορική πόλη χουέ | φεβρουάριος - μάρτιος 2024, ferias de andalucia – οι μεγάλες γιορτές της άνοιξης: ανδαλουσία – γιβραλτάρ – εστρεμαδούρα | 29.04.2024 ( πάσχα 2024), νορβηγία, ο δρόμος του ατλαντικού - tο versus εξασφάλισε διαμονή σε φιόρδ (πτήσεις για σταβάνγκερ και επιστροφή από όσλο) - πτήσεις με klm |04.08.2024, η ανεξερεύνητη σκωτία και λίμνες αγγλίας | 30.04.2024 (πάσχα), νέα υόρκη... για ψαγμένους ταξιδιώτες, μπρούκλιν με διαμονή και στην ουάσιγκτον | μάρτιος - απρίλιος - πάσχα 2024, 9, 12 ημερεσ, νέα υόρκη, διαμονή πάνω στην times square… για ψαγμένους ταξιδιώτες | μάρτιος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, νέα υόρκη, διαμονή πάνω στην times square…για ψαγμένους ταξιδιώτες - πτήσεις με emirates| ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, απόκοσμο τουρκμενιστάν – γιορτή νοβρούζ | 18.03.2024, απόκοσμο τουρκμενιστάν – αρχαίοι δρόμοι και άγνωστοι νομαδικοί λαοί | 06.08.2024, μαδαγασκάρη - ανεξερεύνητος βορράς - από το εξωτικό νόσι μπε μέχρι το εθνικό πάρκο ανκαράν και το πάρκο μοντάνιε ντι άμπρε | 04.08.2024, 10,11,12 ημερεσ, περού – exploring machu picchu, ιερή κοιλάδα των ίνκας – rainbow mountain αρχαία αλατωρυχεία στο μάρας | απρίλιος - ιούνιος 2024, 12,13 ημερεσ, κούβα – μεξικό σίτι 5* με το versus | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, κούβα – μεξικό σίτι 5* με το versus | 02.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), 16, 17 ημερεσ, η μεγάλη κούβα από άκρη σε άκρη... μέχρι την μπαρακόα | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2024, καζακστάν - κιργιστάν: εθνικά πάρκα και φουτουριστικές πόλεις | 01.08.2024, περπατώντας στο ορατό «μονοπάτι» της ολικής έκλειψης ηλίου στο μεξικό | 01.04.2024, βιρμανία – μπανγκόκ | 29.04.2024 & 13.05.2024 (πάσχα), ανατολικές ηπα - καναδάς, νέα υόρκη, ουάσιγκτον, νιαγάρα, τορόντο - απευθείας πτήση για νέα υόρκη και επιστροφή από τορόντο | αύγουστος 2024, η μεγάλη κούβα από άκρη σε άκρη... μέχρι την μπαρακόα | 10.03.2024, 15-17 ημερεσ, πανόραμα μεξικού - ιστορικό μεξικό, κανκούν, μάγιας με το τουλούμ τον μοναδικό αρχαιολογικό χώρο των μάγιας στην καραϊβική | πάσχα - οκτώβριος 2024, ανατολικός καναδάς, παρατήρηση φαλαινών, με επιλεκτική διαμονή στο ιστορικό κεμπέκ | 23.07.2024, σρι λάνκα - μαλδίβες, διαμονή και σαφάρι 4x4 στο εθνικό πάρκο yala και διαμονή στην μπερουβέλα | 24.02.2024, παναμάς - κολομβία με διανυκτερεύσεις στην μαγευτική καρθαγένη | 29.06.2024, περού – exploring machu picchu, ιερή κοιλάδα των ίνκας – rainbow mountain αρχαία αλατωρυχεία στο μάρας | 13.08.2024, σρι λάνκα & μαλδίβες - διαμονή και σαφάρι 4x4 στο εθνικό πάρκο yala και διαμονή στην κάντυ για τις γιορτές περαχέρα | 07.08.2024, παναμάς-κόστα ρίκα-αρχιπέλαγος μπόκας ντελ τόρο | 15.08.2024, ανατολικές ηπα - καναδάς, νέα υόρκη, ουάσιγκτον, νιαγάρα, τορόντο - πτήσεις με emirates | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, άνοιξη και πάσχα στις ανατολικές ηπα - καναδάς, νέα υόρκη, ουάσιγκτον, νιαγάρα, τορόντο | απρίλιος - πάσχα - μάιος 2024, μεγάλος γύρος ισλανδίας - λευκές νύχτες και ο ήλιος του μεσονυκτίου | μάιος - αύγουστος 2024, ανατολικός καναδάς, παρατήρηση φαλαινών, με επιλεκτική διαμονή στο ιστορικό κεμπέκ | 07.07.2024, δυτικές ηπα - σαν φρανσίσκο με εκδρομές στο σαν ντίεγκο και στο μοντερέι | 21.08.2024, 13,14 ημερεσ, περού 5*, αμαζόνιος, άνδεις αρχαία αλατωρυχεία των ίνκας - στους δρόμους των ίνκας | φεβρουάριος - πάσχα - mάιος 2024, παναμάς-κόστα ρίκα αρχιπέλαγος μπόκας ντελ τόρο | 20.06.2024, τα κρυμμένα διαμάντια της ισλανδίας και τα ανεξερεύνητα βόρεια και δυτικά φιόρδ | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, ανατολικός καναδάς, παρατήρηση φαλαινών, με επιλεκτική διαμονή στο ιστορικό κεμπέκ | 09.08.2024, δυτικές ηπα - σαν ντιέγκο με εκδρομές στο μοντερέι - πτήσεις με lufthansa | αύγουστος 2024, μαδαγασκάρη – ο δρόμος των φυλών και το εξωτικό νησί νόσι μπε | 31.07.2024 & 14.08.2024, κυνηγώντας το βόρειο σέλας (aurora borealis) στα νησιά λοφότεν και στη νορβηγική και σουηδική λαπωνία | φεβρουάριος - μάρτιος 2024, 11, 12 ημερεσ, βραζιλία - μπαϊα: o παράδεισος των εναλλαγών - φυσικές πισίνες και καταρράκτες στο εθνικό πάρκο τσάπαδα διαμαντίνα | 02.08.2024 & 14.08.2024, πακιστάν - με τη φυλή των καλάς και τη γιορτή ουτσάλ | 11.08.2024, νότια αφρική | ταξίδι εμπειριών: σαφάρι - εξωπραγματικά φαράγγια - οινογνωσία - παρατήρηση φαλαινών | καλοκαίρι 2024, κούβα – μεξικό σίτι 5* με κανκούν και ριβιέρα μάγιας | 01.07.2024 & 11.08.2024, σαφάρι πολυτελείας στην τανζανία-ζανζιβάρη, νγκορονγκόρο, κιλιμάντζαρο | ιανουάριος - πάσχα 2024, περού 5*, αμαζόνιος, άνδεις αρχαία αλατωρυχεία των ίνκας - στους δρόμους των ίνκας - πτήσεις με klm | αύγουστος 2024, 14, 15 ημερεσ, περού 5*, αμαζόνιος, άνδεις αρχαία αλατωρυχεία των ίνκας - στους δρόμους των ίνκας - πτήσεις με iberia | ιούλιος - αύγουστος 2024, σαφάρι πολυτελείας στην τανζανία-ζανζιβάρη, νγκορονγκόρο, κιλιμάντζαρο | αύγουστος 2024, παναμάς - κολομβία, από πάναμα σίτι και μπογκοτά μέχρι το μεντεγίν και την καρθαγένη | 18.07.2024, δυτικές ηπα με νέα υόρκη - σαν φρανσίσκο με εκδρομές στο σαν ντίεγκο και στο μοντερέι | 11.07.2024, εξερεύνηση: γαλλικές αντίλλες, γουαδελούπη – μαρτινίκα – μαρί γκαλάντ – ιλ ντε σαιντ | 29.04.2024 (πάσχα), περού 5*, φεστιβάλ ίντι ράιμι, αμαζόνιος, άνδεις, αρχαία αλατωρυχεία των ίνκας – στους δρόμους των ίνκας| 14.06.2024, εκουαδόρ - κολομβία με το ξεχωριστό μεντεγίν | 02.07.2024, μαδαγασκάρη - λεωφόρος των μπαομπαμπ, εξωτικό νησί νόσι μπέ | 18.08.2024, δυτικές ηπα με νέα υόρκη - σαν φρανσίσκο με εκδρομές στο σαν ντίεγκο και στο μοντερέι | 07.08.2024, εκουαδόρ - νησιά γκαλάπαγκος: από το «σημείο μηδέν» και τα αρχαία μονοπάτια των ίνκας μέχρι τα «μαγεμένα νησιά» του δαρβίνου | 11.08.2024, νότια κορέα - ιαπωνία - πτήσεις lufthansa | ιούλιος – αύγουστος 2024, ζάμπια – μαλάουι σαφάρι και εξερεύνηση στη ζεστή καρδιάς της αφρικής | 16.08.2024, περού 5* – βολιβία – αμαζόνιος – αρεκίπα, πτήσεις με iberia | 05.08.2024, καθολικό πάσχα στη γουατεμαλα με τα περίφημα χαλιά απο λουλούδια, μεξικό - ονδούρα, ο δρόμος των μάγιας | 17.03.2024, νότια κορέα - ιαπωνία με τις ιαπωνικές άλπεις - πτήσεις με emirates | 12.08.2024, γροιλανδία: μια συγκλονιστική ταξιδιωτική εμπειρία-ζωής στο βόρειο άκρο της ευρώπης | 20.07.2024, αλτιπλάνος: βολιβία - βόρεια αργεντινή με κόρδοβα, ωκεανός από αλάτι | 12.08.2024, κένυα - τανζανία: η μεγάλη μετανάστευση των ζώων | 23.07.2024 & 13.08.2024, καραϊβική: η θάλασσα των πειρατών - άγιος δομίνικος - πουέρτο ρίκο - αϊτή: o επίγειος παράδεισος λας τερένας και το νησί σαόνα| 14.08.2024, αποστολή στην γροιλανδία - μεγάλη ισλανδία: πάγος, φωτιά και παρατήρηση φαλαινών | 13.07.2024, παπούα-νέα γουινέα, εξερευνητική αποστολή - φεστιβάλ του μάουντ χάγκεν | 12.08.2024.

Expeditions 2024 | Είστε σίγουροι ότι τα έχετε δει όλα;

Μερικά από τα εξερευνητικά ταξίδια μας – ειδικές τιμές για τους 11 πρώτους, ρατζαστάν και γκουτζαράτ: έρημος αλατιού, δρόμοι των καραβανιών, φυλές βορειοδυτικής ινδίας | 08.10.2024, ειδική αποστολή: καμερούν - πυγμαίοι, ένα εξερευνητικό ταξίδι στην κεντρική αφρική | 21.02.2024, πλήρες ουζμπεκιστάν & τατζικιστάν - τασκένδη, νουκούς, χίβα, μπουχάρα, σαχριζάμπς σαμαρκάνδη, επτά λίμνες, πεντζικέντ, ντουσάμπε | 10.04.2024 & 19.06.2024, νορντέστε, βορειοανατολική βραζιλία, αμμόλοφοι, ο δρόμος των ονείρων και των συναισθημάτων | 02.05.2024 (πάσχα), μογγολία, nότια έρημος γκόμπι – φεστιβάλ ναντάμ | 03.07.2024, βιρμανία – σιγκαπούρη, ένα ανεπανάληπτο οδοιπορικό σε μια χώρα-αποκάλυψη | μάρτιος - απρίλιος - πάσχα 2024, φιλιππίνες - σεμπού - μποχόλ - παλαουάν - ελ νίντο - μανίλα | μάρτιος - νοέμβριος 2024, μπουτάν, ντάρτζελινγκ, σικκίμ, δυτική βεγγάλη | καλοκαίρι - οκτώβριος 2024, χιλή - βολιβία - ωκεανός από αλάτι βολιβίας, έρημος ατακάμα, ελ τάτιο, αβαρόα, σαντιάγο | 01.05.2024, κεντρική ασία - στις εσχατιές του μέγα αλέξανδρου, καζακστάν - κιργιστάν - τατζικιστάν | 26.04.2024 (πάσχα), κεντρική ασία - στις εσχατιές του μέγα αλέξανδρου, καζακστάν - κιργιστάν - τατζικιστάν - φεργκάνα | 19.07.2024, κεντρική ασία - στις εσχατιές του μέγα αλέξανδρου | καζακστάν – κιργιστάν – τατζικιστάν – φεργκάνα| 05.07.2024, γκάνα - αναζητώντας τη χρυσή ακτή και τις απομονωμένες φυλές στον βορρά | φεβρουάριος - πάσχα - μάιος 2024, εξερεύνηση του κρυμμένου θησαυρού τoυ νεπάλ με jeep - φεστιβάλ tiji | 26.04.2024 (πάσχα), ινδοκίνα | βιετνάμ – καμπότζη – λάος, ακολουθώντας τον μεκόνγκ | μάρτιος - νοέμβριος 2024, ναμίμπια με διανυκτέρευση στην έρημο καλαχάρι και δύο διανυκτερεύσεις στην περιοχή των χίμπα | ιούνιος - αύγουστος 2024, μαδαγασκάρη ρεϋνιόν - η λεωφόρος των μπαομπάμπ και η εξωτική ρεουνιόν στον ινδικό ωκεανό | 27.04.2024 (πάσχα), μεγάλη νότια αφρική με την περίφημη διαδρομή των κήπων (garden route) - πτήσεις με emirates | φεβρουάριος - πάσχα - ιούνιος 2024, γκάνα – σάο τομέ – στα χνάρια της περιπέτειας | φεβρουάριος - μάιος - πάσχα 2024, 17, 18 ημερεσ, μεγάλη νότια αφρική - ζιμπάμπουε - μποτσουάνα - διαδρομή των κήπων - κέιπ τάουν - σαφάρι | καλοκαίρι 2024, αιθιοπία, ιουλιανά χριστούγεννα και θεοφάνεια (τιμκατ) | 05.01.2025, εξερευνώντας τη βραζιλία, κυνήγι θέασης τζάγκουαρ στη ζούγκλα παντανάλ, ρίο ντε τζανέιρο | 02.08.2024, περού 5* – βολιβία – αμαζόνιος – αρεκίπα | 25.03.2024, μεγάλη ιαπωνία με τις ιαπωνικές άλπεις | 01.05.2024 (πάσχα 2024), 17, 22 ημερεσ, κολομβία - εκουαδόρ, με επέκταση στα νησιά γκαλάπαγκος | καλοκαίρι 2024, η κεντρική αμερική σε βάθος - κόστα ρίκα – παναμάς – νικαράγουα – ελ σαλβαδόρ | 10.08.2024, ουγκάντα, ρουάντα - γορίλες στην ομίχλη, σαφάρι γορίλα & χιμπατζήδων, καταρράκτες μέρτσισον | 26.07.2024, εκουαδόρ - κολομβία - εθνικό πάρκο ταϊαρόνα - σπάνιες πτήσεις για καρθαγένη | φεβρουάριος - απρίλιος 2024, eθνικά πάρκα δυτικών ηπα - άγρια δύση | καλοκαίρι 2024, πανόραμα καναδά, από τον ατλαντικό έως τον ειρηνικό | 02.08.2024, νορβηγία - κρουαζιέρα στην άκρη του κόσμου: βόρειος πολικός αρκτικός κύκλος, ταξίδι με απόκοσμη ομορφιά | 24.06.2024, μεγάλη αλάσκα – εσωτερικός δίαυλος: χερσόνησος κενάι, δυτικός καναδάς, βραχώδη όρη, σιάτλ | 05.08.2024, γαλλική πολυνησία - νότιος ειρηνικός - πτήσεις με air france | 08.08.2024.

