tours to mexico from uk

Mexico Tours & Holidays

Peel back the lucha libre mask and you’ll find a patchwork of cultures and customs mixed into one flavour-filled country.

The gregarious locals are just as likely to pull you up for a dance at one of Mexico City ’s hip-shaking salsa clubs as they are to show you the way to one of the country’s many ancient ruins , all with a casual ‘hola’ and an inviting smile. While   our tours   get you up close with locals, they also show you the best sights from on and off the gringo trail. You can party until dawn in Playa del Carmen , eat your way into a food coma in colourful Oaxaca , or, best of all, kick back with a horchata in the lazy seaside port of Merida .

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Mexico tour reviews

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Mexico at a glance

Capital city.

Mexico City (population 8.7 million)

129.9 million

(GMT-06:00) Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey - New

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Mexico

Best time to visit mexico.

Mexico is generally most pleasant in the cool, dry season between September and June. July and August can be very hot and humid, but perfect for swimming, snorkelling and lazing on the beach. These are, however, the busiest months for travel as this is the time of the North American school holidays. Highland areas such as Chiapas and Oaxaca tend to be cooler year-round, with cold nights.

Read more about the best time to visit Mexico

Culture and customs

Mexico lays claim to one of the richest and most historic cultures in the world. Characterised by their strong regional identity, locals are affiliated directly with the region they hail from, with each region having its own unique customs, cuisine and even dialect.

Despite this, national identity is still strong, with all Mexicans sharing common bonds over their love of sport, dance, food and religion.

With most of the country belonging to the Roman Catholic religion, religious festivals and celebrations are plentiful in Mexico. Parades, street fairs and parties held in honour of local saints are commonplace and offer travellers the chance to witness the customs and rituals of this vibrant culture.

Eating and drinking

One of Mexico's biggest drawcards is its food and drink. From Oaxaca's indigenous staples to the sizzling street food of Mexico City, there's almost too much choice for the hungry traveller. By the end of your Mexico tour, you'll know your tacos from your tamales, your enchiladas from your elote and your tequila from your mezcal.

Eat your way through this vibrant country on our 9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.

Read more about what to eat in Mexico

Read more about what to drink in Mexico

Geography and environment

Mexico shares land borders with the   United States ,   Belize   and   Guatemala , and has an extensive coastline that runs along the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Featuring a wide variety of natural environments, Mexico is home to tracts of tropical rainforests, vast areas of low-lying plains and deserts, volcanic mountains and temperate beaches and lagoons.

Mexico's capital and major cities are typically built up, busy and lively – with a vast network of public transport, highways and roads. Rural areas, on the other hand, are distinctly less developed, with small-scale housing, unsealed roads and rustic farms.

History and government

Early history.

People have been living in Mexico for more than 13,000 years. Mesoamericans occupied the area early on, with archaeological evidence pointing towards Mesoamericans leading a hunter-gatherer existence. Maize farming is thought to have become commonplace by 1500 BC, which led to the farming of other commodities as well. A variety of cultures contributed to the early history of Mexico, with the Olmec, Toltec, Maya, Teotihuacan and Aztecs all bringing unique cultural, religious and artistic styles to the region, with the Mayan and Aztec Empires having the greatest (and most enduring) impact on the region. 

Mayan society can be traced back to 300 BC, while the Aztecs enjoyed prosperity from 1325 to around 1521 AD. Many ancient ruins and constructions from these periods are still standing all throughout Mexico and can be visited and viewed today. By the 16th century, the Spanish had arrived in Mexico, what followed was a period of colonialism that lasted nearly 300 years. 

During this time, Mexico was seen as a part of ‘New Spain’ along with Cuba and Puerto Rico. This was not a particularly good time for Mexicans who (under colonial law) were generally not allowed to travel outside of Mexico and were denied access to education. Mexico achieved independence from the Spaniards after the War of Independence (1810-1821), but peace was short-lived as two decades later, the Mexican-American War brought more confrontation and armed conflict to parts of Mexico.

Recent history

Mexico’s Revolution of 1910 - 1921 was a period of instability, marked by political turmoil and bloodshed. More recently, Mexico has enjoyed an economic resurgence after decades of economic hardship, which lasted from the 1970s to the mid-1990s. The earthquake of 1985 didn’t help matters, with wide-scale damage and loss of life compounding the economic problems and political uncertainty of Mexico. Currently, Mexico is benefiting from a period of improved economic conditions, although the gap between the wages earned by Mexicans and their northern neighbours continues to widen. Mexico is now operating in a free market economy and the growth of tourism, agriculture and industry has ensured an improved economy for the country, although financial inequality still exists within.

Memorable moments of Mexico

1. ramble among the ruins.

A visit to the famed ruins of Chichen Itza reveals history, ancient architecture and wildlife in equal measure. Walk through the complex and hear jungle animal calls as colourful birds fly among the canopy. This is a stirring experience to treasure.

2. Bittersweet bites

The cult of chocolate is well and truly alive in Oaxaca! The flavours here are simply phenomenal and unlike mass-produced chocolate in the Western world. Spiced with chilli, cinnamon and cloves, you won’t soon forget the taste of Oaxacan chocolate.

3. Sunshine and snorkelling

Mexico’s Caribbean coastline showcases expanses of clear blue water, white sand beaches, vibrant reefs and plenty of sunshine. Snorkelling over colourful fish and sun-lit coral is simply unforgettable.

4. Mountain majesty

The cooler climate and fresh mountain air of San Cristobal de las Casas provides some respite from the city heat. Chilling out in this relaxed and visually stunning area is a magical Mexican moment.

5. Bus buddies

Catching a local bus in Mexico is a never-ending source of amusement. Overcome the language barrier and make friends with local commuters to pass the time.

6. Tequila!

No visit to Mexico is complete without downing a little bit of the national drink. While you may not remember every detail the morning after, good times and memorable holiday snapshots are guaranteed when tequila is involved.

7. Volcanic splendour

Mexico’s volcanic landscapes are photo-worthy and awe-inspiring. Hiking past rocky escarpments and surreal scenery is a rewarding travel experience to remember.

8. Village people

Sharing smiles and laughs with locals while strolling through the rural villages of Mexico is a simple, yet memorable way to see the real heart of Mexico - its people.

9. Mariachi melodies

Sway to the unique sounds of Mexico’s mariachi music in the streets and cafes of Mexico. The rhythms and beats will live in your heart for years to come.

10. To market, to market

Witness Latin America’s time-honoured commercial traditions unfold in Mexico’s well-patronised markets. Hear the banter of stallholders, smell the fragrant scent of sizzling meat and admire the colourful array of wares on offer.

Top places to visit in Mexico

This coastal town is well-known for its incredible cliff-top Mayan temple ruins with expansive ocean views. But outside of architectural wonders, Tulum also has quite a few natural wonders. Spend some time exploring Tulum's numerous cenotes and caves for unforgettable snorkelling and diving.

Explore Tulum on our 8 day Yucatan Peninsula Adventure or on our 8 day Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights tour.

Numerous significant architectural sites, baroque churches and impressive cultural displays may have landed Oaxaca the badge of Unesco World Heritage Site, but in recent years, the city has gained notoriety as a culinary destination. Make sure to try regional specialties like tlayudas, mole and mezcal.

Get a taste of Oaxaca on our 9 day Mexico Real Food Adventure.

3. San Cristobal

Set in a valley surrounded by pine forests, San Cristóbal de las Casas has a bright yellow cathedral, pastel houses and buildings draped in deep pink bougainvillea, making it one of Mexico's most colourful cities. Stop by the local markets to browse locally-made handicrafts with colours that rival those of the city itself.

Explore this colourful city on our 15 day Best of Mexico tour.

Travellers will be delighted with the range of good quality shopping available in Mexico. As usual, the markets offer some of the most cost-effective and fun ways to shop, although Mexico’s cities also showcase some excellent boutiques and galleries for more costly purchases. 

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Mexico

1. Tiles, ceramics and earthenware

Mexico has a longstanding tradition of creating good-quality pottery. Hit the artisan markets for colourful pots, vases and jugs. Don’t forget to pack carefully.

2. Bright textiles

Woven textiles can be found almost everywhere in Mexico. Hand-woven rugs, blankets, scarves, and ponchos are great reminders of your time in Mexico.

3. Jewellery

The silver in Mexico is among the world's best. Rings, necklaces and bracelets featuring bold Aztec designs are popular choices.

4. Lucha Libre masks

This Mexican wrestling phenomenon is growing in popularity worldwide, so grab a colourful wrestling mask - it’s a great souvenir for kids (and big kids) at home.

Festivals and events in Mexico

Mexico is the land of the fiesta and the locals will find any reason to party. Whether they're celebrating independence, the saints or the dead, you can expect vibrant colours, lively music and a whole lot of dancing. One to keep an eye out for is the Autumn Equinox, when crowds gather at Chichen Itza to witness the sunlight and shadows play tricks on this ancient relic. During the autumn (and spring) equinox, the sun moves across Chichen Itza, illuminating parts of the temple to reveal the moving body of a snake. Not seen on any other days, this natural spectacle draws thousands of pilgrims.

Read more about festivals in Mexico

Further reading

Mexico travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Mexico?

Mexico is a country of varied landscapes and altitudes and the best time to visit depends on a variety of factors, the first of which is where you actually want to go.

Is it safe to visit Mexico?

Mexico has long been a popular tourist destination and most travellers do not run into any trouble. There are, however, areas that experience high levels of violent crime as a result of lawlessness and drug trafficking. That said, you can rest assured that Intrepid would not take you anywhere unless we were convinced it was safe.

Do I need a visa to travel to Mexico?

All tourists travelling to Mexico need a tourist permit, but not all need a visa. Citizens of the US, EU, Canada, the UK, Australia and New Zealand are among those that do not need a visa and can obtain a tourist permit on arrival.

Is tipping customary in Mexico?

Tipping is expected in most parts of Mexico. The service workers typically earn a low wage and rely on tips to earn a decent living. We recommend leaving 10–15 per cent at restaurants (if the service charge is not already included), 5–10 per cent of your room cost for housekeepers, and a few dollars for porters, bartenders and guides.

What is the internet access like in Mexico?

Internet access is good in Mexico with wi-fi available in most accommodations, bigger restaurants, airports and in some public spaces. It’s also easy and affordable to buy a local SIM card for the duration of your Mexico tour.

Can I use my mobile phone in Mexico?

If you wish to use your mobile phone while in Mexico be sure to activate global roaming before leaving your home country. You should also check with your provider regarding any charges you may incur when overseas.

If you wish to purchase a local SIM card in Mexico, your phone must first be unlocked. For more information on local SIM cards, please read about   internet access in Mexico .

What are the toilets like in Mexico?

It's likely that you will encounter different types of toilets while travelling in Mexico. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Mexico’s unit of currency is the peso:

• Cheap local meal = MXN 150.00
• Domestic beer at a restaurant = MXN 50
• One-way metro ticket in Mexico City = MXN 6.00
• Mid-range meal = MXN 400.00

Can I drink the water in Mexico?

We do not recommend drinking the water in Mexico.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottle water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available, often boiled to use for tea or coffee.

It’s also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Mexico?

Credit cards are generally accepted in Mexico at large stores and most mid- high-range hotels. Some cafes, bars and restaurants may accept card too, but the places with real character – and the best local food – tend to be cash only.

What is ATM access like in Mexico?

ATMs are available across towns and cities in Mexico. Travellers should not encounter trouble finding an ATM but be wary of international transaction fees. For your own safety, try to use ATMs in daylight hours.

What is the weather like in Mexico?

Mexico’s renowned for its sunshine and sandy beaches, but the weather can vary depending on the region you’re travelling to and the time of year.

What public holidays are celebrated in Mexico?

• 1 Jan:   New Year’s Day
• 5 Feb:   Constitution Day
• 21 Mar:   Day off for Benito Juarez’s Birthday Memorial (variable)
• April:   Maundy Thursday/Good Friday (variable)
• 1 May:   Labour Day
• 16 Sep:   Independence Day
• Nov:   Revolution Day Memorial (held 3rd Monday of the month)
• 12 Dec:   Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe
• 25 Dec:   Christmas Day

Please note Mexico public holidays may vary.

Is Mexico safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Mexico is becoming increasingly more accepting of same-sex relationships and has laws in place to protect those that identify differently, but it remains a country of strong Catholicism that has historically been hostile towards the local LGBTQIA+ community.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Mexico accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Tourist destinations in Mexico including Mexico City and the resort areas on the Yucatan Peninsula are seeing an increasing number of hotels, restaurants and tourist sights fitted out to accommodate travellers with limitations. That said, it can still be difficult for those with mobility issues and visual and hearing issues, particularly on public transport. We recommend using taxis to move around locally and flying between cities if possible unless, of course, you are on an Intrepid Mexico tour.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Mexico?