Eκδρομές στην Ελλάδα | Άνοιξη - Καλοκαίρι 2024

Οι κρυφές ομορφιές της ελλάδας, λίμνη κερκίνη παρατήρηση πουλιών και νεροβουβάλων, βυρώνεια, με ημιδιατροφή | οκτώβριος 2023-μάρτιος 2024, λίμνη κερκίνη παρατήρηση πουλιών και νεροβουβάλων, βυρώνεια, με ημιδιατροφή | πάσχα 2024, τα «διαμάντια» της μακεδονίας, βέροια - βεργίνα – θεσσαλονίκη - έδεσσα- λουτρά πόζαρ – παλαιός αγ. αθανάσιος – σέρρες - λίμνη κερκίνη – παλαιός παντελεήμων | φθινόπωρο 2023 - άνοιξη 2024, 3, 4 ημερεσ, λακωνία, πυργοχώρια λακωνικής μάνης, μονεμβάσια, με ημιδιατροφή | οκτώβριος 2023 - ιούνιος 2024, πάσχα στη λακωνία, πυργοχώρια λακωνικής μάνης, μονεμβάσια, με ημιδιατροφή | 03.05.2024, η πανέμορφη πασχαλινή λευκάδα του versus | 03.05.2024 (πάσχα), ιωάννινα - ζαγοροχώρια, διαμονή στο πολυτελές grand serai 5* | φθινόπωρο - άνοιξη 2024, αρχέγονη θράκη, με διαμονή στην ξάνθη και επίσκεψη στα πομακοχώρια | οκτώβριος 2023 - ιούνιος 2024, αρχέγονη θράκη, με διαμονή στην ξάνθη και επίσκεψη στα πομακοχώρια | 02.05.2024 (πάσχα), μαστοροχώρια: η εναλλακτική γοητεία της ηπείρου, κόνιτσα – γράμμος – σμόλικας | μάρτιος - οκτώβριος 2024, μαστοροχώρια: η εναλλακτική γοητεία της ηπείρου, κόνιτσα – γράμμος – σμόλικας | πάσχα 2024, ακτές του ιονίου - πρέβεζα | καλοκαίρι 2024, ανατολική θράκη και αδριανούπολη | οκτώβριος - δεκέμβριος 2023, μοναδικό κερκυραϊκό πάσχα | 02.05.2024, πάτμος – η πισίνα του αιγαίου | καλοκαίρι 2024, πάτμος - λειψοί, η πισίνα του αιγαίου | πάσχα 2024, εξερευνήστε δημοφιλείς προορισμούς, ατομικά ταξίδια, ανακαλύψτε τον δικό σας παράδεισο, 12, 15 ημερεσ, και μαζί και μόνοι στη σιγκαπούρη - πουκέτ - μπανγκόκ με lufthansa, emirates ή qatar | ιούλιος - οκτώβριος 2023, διακοπές στο πουκέτ | 2023, πενάνγκ, ατομικό ταξίδι | 2023, ατομικό ταξίδι στο λανγκάουι | 2023, ατομικό ταξίδι στο σαμούι | 2023, διακοπές στο μπαλί | 2023, σεμπού, ατομικό ταξίδι | 2023, ιορδανία, ατομικό ταξίδι | 2023, ατομικό ταξίδι στο ακαπούλκο | 2023, διακοπές στο κανκούν | 2023, διακοπές στη ζανζιβάρη | 2023, διακοπές στις σεϋχέλλες | 2023, μπορακάι, ατομικό ταξίδι | 2023, ιδιωτικό ταξίδι στο ομάν,με προσωπικό ξεναγό, ιδιωτικές ξεναγήσεις και μεταφορές | 2023, διακοπές στον μαυρίκιο | 2023, διακοπές στις μαλδίβες | 2023, 9,11,12 ημερεσ, ιδιωτικό ταξίδι στη κόστα ρίκα με 3ήμερη εκδρομή στη ζούγκλα τορτουγκέρο | 2021 (περιλαμβάνονται και οι φόροι), διακοπές στη δομινικανή δημοκρατία (πούντα κάνα) | 2023, μπαρμπέιντος, ατομικό ταξίδι | 2023, διακοπές στη δομινικανή δημοκρατία (χερσόνησος σαμάνα) | 2023, ιδιωτικό ταξίδι στη μαυριτανία | περίοδος 01.05.2022 - 31.03.2023 (περιλαμβάνονται και οι φόροι), 13,15 ημερεσ, και μαζί και μόνοι στο μπαλί - εθνικό πάρκο κομόντο | αύγουστος 2023, ιδιωτικό σαφάρι στην κένυα και χαλάρωση στις εξωτικές παραλίες της μομπάσα | 2023, σαφάρι στην τανζανία μαζί με άλλους ταξιδιώτες και χαλάρωση στην εξωτική ζανζιβάρη | περίοδος 01.05.2022 -31.03.2023 (περιλαμβάνονται και οι φόροι), prive σαφάρι πολυτελείας, μόνο για εσάς, στην τανζανία και χαλάρωση στην εξωτική ζανζιβάρη | περίοδος 01.07.2022 - 31.03.2023 (περιλαμβάνονται και οι φόροι), ατομικό ταξίδι στο περού| 2023, super προσφορές, ιστορία και πολιτισμός, θαύματα της φύσης, διαδρομές με πλοίο, ταξίδι με μέρες σε παραλία, σαφάρι και άγρια ζωή, περπάτημα και τρέκινγκ, διαδρομές με τρένο, θεματικά ταξίδια, σχόλια πελατών, μαροκο ερημοσ 8 ημερεσ 19/12/23.

Μοναδική εμπειρία. Χωριά του Άτλαντα και αρώματα Μαρόκου! - Τσιώλη Κατερίνα, Αθήνα

Πολύ καλοί ξεναγοί, με διάθεση να εξηγήσουν τα πάντα. Είδαμε πολλά από το Μαρόκο, αποκομίζοντας μια καλή εικόνα για την χώρα και τον τρόπο ζωής των ανθρώπων της. Πολύ καλή ξενάγηση στα ιστορικά μνημεία...

Υπέροχο ταξίδι, υπέροχη η αρχηγός μας. - Γ.Β., Αθήνα

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Πολύ καλή εικόνα. Άριστη η αρχηγός. - Χ.Ε., Αθήνα

Η τοποθεσία του ξενοδοχείου, η ποιότητα των υπηρεσιών του και, ιδιαίτερα, η αρχηγός, δημιούργησαν θετικότατη εικόνα. - Μ.Ι., Αθήνα

Όλη η πόλη ήταν τέλεια, μαγευτική. Είναι μια πόλη που είναι λες και ζεις μέσα σε πίνακα· τα χρώματα και τα σχήματα των σπιτιών είναι τόσο όμορφα και φωτεινά. Η πιο ωραία εμπειρία ήταν στο...

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Ένα ενδιαφέρον ταξίδι στο Μαρόκο. - Ν.Κ., Βριλήσσια

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Απροσδόκητα υπέροχο ταξίδι. - Μ.Π., Άλιμος

Συγκλονιστικό ταξίδι. Θα μας μείνει χαραγμένο στην καρδιά! νιώθουμε πολύ τυχεροί που ζήσαμε αυτήν την εμπειρία. Τελικά, τα ταξίδια είναι όντως επένδυση ζωής. - Π.Δ., Αθήνα

ΠΑΡΙΣΙ - 7 ΗΜΕΡΕΣ 31/12/23

Ένα ταξίδι με πολλές όμορφες στιγμές και υπέροχους αρχηγούς! - Α.Χ., Λευκωσία

Στοχευμένη ξενάγηση και επιλογή από το γραφείο των σημαντικότερων αξιοθεάτων του Παρισιού! Πολύ καλή η free day, λόγω του ότι κάποιος μπορεί να επισκεφθεί οποιοδήποτε άλλο μέρος, μνημείο, αξιοθέατο...

ΜΑΡΟΚΟ ΕΡΗΜΟΣ 8 ΗΜΕΡΕΣ 05/01/24

Τα χρώματα, οι γεύσεις και τα τοπία του Μαρόκου μας μάγεψαν. Εξαιρετική η αρχηγός μας. Πολύ καλή παρέα όλο το γκρουπ μας. - Κ.Μ., Αθήνα

Πολύ καλή εμπειρία. Σωστός προγραμματισμός. Άριστη Ελληνίδα αρχηγός· ευγενική· μετέτρεψε άνα γκρουπ ανόμοιο σε μια ομοιογενή ομάδα. Συγχαρητήρια! - Γαλήνη Συρίγου, Πειραιάς

Η αρχηγός μας ήταν εξαιρετική· με μεγάλο ενδιαφέρον για την καλύτερη εξυπηρέτησή μας. Ήταν πάντα δίπλα μας για να ικανοποιήσει όλες τις επιθυμίες μας, με ευγένεια και χαμόγελο. - Πόθου Αγγελική,...

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Εξαιρετικό ταξίδι. Υπέροχη εμπειρία. Αξέχαστο. - Β.Δ., Χαλάνδρι

Ολοκληρωμένο ταξίδι, με διαφορετικές εικόνες. - Ανώνυμος

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Πρώτο ταξίδι οργανωμένο, πρώτη φορά με Versus. Οι εντυπώσεις είναι εξαιρετικές. Ξεκούραστο, πληροφόρηση τόση όση χρειάζεται, όποια δυσκολία μετατρέπεται με χιούμορ σε συνηθισμένη κατάσταση·...

Η αρχηγός με το κατάλληλο, φιλικό mood, ο χρόνος ικανοποιητικός σε κάθε επίσκεψη, ο οδηγός εξαιρετικός. - Κ.Μ, Πειραιάς

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Ένα ταξίδι πολύ πλούσιο, με πολύ καλή οργάνωση και πολύ καλή αρχηγό. - Τσινάρη Ευαγγελία, Αθήνα

Ένα εκπληκτικό 6ήμερο ταξίδι, με πλούσια ξενάγηση, υπέροχχα τοπία, πολλές πόλεις με περιπατητικές ξεναγήσεις και εκπληκτική αρχηγό. - Περβανάς Λεωνίδας, Αθήνα

Η αρχηγός ήταν ευγενέστατη και πολύ φιλική! - Μ.Ι., Άρμα

Πολύ ωραίο ταξίδι! - Β.Α., Αθήνα

Καλοί συνταξιδιώτες. Άριστη συμπεριφορά αρχηγού. - Μουστάκας Στυλιανός, Αθήνα

Όλα καλώς οργανωμένα. Άριστη αρχηγός. - Ντρίτσα Ηλέκτρα, Αθήνα

Αυτό το ταξίδι με γέμισε πολύ ευχάριστες εμπειρίες. Η αρχηγός μας ήταν πολύ καλή μαζί μας και ήταν εκεί για ό,τι χρειαζόμασταν. Επίσης, επισκεφθήκαμε πολλά μέρη, όπου γνωρίσαμε την ιστορία τους....

Όλα άψογα. - Κυριάκος Λειβαδάς, Αίγιο

Ήταν όλα εξαιρετικά. Η αρχηγός πολύ φιλική, κατατοπιστική και γνώστης όσων χρειάζονταν για το ταξίδι. Με μια λέξη, εξαιρετική. - Σ.Ν., Αθήνα

Υπέροχο ταξίδι. Γέμισα με υπέροχες εικόνες που θα θυμάμαι πάντα. Οι υπηρεσίες τέλειες και η αρχηγός του group άψογη. Νιώσαμε όλοι μας απίστευτη ασφάλεια. - Ρ.Σ., Θήβα

Ένα εξαιρετικά καλά οργανωμένο ταξίδι, σε πληθώρα όμορφων τοποθεσιών, γοητευτικές πόλεις, εκπληκτικά φυσικά τοπία και παραμυθένια κάστρα. Η αρχηγός μας, πραγματικά, πολύ καλή!!! - Αθανασία Καραχρήστου,...

Ήταν ένα υπέροχο ταξίδι, πολύ καλά οργανωμένο, με επισκέψεις σε εξαιρετικές περιοχές. Μια ολοκληρωμένη ταξιδιωτική εμπειρία που την απολαύσαμε από την αρχή έως το τέλος. - Κωστόπουλος Βασίλειος,...

Ήταν ένα πολύ ωραίο ταξίδι, με ονειρεμένες, αλλά και παραμυθένιες πόλεις. - Κ.Ι., Αθήνα

Πολύ καλή συνοδός, ωραίες διαδρομές με το πούλμαν, καλό πρόγραμμα των ημερών, ωραίο ξενοδοχείο. - Ανώνυμος

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Εξαιρετικά όλα. - Ι.Μ., Αθήνα

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Το ταξίδι στο Μαρόκο ήταν ανώτερο των προσδοκιών μας. Ήταν τέλειο!! - Χ.Α., Αλεξανδρούπολη

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Σας ευχαριστώ πολύ· ήσασταν άψογοι· ιδιαίτερο μεγάλο ευχαριστώ στην αρχηγό, για τον πλούτο των γνώσεων, την ανιδιοτέλειά της και την ωραία διάθεσή της. - Κοκκότης Δημήτρης, Άγιος Δημήτριος ...

Η ξεναγός εξαιρετική, εξυπηρετική και γνώστης της πόλης. - Στεργίου Χριστίνα, Πεντέλη

Μία μοναδική εμπειρία, την οποία θα επαναλάβουμε οπωσδήποτε. - Α..Σ., Αθήνα

Ένα πολύ όμορφο ταξίδι, με πολλές εμπειρίες· και, το κυριότερο όλων, η καταπληκτική ξεναγός, η οποία δεν μας έκανε απλώς ξενάγηση, αλλά μας έκανε να νιώσουμε ότι είμαστε ντόπιοι· την...

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Τέλειο· θα ξαναπήγαινα. - Α.Β., Πύργος

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Άριστη και οργανωτική αρχηγός. Καλά ξενοδοχεία. - Ανώνυμος

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Cancun vs. Puerto Vallarta: Which Destination Is Better

About the author

Alex Gomez, the founder of Mexico Travel Buddy, combines his firsthand, on-the-ground experiences in Mexico with a personal connection to the country, fostered through his Mexican wife and numerous explorations. More info

My first time traveling to Mexico, I had a difficult time deciding between two of the most popular destinations in Mexico, Cancun or Puerto Vallarta?

Cancun is the perfect destination for anyone looking to stay in a top-notch, all inclusive beach resort-party town, or someone apprehensive about visiting Mexico for the first time. Puerto Vallarta is great for anyone looking for a relaxed beach vibe, and looking to embrace the Mexican lifestyle. PV offers great hole-the-wall restaurants, and some real staples in the community, all surrounded by luscious green mountains and the beautiful ocean.

Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta

C ancun is known for it’s long 14 mile stretch of glistening white beaches, crystal clear turquoise-tinted water, and ritzy all-inclusive resorts.

Beaches In Cancun

The beaches in Cancun are covered with soft white sand that never gets too hot due to its 70% coral makeup. Beaches stretch all across Cancun’s hotel zone guaranteeing a great view no matter which resort you stay at. Along the beach you will find an unlimited supply of classy resorts and restaurants, additionally vendors will be walking the beach asking if you’d like to purchase anything from food, to hand-made goods.

The water is usually perfect for swimming, but not so great for snorkeling due to some choppy waves, at least in the Hotel Zone. However, the water in Cancun is crystal clear, and extremely warm, making any beach the perfect swim spot.

Activities In Cancun

There are plenty of activities you will find all up-and-down the beach. From snorkeling tours, to parasailing, jet skis to jet boats, on Cancun’s beaches there is always something extremely thrilling to try.

If you feel like getting out and exploring more, Cancun has some amazing nearby towns offering awesome excursions and tours. Excursions in Cancun consist of cenotes, snorkeling, atvs, and even aquatic theme parks. To see some of my favorite excursions just check out the Cancun Complete Excursion Guide .

See also: Traveling To Mexico For Dental Implants: Is It Worth It

Food In Cancun

If you happen to get hungry anywhere or anytime while at the beach, more than likely you will be right next to a restaurant offering delicious and well prepared food.

The food in Cancun is great, and is usually up-to-par with a fine dining establishment found in the U.S. but at a much cheaper price. The restaurants on the beach and in the resorts are modern, and will usually allow you to wear your beach clothes upon arrival.

If you are looking for a more authentic food experience in Cancun, you will need to travel away from the Hotel Zone, and head downtown. Here you will find some more traditional cooking, and hole-in-the wall restaurants.

Shopping In Cancun

If you feel a shopping spree coming on, Cancun has you covered. Cancun offers various malls containing high-end and brand name clothing, as well as jewelry stores. Most of the malls will have a food court full of different restaurant options to choose from as well.

If you’re looking for more of an authentic shopping experience, then you will have to visit some of the local markets scattered throughout Cancun. Mercado 28 is one of the most popular markets offering traditional eats and souvenirs, at an inexpensive price. If you want to see what all Cancun offers in terms of shopping, make sure check out The Best Places To Shop In Cancun to find out all the best places people love shopping while staying in Cancun, and even some spots popular with the locals.

Cancun Vibe and People

What I imagine other people think when they hear mention of Cancun is, spring break and partying. I can’t say that I blame them either. The drinking age in Cancun is only 18 years old, so no doubt you will see tons of party seekers out and about tearing up the clubs until the early morning hours. Cancun is also one of the top destinations in the world for spring breakers, there is no denying that Cancun is the perfect party central for anyone looking to unwind and have a good time.

See also: Mexico Travel Insurance: Is It Worth It

Since Cancun is an extremely popular tourist destination, best believe that most of the locals working in the resorts and at the restaurants are going to know a decent amount of English. Making Cancun the perfect destination for someone who doesn’t know how to speak Spanish, or who may not be comfortable in a setting where Spanish is the dominant language used.

Overall, Cancun is the perfect vacation destination for anyone who desires luxurious resorts with an oceanfront view, top-notch staff and service, going out clubbing and dancing, or anyone who just wants to have a blast, and may not want to travel to far from their resort to do so.

Cancun is also great for anyone who enjoys taking pictures, or anyone who may be Planning Your Perfect Wedding In Mexico . On the otherhand Cacun is a popular honeymoon destination as well . If you are hesitant about traveling to Mexico for your first time, give Cancun a try, you’ll be craving more by time your trip is over.

Puerto Vallarta is a touristy beach town featuring a relaxed and friendly vibe. Known for their food, there are hundreds of superb and authentic restaurants all around Vallarta. Food ranges from Traditional Mexican, Italian, Asian, American, and anything else you could ever want.

Beaches In Puerto Vallarta

The beaches in Puerto Vallarta are more of a golden yellow color, and do tend to get very hot. The water although warm, is not quite as clear as the Caribbean Sea Cancun offers. That being said, I still love the ocean in PV and I’ve spent a whole day at the beach in Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón Boardwalk stretches 12 blocks (1 mile) along the beach and is filled with local vendors serving up everything from handmade dolls to freshly cracked coconuts, or even cheesecake and crepes. Performers setup and will perform all day to make their living, you will see statue people, stone stackers, and even acting performances put on at the Los Arcos Amphitheater, day and night.

Continue to walk along the boardwalk and you will discover an assortment of restaurants and stores, and one of my favorite spots near the boardwalk, Los Muertos Pier. This is an awesome spot you can walk out on, and is perfect for observing and taking pictures.

See also: Top Mexico Travel Tips To Know For A First-Timer

Activities In Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta’s beaches offer similar things that you may find in Cancun. Parasailing, jet skiing, riding on huge tubes being pulled by a boat, they’ve got it all.

When your done enjoying the beach there is plenty to do around town. You can venture around the streets, and check out all the local paintings canvased across the buildings. Or one of my all-time favorite things to do in Puerto Vallarta is hiking up the mountainside to Cerro De La Cruz. From this lookout, you can see the whole town of Puerto Vallarta below, it’s simply stunning.

Moreover, the workout you get from this hike is intense. But don’t worry, you can stop as often as needed to catch your breath, or just take in the view.

Food In Puerto Vallarta

Mine and my wife’s first time visiting Puerto Vallarta was amazing. We had gathered a list of all the restaurants we wanted to try months in advance. When we arrived in Puerto Vallarta, the quest for food began. I could say that we were overwhelmed with a cornucopious amount of food and dining options, but honestly we were in food heaven.