What you pack for your Mexico tour will depend on where you are travelling to. Mexico City, for example, will be much cooler than the coastal areas of Playa del Carmen or Tulum, thanks to its high altitude. In the winter, it can drop down towards freezing at night while reaching 23°C during the day, so it’s important to be prepared for both ends of the spectrum.

What's the accommodation like in Mexico?

Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When travelling with us in Mexico you may find yourself staying in a basic hotel.

Intrepid prefers smaller character-filled hotels and guesthouses than hotel chains. When on vacation in Mexico, enjoy staying in small hotels owned and run by friendly locals.

Does my trip to Mexico support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Mexico directly support our foundation partner, Gastromotiva Mexico.

Gastromotiva Mexico

Gastromotiva Mexico is tackling food scarcity and homelessness while promoting a sustainable food movement. Donations help them provide nutritious, balanced meals to community shelters for vulnerable people such as women affected by domestic violence and refugees.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

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Mexico escorted tours and holidays

Did you know we can tailor any tour?

Marianela tamariz.

Travel specialist

020 7808 6783

Best time to go

Flight duration, time difference, discover mesoamerican pyramids, spanish-colonial towns, and landscapes that range from vast canyons to sun-soaked beaches.

Mexico has a vast and varied terrain, rich history and an extraordinary pre-Columbian legacy.

It offers stunning Mayan and Aztec ruins, and beautifully preserved colonial towns, while the spectacular natural scenery encompasses snow-capped volcanoes, dramatic mountain canyons, desert coastlines, tropical rainforests, waterfalls and beautiful beaches.

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14 days 12 nights

From £3,495

Mexico's rich pre-Columbian history and natural beauty make it one of Latin America's most interesting destinations

Baja & the Copper Canyon

11 days 10 nights

From £3,395

Combine the dramatic scenery of the Copper Canyon train ride with Baja peninsula’s spectacular desert and coastal scenery

Mexico in Style

11 days 9 nights

From £5,795

Stay in upmarket character hotels and haciendas while discovering Mexico’s archaeological sites and scenic landscapes

Hacienda Chichén

Hacienda Chichén's cottages were originally the homes of archaeologists of the Carnegie Institute, who established their headquarters here in the 1920s

Chan-Kah Resort Village

Set within lush landscaped grounds with ancient Ceiba trees, the 79 casitas (tasteful bungalow style buildings) of Chan Kah Resort are surrounded by 50 acres of wild jungle

Hotel Casa del Balam

Casa del Balam was once the family home of Fernando Barbachano Peon, a pioneer of Mexican tourism

Hotel Diego de Mazariegos

Centrally located in the town of San Cristobal de las Casas, the Hotel Diego de Mazariegos is named after the founder of the city

Hotel Galería Plaza Reforma

Hotel Galeria Plaza is a modern hotel, centrally located in the heart of the city’s financial district

Hotel Parador San Miguel

Hotel Parador San Miguel is a beautiful colonial-style building located in the centre of Oaxaca

Hotel Plaza Campeche

Hotel Plaza Campeche is located in the historic centre of Campeche, a short walk from the main square, cathedral and the seafront

Baja California

Copper canyon and chihuahua, mexico city, northern colonial cities, oaxaca and puebla, pacific coast, palenque and san cristobal, riviera maya and holbox island, veracruz and the huasteca, villahermosa and tabasco, yucatan peninsula, ready to start planning your next trip, group tours to mexico, tailor-made holidays to mexico.

Climate in Mexico

Discover the temperatures and rainfall you can expect when visiting the main areas of Mexico, along with the best time to travel.

Top things to do in Mexico

Whip up dishes in Oaxaca, visit indigenous villages and relax in the Mayan Riviera.

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Our favourite images of Mexico

Latest from compass, the fascinating history of panama's guna yala, why book your holiday with a tour operator, make an enquiry, order a brochure.

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Mexico Escorted Tours & Guided Holidays

Escorted tours & guided holidays to mexico.

Known for its beaches and its diverse landscape of mountains, deserts and jungles, Mexico is a country bursting with life. Scattered throughout Mexico are ancient ruins, such as those of Teotihuacán and the Mayan city of Chichén Itzá, as well as a plethora of Spanish colonial-era towns. The capital, Mexico City, features upscale shops, renowned museums and gourmet restaurants that cater perfectly to modern life; home to approximately 100 million people, it’s said to be among the most populous metropolises in the world. Discovering the best of Mexico is easy with Travelsphere; our handcrafted tours are planned with a view to showing you all the highlights of this remarkable country. Mexican holiday packages with Travelsphere guarantee you a great time, with the best atmosphere wherever you go and including all the attractions you love! You'll get the chance to view the extraordinary 2,000-year-old Tule Tree and experience San Cristobal, a vibrant market town where locals still wear traditional Mayan dress. If it's scenery you're after, stopping at the stunning Agua Azul waterfalls is an absolute must, and for culture vultures, nothing beats the ancient site of Palenque, set in amid stunning rainforest. If you want a holiday you'll remember for years to come, then head to Mexico with Travelsphere!

We’re delighted to have received the World Travel and Tourism Councils (WTTC) Safe Travels stamp, which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world. 

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Please note: We are not currently operating tours to Mexico. Why not be inspired to explore other thrilling destinations around the world with Travelsphere.

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Tours to Mexico

With its ancient Aztec sites, sandy beaches and jungles bursting with wildlife, Mexico is a multi-faceted country that's perfect for an adventure tour. From cyclists to families, we have a Mexico trip to suit everyone. And of course, no trip is complete without some tasty tacos.

Ways to explore Mexico

Food and drink, discover our mexico tours.

Our small group Mexico tours will take you on a voyage of discovery through the ancient heartland of the Aztec, Zapotec and Maya civilisations, to the foodie hub of Oaxaca and along the golden sandy beaches of the Caribbean coast. 

Your local tour leader will take you back in time to explore the timeworn pyramid of Chichen Itza, and pay respect to the Maya tomb of Palenque. Immerse yourself in Mexican culture with a cooking lesson from a local family, and join Day of the Dead festivities (on trips leaving in late October) to witness a carnival of colour, upbeat music and delicious local food. For a Mexican adventure to remember, join our cycling trip to ride through age-old Maya villages and swim in the shimmering turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Considering a trip to Mexico but new to small group travel? We've answered some of your most-asked questions .

Our most popular tours in Mexico

Contrasts of mexico.

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Solo travel in Mexico

All of our trips to Mexico are well suited to  solo travellers . In fact, you’ll be in good company as a majority of our customers join our small group tours on their own. Travel around Mexico in a group of like-minded people and let our expert tour leaders show you the very best that Mexico has to offer.  

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Luxury Mexico tour

15 days from £7,555pp

• Chichén Itzá
• Day-to-day Itinerary
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Tour highlights

Stay in a beautiful hacienda just outside the colonial city of Mérida.

Visit Chichén Itzá, the most famous of Mexico's Mayan ruins.

Experience Oaxaca's rich culinary traditions.

Explore the highlights of Mexico City.

Spend time on the Pacific coast exploring the town of Zihuatanejo.

Price includes:

• Scheduled international and domestic flights
• In-destination transfers
• Activities and excursions as detailed
• All accommodation
• 24-hour support while you travel

Itinerary idea in detail

Includes international flights from a choice of UK airports, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Cancun. Today you will arrive in Cancun and be transferred to your hotel.

Today you will be collected from your hotel and driven to Chichén Itzá, where you will take a guided tour of the ruins with a private guide, followed by lunch. You will then continue to Mérida.

Day at leisure to relax and stroll around this charming colonial city. Head to the main squares in the evening, where locals often perform traditional Yucatecan dances.

Today, take a private guided tour of two ancient Mayan sites buried deep in the jungle. At Uxmal, an hour's drive from Mérida, your guide points out the architecture unique to this site, such as the carved cisterns paying homage to the rain god Chaac. Ascend the Magician's Pyramid for views over the whole site. In the afternoon, journey to Kabáh, a settlement once connected to Uxmal by a white stone causeway. You're dropped back in Mérida at the end of the trip.

From Mérida, you will take a domestic flight to Oaxaca.

Today you will enjoy a street-food and mezcal tasting walking tour where you’ll have the opportunity to try a selection of typical Oaxacan delicacies.

This morning, you will join a local Oaxacan chef to visit a nearby market where you’ll shop together for ingredients before heading back to his cookery school to begin your lesson. Here you will learn to marry local ingredients together and create a number of select dishes frequented in the country's cuisine. The fresh spices used in Mexican cooking are renowned for bringing to life many dishes.

Leaving Oaxaca behind, you will fly to Mexico City. You will have the rest of the day at leisure. Use this evening to dine at one of Mexico City’s famous gourmet restaurants.

Today, your guide will take you on a tour of Mexico City, including the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco.

Today, your private guide will take you to the Coyoacán District. Your tour also includes a visit to the Anthropological Museum, which has a stunning collection of sculptures.

Leaving Mexico City behind, you will fly to the Pacific coast today for some time on the beach.

At leisure.

A day at leisure to explore.

Transfer to the airport to begin your onward journey.

Arrive home today to complete your journey.

Accommodation options

While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodation, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.

InterContinental Presidente Cancún Resort

Marriott Courtyard Cancun

Hacienda Ticum

Casa Lecanda

Hotel Hacienda Mérida

Quinta Real

Casa Catrina

Casa Oaxaca

Las Alcobas

Zócalo Central

Four Seasons

Maria Condesa

View more accommodation in mexico city.

La Casa que Canta

Hotel Thompson

• Mérida
• Mexico City
• Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

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The specialist who designs your trip to Mexico will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.

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Mexico in 11 days +

Colonial charms & central highlands.

• map-pin-check-icon Guadalajara
• map-pin-check-icon Guanajuato
• map-pin-check-icon Mexico City
• map-pin-check-icon Morelia
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The perfect trip for those looking to dive deeper into Mexican culture and history, fall in love with the country's most alluring colonial cities and towns on this inspiring tour.

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Take a trip to Mexico with Exoticca and enjoy an extraordinary holiday. This country has beautiful beaches, delicious food, and exciting nightlife . You can also visit a wealth of cultural and historical sites.

You’ll have nothing to organize when you book Exoticca’s all-inclusive vacation packages. We handle all your travel essentials, including flights, hotels, tours, transfers, and even some meals .

Trips to Mexico from the UK

There are dozens of reasons to take a trip to Mexico. Many travelers get excited about the sunny beaches, mouth-watering food, and buzzing nightlife. Pleasure awaits foodies, history and culture enthusiasts, party lovers, adventurers, and beachgoers .

Book a tour to Mexico from the UK. Flights depart from London, Glasgow, Birmingham, and other major cities .

Top points of interest in Mexico

Mexico offers an array of attractions . We’ve narrowed them down to the most popular sites below.

The beaches in Cancun are gorgeous. Enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and fishing .

Adrenaline junkies can look forward to adventure parks, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and zip-lining . Golfers can play a few rounds while others sightsee.

Go back in time as you explore Chichén Itzá, a large Mayan archaeological site. The highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage Site is the El Castillo pyramid ruins .

After a fun-filled day, let your hair down and party the night away at the entertainment hubs in the city. All these activities make Cancun top of the list for most Mexico holiday packages.

Mexico City

Mexico City has plenty to offer tourists. The nation’s capital is perfect for people who are into arts and culture , with its many museums and ancient ruins. 

The city also features some of the Western Hemisphere’s best cuisine . Aside from tacos, tamales, and quesadillas, foodies will love the street food. These stalls offer a wide variety of meals, including roasted grasshoppers (chapulines).

Explore Mexico’s pre-Columbian era artifacts at the Museo Nacional de Antropología. Don’t miss Teotihuacán, where some of the country’s largest pyramids will leave you in awe.

Oaxaca makes any trip to Mexico unforgettable. It has trendy markets offering artwork and souvenirs, food stalls, and eateries . A not-to-be-missed culinary specialty is mole, a chili-based sauce for those with a strong stomach. 

Don’t skip the main square, Plaza de la Constitución de Oaxaca, or Zócalo, surrounded by eateries and cafes. It’s the perfect spot for taking a breather and shopping for knick-knacks . Nighttime is best when live music fills the air.