Puerto Vallarta offers over 200 restaurants, there is not one restaurant that I have tried here, that hasn’t exceeded my expectations. Not only is the food delicious and traditional, but it is so CHEAP . Forget the $5 footlong, in PV it’s all about the food, and they do it the right way.

Shopping In Puerto Vallarta

As far as shopping goes in Puerto Vallarta, you will find locals markets all around the city. My personal favorite being the Old Town Market Viejo Vallarta. This market has multiple shops inside, as well as local restaurants if you head upstairs. However, one of my favorites place to eat in all of Vallarta sits near the entrance of the market called Loncheria Don Jorge. If you are looking for some authentic Mexican dishes, this is where you want to be.

Once you’re finished exploring the interior of the market, head outside and cross over the drunkard bridge (it sways back-and-forth) to the outdoor market. Here, you can get lost for hours exploring all the shops, make sure you bring your pesos here to buy all your souvenirs.

Puerto Vallarta Vibe And People

Wherever you decide to stay in Puerto Vallarta, whether it be right on the boardwalk (I highly recommend), or deep in the city, you will be surrounded by beautiful and luscious green mountainsides, amazing art, statues, and some of the friendliest people in Mexico. The overall relaxed vibe of Puerto Vallarta, makes this town feel so welcoming and will have you wanting to stay even longer.

Although not everyone will speak English here, a good amount of people will be able to understand little bits of English, enough for you to get around without any major issues. If you are someone who is in the process of learning Spanish, PV is the perfect place to practice and put to test everything you have learned without the fear of being judge or discriminated.

If you’re looking to PAR-TAY, then just head to the Romantic Zone around sunset, the music will be bumping, and the people will definitely be jumping. If you are staying near the boardwalk, expect to hear the clubs until around 3 am. Puerto Vallarta is chill during the day time, but a true party animal’s paradise at night.

There is no doubt in my mind that Puerto Vallarta is perfect for anyone who likes adventures, terrific food, and friendly people. The people who live in Puerto Vallarta love where they live, and it shows in their attitude and sheer knowledge of this beloved beach town.

Don’t forget that Puerto Vallarta is also a great honeymoon destination .

Is Cancun or Puerto Vallarta Safer

If the only thing holding you back from choosing your next Mexican vacation to either Cancun or Puerto Vallarta, is the safety aspect, allow me to shed some light.

Cancun and Puerto Vallarta are both considered safe tourist towns. Tourist towns generate all their money from; you guessed it, tourists. If the tourists don’t feel safe, then the towns lose money, so understand that these towns do everything in their power to keep the streets, and the tourists wandering them safe.

Cancun vs. Puerto Vallarta Crime Index

From this chart you can see in general, Cancun has a higher crime rate index. This is due to its location on the Caribbean, but also because Cancun is home to three times as many people when compared to Puerto Vallarta.

We all know that more people generally equals more crime. This in not to say that Cancun is unsafe, but I recommend you stay aware of your personal belongings and surroundings, and make sure you use common sense when vacationing anywhere in any city, whether it’s considered safe or not.

In my personal experience, I have not had any problems with crime in either Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. If you aren’t looking for trouble, you probably won’t find it.

Is Puerto Vallarta Cheaper Than Cancun

My first time planning a trip to Mexico I was looking for the best place that fit my needs, but also somewhere I could afford since I didn’t have a ton of cash at my disposal. It came down to two locations, so after some research I found out which was cheaper, Puerto Vallarta or Cancun?

Puerto Vallarta is cheaper with an average trip costing between $1,000 to $1,500 per person including airfare, lodging, food, plus excursions and shopping money. Cancun is generally more expensive with the average trip costing between $1,700 to $2,000 per person. This price can quickly double or even triple if you are booking an all-inclusive resort.

Cancun vs. Puerto Vallarta Cost Per Person

Puerto Vallarta is the clear winner in my book when it comes down to overall cost for a vacation. The cost for flights to both Cancun and Puerto Vallarta may be considerably close, but when it comes to lodging and food, I would say PV takes the cake. My wife and I stayed on the boardwalk for only $80 per night, and our meals averaged only $5 per person, and we like to eat!

Cancun is more expensive due to its general location, and the location of all the resorts. If you want to stay on the beach in Cancun (most people do), then you will end up forking over a minimum of $180 per night. Although the food offered in Cancun is great, its usually priced higher if you are eating anywhere near the resorts or on the beach.

Ultimately, in my experience it comes down to what type of vacation you want to have. If you want to stay in an all-inclusive resort being catered to and not have to worry about a thing, then go to Cancun. If you prefer to figure things out on your own, like to venture out and explore, and enjoy delicious food, I say go to Puerto Vallarta. It’s that simple.

Alex Gomez, the founder of Mexico Travel Buddy, combines his firsthand, on-the-ground experiences in Mexico with a personal connection to the country, fostered through his Mexican wife and numerous explorations. As a professional writer and avid travel enthusiast, his favorite destination remains anywhere within Mexico's diverse landscapes. His extensive travels have equipped him with a treasure trove of tips, tricks, and insights, which he enthusiastically shares with his audience. Alex's stories and photos on the website not only showcase his love for Mexico but also offer readers a deeply authentic and engaging perspective.

Read more by Alex Gomez

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Appreciate your help Alex, Much love:)

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Cancún, Cabo or Puerto Vallarta: Which Mexico resort is best for you?

A comparison of the country’s most popular beach towns.

No other country welcomes more American tourists than Mexico . Vacationers go for sun-soaked beaches, warmer temperatures and low costs that feel far away from the cold reality of everyday life. More than 12 million American tourists took a flight into Mexico last year, according to statistics from the country’s secretary of tourism.

The vast majority head for one of three beach zones: Cancún, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta, which represented three of the top four airports for international tourist arrivals last year, including Mexico City.

Although you can’t go wrong with any of these three resort areas — they’re famous for a reason — there are noticeable nuances that can tip the scales when you’re picking one over the others. Over the past 10 years, I’ve visited all three on several occasions: Cancún half a dozen times, Vallarta twice and, most recently, Los Cabos. In terms of visitor appeal and natural beauty, they rival some of the world’s most remarkable and serene beaches.

We asked the travel platform Hopper to pull average spring break prices — covering March, April and May — to show how the costs break down. Here’s the case for each destination, depending on your budget and travel style.

Cancún: All-inclusives, nightclubs, beautiful beaches

Located on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, Cancún is the most popular of the three Mexican getaways by a sizable margin. It is also the most “touristy” in terms of spoken English, Americanized cuisine and the volume of resorts and daily flights from North America and Europe.

In my experience, it’s been the most expensive of the resort hubs in this comparison, although Hopper’s data shows that it has the lowest average “good deal” airfare this spring ($330), and the average nightly hotel rate is higher in Los Cabos. In Cancún, you’ll get a lot in return for your money: tranquil, teal and warm waters and white, sandy beaches (when the seaweed isn’t bad). There is also the most nightlife and the best snorkeling and scuba diving. The Cancún area and surrounding Mayan Riviera are full of all-inclusive resorts with adults-only and kid-friendly options.

Cancún is only a couple hours’ drive ( and now train ) from world-class Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza and Tulum. There’s also swimmable, flooded sinkholes called cenotes that are a wonder on their own.

Good-deal airfare: $330.

Average nightly hotel rate: $251.

Best for: clubgoers, families, adventure seekers and history buffs.

Los Cabos: Desert romance, deep-sea fishing, wedding backdrops

The area we call “Cabo” is actually two beach towns in one, hence its other nickname, “Los Cabos.”

Separated by about 20 miles from Cabo San Lucas and on the opposite side of the tip of Baja California, San José del Cabo (where the airport is) is the older town located on the Gulf of California. Just around the corner lies Cabo San Lucas, the newer and fast-growing town at the confluence of the Pacific and the gulf.

To get an idea of Cabo’s romantic scenery, imagine if Arizona, Southern California and the Mediterranean had a baby. Dramatic deserts, rugged coastline, deep-blue ocean and a famous sea arch (a.k.a. “El Arco”) are flanked by endemic elephant trees, desert sand and gorgeous cactuses.

As the second-most-popular beach retreat on this list, Cabo has an abundance of wildlife and big beaches, as well as high-end resorts, spas, golf courses and restaurants.

Travel adviser Sebastian Garrido recommends deep-sea fishing — or just enjoying the products of Pacific waters. Cabo blends coastal Mexican cuisine with resort fare, catering to locals and tourists alike.

“You can find some of the best seafood around the world down here,” he said.

In my experience, swimming on the Pacific is often forbidden by lifeguards, given the dangerous undertow. But the gulf side is tranquil and family-friendly.

A popular place for weddings, Cabo is probably the most dreamy landscape of the three destinations.

Good-deal airfare: $447.

Average nightly hotel rate: $475.

Best for: Pacific views, sport fishing, weddings, culture that caters to locals and tourists, sunsets and scenery.

Puerto Vallarta: Fewer Americans, sleepy beaches, birria tacos

Nestled down the Pacific coast in Jalisco state, Puerto Vallarta is a classic, cozy beach town. It is surrounded by mountains and tropical jungles and often caters more to Mexican tourists than Americans.

In terms of culture, cuisine, number of restaurants, boardwalk shopping, cobblestone streets and affordability, Vallarta is the most “Mexican” of the bunch, which is endearing.

Vallarta’s narrower beaches are admittedly more confined than Cancún’s or Cabo’s . But they’re still beautiful. Among the Pacific views, you can spot humpback whale breaches early in the year. Although there are dozens of large luxury resorts and all-inclusives here, you’ll also find a lot of small hotels that are locally owned and operated .

Jalisco is the home of birria , a complex braise of goat, lamb or beef served with a rich, spicy broth. I’ve also had chilaquiles and tacos al pastor here that trumped the versions I tried in Cancún and Cabo.

“Puerto Vallarta offers an authentic Mexican experience, as it was not created as a tourism destination,” says Gustavo Rivas-Solis, a travel publicist who represents the area. “It grew into one as people took notice and fell in love with Bay of Banderas and its surroundings.”

Good-deal airfare: $412.

Average nightly hotel rate: $192.

Best for: ocean views, sunbathing, fewer tourists, colonial architecture, jungle hikes and street shopping.

Blake Snow is a writer from Provo, Utah.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights .

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

Mexico or Caribbean: Which Destination is Better to Visit?

If you’re trying to decide between Mexico and the Caribbean for your next holiday, then the choice isn’t going to be easy. The first is a large, Latin American country with a diverse landscape, miles of amazing coastline, tasty food, and tequila. The second offers picture-perfect, white-sand beaches and crystal-clear aqua under the scorching sun.

But, despite many differences, there are also some similarities. Both Mexico and the Caribbean have access to the Caribbean Sea that is known for its pristine waters. But, in Mexico, there is also the wilder Pacific coast, along with mountains and charming colonial towns.

In this guide, we’ve looked at different aspects of these two destinations, from beaches and things to do to value for money and ease of travel. It should help you decide which is better this year, Mexico or the Caribbean?

Table of Contents

Mexico or Caribbean: Getting there

Traveling to both Mexico and the Caribbean islands is pretty easy and you shouldn’t find it hard to get to either of these destinations. However, there is no question that Mexico, being a large country, has more travel options available.

By far the easiest way to get into Mexico is by flying. The largest international airport, located in Mexico City, offers international connections with many major hubs around the globe and lots of cheap, direct connections with airports all over the US. The second-largest airport in the country is in Cancun, the gateway to the popular Quintana Roo and Yucatan states. It’s also possible to drive into Mexico from the US but that can be a lengthy (and potentially dangerous) journey.

Getting into the Caribbean isn’t too difficult either. You can fly into most islands directly from the US, Canada, and Europe. But those are often charter flights, mainly aimed at package holidaymakers. And that means they are more likely to be pricey. That said, there are deals to be had there, especially for flexible travelers. And it’s certainly worth forking out to enjoy the sugar sands of these paradise islands if that’s what you have your heart set on.

Winner: Mexico

Mexico or Caribbean: Beaches

From the pristine, white-sand bays and turquoise waters of the Caribbean coast to golden sands under the palm trees and glassy waves of the Pacific, there are plenty of amazing beaches in Mexico . The country has access to the Pacific Ocean on one side and to the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. Some of the best beach destinations in Mexico include:

• Tulum (Quintana Roo) – A chilled town on the stunning Yucatan Peninsula. The white sands and mellow turquoise waters are what this place is all about. There are lots of beach bars and bamboo shacks that give this place a less resort-like feel than the nearby Cancun .
• Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco) – A resort town in the heart of the beautiful Bahia de Banderas. Head south to enjoy the unspoiled coves and beaches as you emerge from the tropical forest. The bay protects this coast from the powerful Pacific waves, so it’s a great place for swimming.
• Playa del Carmen (Quintana Roo) – A popular resort town with palm-lined beaches and coral reefs. There are lots of hotels, bars and restaurants behind the beach. It’s the gateway to Cozumel .
• Cabo San Lucas (Baja California Sur) – A beach resort town at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. It’s famous for the rugged cliffs and arches rising from the sea.
• Zihuatanejo (Guerrero) – Once a quiet fishing village, made popular by the Shawshank Redemption’s final scenes.

But it’s the Caribbean that is world-famous for its pristine beaches. The endless powder-white sand bays and picture-perfect turquoise seas are what defines the Caribbean islands . There are so many amazing beaches out there that it’s not an easy task to pick a few, but some of our favorite ones include:

• Shoal Bay Beach (Anguilla) – If you’re looking for that ultimate postcard beach then Shoal Bay in Anguilla is the place to go. With sands as white as sugar and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this beach is something out of this world.
• Eagle Beach (Aruba) – One of the best beaches in the region is Aruba’s Eagle Beach. Miles of white sands and azure aqua are the things you can expect from this popular honeymoon destination.
• Seven Mile Beach (Grand Cayman) – Yet another picture-perfect white sand beach in the Caribbean. As the name suggests, this beach stretches for nearly seven long miles along shallow warm waters. This is where the most luxury resorts in the region are located. 
• Grace Bay (Turks and Caicos) – Boastibg soft, sugar sands with the water clearer than that of a swimming pool, Grace Bay beach has calm seas ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Although this beach is very popular, it’s never overcrowded.

Winner: Caribbean

Mexico or Caribbean: Things to do

Mexico is a huge country that has plenty of fun activities on offer. Whether you want to visit the Mayan ruins, surf, dive, hike, or just laze on the beach there are things for everyone in this beautiful Latin American country. Some of the best activities in Mexico include:

• Visiting Pre-Columbian Cities – The most famous Mayan ruins in the country are in Chichén Itzá ,with the striking step pyramid dominating the site. But that is not the only place where you can explore pre-Columbian ruins. Other places include San Juan Teotihuacán near Mexico City, Zona Arqueológica Palenque, and Tulum Archaeological Zone.
• Visiting Monarch Butterfly Reserve (Michoacán) – Every year the beautiful monarch butterflies visit the rugged forested mountains of the reserve in masses. The best time to see the butterflies is in spring.
• Climbing Pico de Orizaba – There are nearly fifty active volcanos in Mexico with the highest one rising over 5,600m above sea level. Pico de Orizaba is the highest mountain in Mexico and the third highest in North America. To hike this sleeping giant requires major preparation and good fitness but those that take on this amazing journey will be rewarded with breathtaking views.
• Tasting tequila – Mexico is the land of tequila and the best place on Earth to taste this alcoholic beverage. Take the tequila train to the home of this spirit in Jalisco and try some of the world’s best tequilas straight from the distilleries.
• Visiting Hierve el Agua (Oaxaca) – This is a natural rock formation that resembles a waterfall. It’s located around 70km away from Oaxaca City.

But what is there to do in the Caribbean? The obvious answer is to enjoy some of the most amazing beaches on Earth. But it isn’t only about soaking in the sun. There are plenty of other fun things to do in the Caribbean. Some of the top activities include:

• Hiking in El Yunque Rainforest (Puerto Rico) – Green tropical flora, gurgling waterfalls, and refreshing rivers are the things you can enjoy while hiking in Puerto Rico’s only rainforest. There are plenty of hiking trails for serious walkers and casual strollers of all sorts.
• Exploring Pigeon Island National Park (St Lucia) – A forested cape at the northern top of St Lucia. There are plenty of walking trails and 18th-century military forts and ruins around the park. You can enjoy beautiful views of Martinique from the park’s two peaks. 
• Enjoying the Baths of Virgin Gorda (British Virgin Islands) – Located in the Baths National Park on the north shores of Virgin Gorda island are these incredible beach rock formations. Two granite boulders create sheltered sea pools. 
• Trying Jerk Chicken in Jamaica – Jamaican jerk is an iconic Caribbean treat that every meat eater should try. Jamaica is the best place to try this spicy grilled staple.  

Mexico or Caribbean: Nightlife

Like most Latinos, Mexicans are lively and love to have a good time. And of course, one of the things that Mexico is famous for is tequila! With this combination, you can rest assured that Mexico enjoys vibrant nightlife and plenty of fiestas all year round. In spring, hordes of college breakers head to Mexican coastal resorts to party. Some of the best destinations in the country for that are:

• Mexico City – The capital is known for its established nightlife scene. From late-night dance venues in Roma-Condesa through to hipster breweries in Juarez, bohemian art clubs in Zona Rosa and cocktail bars in Polanco, there are party options for everyone.
• Puerto Vallarta – As the sun sets Puerto Vallarta wakes up. The cocktails are mixed in the numerous seafront venues and the DJs play sets in many of the town’s nightclubs.
• Cancun – A popular holiday destination on the Yucatan peninsula known for its vibrant party scene. It’s popular with American spring breakers who seek all-night raves that don’t stop till the sun comes up. The most popular area to party there is Punta Cancun, otherwise known as the party zone.
• Guadalajara – The second largest city in Mexico in the state of Jalisco is a dynamic hub with a great nightlife scene. The best area for drinking here is Chapultepec Avenue and Zapopan.
• Acapulco – It was once the destination for the rich, but these days Acapulco is more famous for its nightlife than the beaches. With loads of clubs, bars, and discos, this place has a pretty hefty party scene.