Visit Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca if you’re into artifacts. The “Treasure of Tomb 7” has jewelry, beadwork, bone carvings, and a skeleton collection .

Monte Albán

A highlight of trips to Mexico for history fans is exploring the ancient ruins at Monte Albán . The archaeological site features pyramids, dams, terraces, and canals.

The former Zapotec capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It showcases temples, tombs, a tlachtli ball court, and sculptures with hieroglyphic inscriptions .

Monte Albán also boasts magnificent Mesoamerican architectural design and worldwide urbanism.

Many Mexico tours take you to Zinacantan, a little village south of the Chiapas region, where you can experience the life of the indigenous people .

Explore the home of the Tzotzil community, visit churches, and share a meal with a family. Immerse in their traditional life. Make tortillas like a local, and learn to weave at a textile workshop .

Shop for artisan-made embroidered and woven floral apparel . Get gifts for friends and family back home.

You can also visit the many neighborhood churches for a visual treat. The beautiful structural designs and sculptures will astound you.

Mexico: Off the beaten track

Take an adventure tour in Mexico for an off-the-beaten-track excursion showcasing some lesser known attractions: 

• Explore ethnic Maya and Tzotzil villages and coffee plantations in the Chiapas region. Immerse in indigenous traditions and see how the locals live.
• Visit Sierra Chincua, El Rosario, Macheran, and Piedra Herrada. The sites host the nesting habitat of millions of monarch butterflies .
• Magdalena Bay, on the Pacific Coast of Baja California Sur, is a paradise for free divers . Enjoy viewing marine life, like sharks, striped marlins, sea lions, seabirds, and humpback whales.
• Explore jungle lakes and grand waterfalls in the dense Lacandon rainforest. Visit several well-preserved Mayan ruins at the site.

Book your trip to Mexico with Exoticca

Exoticca’s Mexico tours take care of your essential travel arrangements. Expect a hassle-free holiday and focus on having a memorable time . 

All included: Flights, hotels, tours & transfers

Enjoy peace of mind when you book our packages. We organize your flights, hotels, tours, and transportation . Some itineraries also include meals. All you need to do is pack and have fun on your holiday.

Mexico partially or fully guided tours

We offer Mexico holiday packages in the form of fully or partially guided group tours. Passengers can choose between escorted, semi-escorted, fully guided, and independent tours . You can also arrange a private tour with our travel agents.

Created by our own travel experts

Exoticca’s team of travel specialists has meticulously designed over 300 distinct travel packages for 60 diverse global destinations. Our travel team uses their expertise to create the ultimate trips to Mexico .

We collaborate closely with local partners and seasoned guides at each location to ensure our passengers enjoy an effortless and unforgettable travel adventure. These local partners are the driving force behind our carefully curated tours and excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a passport to go to Mexico?

Tourists visiting Mexico must have a valid passport. A Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM) entry permit is also required. You can get it from the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).

Is Cancun or Cabo better?

Cancun is ideal if you’re looking to party, as it has more nightlife events than Cabo. The latter is better for sightseeing and adventure trips to Mexico. 

Which side of Mexico has better beaches?

The beaches in Mexico are a diver’s paradise. The Pacific Ocean offers big waves for surfers. The Gulf of Mexico beaches have clear waters and soft sand.

What do I need to do before traveling to Mexico?

Ensure you hold a valid passport. Find out about local laws, vaccination requirements, currency limits, and prohibited items. Ask your travel agent when booking your Mexico holiday package. 

Is Cabo or Puerto Vallarta better?

Puerto Vallarta and Cabo are perfect for people who love beaches and nature. The former is known for its food, culture, and history. The latter has better nightlife options.

Exoticca Travel Stories

Creating unforgettable memories, one traveller at a time

Chichen Itza · Mexico

Mexico essentials

If you want sunshine, super friendly locals, interesting culture and to see one of the seven wonders of the world go to Mexico! This trip with Exoticca was well-planned with good choices of local agents and hotels. I highly recommend.

UK (Exoticca UK)

Mexico Travel advice

Best time to visit Mexico

Events and festivals in mexico, food in mexico, shopping in mexico, mexico tourist attractions.

Agua Azul Waterfalls

Chichen Itza

Guadalajara

Monte Alban

Puerto Vallarta

Riviera Maya

San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Juan Chamula

San Miguel de Allende

Sumidero Canyon

Zinancantan

More information about mexico.

A huge country, located in the southern part of North America, Mexico ignites the imagination with images of Mariachi bands, idyllic beaches and mysterious Mayan Ruins , such as those of Chichen Itza, Tulum and Palenque . Mexico shares borders with the United States, Belize and Guatemala, and has coastlines on the Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, ensuring a fantastic mix of beach resorts, one of the country’s premier attractions. With a population numbering more than 120 million inhabitants, Mexico is a notoriously populous country and in fact the world’s largest Spanish-speaking nation.

The country is also home to one of the largest cities in the world, the sprawling metropolis of Mexico City, a high-altitude capital known for its 13th-century Aztec Templo Mayor and the baroque Catedral Metropolitana de México . Many package holidays to Mexico begin in this monumental city, although another must-see urban centre is the city of Guadalajara , which has a distinctly traditional Mexican atmosphere, and is known for its production of tequila . With a world-renowned cuisine, fantastic arts scene, modern cities, amazing archaeological sites and unspoiled beaches, especially along the Yucatan Peninsula , it is no wonder that holidays to Mexico are becoming increasingly popular.

History of Mexico

As one of the five cradles of civilisation , Mexico is perhaps most famous for the significance of its ancient communities and advanced Mesoamerican civilisations such as the Maya, Aztec and Teotihuacan. The Teotihuacan’s were among the first of Mexico’s major ancient civilisations, who began building their impressive capital near modern-day Mexico City in around 100 BC.

Without a doubt, the country’s most famous civilisation was the Mayans , who thrived between 250 and 900 AD , when they built elaborate cities, invented a calendar system and produced written languages. A tour of Mexico often includes the well-preserved ruins of the cities and temples built in this historic era. This civilisation is remembered for its pyramid temples and complex religious practices and their empire was centred in one geographical area covering all of the Yucatan Peninsula , modern-day Guatemala , Belize and parts of the Mexican states of Tabasco and Chiapas , as well as the western part of Honduras and El Salvador.

The size and organised nature of the civilisation ensured that it was relatively secure and was able to flourish for an impressively long period of time. Sadly, the Maya empire collapsed around the 10th century, possibly due to overpopulation and exhaustion of natural resources, shortly followed by the rise of the the later Aztec civilisation. The turning point for the history of Mexico came in the early 16th-century , with the arrival of Spanish Conquistadors , who colonised and took over a large proportion of the Aztec empire, with much of the indigenous population facing devastation from the onslaught of European diseases.

Following on from the conquistadors, missionaries arrived later in the century and converted many of the indigenous to Catholicism , marking a move away from the ancient religions and practices of Mexico’s great civilisations. The country was renamed ‘ New Spain’ by the colonists and acted as an important base for further Spanish exploration in the Americas. During the following centuries, modern Mexican culture developed, especially in the areas of architecture, traditions and identity. By the early 20th-century, the Mexican people were tired of the inequality that plagued their country and a 10-year revolution, between 1910 and 1920, resulted in a number of social reforms and eventually in the re-establishment of communal farming practices, an important part of Mexican heritage.

Today, it is clear that the struggles faced by the Mexican people have fostered a strong sense of national identity and a huge amount of pride in the people for their ancient roots. A multi-centre holiday to Mexico is the most popular way to experience the different sides of life in the country, and the history which has shaped it.

Nature in Mexico

If Mexico’s fascinating history is not appealing enough, then its abundant nature and biodiversity is sure to impress you. In fact, Mexico is one of just 17 ‘Megadiverse’ countries in the world and the natural wealth of its wildlife and ecosystems are one of the major attractions for visitors on a holiday to Mexico. An amazing 707 reptile, 438 mammals and 26,000 plant species can be found in the country and the 34 biosphere reserves and 67 national parks serve to protect and support these impressive populations in the 4th most biodiverse country in the world. Native species include spider monkeys, vaquita porpoise sea cows, an endangered species found in the Gulf of California , ocelots, the rare Quetzal bird and the Mexican grey wolf.

Mexico is home to environments ranging from mountains to rainforests, volcanoes, deserts, reefs and mystical cenotes, and each environment has its own unique activities, wildlife and attractions to enjoy. From whale-watching on the Yucatan Peninsula to marvelling at swarms of Monarch butterflies in the Rosario Sanctuary of Anganguero and wildlife spotting in the Lacandona Jungle, Mexico’s natural abundance can be experienced in any number of ways. Admiring the Copper Canyon and its unique geological formations in Chihuahua, enjoying a boat ride on Lake Chapala, the largest freshwater lake in the country and visiting the petrified waterfalls of Oaxaca’s Hierve el Agua or the firefly forests of Tlaxcala are just some of the most unmissable experiences on a tour of Mexico.

Culture in Mexico

The three colours of Mexico’s flag hold important messages about Mexican identity; green represents the hope and victory of the people, white represents the purity of the country’s ideals and red represents the bloodshed of the nation's heroes, who fought for the freedom of their country.

Mexican culture is much loved around the world and known for its lively traditions and exciting music scene. Religion plays a big role in the lives of everyday people, especially Christianity , and there are a number of important Mexican saints, whilst traditional festivals, such as the Day of the Dead have ignited the imaginations of millions worldwide. On the Day of the Dead, a celebration held annually on the 2nd November, families gather together to remember their deceased relatives and to help their loved ones in their spiritual journey.

Households often decorate an altarpiece with offerings and photos of their passed relatives. The blend of both indigenous and Spanish influences has resulted in a rich gastronomic tradition and a wealth of folk arts and crafts, characterised by colourful embroidery, pottery and woven baskets and rugs. Mexico is also well known for producing a number of world-renowned artists, such as Frida Kahlo, known for her iconic self-portraits and surrealist modern art, and her husband Diego Riviera , famed for his murals and depictions of life in Mexico.

A package tour to Mexico will open your eyes to the rich culture, amazing biodiversity and fascinating history of this huge country as you walk through atmospheric temple ruins, swim in the turquoise waters of the many mystic cenotes or taste Tequila in its place of origin. After the excitement of visiting the country’s sights and attractions, relaxing on the tranquil beaches of the Riviera Maya whilst listening to the rhythms of the Mariachi band is the perfect way to unwind.

What to know before travelling to Mexico

Entry requirements

Passport with a minimum of six months validity.

No visa is required. Departure tax from Cancun is 1000 pesos (around 55$).

UTC - 06:00 to UTC - 08:00.

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Electricity

127 V. Adapter required.

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Free support for tourists by calling 078.

Please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis.

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Our tour to Mexico

Ancient pyramids, hidden cenotes, unknown canyons, one of the best cuisine on the planet, unique parties in the world, and the warmth of a people with a big heart: viva Mexico!

Mexico 360°: Cancun, Holbox and Mayan Ruins

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Mexico Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in Mexico by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in Mexico will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

112 Mexico small group tours with 327 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Wonders of the Maya

This tour was AMAZING. Daniel, our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about all the Mayan sites we visited. He also did ALL THE WORK of securing admission tickets so that we did not have to wait in any long lines. Along the way, he took us to some wonderful & always delicious restaurants for lunch. He also advised us on good places to eat dinner in each of our hotel stays. What's more, he advised in several places to eat at the hotel since walking into the urban areas

• Food & Culinary
• Christmas & New Year

Mexico Real Food Adventure

Victor was an excellent guide, extremely knowable and very entertaining. Would very much enjoy another tour with his guidance.

Best of Chiapas and Yucatan

I loved this tour; it was a great mix of natural beauty and historical sites. The tour of the indigenous area was fantastic and done with sensitivity. The hotels were very good and in good locations with breakfast provided. On the one day we needed to leave very early, the breakfast stop was very good. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, and the pick-ups were punctual. There were a number of guides and drivers, however it was well co-ordinated. There is a lot of driving, very windy roads through mountainous areas in Chiapas, however the scenery was fabulous.

Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights

Great. Exceeded our expectations Selected experiences were all highlights. Hotels fine - some minor niggles but no worries. Big rave for Alejandro - our guide. Just made the trip so alive and interesting.

Viva Mexico Tour - 11 Days

Excellent tour! The tour program was really interesting. The guide was great. We stayed in hotels right in the historical city centers. Everything was well explained. We are happy with the tour and this adventure, thanks!

• Sightseeing

Colonial Treasures of Mexico

This trip was excellent thanks to our tour guide and driver. However, the previous handling and sending of the vouchers was very bad. We got them only on the day of departure!!! This is not possible!