Caribbean nightlife is generally more chilled than that of Mexico. It’s more about drinking rum in beach bars while dancing to live reggae tunes. But that isn’t the only way to party in the Caribbean . There are plenty of drinking cruises, large music clubs, and casinos too. Some of the best places to enjoy the nightlife in the Caribbean are:

• San Juan (Puerto Rico) – Dancing in until dawn in live-music bars and drinking in several bars, lounges, and rooftop joints, these are the things you can expect in lively San Juan.
• Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) – This is the largest city in the Caribbean that is known for its parties long after the sun goes down. There are loads of bars, cafes, clubs, and discos all around the city, especially in Zona Colonial.
• Barbados – It’s the birthplace of rum. And with that, you can rest assured that there are plenty of places to enjoy it. The best place to party in Barbados is in St Lawrence Gap.
• Aruba – Beachfront lounges, lively cocktail bars, clubs, and casinos are plentiful in Aruba, especially in north Oranjestad.
• Jamaica – Wherever you go in Jamaica, there is music. The sounds of reggae are always about and there are plenty of places to enjoy it. The best nightlife is in Montego Bay and Kingston.

Mexico or Caribbean: Prices

The cost of your trip to Mexico will depend on what you do and where you stay, but generally, Mexico is quite affordable. Hotels can be pricey if you choose to stay in glitzy beachfront resorts in Cabo or luxury hotels in the capital , but there are plenty of budget options out there. And with the cost for tacos as little as 50 cents, you can be sure that a trip to Mexico isn’t likely to break the bank. Getting around the country isn’t too expensive either.

The Caribbean, however, is known for its luxury resorts and beachfront venues that come at a price. That isn’t the case with every island, but generally, a trip to the Caribbean is going to cost you more than one to Mexico. Barbados is the priciest of all, with average daily costs sitting at $300 per person. Other islands that are considered expensive are Antigua and Barbuda, Curacao, British Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos, and Aruba. The most budget-friendly Caribbean islands are Cuba and Haiti, with the average daily cost ten times lower than in Barbados.

Mexico or Caribbean: The Conclusion

Although the Caribbean lures with its picture-perfect beaches that are hard to beat, it is Mexico that comes on top in most categories. With its rich culture and history, diverse landscape, and more affordable lifestyle, we think that Mexico is overall a more interesting travel destination. But that said, there is no question that the Caribbean is incredibly beautiful, though it might come at a price.

For more than 11 years, Joe has worked as a freelance travel writer. His writing and explorations have brought him to various locations, including the colonial towns of Mexico, the bustling chowks of Mumbai, and the majestic Southern Alps of New Zealand. When he's not crafting his next epic blog post on the top Greek islands or French ski resorts, he can often be found engaging in his top two hobbies of surfing and hiking.

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Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown

Mexico is a vast country and there is a huge range of seasons and climates across the different regions.

The weather can be roughly split into a wet and a dry season, although this mostly counts in the tropical regions south of Mexico City.

The north has a more arid, desert-like climate, while the central regions are at high altitude and enjoy much cooler weather than the rest of Mexico. 

Mexico also has distinct low and high seasons when it comes to tourism, especially in touristy destinations like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. These generally coincide with the wet and dry seasons too. 

To inspire your next trip, here’s our guide on the best time to visit Mexico!

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Mexico (Country Guide)

Table of Contents

Mexico Dry Season 

The dry season is the best time to visit Mexico, and it falls between November and April.

This is peak season, so you can expect things to be busy, especially over Christmas, but Mexico is such a vast country that you can always find a way to escape the crowds.

Here’s our month by month breakdown for Mexico’s dry season. 

Novem b er  in Mexico

November is the start of the dry season, and for travelers, this could be the best time to visit Mexico. 

Prices are still low and tourist numbers are still small compared to what’s going to hit the top destinations in December. This is a good time to visit popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta, as you’ll find some great deals on flights and accommodation. 

As the rainy season has only just ended, it’s not the best time for diving yet, but head to Baja California and you’ll catch the start of the Whale Shark season. 

Tropical Yucatan is getting much cooler and a lot less humid, so now is the time to explore the jungles and to visit those lost Mayan Ruins without working up too much of a sweat. 

December in Mexico

Weather-wise, December is easily the best time to visit Mexico. However, everyone else has the same idea too, and December is the worst time to visit Mexico if you’re looking for a quiet vacation away from the crowds! 

In December, especially over Christmas and New Year, the resorts of Cancun and the Maya Riviera are packed out and prices are at their peak. It’s no different in other popular tourist spots either, such as Puerto Vallarta or Baja California. 

The weather is crisp, sunny and dry though, and you’re not likely to have a single rainy day. If you’re not having a beach holiday though, then take a trip to explore the indigenous culture of Oaxaca or Chiapas where you can find beautiful weather. 

January in Mexico

January is just as busy as December, at least for the first two weeks. This is peak season across Mexico, especially in Cancun and along the Pacific Coast.

Travel to Mexico towards the end of January though and you can start to get a few good deals again, as the crowds start to thin out.

Weather-wise this is a great time to explore the south, so enjoy the dry weather along the coast, and visit Mayan archeological sites like Palenque or Chichen Itza.

Mexico City is lovely in January, as are the central highlands, although it can get chilly at night. 

February in Mexico

In February the weather starts to get hotter, especially in the tropical south. Up north and in the mountains it’s still very cool, however. 

You can expect the odd rain shower across the country but for the most part, this is still a beautiful time to travel around Mexico .

You’ll get lower prices in Cancun while the diving and snorkeling off the coast of Cozumel Island is glorious, with sparkling clear water. 

This is the perfect time to visit Baja California, on the Pacific Coast, where you’ll be right in the middle of the whale watching season, and you’ll have the chance to swim with Whale Sharks. 

March in Mexico

March brings a mixed bag when it comes to crowds and the weather. This can be the middle of Spring Break, so it’s a good idea to avoid the big tourist hotspots if this isn’t your scene. If you’re looking to party though, then head straight to Cancun or Tijuana.

Equally, if Easter falls in March then it can be busy everywhere, although this is a great time to soak up the local culture during Semana Santa, the holy week. 

Weatherwise, it can be a little more unpredictable. The south sees more rain while the north is heating up and seeing a few thunderstorms too. 

April in Mexico

Like March, it can be a little unpredictable in April too, so plan your trip in advance to avoid spring break dates or Easter holidays, which can both fall this time of the year. 

April is the last month of the dry season, although you will see the weather starting to turn. The colder winter months are over and summer is on the way, which means that along with the rain it’s getting much hotter, everywhere. 

This is your last chance to see the whales and Whale Sharks in Baja California before they move on for the summer, and it’s the last chance to get really good visibility and diving conditions around Cozumel Island and along the Maya Riviera. 

As the weather heats up, this is a great time to start exploring those high altitude destinations in Central Mexico, such as Guanajuato or San Miguel de Allende, where you can escape the heat. 

Mexico Wet Season

Mexico’s wet season runs from May through to October, however, this varies across the country. The south sees the most rain, and hurricanes can lash the coastlines.

It’s cooler and drier in the north this time of the year, where the climate isn’t tropical. The wet season is not the best time to visit the south of Mexico, but there are still plenty of great deals and places to explore outside of this traditional tourist hotspot. 

May in Mexico

May is officially the start of the wet season, and you can guarantee that it’s going to be hot and it’s probably going to be rainy.

This is a good month for shoulder season travel though because you can avoid the high season crowds in places like Cancun or the Pacific Coast.

It’s fine if you don’t mind a little humidity and have a swimming pool to cool off in because you’ll only get a few hours of rain a day at most.

It’s even better in Baja California, where you can enjoy dry weather for most of May, while temperatures soar into the 30s. Mexico City has cooler weather, and it feels like it’s summer, making the capital a great option in May. 

June in Mexico

June is not the best time to visit Mexico, although you can get some cheap deals on flights and hotels.

The reason it’s cheap though is because it’s the start of hurricane season. While hurricanes are rare, it’s definitely going to rain, although if you don’t mind risking that for a few hours a day it might be worth it 

Instead of going to the coast though, stick to the central highlands, where it’s much cooler and there’s much less rain. 

July in Mexico

July is just as hot and rainy, and while you can get cheap deals at the resorts and great value flights across the country, it’s really not the best time to visit Mexico. 

Hurricanes can hit the Caribbean and Pacific Coast, while everywhere is hot, stuffy and humid. 

You get the best weather in Baja California, but make sure you have a swimming pool where you can cool off.

The other option is to stay at altitude, as you’ll find that while Central Mexico is hot, it’s not quite as hot as the coast – especially at night time.

August in Mexico

In August, it’s still going to be uncomfortably hot across Mexico, although temperatures will start to cool off slightly, especially in the higher altitude areas of the country around Mexico City.

This is still very much hurricane season, so be prepared for this if you’re traveling to Cancun or the Pacific Coast in August.

On the plus side, there are few other vacationers around in August and the prices can be very low, on both flights and hotels! 

September in Mexico

In September, things are starting to look up again when it comes to the weather. This is still the rainy season, but the worst is behind you, and September can be a great time to escape the crowds and score some good deals. 

It’s a good time to be in Mexico City, where the rain is slack anyway and the high altitude means cooler climes.

It’s also Independence day in September, so you can expect plenty of parades and fiestas. 

October in Mexico

In October, it’s the last month of the rainy season and the hurricane season, and actually this can be the best time to visit Mexico.

Rainfall will be minimal, but prices are still low, so head to the beaches and make the most of the deals before the high season crowds arrive in November and December.

As a bonus, the end of October is also when you’ll be able to celebrate Day of the Dead across Mexico.

Our Top Recommended Mexico Tours

• Mayan Adventure with G Adventures – 22 days
• Yucatan Discovery: Cenotes & Seasides with G Adventures – 7 days
• Classic Mexico Adventure with G Adventures – 14 days
• Mayan Highlights with G Adventures – 9 days
• Cultural Wonders of Mexico with National Geographic Journeys – 9 days

More on Mexico:

• Ultimate Packing List for Mexico
• Ultimate Baja Mexico Cruise: Sea of Cortex with UnCruise
•   Kayaking in Mexico: 4 Days on the Sea of Cortez
• Ultimate 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Mexico City: Best Districts & Hotels
• 12 Best Day Trips from Mexico City (That are Worth Taking)
• The Amazing Mexico City Pyramids of Teotihuacan
• Manzanillo Mexico Travel Guide: A Cancun Alternative
• 8 Amazing Things to Do in Cancun
• Best Time to Visit Cancun: Month by Month Breakdown
• 8 Things to Do in the Riviera Maya for an Epic Vacation
• Celebrating 15 Years of Travel with Barcelo Maya Grand Resort
• 10 Awesome Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 9 Incredible Things to Do in Cozumel
• Isla Espiritu Santo in Mexico: Ultimate Planning Guide

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

1 thought on “Best Time to Visit Mexico: Month by Month Breakdown”

Such a beautiful place! Mexico’s dry season is the best for me. Thanks for sharing this Anna

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A Complete Guide to Bus Travel Around Mexico

There are three main ways to travel around Mexico: by plane, by private vehicle or by bus.

In this blog post we’ll tell you everything you need to know about bus travel around Mexico. This post is aimed at backpackers staying in the country for a longer period of time, for those who don’t want to rent a car and for those looking for affordable and more sustainable travel options to flights.

For reference, we spent just under three months in Mexico and only used buses to travel between places. During this time we travelled with many different bus companies, on day-time and overnight buses, and waited at many different bus stations. Whilst this doesn’t make us experts, our experience allows us to provide you with insider advice, tips and comparisons of the various bus operators. 

Over the years we have also travelled across the USA and backpacked around Europe , Peru and Colombia using plenty of buses as a means of transport. Therefore, we have lots of experience when it comes to taking long-distance bus rides and will be able to provide good comparisons to other countries too.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something. Clicking these links won’t cost you anything, but it will help us to keep this site up and running! Learn more about our affiliate policy.

Table of Contents

About Bus Travel Around Mexico

Before we delve into the details let’s start by saying that taking the bus isn’t only going to save you money. It will also exceed your expectations. At least it did with ours…

Mexico actually doesn’t have a national bus company. Instead, the country has many regional companies which cover most of the places you’re likely to travel to during your stay. I’ll detail these further below.

Apparently Mexico has invested a lot of money in high-speed toll roads and roads in general since the 1990s. In addition, bus operators have also invested to create an extensive bus network across the country. These inter-city buses normally have three different classes: executive, first and second class. Executive and first class buses definitely offer a safe, modern and comfortable environment to travel in for long hours. Second class buses are normally just as safe but they are more common on shorter journeys. Sound too good to be true? 

Well, after using many well-known bus companies across the USA and Europe such as Greyhound, Megabus and National Express, I can safely say that Mexico’s buses became our absolute favourite ones. We had massive, comfortable seats that we’d only ever seen as we walked past the business class section on planes. We had fantastic leg room with leg rests that made us feel like we were in bed. In addition, many services provided on board entertainment that helped to kill the time.

Our Top Resources for Travelling Around Mexico

• 🚌 Find bus routes and companies using Busbud
• 📱Get an eSIM with  Airalo  to be able to use data
• 🛡️Don’t forget to buy travel insurance via  SafetyWing

What to Consider Before You Decide to Travel by Bus in Mexico

Before you start purchasing bus tickets after hearing us raving about how good they are, ask yourself the following questions to make sure that bus travel is the best mode of transportation for YOU:

Do I get motion sick easily? – I wouldn’t recommend taking buses across the country if you suffer from serious motion sickness. The journeys are generally long, the roads can be bumpy and very windy in certain areas. In that case flying is probably a better option for you.

How much time do I have? – If you need to be somewhere on a certain day or time then make sure to take an earlier bus, travel the day before or pick another method altogether. Whilst buses are generally on time with very minimal delays, you really never know what’s going to happen on the roads. You don’t want to risk missing an important flight for example.

Do I know some Spanish? – Whilst you’ll be able to communicate in English at airports, this isn’t the case at bus stations. We found very little English-speaking staff even at massive stations such as Mexico City. Therefore, I recommend learning the basics prior to your trip such as how to ask for bus tickets, dates, times and numbers. There is also the life-saving Google Translate App which will be your best friend during your travels.

Where to Find Information About Bus Routes and Companies

Although I’ll detail and link the main companies we used below, it’s always good practice to do your own research too.

Our main online sources that helped us to find bus routes and companies operating to and from our next destination were Busbud , Rome2Rio and Moovitapp.  These websites are also great if you’d like to travel locally and are looking for smaller bus operators and detailed bus routes.

Is It Safe to Travel by Bus in Mexico?

I guess there’s one more important factor you’ll want to consider before committing to a long-distance bus ride: Is it safe?

My short answer is: YES.

We never felt unsafe on any of the buses whether it was during the day or at night. We never felt unsafe waiting at the bus stations either. However, crimes are not uncommon, especially in densely populated cities. You might also read some scary stories that happened to people who were unfortunately in the wrong place at the wrong time, but in my opinion this is very rare.

Whilst you’re most likely to have an uneventful journey, below are a few of my general tips for extra safety:

• If you’re travelling solo, or having to travel to the bus station for an overnight bus, I suggest calling an Uber or official taxi. 
• We used public transport to get to the station many times, but make sure to avoid travelling during rush hour. It’s really uncomfortable and awkward to be squeezed onto a busy metro with all your belongings. Plus, it’s also harder to pay attention to every bag you own.
• Once at the station, make sure to have all your belongings with you at all times. It’s obviously easier to grab food or go to the toilet if you’re travelling in pairs or small groups.
• For extra security, consider putting a lock onto both your big bag and smaller backpacks.
• I know it’s obvious, but don’t put any valuables into the bag that’s going under the bus. They can get thrown all around not just stolen.
• Lastly, having good travel insurance is key in case your bags get lost or stolen.

Bus Stations

Most cities and towns you’ll be travelling to will have a central bus station called Central de Autobuses. Although they’re called ‘central’, the bus stops are likely to be located quite a bit further from the town than the centre.

Unlike in Costa Ric a , it’s very rare if individual bus companies have their own terminal, but not unheard of. In big cities there will usually be a long distance bus station and a local bus station. Mexico City actually has 4 different long distance bus stations! Therefore, make sure to check the location where your bus departs from prior to your journey.

Once at the bus station, you’ll normally find different bus companies selling tickets, convenience stores selling drinks and snacks, fast food places and cafés. Bus stations will also have toilet facilities. The use of these toilets normally costs between 5 or 6 pesos.

Top Tips – Make sure to have some coins to be able to use the metal gates. You might have to pay extra for toilet paper, so either have extra change on you or carry some. 

Bus stations also have seating areas at the gates where you can wait until your bus is ready for boarding. 

Top Tip – At the ticket office they will tell you which gate your bus will depart from, but if you’re unsure, you can always double check it with the staff at the gates. 

Normally the number and variety of facilities depends on the size of the bus station. Therefore, I recommend doing some research and buying enough food and drinks prior to arriving at the bus stops in case they don’t have sufficient facilities. For example, some touristy bus stops such as in Puerto Escondido felt a bit bare and there wasn’t any supermarkets close by either.

Purchasing Bus Tickets Online vs at the Bus Station

Online reservations.

Many companies now have their own websites where you can purchase your bus ticket. Sometimes they even offer a discount if you buy your ticket online which is great.

However, bear in mind that these websites might not be as advanced as you’re used to. In many cases you might not even be able to book your ticket online for various reasons:

• We noticed that some websites only accept credit card payments from bank cards that were issued in Mexico.
• Another issue we had when trying to buy tickets online was that at the card detail section they asked for the postcode that your card is registered to, but you could only put numbers in. In the UK, we have letters in our postcodes as well as numbers so couldn’t complete the section correctly.
• Some bus companies will want to see your passport and Immigration Form (FMM) when you purchase a ticket, especially when travelling between states. This means that you will likely have to buy it at the station instead of online.

Even if you can’t book your ticket online, the websites at least will allow you to see their timetables and prices. 

Buying Ticket at the Bus Station

In many instances you’ll have no other choice than to buy your ticket from the ticket office.

Before heading to the bus stop, I recommend making a note of the bus company you want to use, your planned travel date and time and have it all in your head in Spanish as well. Don’t forget to take your passport and Immigration Form (FMM) with you too.

Bus stations will have all the bus operators’ names on the counters so you’ll know which one to queue up at. Luckily, most of the ticket officers will have a monitor which they usually turn towards you so you can double check the date, time, destination, route and seat you’d like to reserve. If you’re buying bus tickets in advance, make sure to double check that your travel date is correct.

You’ll normally have the option to pay by cash or card especially in bigger cities. To avoid a lot of exchange fees, I recommend converting your own local currency to Pesos with a Wise card.

Overnight Bus or Daytime Bus?

Another dilemma you might have is whether to travel during the day or at night. Obviously, this is only applicable if a company offers these types of services. For some routes you will have no choice. 

During our 3 months in Mexico we had a good variety of overnight and daytime bus trips. Below we detail the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one you should take.

Note – During my research, I read many articles that generally advise you against travelling long distances at night. I think this is more true if you’re renting a car and driving yourself and I also advise you against driving at night in Mexico. However, we felt completely safe on every single night bus we took. These buses normally travel on toll roads which are considered much safer at night than the more remote non-toll roads. Just make sure to avoid second-class buses for overnight travel. 

Overnight Bus

• Saving one night’s accommodation.
• Buses are comfortable with plenty of leg room, leg rests and reclining seats for even more comfort.
• If you arrive early to your next destination, you have a full day to explore.
• You can always ask if your accommodation is ready for you to check in early or alternatively hold your bags while they prepare the room.
• Might not get a good night’s sleep.
• Won’t see much of the beautiful landscapes, towns and villages that are located between your origin and destination. 
• If you arrive early you might not be able to check in to your accommodation.
• You’ll probably have to store your luggage at your accommodation until check-in. If you’d like to explore in the meantime, you’ll likely have to leave some of your valuables behind.

Daytime Bus

• Be able to admire the beautiful landscapes, towns and villages that are located between your origin and destination. 
• You’ll be able to check in to your accommodation straight away.
• Have to have an accommodation booked for the night.
• You’ll lose a day of exploring by being on the bus all day.
• Some bus companies (OCC and ADO) will play movies on their TV screens during the entire journey which some might find slightly too loud and annoying.

Things to Do Before, During and After Your Bus Ride

Before your bus journey.

• Have your ticket and documents ready. The bus driver will ask for your seat number when he fills out the luggage tag.
• Buy enough food and drinks for the ride. (You can normally find plenty of options at the station, but some might only have snacks. In that case come prepared and buy what you need beforehand.)
• I suggest having a few layers on you. The A/C on these buses can be strong.
• Take all valuables and everything you might need with you onto the bus. 
• Download offline entertainment, such as movies, books, music and games. (4G might not be available between settlements.)
• Charge all your electronic devices in case the plugs don’t work. Alternatively, I recommend carrying a portable charger with you. They normally have USB cable slots but bring your adapter with you too just in case they have normal outlets.
• Know where you’re going after you get off the bus. Download offline maps of the area or screenshot the address and route you’re travelling to. This is especially important if you have no local sim card or your 4G doesn’t work.

During Your Bus Journey

• Make sure to keep both the bus and luggage ticket as you’ll be asked for that when collecting your bags.
• Keep your passport and Immigration Forms (FMM) handy too. Some areas in Mexico –  especially around the southern states – will have regular random checks where you might be required to show your travel documents.
• Always be mindful of your fellow travellers and create as little noise as possible. Headphones can be very useful if you have noisy fellow travellers. Some of the better buses will have on board entertainment like on flights so you can always practice your Spanish by watching a movie or two. A few companies were giving out headphones but they are mostly cheap and just a waste of plastic, so have your own.
• Some buses will let people who sell snacks and drinks on board. This is completely normal in Mexico. It’s up to you whether to purchase something or not, but have small change on you in case you start to crave something.
• We noticed that ADO and OCC buses stop for 10-15 minutes at certain bus stations to refuel and clean the vehicle. This provides a great opportunity to stretch your legs or purchase some extra food and drinks. Don’t forget to take your valuables with you and also have your ticket in hand when the bus is ready to leave. 

After Your Bus Journey

• Before leaving the bus make sure to check that you have all your belongings, including overhead storage, under and in between the seats.
• Get your luggage ticket ready to collect your bags. (I really liked how strict they were with double checking the tickets.)
• Don’t forget to take your rubbish with you and dispose of it in a bin at the station. I suggest bringing a garbage bag with you where you can collect all your waste. 

A Review of Bus Companies We Used in Mexico

The above map shows the bus routes we took during our three months in Mexico. Below is our short itinerary and the company we travelled with. These are only the long-distance routes, but we also used many local buses which I provide more details of in the relevant blog posts.

• Mexico City to Guadalajara – Primera Plus (daytime)
• Guadalajara to San Luis Potosi – Primera Plus (daytime)
• Ciudad Valles to Mexico City – Omnibus de Mexico (overnight)
• Mexico City to Puerto Escondido – ETN (overnight)
• Oaxaca to San Cristobal de las Casas – OCC (overnight)
• San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque – OCC (daytime)
• Palenque to Merida – OCC (daytime)
• Merida to Valladoid – ADO (daytime)
• Valladoid to Cancun – ADO (daytime)

As I mentioned before, there are many other regional and local bus companies operating across Mexico. However, this list definitely includes most of the names that you’ll come across during your research. 

Please Note – The short review of the companies below is purely based on our experience. We all travel differently, have different needs and events out of our control can influence our experiences. So in short, just take everything with a pinch of salt. 

Primera Plus

Our first long-distance bus journey experience was with Primera Plus travelling from Mexico City to Guadalajara. We also used the company to travel to San Luis Potosi. 

Primera Plus is definitely one of the biggest bus companies in Mexico. It also covers a relatively big network of bus routes around central Mexico and some Pacific destinations. 

They had everything on board to make our journey comfortable: large seats, USB outlets, individual screens, A/C, working WIFI and even male/female toilets. We really enjoyed travelling with the company.

Top Tip – If you buy your tickets online you get an extra 10% off. Make sure to print off your ticket prior to your journey or ask for it at their ticket desk.

Click here to plan your trip with Primera Plus.

Omnibus de Mexico

We chose Omnibus de Mexico for our overnight bus journey between Ciudad Valles and Mexico City. This was also our very first overnight bus experience in the country. The bus had pretty much everything we needed for the night such as big, comfortable and reclining seats with leg rests that made sleeping much easier. It also had USB and normal outlets so we could charge our electronic devices. Toilets and A/C was also available. It said that WIFI was available on board, however it didn’t work for us. We also couldn’t book our tickets online so had to pre-book them at the bus station.

The bus company definitely operates one of the most extensive bus networks in Mexico.   You can travel with them in the northern, western and eastern regions around Mexico City. However, they don’t operate in the southern states.

Click here to plan your trip with O mnibus de Mexico.

One bus company we really wanted to try during our trip was ETN. It is known to be one of the best luxury bus companies in the country . 

We picked the company for our overnight trip between Mexico City and Puerto Escondido. It was probably the longest journey we had (13 hours) so we wanted to have maximum comfort. ETN normally have double decker buses, very large seats with enormous leg room, reclining seats and leg rests that make it feel like you’re in bed. They also had individual screens for entertainment, USB cable slots for charging, A/C and of course toilets. We definitely felt like we were in first class on an airplane. 

They operate between many major cities along the Pacific Coast, central, northern, eastern and some southern cities. It’s probably one of the most expensive bus companies too, but you can get approximately 10% discount if you book your ticket online.

Click here to plan you trip with ETN.

ADO (Autobuses de Oriente)

Autobuses de Oriente aka ADO is a massive bus company in Mexico that owns several smaller bus companies such as OCC. You’ll very likely be travelling with either an ADO or OCC bus if your itinerary includes states such as Chiapas, Yucatan and Oaxaca.

We used the company on quite a few occasions travelling through these states. They obviously had toilets on board, USB outlets and A/C. The buses had comfortable seats but they felt slightly smaller, there wasn’t comfortable leg rests and the leg room also felt less than what we got with the other companies.

They also had on board entertainment, however the screens weren’t individual ones as on the other buses. They actually played movies during the entire journey and only switched them off during the night. This can be fun, especially if you’d like to learn some Spanish, but it can also be very disturbing if you’d like to sleep or read on the bus.

You can easily book your ticket online and just show the PDF version when boarding. There’s no need to print them off which is great.

During longer journeys the bus stops at least once at a bigger station for 10-15 minutes to refuel and they disinfect the entire bus inside-out. Both OCC and ADO had a very strict cleaning policy in place that we hadn’t experienced with the other companies. This also offers the opportunity to stretch your legs a bit and to grab a coffee or snack from the station.

Note  – Make sure to have all your travel documents in hand. There are many checkpoints around these areas of Mexico and you could be asked for your passport and ticket at any of them. Many times they also came on board with a camera and filmed all the passengers.

Apparently they have different classes and have some more luxurious services, however we never travelled with them. 

Click here to plan your trip with ADO.

We travelled both overnight and during the day with OCC branded buses. As I mentioned above OCC is part of ADO, but they didn’t change the branding. So you’ll book through the ADO website and essentially your ticket will either be with an ADO or an OCC branded bus depending on the route. 

The OCC branded buses were pretty much exactly the same as the ADO branded ones. They had the same level of comfort, facilities and were operating the same way in terms of stops and cleaning. 

Click here to plan your trip with OCC.

Final Thoughts on Bus Travel Around Mexico

We really enjoyed travelling by bus across Mexico and I never ever thought that these bus trips would become some of the most comfortable ones we’ve ever taken as well as some of the safest and most secure. 

Although the journeys were long, we felt like time passed very quickly and we even managed to have decent night’s sleeps on the overnight buses. Travelling by bus didn’t just reduce our carbon footprint but also made us feel like we saw a lot more of Mexico. Travelling during the day also allowed us to experience the crazy changes in scenery and really appreciate the scale of the country. 

Have you ever travelled around Mexico by bus before? If so, let me know about your experience in the comment section below. If not, would you want to try out any of the routes or bus companies we mentioned? 

Now, let your adventure begin,

Our Top Travel Resources

Accommodation:  For hotels we always use  Booking.com  and  Hostelworld  for hostels. We also book longer stays on Airbnb or  Vrbo.

Flights:  To find the best flight prices we always check  Skyscanner ,  Google Flights  or  WayAway.  Then we also check the airlines’ websites too for comparison.

Car Rentals:  We use  Discover Cars  when we want to rent a car as it compares local, national and international companies.

Activities:  If we book organised tours we always check either  GetYourGuide  or  Viator.

Foreign Currency:  Whenever we can we prefer to pay in local currency and for that we always use our  Wise card.   We can easily withdraw money from the ATM or pay by card at most shops and restaurants.

Travel Insurance: We never go anywhere without travel insurance. You never know what will happen on your trip, so good travel insurance like SafetyWing can protect you in case of injury, illness, theft and cancellations.

eSIM and VPN: To get data abroad we use  Airalo which is an app that allows you to download a prepaid eSIM to your phone in over 190 countries. Make sure to have a VPN to avoid hackers accessing your personal data when using public WIFI. We use  Surfshark  which is the only VPN that offers one account on unlimited devices. 

Remember…It all starts with a Pin…

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Thanks for all the great info. I was hoping to find out if it’s possible to buy a multi-segment ticket, and stop for various periods of time along the way. Is this permitted, or do you have to be on a specific bus at a specific time?

Thanks for the feedback Danny. I don’t think you can buy that type of ticket, since most routes are run by different bus operators. I think it’s best to just book your ticket for a specific bus once you know when you would likely be on it. Hope this helps. Safe travels.

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Costa Rica or Mexico: The Honest Comparison You Need [2023]

M exico and Costa Rica are both stunning, and individually have so much on offer. Whether you’re looking for those gorgeous tropical landscapes you see online, exotic beaches, or mouth-watering foods to indulge in, both of these countries have it all.

So, how are you meant to choose which to visit?

Well, if you’re after a more activity-based and nature-diverse holiday, Costa Rica is probably a better choice than Mexico due to its stunningly varied terrains, biodiversity and beaches. On the other hand Mexico’s strength lies in its water activities, incredible resorts like Cancun and sea life, although both countries have gorgeous tropical beaches.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the similarities and differences between these two destinations!

Luckily we know and love both Costa Rica and Mexico, so are help to help you decide. Below we’ll quickly go through what each country offers, before comparing the beaches, activities, nightlife, food and drink, safety, culture, which is cheaper and more!

Let’s get started!

• A Quick Overview
• Which Has The Better Beaches & Activities
• Which Has The Better Nightlife
• How Do The Food, Drink & Culture Compare
• How Does The Budget & Safety Compare

Where You Should Stay According To Your Budget

• Which Is The Better Choice

A Quick Overview Of Mexico vs Costa Rica

There is so much to do and explore in Mexico, with diverse scenery across this nation. Stunning beaches, metropolitan cities, volcanoes, mountain ranges peaking over 14,000 feet, canyons, deserts, and huge barrier reefs. (Recommended: Snakes in Mexico ).

So if you’re after a holiday of intrigue, where you can visit new things every day and explore a range of cuisines and cultural traditions, then Mexico will easily satiate those curiosities.

Mexico also has famous beach resort destinations like Cancun and Cabo, so it can cater to those looking for a two-week all-inclusive holiday of sun, sand, and sea. And in that respect we’d say Mexico is probably the better destination than Costa Rica for resort vacations.

Costa Rica will take you to the depths of some of the most lush and tropical rainforests, with monkeys swinging above your head, more than 850 species of bird, and volcanoes on the other side of bountiful forests. If you’re more drawn to inland attractions, this is the place for you, as it slightly outdoes Mexico on this front.

There’s gorgeous beaches in Costa Rica too, but they’re not as wide as in Mexico, and they’re bordered by jungle and far less developed.

In Mexico the best beaches will have hotels, shopping malls, bars and restaurants lining the white sand for miles. In Costa Rica expect far less of that, and far more palm trees!

Although smaller than Mexico, Costa Rica still has so much to offer on all fronts, as we’ll show you below.

Overall, their wildlife is nothing short of spectacular, and there’s many fantastic jungle lodges to stay in which are a fun and immersive option for accommodation if your budget allows.

As a smaller country the main attractions are closer together than in Mexico, so in Costa Rica it’s often easier to travel around and see the main sights in the country compared to Mexico.

Which Has The Better Beaches & Activities?

The beaches are undoubtedly a clear attraction in b oth destinations, and both will deliver beautiful and relaxing vacations.

Between Mexico and Costa Rica though, the former is better known for having gorgeous reefs for snorkeling, long stretches of white sand, and many water activities.

On the other hand, Costa Rica has more inland adventure options, with a plethora of biodiversity and eco-tourism.

The beaches are still wonderful in Costa Rica, but typically a little less expansive, and less developed – which could be a plus point for those looking for peace and quiet, or a negative if you want everything at your fingertips.

Below we compare the beaches in Costa Rica and Mexico in more depth:

Mexico: The Beaches & Activities

Owing quite simply to its geography, you can find two types of beaches in Mexico: warm beaches on the Caribbean side of the country, and cooler waters on the arguably prettier Pacific side.

The Pacific beaches tend t o have a m ore relaxed vibe, and much better waves for surfing and other water activities. The Caribbean side has ca lmer water that’s perfect for swimming, and crystal c lear turquoise waters. It’s a ls o where the fam ous beach party sp ot of Cancun is located.

Classic beach vacation spots for both sides respectively include the likes of Cancun and Playa del Carmen on the Caribbean side, or Sayulita and Los Cabos on the Pacific side.

In fact Cancun may have the best long stretches of beach we’ve seen throughout the Caribbean region, never mind just between Costa Rica and Mexico!

You’ll be able to rent jet skis at most of the popular resort beaches in Mexico too if you’re looking for some adventure on the water.

Or for something quite special, make your way to Cabo Pulmo National Park on the Pacific coast for whale watching opportunities and snorkeling amongst reef fish and sea turtles at the northernmost coral reef in the eastern Pacific Ocean. A great underwater camera – like this one – is a must. Keep an eye out for the stingrays that jump out of the water. You heard us right, they actually jump out of the water!

It’s also worth noting that the beaches and resort areas in Mexico tend to be quite self contained. So if you’re looking for an all-inclusive holiday where beaches, bars, restaurants and tourist shopping are all together, then Mexico will be better than Costa Rica.

That does, however, mean getting an authentic taste of Mexican and local culture is harder, and you will have to leave the beach resorts to get away from the crowds and enjoy a real Mexican atmosphere. We’ll get to cultural activities in Mexico a little later in our comparison.

Related: Spiders in Mexico – What You Need to Know

Mexico is also a huge country, so while there are two types of beaches – Caribbean and Pacific – it’s rare holidaymakers will get to experience both in a vacation. That’s unless your holiday is more than 2-3 weeks and you’re willing to travel vast distances across the country.

Costa Rica: The Beaches & Activities

Costa Rica is bursting with picturesque, natural beauty, with mountain views fit for postcards, tropical rainforests, misty volcanoes, and of course, exotic beaches.

C osta Rica also has tw o types of beaches just like Mexic o – white sand and warm turquoise waters on the Caribbean side, and beaches perfect f or watersp orts and surfing on the Pacific side.

That makes these tw o destinati ons hard t o separate when it c omes t o beaches a l one. Y ou can also find black volcanic sand beaches in Costa Rica as well.

Recommended: The Best Pacific Beaches in Costa Rica

However the mainland beauty is C osta Rica’s prime attraction, so if you want perfect white beaches, be aware that Costa Rica’s vibrant jungles tend to spill out right up to the beach front, making the sand a bit darker and waves slightly rougher.