Yucatan Peninsula Adventure (including Bacalar)

8 Days Tailor-Made Best Mexico Tour, Daily Start

Our guide Enrique and driver Riccardo we’re both very accomodating and provided great support making our trip stress free. At every stop Enrique checked accomodation, explained breakfast, meals and checked the room. His knowledge of each site and the historical context of significant events was exceptional. We would highly recommend this trip with this guide and driver

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

The Taste of Mexico

It a good experience , I can discovery everything about Mexico , I love this tour but not for a family with small children ... I love Mexico city , Can Cun and Chic chen iza

Unconventional Mexico City & Magical Towns

Viva Mexico

Mexico was a trip worth seeing, full of new insights and experiences. From the Mayans, the Mexican old or new culture to just hanging out by the pool, it was all there. The tour group was quite small and our group guide Ethan led us through the tour with many facts, hints and even more humor. A trip you will not forget so quickly!

• Educational

MEXICO COLONIAL CITIES

Colonial Circuit: México City, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende - 10 days

Locations were excellent. Gabriella spent alot of time with me at age 75, traveling with 60 year old and 30 years old Mexicali men. She had to first speak Spanish, then English. She also took me where I was interested - political protests, Aztec Temple Mexico City. She changed schedule for me as late in afternoons I was worn out. Hotel Royal and Morelia had no English speaking staff most of the time. Hotel Royal, both rooms had mattress deflated in middle. I had trouble figuring 20 % tip based on $1800 tour cost using ATM. Told her I'd send to her when I returned home. My bank advised me against Western Union or some such device saying easily rigged. She was excellent for me, though.

Premium Mexico in Depth

5 Days Customized Mexico Trip, Daily Start & Private Guide

Reviews of small group tours to mexico.

This tour was AMAZING. Daniel, our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable about all the Mayan sites we visited. He also did ALL THE WORK of securing admission tickets so that we did not have to wait in any long lines. Along the way, he took us to some wonderful & always delicious restaurants for lunch. He also advised us on good places to eat dinner in each of our hotel stays. What's more, he advised in several places to eat at the hotel since walking into the urban areas

Mexico was amazing. Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca were such great places to visit and eat. Huatulco was a bit touristy and cruise ship town for my liking. The food, markets, arts and sightseeing were totally worth it. I would recommend arriving early and staying on after to visit thermal springs or tour bays and waterfalls.

Generally very interesting, quite well organized, hotels decent (by general Latin American standards), and food good. Guides a mixed bag - some barely speak, others are a wealth of info. All kept us safe though, which is most important in this area. One guide unfortunately made an offhand racist comment towards the end of his tour, which unfortunately colored our whole perception of his commentary. I spoke with him about this and he did not apologize, but agreed to rethink his opinion. I've traveled to over 60 countries and unfortunately this is just something you encounter every now and then. In general I recommend the tour.

• Mexico Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Mexico Vacation Packages 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Travelling to Mexico from the UK: Travel Guide

Mystical Mayan ruins, out-of-this-world beaches, amazing cuisine... These are just a few of the reasons UK nationals visit Mexico each year.

But what do you need to know before visiting? What COVID-19 requirements and restrictions are in place? Are there places you shouldn't visit?

In this article we'll outline essential information for those travelling to Mexico from the UK.

Travel: UK to Mexico - Do I need a visa?

Under the tourist visa on arrival scheme, the maximum length of stay is 180 days for a UK national. However, you might not be granted the full period; check the ‘Temporalidad’ section of the visa stamp to find out how long you can stay.

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.

If you lose your passport, you'll need to pay 600 Mexican Pesos to replace the entry stamp.

Mexico Tourist Card: What is it?

The entry immigration form - or Mexico Tourist Card - should be completed before arrival. While some airlines hand out this immigration form, not all do.

It's quicker and easier to complete the form online, then print out the Tourist Card.

To quote the official Mexico Tourist Card site: "All you need is your passport, flight information, address or name of the hotel where you are staying, and a printer..."

Mexico travel advice: COVID-19 requirements?

• Visitors must be vaccinated
• Covid-19 testing is not required
• Quarantine not required
• Masks recommended in enclosed public spaces including public transport.
• The UK government website states "There are no COVID-19 specific entry requirements regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status."

Are there places I shouldn't go in Mexico?

Yes. Gov.uk has published a map of areas that "The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to".

See the map here . This page also provides further Mexico travel advice. 

The FCDO may advise against visiting certain cities and states - such as Chihuahua and Sinaloa - but with exceptions.

The Mexican Government has dedicated resources to protecting tourist resort areas such as Cancun, but it's still possible to become a victim of robbery, assault and vehicle hijacking.

The FCDO strongly advises visitors not to become involved with drugs, since "Drug related crime and violence is prevalent and is on the increase."

Hurricane season in Mexico

Hurricane season runs from June to November and is likely to impact both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Flooding, landslides, and transport disruption are all possible - and can occur many hundreds of miles from storm epicentres.

Travel insurance for Mexico

The FCDO strongly urges UK visitors to take out comprehensive travel insurance .

Be sure you understand what is and isn't covered by your policy – e.g., will it cover medical costs if you fall ill with Covid-19?

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Mexico set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Mexico’s embassy or consulate in the UK.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Mexico.

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting Mexico, your passport should be valid for the length of your stay in Mexico.

Visa requirements

If you’re visiting Mexico as a tourist, you do not need a visa.

You’ll get a stamp in your passport with the number of days you are allowed to stay.

British Nationals entering Mexico by land must fill out an immigration form online .

Employment, voluntary work, research and eco activities

Tourists cannot undertake voluntary (including human rights) work, or activity, or any form of paid employment. To carry out this type of work, you must get the correct visa from the Mexican embassy before you travel.

You may need a visa for some adventure or ecotourism activities like caving, potholing or entomology, especially if they involve any scientific or technological research. The Mexican authorities may define scientific or technological research activities far more broadly than other countries. If in doubt, check with the Mexican Embassy in London well before your visit and ask for written confirmation if necessary.

Applying for a visa

For information on how to apply for a visa while in the UK read the Mexican Embassy in the UK website .

For information on applying for a visa while in Mexico, read the Mexican government website .