That also means there’s many palm trees lined up next to the ocean in C osta Rica, s o shade isn’t hard t o c ome by – which is a big bonus!

Check out Manuel Antonio Beach , Tamarindo Beach or Playa Tambor for some of our favorite beach spots.

With inland adventures more of a focus here, animal and wildlife lovers can’t miss out on searching for jaguar prints in the heart of Costa Rica’s towering forests, and wandering canopy walkways.

We also recommend water activities for when you’re not wildlife watching, with hot river swims and white water kayaking all experiences you won’t want to miss out on when visiting this nation.

With so many natural attractions found across the country, some of the most notable ones include the Arenal Volcano National Park , the mountain rainforest and wildlife of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve , as we l l as Cahuita National Park , which is a reserve protecting the only coral reef off the coast.

Recommended: Incredible Hiking Trails in Costa Rica

The good thing about Costa Rica is it feels more than possible to see a few of the country’s most spectacular sights within a single holiday.

That doesn’t always feel the case in the much larger Mexico, where a holiday tends to be contained in one region of the country (Cabo, Yucatan, Riviera Maya, for example) rather than the country itself.

So if you’re looking for great beaches but also activities away from the sea – like wildlife spotting, jungle trekking, or white-water kayaking – then Costa Rica will likely be the better choice than Mexico.

But if white sand beaches, fantastic beach bars, and gorgeous turquoise water is your priority, then we think Mexico’s resort destinations will suit you best.

Which Has The Better Nightlife?

Mexicans and Costa Ricans sure know how to let loose and have fun, and both tend to favor spring-break-style late night partying over more relaxed nights out.

In either destination you can of course find a more chilled out nightlife scene too, but both are pretty similar overall.

Mexico : Nightlife

From late night clubbing spots in Cancun, or the salsa clubs and foam parties in Mexico City, you’ll be able to find whatever you’re after in Mexico, be it a night of tequila, or a more chilled evening.

The nightlife in Mexico’s Cancun is famous, lively and brash, and Cancun Mandala is one of the coolest spots for late night fun.

This energetic nightclub is one of Cancun’s most popular party spots. Another is Congo Bar Cancun , a nightclub and bar with several levels, dancers, and entertainment.

The other resort destinations in Mexico tend to have many nightclubs too, but also many laid-back nightlife options, with beach bars and live music venues. In places like Cabo you can even get cozy jazz joints like Two for the Road Cabo JAZZ Spot .

If you’re looking to party hard in a place where famous international DJs often visit, then Mexico’s resort destinations like Cancun could be your best choice.

Costa Rica : Nightlife

There are many cities across the country which are great choices for a night on the town, with locals in Costa Rica enjoying a good weekend out until the early (or late) hours of the morning!

The best towns for a memorable night out include Tamarindo , Santa Teresa , and San José .

Coming out on top though is Jacó which is the best known party town, especially among the younger crowd. So if you’re looking for clubs and beach parties this is the place to start.

How Do The Food, Drink & Culture Compare?

It’s pretty safe to say that we all love Mexican food, but in both countries there are plenty of traditional dishes to feast upon.

Overall, Mexico’s cuisine is arguably more varied in taste and flavor (although potentially slightly less healthy – but you’re on holiday right?). There’s also an abundance of cheap street food in Mexico, and restaurants tend t o stay open late at night making it easy to grab a quick bite whenever – and therefore, in terms of food it steals our heart.

F or us, Mexico also wins on the cultural front, with more impressive festivals, ranging from world-renowned celebrations to small town local ones. The country is also packed with stunning Mayan ruins.

But here’s a bit ab out b oth c ountries t o help make y our own decisi on:

Mexico: Food, Drink & Culture

We’d like to think that you’ve indulged in a hefty Mexican takeaway before, and already know how tasty and varied their cuisine is. It’s got to be a favorite among many, and of course it’s even better and more authentic in actual Mexico.

If food makes up a large part of your holiday itinerary, there are a couple of places to take note of. Known for more ancient and traditional dishes, head t o Merida and Puebla which have fabulous Spanish-influenced delicacies. Meanwhile in Oaxaca , the more adventurous f o odies can find chapulines (grasshoppers) and huitlacoche (corn fungus).

Beverages won’t be hard to find in Mexico, with hard options such as tequila and mezcal being local favourites and therefore must-haves.

They also have wines produced in their very own wine region, Valle de Guadelupe , as well as a lesser known fermented drink called pulque – which is local to Mexico City in particular.

As for experiencing their mighty and vibrant culture – the south of Mexico houses some incredible Mayan and Aztec ruins, which can be found at Chichen Itza .

You can also visit the Museo Frida Kahlo and National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City to learn even more about their culture.

Costa Rica: Food, Drink & Culture

Coffee lovers, take note! Costa Rica’s coffee beans are known as some of the best worldwide, so it’s worth going out of your way to try and get your hands on a cup or two.

They also have a lemonade spinoff known as ‘agua de sapo’, and their own selection of craft beers which makes for a cooling choice while sunbathing at the beach.

Less well known to many are Costa Rica’s traditional foods such as Gallo Pinto – a rice and bean dish – and Casado – rice, black beans, vegetables, ceviche, fresh seafood and various fruits. 

We’ve f ound the culture t o be a little less pronounced than Mexico, and tends to have influences from North and Central America, with a bit of a Caribbean vibe mixed in.

Little information about the pre-Columbian past exists today, but you can take a peek into their past by visiting historic sites such as the petrospheres at Diquís Delta .

While Mexico has colorful and exciting festivals, Costa Rica does as well but we believe they are to a lesser extent.

How Does The Budget & Safety Compare?

Both holiday destinations can be tailored to suit any budget where needs be, with affordable eating options found in each country, and a range of accommodation to pick from.

Overall though, Mexico can be a cheaper holiday than Costa Rica if you’re staying away from five star resorts and tourist regions.

Although both countries have comparatively similar prices if you wish to stay in resorts in the popular tourist areas.

The advantage to Costa Rica is that as a whole it tends to be a bit safer than Mexico – but if you pick the right towns you’d be completely fine in either country.

Mexico: Budget & Safety

Due to its proximity to the US, things tend to be cheaper in Mexico than in Costa Rica – even in Mexico’s most ‘expensive’ city, Monterrey . An Uber ride across the city is typically less than $3, and groceries are cheap as chips.

Of course in the resort areas like Cancun, Cabo, Tulum and others, prices are highly elevated, but look for where locals shop and the restaurants and street food joints where they eat, and you’ll be able to save lots of money.

While your bank account may love it, Mexico is considered a less safe country than Costa Rica. Netflix and docu-series fans will know all about the crime issues and their territory disputes, meaning districts with heavy cartel presence, such as Nuevo Leon situated on the border, can be a bit intimidating.

With that said though, many people (ourselves included) go on holiday to Mexico and absolutely love it, so once you pick the right part to visit you will be safe and sound.

The tourist areas are left well alone by cartels and criminals, so you shouldn’t encounter any problems there.

Costa Rica: Budget & Safety

Costa Rica is a country that has seen a tourism boom over the last decade. Because of this, more of the touristy areas in the country are charging higher prices for hotel rooms and food. However outside tourist areas you can find much cheaper prices.

To keep costs down, we recommend using the many little shared shuttle buses that are in the country, otherwise Costa Rican travel can reach double the price of Mexican transport. As a comparison, a $3 Uber in Costa Rica will usually only get you so far as the nearest supermarket!

Public buses running from the capital city outwards to major tourist cities are also sensible options. Additionally, hitch-hiking in rural Costa Rica is common and locals are friendly and accommodating, so you can save yourself some money and get those thumbs out.

Costa Rica is generally safer than Mexico, although as with many tourist destinations, beware of thieves and pickpockets, especially at the beach. If you keep your car properly locked and your eyes on your bags, you should be fine.

Outside of the coastal tourist hotspots, in places like central Costa Rica and San Jose there’s barely any petty theft issues, and many tourists feel completely safe and comfortable walking around.

That means it’s safe to get to some of the country’s most beautiful spots: the jungle waterfalls, stunning volcanoes, and gorgeous hikes in the national parks.

Luckily both destinations have an array of accommodation choices for budget backpackers through to luxury seekers looking for golf courses and all-inclusive spa resorts.

Shoestring: This hotel is excellent value, and while it’s in a rural location, it does sit right on the beach in the Tortuguero National Park – a place famous for its wildlife and turtles. To get a beachside spot at this price, with outdoor pool and hammocks included, is a steal.  See photos and rates here!

Budget: The four-star Eco Boutique Hotel Vista Las Islas Reserva Natural complete with infinity pool, pool bar, and spectacular ocean views over the Gulf of Nicoya is an affordable choice which looks worth more than their current nightly rates. Dreamy is the best way to describe it. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: With its own private beach, swimming pools, tropical gardens, and every facility imaginable (even a nightclub!), Resort Dreams Las Mareas All Inclusive  is one of those places we all want to visit once in our lifetime. See photos and rates here!

Shoestring: Decked out in old Tulum style, Caribeña may be a cheap accommodation choice but it doesn’t look it. You’ll be just a few minutes walk from downtown Tulum, and close to the beach and archeological sites. And when returning back after a day of exploring there’s a lovely outdoor pool to enjoy. See photos and rates here!

Budget: It’s hard to find luxurious beachside accommodation in Cancun’s famous hotel zone without stratospheric prices attached to it. However Oleo Cancun Playa Boutique All Inclusive Resort offers an all-inclusive experience – and even rooms with sea views – at more than half the price of many neighboring hotels. See photos and rates here!

Luxury: Set in the heart of the action in Cancun’s hotel zone, and with every luxury imaginable including butler service, Turquoize at Hyatt Ziva Cancun with its unbelievable beachside views and infinity pool is as high end as you can get.  See photos and rates here!

Costa Rica vs Mexico: Which Is The Better Choice?

You definitely won’t be disappointed with whichever country you pick, but there are a few differentiating factors we’ll highlight to help you decide. Also – both are Spanish speaking, so brush up on that Spanish before you jet off to either!

If you’re after a more activity-based and nature-diverse holiday, Costa Rica is probably a better choice than Mexico due to its stunningly varied terrains and beaches. On the other hand Mexico’s strength lies in its water activities and sea life, although both countries have gorgeous tropical beaches.

Mexico wins somewhat hands down in terms of food and culture in our mind though, but if you’re looking for something less familiar then Costa Rica has more on offer that you probably haven’t tried before – the food tends to be a bit healthier too.

Lastly, Mexico is a little cheaper if you’re not staying in five star hotels, so it should be an easier country to stick to a budget. However Costa Rica is a bit safer, although realistically you’ll be fine in either country.

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Jamaica vs Mexico: Which Vacation is the Right Destination for You?

See recent posts by Colleen Stinchcombe

When your main ingredients for a much-needed vacation are warmth and water, it can be hard to decide between two destinations that offer both -- especially when it comes to the beloved vacation spots of Jamaica and Mexico . Both countries offer white-sand beaches, epic food scenes, and specific cultural and geographical activities -- that are wildly different. We looked at nightlife, food, safety, beaches, and culture in both Jamaica and Mexico to help you decide which is the better vacation spot for you.

Getting married? Check out our beach honeymoon face-off: Mexico vs the Caribbean

Beaches and Scenery in Jamaica vs. Mexico

Beaches in Mexico: There are two general types of beaches in Mexico: the Caribbean side, which tends to be warmer and calmer, and the Pacific side, where the water is a little cooler but the waves are more consistent for surfing and other water activities. Classic Caribbean destinations include Cancun , Playa del Carmen , and Tulum . The Pacific side is home to relaxed beach towns like Sayulita and all of Baja California ’s famed destinations like Los Cabos .

Beaches in Jamaica: Jamaica has all Caribbean beaches all of the time, which means warm, no-filter-necessary azure blue water. You’ve probably heard of the famous Seven-Mile Beach , which is an unbroken stretch of white-sand beaches (though people argue about the actual distance). The area is lined with resorts, so you’ll never be far from entertainment or amenities. For a less-manicured feel, travel to the island’s south side to Treasure Beach , where the water is still gorgeous but sees far fewer visitors. On the northeast coast, one of Jamaica’s most photogenic beaches is Frenchman’s Cove, which has been featured in movies like “Treasure Island.” It’s a small fee of $12 to access for visitors not staying at the resort, but it’s also one of the quieter beaches in Jamaica thanks to rules blocking music. Really want some peace and quiet? Kayak over to Pellew Island, where you can snorkel above reefs while enjoying relative solitude.

Mexico Scenery: Mexico manages to one-up Jamaica just on sheer volume. Mexico is about 179 times larger than Jamaica, at about 76,000 square miles to Jamaica’s 4,200. That size also means there’s more diversity of scenery in Mexico. There are the beaches, yes, but also metropolitan areas like Mexico City , three mountain ranges (including several peaks higher than 14,000 feet), volcanoes, deep canyons, deserts, river valleys, one of the largest barrier reefs, Mesoamerican Barrier Reef , in the world and collapsed underground river pockets called cenotes .

Jamaica Scenery: More isn’t always better — Jamaica’s size means it’s entirely possible to see many of the best sites in a single vacation. The 180-foot deep Blue Lagoon is a mix of salt and freshwater made famous by the Brooke Shields movie of the same name that changes color throughout the day. There’s also Jamaica’s own mountain range, the Blue Mountains , which reach a height of 7,400 feet — not too shabby for an island! Plus, there are several waterfalls , 120 rivers, including the large Rio Grande, and crocodile safaris to get you up close with wildlife.

Cuisine and Drinks in Jamaica vs. Mexico

Mexico: Chances are, you’re already pretty familiar with quintessentially Mexican dishes: enchiladas, tamales, guacamole, tacos (which date back to Aztecs and Mayan times), not to mention salsas that range from mild to super spicy. You’ll also see a lot of pozole (a traditional stew), meats covered in savory sauces called mole, and Mexican pastries called pan dolce for dessert.

Beyond the popular resort areas we’ve mentioned so far, other top destinations for foodies include Oaxaca , which is known for its ancient, traditional dishes like chapulines (grasshopper) and huitlacoche (corn fungus). Merida is where you can find some of the best citrus-marinated pork, called cochinita pibil. Puebla is famous for combining indigenous, Spanish and Arabic foods for truly special delicacies. What we’re saying is: there’s a reason UNESCO has listed Mexico’s cuisine as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2010. While you won’t struggle to find most types of alcohol, tequila and mezcal are the “when in Rome” liquors to try, though you should also seek out wine from Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s booming wine region. Keep an eye out for the lesser-known pulque, a fermented drink local to Mexico City. And yes, drink all the Mexican beer — served with lime or Michelada style with tomato juice and spices — that you can stomach…responsibly.

Jamaica: Jamaican foods are perhaps less well-known but no less delicious. Traditional foods include ackee and saltfish. Ackee is a fruit, the national dish of Jamaica and poisonous when it’s not ripe, and fried plantains. Curry goat, fried doughs like festival, bammy, and johnnycakes, and callaloo greens are also popular. And then yes, of course, jerk chicken, a spice-rubbed chicken that might make your eyes water but will make your tastebuds very, very happy.

When in Jamaica, rum tastings are the way to experience the island’s best booze, though you’ll find plenty of local Red Stripe and Dragon Stout beers to try, too. For a non-alcoholic bevy, enjoy the expensive (and hard to source elsewhere) Blue Mountain Coffee.

Safety in Jamaica vs. Mexico

Both Mexico and Jamaica have a Level 2 travel advisory , which is the same as countries like Italy, the UK, and Germany. Popular tourist destinations where resorts and other amenities are located are generally safe for travel in both these countries, though always double check the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories before departing.

Safety in Jamaica: Travelers are advised not to travel to specific parts of Jamaica due to violence and shootings, including Cassava Piece, Grants Pen, Standpipe and Downtown in Kingston; Canterbury, Clavers Street, Flankers, Hart Street, Norwood, and Rose Heights in Montego Bay; and Spanish Town. LGBTQ safety is also a concern, as Jamaica is considered one of the least queer-friendly destinations in the Caribbean, though attitudes are improving. For additional security, look for destinations and tours that specifically advertise friendliness toward LGBTQ people.

Safety in Mexico: In Mexico, travelers are advised to completely avoid Colima state, Guerrero state, Michoacán state, and Sinaloa state due to crime, and Tamaulipas state due to crime and kidnapping. Other border areas are advised against travel, as well, so be sure to research your destination ahead of time using the U.S. State Department’s website .

Weather in Jamaica vs. Mexico

Mexico: Here’s a breakdown for some of the most popular Mexico destinations:

Cancun/Playa del Carmen/Tulum: Temperature hovers between a high of 80 to 90 and a low of 65 to 75. The most popular travel times are December through April, when the temperatures and humidity are lower. Hurricanes are possible between June and November, and regular rain is common July through September.

Cabo San Lucas/Puerto Vallarta : Temperature hovers between a high of 80 to 90 and a low of 60 to 80. The most popular travel times are December through April, when the temperatures and humidity are lower. Hurricanes are possible between June and November, and regular rain is common July through September.

Mexico City : Temperatures are relatively mild at 70 to 80 degrees year round, with lows between 40 and 55. Rain is common between June and September, and the driest and most popular months to visit are between December and March.

Jamaica: There are some slight weather and temperature differences between destination spots like Montego Bay or Negril . On the whole, you can expect Jamaica’s temperatures in coastal areas to hover between 80 and 90 degrees, with lows between 70 and 80 degrees.

The rainy season is September to December, and Negril gets the most rainfall with a whopping 62 inches each year, compared to Montego Bay’s 37 inches and Kingston’s 28 inches. But Negril is also beloved for some of the best beaches, so its heavy rain season is totally forgivable. Inland, the Blue Mountains can sometimes see temperatures in the low 60s.

Top activities in Jamaica vs. Mexico

It’s completely within reason to tackle every one of these activities in Jamaica in a single trip (if you’re diligent about planning). Some of Mexico’s top attractions can be more than a thousand miles apart, meaning you’ll have to make hard choices about what to put on your list and which to leave off. That said, both locations have incredible hiking trails, water activities like snorkeling and surfing, and rich cultural history. Here are just a few spots to consider.

Mexico Snorkeling and Diving: While there are too many opportunities for gorgeous underwater opportunities in Mexico to name, a few of our favorites include snorkeling with whale sharks at Isla Mujeres near Cancun, diving to a series of installations by the sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor at Manchones Reef, or visiting the 300 square miles of reef atoll at Banco Chinchorro .

Jamaica Snorkeling and Diving: Near Montego Bay, stingrays are abundant at aptly-named Stingray City, an easy dive for certified divers. Near Kingston, the Middle Shoal Reef’s shallow depth of just 30 feet makes it a great spot for dive beginners. Not sure about scuba? Snorkeling is great here, too: Montego Bay Marine Park is an especially calm area to swim and look for angelfish, lion fish, and turtles.

Mexico Surfing: To catch a wave, set your sights on the Baja peninsula or further south on the Pacific coast in surf towns like Sayulita . The Pacific waters lend themselves to more consistent waves than the Caribbean side.

Jamaica Surfing: The Portland parish sees the most consistent wave opportunities. The prime spot is the popular Boston Bay, but Winifred Beach , and Long Bay can be good options, too. Unfortunately, Negril rarely gets waves worth surfing — but that also means the calmer waters are ideal for swimming.

Mexico History and Culture: It’s hard to beat the incredible Mayan and Aztec ruins like Chichen Itza near Cancun or Palenque toward the very south of the country. Other top attractions for history and culture include the Museo Frida Kahlo and Museo Nacional de Antropologia (National Museum of Anthropology) in Mexico City.

Jamaica History and Culture:   Interested in Jamaica’s culture? Consider a guided neighborhood tour or historical lesson at Fort Charles, which was built in 1655 by the English and managed to survive the 1692 earthquake that destroyed the other forts in town. Or visit Museums of History and Ethnography at the Institute of Jamaica in Kingston to learn about Port Royal, where the same earthquake sunk most of the town under 40 feet of water. The Bob Marley experience is another popular spot to learn about reggae and music.

Mexico Nightlife: There’s a reason people associate Mexico with spring break partying — the nightlife can be rowdy, boisterous, and go late into the night, especially in party-central spots like Cancun . Not into the raucous scene? Look for salsa clubs, craft beer spots, or anywhere that doesn’t advertise, say, foam parties or margaritas distributed via water guns. Mexico City has a plethora of lounges, clubs, and bars that range from laidback to late night.

Jamaica Nightlife: While you can certainly party if you want to in Jamaica, the vibes are generally a lot mellower. Caribbean dancing and laid back rum drinking is more popular, though you can find reggae or dancehall music late into the evening at the tourist-centric Rick’s Cafe .

Where to Stay in Mexico vs Jamaica

Our mexico city hotel pick: gran hotel ciudad de mexico.

The winner of TripAdvisor’s 2019 Traveler’s Choice award, Gran Hotel Ciudad is both a stunning architectural marvel (the lobby ceilings are made of stained glass) and a convenient basecamp. Located right next to Zocalo square, there tons of historic sites and drool-worthy restaurants within walking distance.  

Pricing for Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico

Our Playa del Carmen Hotel Pick: Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

Located between the Caribbean seafront and the mangrove-covered and ecologically abundant Riviera Maya lagoon, Andaz Mayakoba provides five-star luxury and solitude. Suites are spread throughout the property, with bicycles and staffed golf carts available for transport to restaurants, the spa, and the waterfront.

Pricing for Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

Our Runaway Bay Hotel Pick: Jewel Runaway Beach Bay Resort Resort & Waterpark

Jewel Runaway Beach Bay Resort on Jamaica’s north shore is especially excellent for SCUBA enthusiasts, since the resort has several dive sites available for a small day rate. Newcomers and certified divers can enjoy sights like reefs, canyons, shipwrecks and underwater plane crashes. Or keep the kids busy at the resort’s waterpark.

Pricing for Jewel Runaway Bay Beach & Golf Resort

Our Negril Hotel Pick: Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma

Azul Beach Resort is located in Negril on Seven Mile Beach. This all-inclusive resort focuses on a gourmet experience, including six restaurants and six bars and in-room dining. Take a kayak or HobieCat boat out on the water, go rum tasting or try Carribean dancing, or join a daily yoga class as part of the inclusive experience.

Pricing for Azul Beach Resort Negril by Karisma

You’ll Also Like:

• 7 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid in Jamaica
• 16 Things Every Traveler Should Know Before Going to Mexico 
• Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

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Mexico vs. Dominican Republic

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Probably the most celebrated tourist-heavy country in the world, Mexico is like an entire world in itself. From gorgeous beaches, a rich cultural mix of people, crazy diverse interiors, and a whole variety of other draws that seem to have cemented the Latin country into the forever hall of fame. A true tropical gem through and through.

From the world-famous eastern coasts to the Hollywood-hit west, to the European north to the exotic south, Mexico is one country that never truly runs out of reasons for people to visit. The Latin country has been making noise since the onset of its tourism boom in the 70s and has endured since, you can only cover so enough in one reading.

What Makes Mexico Unique?

The world’s best beaches.

When you hear Mexico, or find the country in travel articles and promos somewhere, you can easily imagine all the gorgeous beaches available to satisfy every traveler’s woe. The association, of course, holds a tremendous amount of truth, for Mexico is indeed home to many of the world’s most famous beaches. From the white sand stretches of Cancun to the jugged and rocky edges of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is a paradise for the beach bum.

Every region has its best contenders for Mexico’s best, and each has their quirks and draws that keeps tourists lured and revenue for the country flowing. Here are some of Mexico’s best beaches:

The undisputed Mexican tourist mecca has been on every globetrotter’s (or even the aspiring ones) radar and bucket lists because of its reputation and sheer beauty. The legendary party city boasts a 12.1-kilometer or a 7.5-mile white sand beach stretch that basically covers its entire coast, giving huge beach access to the city.

The city’s expansive beach stretch is lined with many of the city’s top-rated resorts and hotels all sprawled out providing upscale and developed amenities to the beachside. However, due to this development, Cancun can often feel a little less tropical and more cosmopolitan. But nonetheless, the iconic stretch provided the classic thrill and fun for the beach bums, making Cancun a must in Mexico.

Isla Holbox

Just further north from Cancun, located in the same state of Quintana Roo, Isla Holbox is often touted as one of Mexico’s last secret beaches until a few years ago.

Now the beach town and all its natural splendor have dazzled beach lovers all over the world and have been making the right noise around the world. One amazing thing about the beach town of Holbox is that, apart from its aquatic delights, the town can feel rustic and authentic providing an experience that is truly Mexico.

Isla Holbox is teeming with cultural quirks like textile markets, homegrown food places, and warm people. You can feel at home while relishing the proverbial feel of a small seaside town in the far reaches of Mexico’s fabled eastern coasts.

If you’re into some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, chances are you’ll probably have heard of Cabo, and probably one too many times. Cabo San Lucas or the entire tri-town area of Cabo, including San Jose del Cabo, and the Tourist Corridor at the southern end of Baja California Sur, is a celebrity-approved vacation hotspot that packs a lot of draws.

Cabo fronts the Pacific Ocean is known for its dark blue shade and quirky features and attractions that seem also seem to be famous for divers and other enthusiasts of aquatic adventures.

The beaches of this iconic seaside town are the stuff of Mexican travel post-cards, Cancun may have uber-developed seaside highs, and white sand stretches but Tulum has a raw, rustic, authentic beauty, coupled with the enchantment of an ancient ruin perched over the coast. The sights and mood provided by Tulum are a true testimony to the undisputed charm of Mexico’s rich natural and cultural beauty.

Tulum is also situated on the same eastern coast as Cancun, which is just a few hours away from each other. You can easily plan a few days’ worth of itinerary to go beach-hopping across the Yucatan Peninsula.

This picturesque beach isn’t a mainstream entry, because of its off-the-beaten-path reputation. Yelapa is more of an extra mile you can go if you’re in huge touristy coastal cities, like Puerto Vallarta. The indubitable charm of Yelapa lies in its pristine waters, and picture-perfect beaches, without the swaths of tourists. The beach is noticeably crescent-shaped and teeming with hammocks for relaxation and beach bars and restaurants to take you further away into enjoyment.

The Undisputed Fame

When you hear Mexico, or just saw the name somewhere, chances are you’ll probably be flooded by hundreds if not thousands of all things Mexican, like Tacos, Mariachi, Tequila, and even the Pixar film Coco. A phenomenon such as this is only best reserved for countries that have achieved worldwide fame that surpasses mainstream media, Mexico is in so many ways goes down as one of the most celebrated cultures in the world.

Mexico has given the world a lot of things to fall in love with and the list is endless. Despite the bad rep, the country got thanks to misrepresentation in mainstream media, Mexico still remains to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and is a constant cultural favorite among many people.

The Tourist Meccas of all Tourist Meccas

Mexico is one of the most visited countries in the world with a staggering count of 45 million in 2019 alone, rising to the ranks of other tourism giants like Turkey, Thailand, Germany, and many others. With an abundance of resort cities, seaside wonders, magic towns, and historical sites, Mexico has everything you’re looking for in a dream destination.

Not to mention Mexico’s unquestionable natural beauty, from the beaches to its diverse interiors of forests, mountains, volcanoes, and even desert terrains across the country. You can be sure to have an endless itinerary of exploring when you visit.

The Latin American country’s influential dishes have perhaps changed the game of the international culinary landscape along with the leagues of Italian, Japanese, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Mexico has penetrated food stalls, restaurants, and pubs because of its flavorful cooking, and distinct taste and twang that seems to be appealing to a slew of people from all over the world.

With Mexico’s supercharged palates, and diverse flavors you can only sample so much, but here are some of the staples:

Tacos is certainly synonymous with Mexico, these flavorful and sometimes spicy staples are probably the most famous dish from Mexico. You can find them in an abundance of varieties such as birria, carnitas, al pastor, and many more.

It is basically a corn tortilla filled with vegetables, spices, beefsteak, flank steak, chorizo, offal, or “al pastor” – hot and sweet marinated pork. Ask friendly locals, or look up food review online platforms for the best taco place in whichever city or town you’re visiting.

Another Mexican icon, Enchiladas often come spicy, depending on the variety. In general, they are corn tortillas dipped in a special hot sauce filled with different kidneys of vegetables, stews, and sometimes even proteins like beef, or chicken. They are usually served with onion, celery, sour cream, or fresh cheese.

Enchiladas can be traced back to Mayan times when residents in Mexico’s Valley ate maize tortillas wrapped around tiny fish.

Northern Mexico’s entry to the world culinary stage, Burritos is a household name, even beyond the Americas. They are typically cylinder-shaped tortillas made from flour stuffed with a variety of ingredients, usually a stew.

Quesadillas

Cheese is probably the most abundant ingredient in a quesadilla recipe. They usually consist of a corn tortilla sometimes flour, mainly filled with cheese alongside varieties of meats, spices, and other fillings, then cooked on a griddle or in a pan on the stove.

Quesadillas, just like tacos are easy to find in many restaurants all over the country. And maybe brush up on your high school Spanish when ordering.

Another staple that originated from the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. The popular dish dates back to the time of the Aztecs, Mayan, and Incan tribes who needed to take healthful sustenance into battle on the go.

They usually come in pockets of corn dough stuffed with cooked banana leaves or maize husks with a sweet or savory filling. The fillings often vary, either they can be made from meats, fruits, vegetables, cheese, chilies, and mole.

Ancient Civilizations

Apart from all of Mexico’s natural and cultural appeals, the country’s long, rich, and curious history is another thing to behold and worth knowing about, especially the civilization that predates the colonial time.

Mexico got its name from the Aztec culture, which thrived in the region where CDMX or Mexico City now stands. The Aztec empire saw great prosperity, and longevity due to their advanced ways and customs. The Aztecs arose as the dominant force in central Mexico, building an elaborate social, political, religious, and commercial organization that brought many of the region’s city-states under their authority by the 15th century, all from their magnificent capital city of Tenochtitlan.

Invaders led by Spanish adventurer Hernán Cortés toppled the Aztec Empire and seized Tenochtitlan in 1521, bringing Mesoamerica’s last major civilization to an end.

But you can still see what remains of the Aztec empire in many ruins around Central Mexico, you can visit: Teotihuacan Ruins, just outside of the capital, El Tepozteco, a small site in Morelos, and Templo Mayor, right at the heart of Mexico City.

The Ancient Mayans are one of the most dominant indigenous people and cultures in pre-colonial times. Around the sixth century A.D., it achieved the pinnacle of its power and influence.

Agriculture, pottery, hieroglyphic writing, calendar-making, and mathematics were among the Maya’s many talents, and they left behind an incredible amount of spectacular building and symbolic artwork. The ancient people didn’t originate from Mexico per se, but rather in the further down south of the Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala, and Belize.

Mexico’s most famous ruin, Chichen Itza is the Mayans’ greatest gift to the world of archaeology. Now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the ruins of Chichen Itza are the most visited places in the country.

Other famous Mayan ruins you can visit in Mexico are the: Tulum, where ruins are perched on a hill overlooking the beach, Coba, which neighbors both Chichen Itza and Tulum, and Uxmal, found in Merida.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a bit of feisty heaven on earth, between the gorgeous Northern Atlantic to the north and the renowned Caribbean to the south. Everything about the Latin American country is a draw in and of itself, with diverse topography, postcard-perfect scenery, unique local culture, and possibly the most fun-loving Latinos you’ll ever meet.

From the appealing ambiance of Santo Domingo’s historic streets to Punta Cana’s perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, Puerto Plata’s gorgeous beaches, Azua’s wineries, and Bani’s unique landscape. The Dominican Republic is one of those amazing places on the planet that never fails to entice you and make you fall in love with it. On top of that, the cuisine is outstanding.

What Makes the Dominican Republic Unique?

Ridiculously gorgeous beaches.

Long lengths of white sand beaches, cradled by the stunning blue of the Atlantic and Caribbean, await visitors to the Dominican Republic. All of the best beaches in this Latin American country are as stunning as they come, and are frequently regarded as the country’s top tourist attractions. You may expect to find a variety of beaches here, all of which are suitable for your preferences. In the Dominican Republic, there is always something for everyone.

Here are a few that might pique your interest among the seemingly endless number of beaches in the area:

Playa Grande

Playa Grande is located far from the resorts and upscaled highs of Punta Cana and Puerto Playa, and is away from the regular mainstream beaches. If you want to feel like you’re in the Dominican Republic, visit Playa Grande, which is underdeveloped and rustic, with palm trees and a small number of food vendors.

Bavaro Beaches

A postcard dream come true, situated within the resort town of Punta Cana. Bavaro Beach is idyllic and gorgeous, with wonderfully smooth white sand, crystal-clear sea, and a well-developed resort scene. While the beach’s premium charms give it a more commercial feel, it still has a tropical paradise feel to it.

Playa Rincon

Playa Rincon is unquestionably a sunseeker’s dream because of its length. You can enjoy a variety of things here, but none better than sunbathing and swimming, thanks to a 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) stretch of uninterrupted beach. Playa Rincon is bordered by a dense grove of palm trees, which creates a beautiful contrast to the beach’s vast stretch of sand.

The famed Kite Beach, one of the most internationally renowned beaches in the Dominican Republic, is particularly appealing to watersport lovers, notably kitesurfers. Kite Beach in Cabarete, dubbed the world’s most lively and action-packed beach, ensures that you will never be bored. When you visit, you can expect warm friendly smiles, tremendous energy, and a dynamic that is both welcoming and intriguing.

Playa Dorada

A family-friendly beach that is a short distance from the typical shining white sand beaches, with golden sands set against a backdrop of lush green mountains. The coast is lined with mid-rise resorts and hotels that offer all-inclusive services while maintaining the homey vibe of Playa Dorada. This is one of the most well-known beaches in the Dominican Republic, and it may get rather crowded at times.

Quirky Geography

You can enjoy the Dominican Republic’s incredibly beautiful beaches as well as its eccentric villages and cities. The Latin American country also has a bevy of odd interior characteristics that are frequently extravagant and unexpected. From densely forested areas to welcoming flowing waterfalls, gorgeous outer cays, natural ponds, sand dunes, and salt mines, there is something for everyone. There are numerous reasons why the Dominican Republic is one of the best destinations to visit in the Caribbean, if not all of Latin America.

Here are some of the top locations to go when you’re in the area:

Los Pozos de Romeo

A series of beautiful pools that were formed from underwater caves that have openings to the sky. Los Pozos is a sight to behold of how enchanting they can be for first-time visitors, the appeal is in the curiosities of its formation. You can head to Los Pozos on your way to the popular Bahia de Las Aguilas.

The cay is known for its breathtakingly beautiful crystalline waters. Its shallow seas allow you to snorkel and explore the surrounding areas, which is one of the best things to do here. Expect to observe some schools of fish swimming around Cayo Arena while you’re there.

27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

To be honest, your waterfall experiences here will not be for the faint of heart, since Damajagua’s 27 waterfalls are best saved for thrill-seekers. Climb to the top of a narrow canyon of waterfalls and then jump into one of the pools below. When climbing, however, you will be escorted by a tour leader and provided with a life jacket.

Sand Dunes of Bani

The world-famous Bani Sand Dunes are a unique feature of the Dominican Republic’s landscape. There aren’t many areas where you can locate a stretch of Sand Dunes, much alone a vast selection of sceneries. The sands, which are located in the town of Bani, are near to the beach, adding to their allure. Consider how much fun that would be.

Las Salinas Salt Mines

The Salt Mines, which are also located in Bani, are vast terraces that resemble massive salt mountains that can be visited while traveling across the Dominican Republic’s southern regions. You can observe how salt is made and exported around the world. The salt mines have become tourist attractions as a result of their unusual nature, which has boosted the local economy by creating more jobs.

Flavorful Gastronomy

The culinary repertory of the Dominican Republic is a wonderful blend of culinary influences from nations that have left their imprint in the country, the majority of which are attributable to colonialism. The cuisine of the country is a delectable fusion of Spanish, indigenous Taino, Caribbean, and African influences. Trying some of their delectable foods will round off your Dominican adventure.

When you visit, you should try some of these well-known foods and classics:

This meal is so well-known in the Dominican Republic that visitors frequently mistake it for the national cuisine. Sancocho, on the other hand, is not unique to the country; in fact, it is a staple in various Latin American countries.

Sancocho a la Dominicana, also known as Sancocho de Siete Carnes, is a meaty, thick, and substantial stew made with seven varieties of meats, often blended with root vegetables and plantain. This is a Dominican classic.

Habichuelas Guisadas

In Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, beans and pulses are a cheap and abundant source of protein, and the Dominican Republic is no exception. In Dominican cuisine, they’re quite common.

The Dominican meal Habichuelas Guisadas is served with rice, most commonly Arroz Blanco. It’s one of the Dominican Republic’s four corners (the traditional Dominican lunch meal). Every Dominican home may have their own version, with small differences in ingredients and flavors.

Tostones are a Latin American classic made from unripe plantains that can be served as a side dish or as part of a larger meal with meat and fish. I have yet to find a Dominican who does not appreciate tostones, and you will understand why once you try them.

Mangu is a Dominican delicacy consisting of mashed plantains, eggs, fried Dominican “salami,” and Queso Frito, as opposed to many of the previously stated meals (Fried Cheese). When served together, they are known as Los Tres Golpes (The Three Strikes). It’s typically eaten for breakfast, although it can also be found on the dinner table.

Pollo Guisado

Chicken is inexpensive, plentiful, and easy to prepare. It should come as no surprise that it is one of the most popular meats in the Dominican Republic. If you haven’t tried Pollo Guisado, you’re losing out on a delightful fall-off-the-bone chicken with robust flavors and a delectable sauce. Chicken is regularly featured on the typical Dominican lunch menu.

The Dominican People

If there’s one thing that the entire Dominican Republic, not just Punta Cana, can agree on, it’s which resort is the best and most popular. The Dominicans, without a doubt, are the most welcoming and fun-loving people on the planet. Dominicans are known for being friendly, genuine, courteous, cordial, and, above all, cheerful.

These attributes are especially evident when they try to make tourists and guests from all over the world who are interested in their culture feel at ease. The Dominicans provide a swirl of flavor and richness to an otherwise top-rated Dominican Republic experience with their pleasant personality, Spanish-speaking bits, warm spirits, and outstanding culinary.

Is the Dominican Republic Better Than Mexico?

Both the Dominican Republic and Mexico are tourist giants in the Caribbean, consisting of the best draws you can ever think of in a proverbial vacation destination. However, when it comes to fame and reputation none in the tropical world can overshadow the mammoth that is Mexico. The blueprint of tourism success, the industry, and its beauty itself have become the most important backbones of the country’s economy.

If you’re looking for a tropical getaway with the classic making of pristine beaches, interesting quirky towns and capitals, good food, and rich history and colorful histories you can most certainly find all of them in both. However, when it comes to the sheer charm, and several draws Mexico, undoubtedly takes the bag. From the pacific coasts, the central regions, to the eastern coast, Mexico is a whole world in itself.

But this doesn’t mean that you should completely put the Dominican Republic off the list. DR, as it is lovingly shortened, is also perfect for all kinds of travelers, with all its worthy natural and cultural appeals, on top of probably one of the warmest and most fun-loving people in the world. The DR’s Santo Domingo and Punta Cana are famous places.

But despite all the ins and outs of travel destinations, draws, and drawbacks the best determinant will always be your desire. What you want to get out of from a travel destination will depend on which option takes the bag.

Is Dominican Republic Safer Than Mexico?

Both the Dominican Republic and Mexico are unfortunately ridden with higher crime rates that can range from petty theft to extreme cases such as gang violence and drug cartel activity. However, most of these cases are only limited around non-touristy cities, making traveling around most parts of the DR and Mexico generally safe for tourists.

According to the latest data on their respective crime indices, the DR falls a bit higher on the danger scale because of the growth rates, and increasing reports over the years. Most of the crimes that have put the DR on a tighter spot than Mexico mostly involve drugs and gang activity, property crime, and violent discrimination.

Crime in Dominican Republic vs. Mexico

Recent data purported that most of the crimes that have riddled both the DR and Mexico mostly involve petty to grand theft, drug-related crimes, property and violent crimes, and corruption. A lot of the crimes can seem parallel in both destinations but DR’s data and rates fair higher than Mexico, making it a riskier place to be in.

However, that doesn’t mean that these places are not best for traveling, they are both two of the most enticing places in the Caribbean given the number of draws that they have. To err on the side of caution is still the best way to be wherever you chose to travel.

Is Mexico or Dominican Republic Cheaper?

Mexico is a bit cheaper than the Dominican Republic despite Mexico’s obvious bigger household name. Most prices and costs in the DR are around a dollar or two pricier than in Mexico, whether they are from simpler and essential purchases to luxury services. It’s best to budget well in advance and work around the costs by looking up prices and rates in advance.

Is It Cheaper to Go to Mexico or Dominican Republic?

It is cheaper to go to Mexico as prices tend to be cheaper there. According to recent data and statistics, the DR is around 42% more expensive than in Mexico. It is best to consider this disparity when deciding on which destination to visit.

Is It Cheaper to Fly to Mexico or Dominican Republic?

Heading to Mexico is noticeably more expensive compared to flying to the Dominican Republic, deposit the DR’s higher prices, Mexico has a higher demand when it comes to tourism.

Cost of Living Dominican Republic vs. Mexico

When it comes to the cost of living, the Dominican Republic tends to be much more expensive than Mexico. This may very well be due to Mexico being more efficient in producing its own resources than the Dominican Republic’s extra spending when it comes to importing resources. This, in turn, imposes higher tariffs and retail prices on goods locally sold, on top of the DR’s growing tourism demand.

Mexico vs. Dominican Republic Resorts

Mexico’s resorts are better suited for a more animated and dynamic traveler, especially as Mexico is known for its vibrant and colorful culture and an energy that is unmatched. You can certainly do a lot, and do the most in Mexico. The country’s several tourists spot has made it one of the most visited countries in the entire world, often touted as a blueprint for tourism success.

The Dominican Republic on the other hand can be vibrant and lively but its resorts and its touristy overtones lean towards a perfect balance of rest of relaxation in a region famously known for its animated spirit. The DR’s Punta Cana is its best testament to the country’s tourism vibe.

At the end of the day, it will all come down to the flavor you’re going for and the kind of experiences you want to have when traveling.

All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico vs. Dominican Republic

If you want to get the most out of an all-inclusive resort package, Mexico no doubt takes the thrones. Just by the sheer number of all-inclusive resorts that riddle the country, Mexico’s tourism culture itself is a huge deal than most countries and islands in the tropics.

But that isn’t saying that the DR is anything less, the Caribbean darling is teeming with all-inclusive resorts that provide the ideal tropical island experience. Its drawback in comparison to Mexico is its relatively smaller tourism culture.

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Meet Mexico's Oldest Spirit: Pox Is A Must-Try For Whiskey Fans, According To Spirits Experts

M ove over mezcal, another Mexican spirit is appearing on liquor shelves outside of its native country. Pox is made from corn, wheat, and sugarcane. Pronounced "posh," the spirit is finding popularity in cocktails alongside citrus and coffee, and it is also enjoyed straight — especially among whiskey lovers. Yet the unique smoky and toasty flavor profile of this corn-based distillate is only part of its appeal.

Pox is deeply rooted in Maya traditions from indigenous communities in the state of Chiapas, who are said to use it for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. The word pox means "medicine" in the Tzotzil Maya language. In addition to healing, pox is used to mark milestones like birth, death, and celebration. Julio de la Cruz, the founder of the bar Poshería, tells us that in Mexico's southernmost state, "Locals say that pox is 'the bridge between the material and the spiritual worlds.'"

Both tequila and mezcal varieties have rapidly grown in popularity and production over the last decade. Tequila production has increased by about 155%, and mezcal production has jumped from less than 1 million to more than 14 million liters during that time. This opens the door for other Mexican spirits such as pox to gain recognition and appreciation both within and outside of Mexico. We spoke with a few pox experts — both producers and bartenders — to learn more about Mexico's oldest spirit and find out why exactly it's must-try for whiskey fans.

Read more: 13 Liquors Your Home Bar Should Have

Pox Is On The Rise In Mexico And The U.S.

Julio de la Cruz first tried pox after being invited to a ceremony by an indigenous community in Tenejapa, Chiapas, where a mayordomo (an authority within the community) gave him his recipe. Seeking to preserve pox and promote its importance in Mexico to the rest of the world, de la Cruz founded Poshería in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas in 2010 (a second location later opened in Mérida, Yucatán). De la Cruz has since seen pox becoming more popular in bars all over Mexico, saying he's found that the more people learn about pox, the more they are interested in trying it.

That's also the case for Ryan McKenzie, owner of the cocktail bar Agency of Record in Midtown Manhattan. McKenzie first encountered pox about six years ago at a cocktail bar in Mexico City. "I had no idea what it was," he says, "and when the cocktail came, I was amazed. I became an instant fan and soon got to know the history of it, which is also incredibly rich."

Mexican distillates are trending in the world of drinks. At Death & Co in NYC's East Village, bartender Marc Rizzuto has similarly seen the impact of increased interest in agave-based spirits from Mexico , such as  sotols and raicillas becoming more well known. "... Pox is, to me, it's just the next thing," he tells us, "and it's very easy to get people to enjoy it as well."

Inside The History Of Mexico's Oldest Spirit

In addition to trying it, Julio de la Cruz tells us that Poshería's patrons are also drawn to the history behind pox. The Tzotzil Maya produced pox for use in religious and medical applications, and these practices are said to continue today. "Pox is a living tradition that we try to revalue and dignify," says de la Cruz. The indigenous communities in Chiapas reportedly use the Maya drink of ancestral origin in their ceremonies, rituals, and festivals. For example, he tells us pox is used in cleaning the newly born or recently deceased with the intention of cleaning their spirit.

"It is an important part of the Maya worldview that involves the sun, the moon, the earth, incense, copal, and of course corn, which is one of the most important elements in the Maya culture," de la Cruz says of pox's ceremonial role. "I would personally define Pox as mysticism and ceremony."

As a medicinal elixir, traditional Maya healers believe that pox has the power to cure ailments, according to a local quoted by  Fundación Tortilla . They often mix pox with garlic and honey for medicinal purposes, including — as Siglo Cero's poxero master Javier Pérez tells the outlet — reducing stress and depression.

What Does Pox Taste Like?

True to its corn base, pox offers tasting notes of corn, with a smoky and toasty finish. Each pox producer maintains its own unique recipe resulting in variations on the flavor. If the pox is made mostly from corn, the smoky flavor will dominate and offer a sweet finish. Pox that includes wheat and sugarcane along with corn will taste sweeter and offer herbal and fruity notes.

Speaking with Liquor.com , Isidoro "Zury" Guindi, co-founder of the pox brand Siglo Cero, likened the flavor to "a toasted Mexican corn tortilla." In addition to the flavor of charred corn, pox imbibers have detected hints of ancho chili, coconut, barbecue, and pickled mustard seed.

"Pox is a unique beverage, not like any other," says Julio de la Cruz. "... Pox has its own great personality." Noting its taste of corn (and the Mexican fondness for corn tortillas), he adds that light notes of citrus and caramel are also left on the palate. Drinking pox is said to produce a feeling of heat in your body followed by a relaxing effect. De la Cruz tells us the Maya people of Chiapas say, "Pox warms up your heart and soul."

How Is This Mexican Spirit Made?

Pox is typically made from corn, wheat, and sugarcane, as previously mentioned. This mixture, along with other ingredients in the producer's distinct recipe, is fermented in wooden casks before being distilled through a copper still.

To produce several varieties of pox at Poshería, Julio de la Cruz aligns production with lunar phases, starting with the new moon. He ferments organic maize, sugarcane, and wheat for seven to 10 days depending on factors such as weather and which stills and copper pipes are used. Poshería maintains the handmade ancestral processes passed down from an indigenous community leader while complying with modern quality standards set by the government. The latter allows it to be one of the few producers to export outside of Mexico.

At Siglo Cero, Javier Pérez grinds and blends white, yellow, black, and red ancestral corn. He tells Fundación Tortilla that, after drying for two months, it is shelled and ground. The corn is mixed with spring water, wheat, and sugarcane in a pine wood container and fermented for 12 to 14 days. After the liquid is distilled in copper stills, it is ready to drink locally at 35% ABV. To refine the flavor and increase the ABV to around 42% for export, Siglo Cero's pox is distilled once more.

How To Drink Pox Straight

One of the best ways to get to know the flavor of pox is to drink it straight up. Julio de la Cruz recommends sipping it little-by-little, especially before or after a meal. Sometimes, it's served alongside a seasonal fruit. Telling us that many indigenous families in Chiapas drink pox as a remedy, he advises a shot of pox to aid a stomachache.

To drink pox the traditional way, Zury Guindi agrees that neat is the way to go. As paraphrased by Forbes , he suggests sipping it from a copita (or clay cup), if possible, and holding it in your "left hand so the energy flows directly to the heart." This initial sip should be followed by a deep exhale in order "to release any evil spirits that may be lurking."

Try pairing pox with bites of coffee beans, citrus or tropical fruit garnishes, or vegetables to bring out a range of flavors. Guindi, for example, recommends to Fundación Tortilla a slice of orange with habanero chili, cucumber, or jicama. This spirit also shines alongside fruit juice or when used to steep fruits or herbs like mango, fig, mint, and cinnamon.

How To Use Mexico's Oldest Spirit In Cocktails

Pox is an excellent base for cocktails. Calling it "an incredible hero ingredient" for mixed drinks, Ryan McKenzie recommends experimenting with a pox sour by adding egg white and lemon. Or, whip up a pox tonic with tonic, ginger, and lime. If you're feeling spicy, pair pox with a spice-infused simple syrup, lime juice, and triple sec that's reminiscent of a spicy margarita. 

Meanwhile, at Agency of Record, pox appears in the Rich Media cocktail. Its take on the dirty martini also includes sotol, gin, aloe, and blue cheese olive brine. Of pox's versatility, Marc Rizzuto advises trying this spirit in a stirred cocktail like a Manhattan or an old fashioned. He notes that it works just as well in a lighter, shaken cocktail with some citrus and sugar, like a play on a daiquiri or margarita.

The Posh Posh at Death & Co pairs pox with St. George Green Chile Vodka, Kalani Coconut Liqueur, kiwi, and lime. Of this drink's light, vegetal, and refreshingly sour flavor, Rizzuto says, "The corn from ... the pox is pretty much the star of the cocktail."

Where To Find Pox In The U.S.

Pox has been produced in Chiapas for generations and has become more prevalent in cocktail bars across Mexico in the past decade. In the United States, pox is also steadily gaining traction on liquor store shelves and cocktail bar menus. Founded in 2010, Siglo Cero was reportedly the first pox producer to break into the United States market in 2017. Zury Guindi followed up its success by launching another pox brand called Dondante.

At New York City's Death & Co, Marc Rizzuto has used both pox brands in cocktails. "It's new to us, and we love that it ... sort of always presents a great challenge. Especially with unfamiliar ingredients," he says of the spirit. "It allows us to see ... what we could do with it and how we can sort of push the boundaries on making something, you know, familiar for a guest, but also that starts turning a little bit of ... the wheels in their brain."

If you can't find pox on the shelves of your liquor store, it's popped up on cocktail menus, like at Restaurant Rebirth in New Orleans, Eight Row in Seattle, Terra Restaurant and Bar at Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe, and at Las Almas Rotas in Dallas. In 2023,  Eater San Francisco  reported the rise of pox in the Bay Area, from Parche and Low Bar in Oakland to Popoca in the East Bay and Foray in Carmel.

Pox Vs. Whiskey

With its corn base, pox seems to be Mexico's answer to whiskey. Or maybe the inclusion of sugarcane in pox makes it Mexico's answer to rum. Either way, there are significant differences in the production of pox and whiskey. 

For starters, pox skips mashing, and the ingredients go straight to fermenting. After a single distillation, some pox is distilled a second time. Then it's ready to drink. Sometimes, whiskey is triple distilled before it undergoes the all-important aging process. For Scotch whisky, that means you'll have to wait at least three years for it to age in oak barrels, while American bourbon requires a minimum of two years.

The flavor and tasting notes of both pox and whiskey vary depending on the producer and ingredients. Like pox, the grains used impact whiskey's flavor . Generally, whiskey is rich and smooth with a spicy flavor and hints of vanilla and oak. If you're drinking a bourbon, the charred oak barrel that the whiskey is aged in lends a smoky quality. The smokiness of pox is due to the charred corn flavor, while hints of chocolate and citrus are often detected. Pox has a slightly lighter body. Each spirit is great to sip straight, and both pox and  whiskey can be used to make infusions .

Discover Something New And Familiar In Pox

As recently as 2010, it seems the Maya people of Chiapas were the only people who made and used pox. When Julio de la Cruz opened the first Poshería location, he offered free tastings to familiarize people new to the spirit. "After nine years, I can tell you that many people are now asking for pox by name," he tells us. "But there's still a lot of people that are not familiar with it."

There are still only a few brands of pox that are widely distributed in the United States, Ryan McKenzie says, so drink enthusiasts looking to expand their palate might have their best luck asking their favorite bartender to feature it in a cocktail. He adds, "We love being able to showcase something that might be newer to people here."

Those familiar with Mexican spirits or even whiskey will find something recognizable in pox, as well as plenty of novel territory to discover. "It's been great, especially when you start talking about it with ... somebody, they just learned a little bit more about something they had no idea if they would or would not have liked," says Marc Rizzuto of pox. "And they loved it because of the way that we paired it in a cocktail."

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