Entering Mexico via the USA

If you’re crossing the border into Mexico from the USA, and there isn’t an immigration officer at the port of entry to issue your visa on arrival or give you an entry stamp, find the nearest immigration office to get your passport stamped before continuing your journey into Mexico. Customs officials at the border should be able to tell you where to find the immigration office – it’s usually close to the border. If you don’t clear immigration correctly at this point, it is often more complicated to do so once you have left the border area.

If you are travelling to or from Mexico via the USA, even if you are only transiting, check the latest USA entry requirements on our USA travel advice or with the US Embassy in London . If you do not have the correct authorisation, you will not be allowed to travel to or transit through the USA.

Check with your closest US embassy or consulate for more information.

The immigration service has installed e-gates in some terminals of the main international airports. You can use them if you are a tourist aged 18 or over. Make sure you collect the ticket printed by the e-gate as you will need to present it when exiting the country.

You can get digital proof of entry and how long you are allowed to stay in Mexico, by downloading it from the Portal de Servicios del INM website within the first 60 days of your visit.

Entry tax for the state of Quintana Roo

The state of Quintana Roo charges all visitors a tax. You can pay before or during your stay on the VISITAX web portal , available in English. You can get help with the web portal at Cancun Airport. You must show proof of payment at the airport before leaving.

Travelling with children

If you are accompanying a child, you may be asked for:

• evidence of your relationship with the child– for example, a birth or adoption certificate, divorce or marriage certificates, a Parental Responsibility Order
• the reason why you are travelling with them

Dual nationals

Children with dual nationality of Mexico who are travelling without a parent or legal guardian must apply for a permit to leave the country.

Accommodation, funds and proof of departure

Mexican immigration officials may ask to see proof of your departure plans from Mexico before allowing you into Mexico. You may also need to:

• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation
• prove that you have enough money for your stay

If you have been invited to stay in someone’s home, immigration officials may also ask for a ‘letter of invitation’ from the person you’re visiting. This should include as much information as possible, including the host and travellers:

• contact details
• address while in Mexico
• reason for visit

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can bring into and take out of Mexico. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Check whether you will need to declare anything on arrival to customs officials – read the guidance from the Mexican government (in Spanish) . If you have goods to declare, you must fill in an online form before travelling to Mexico. If you do not declare goods, they may be seized, and you may be fined.

Leaving Mexico

To leave Mexico, you must show your passport with the stamp showing the number of days you were allowed to stay.

If you lose your passport, you must pay a fee to replace the entry stamp. The fee is approximately 600 Mexican pesos, to be paid at a bank. Migration officers do not accept cash. You can replace the stamp at the immigration office at any international airport in Mexico or start the replacement process online on the Mexican government website . You’ll be told how to pay by the immigration officials.

False immigration officers can operate in international airports. Always refuse offers of help and head directly to the immigration office.

Departure tax

You may need to pay a departure tax when leaving Mexico by air or land. The cost can vary, and some airports or border crossings only accept cash. Most airlines include the cost within the ticket price. If in doubt, check with your airline or tour operator.

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Mexico Entry Requirements for British Citizens

Mexico Visa Needed

(for stays of up to 180 days)

Tourist Card (FMM) Needed

(if traveling by land)

Citizens of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland must meet a few simple entry requirements to travel to Mexico.

UK passport holders do not need a Mexican visa for short-term visits. However, they must get the Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) , often referred to as the Mexico tourist card for Brits , if they’re entering by land.

Find out more about Mexico’s travel requirements for UK citizens in the information below.

What Do UK Citizens Need to Enter Mexico?

There are a few mandatory documents for British citizens heading to Mexico. The following items are required:

• Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) for land travel
• Valid UK passport — the expiry date must be at least 6 months after entering Mexico

The information on the FMM must match the British passenger’s passport.

Mexican immigration officials may ask to see additional documentation from Brits arriving by air.

UK passport holders may enter visa-free when staying for less than 180 days. However, this only applies to visits for tourism or business.

To work, study, volunteer, or visit for other activities , you’ll need to have the relevant type of Mexican visa for British citizens.

Mexico FMM for UK Nationals

The main entry requirement for British tourists and business travelers coming to Mexico by land is the FMM. You can get your FMM through this site.

Despite being referred to as a “tourist card”, the FMM is required by UK nationals visiting for business, in addition to being needed for holidays .

The specifications of the FMM for UK citizens are as follows:

• Valid for a single entry
• Allow visits of up to 180 days
• Consists of 2 parts — when reaching the Mexico border, local authorities will keep a part of the travel document, while UK visitors will be given the other part (slip of paper). The latter must be kept by travelers during the whole trip and be presented when leaving Mexico.

FMM requirements for UK Nationals

To apply, travelers from the UK must simply enter a few details into a brief online form, which can be found on our site. Once registered, the FMM is delivered by email.

Brits will need the following items to complete the FMM application online:

• A current UK passport with a remaining validity of at least 6 months at the time of arriving in Mexico
• A completed Mexican FMM application form registered to the British passport
• A credit or debit card with sufficient funds to pay online the processing fee of the Mexican tourist card
• An accessible email account, to receive notifications about the Forma Migratoria Múltiple

British travelers must show the FMM and UK passport to the authorities upon arrival at the border of Mexico to be allowed to enter.

Documents required to entry Mexico for British travelers

In addition to a UK passport and an FMM, Mexican immigration officials may also ask to see the following :

• Proof of intent to leave the country, such as an onward/return ticket
• Accommodation booking
• Proof of funds to support yourself while staying in Mexico

British visitors who are planning to stay with a friend or relative in Mexico may be asked to provide their address and/or a letter of invitation .

Brits who have goods to declare on arrival in Mexico will need to fill in a customs form beforehand .

Traveling to Mexico with a UK Emergency Travel Document

Mexico accepts UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) instead of a normal UK passport for the following:

• Airside transit

Passengers traveling with a UK ETD will still need an FMM .

UK emergency passports should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry to Mexico.

When leaving Mexico, the ETD must have an entry stamp . If the stamp you received on entry to Mexico has been lost, go to the immigration office at any Mexican international airport to replace it.

The British Embassy in Mexico

The British Embassy in Mexico City is the main diplomatic mission to Mexico and houses the offices of the British ambassador. It also provides consular services to British nationals abroad.

If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged while staying in Mexico, you can apply for a replacement or an emergency travel document from the British Embassy.

The Embassy can also provide assistance to British citizens on other matters. These include preparing or certifying documents, helping find services in Mexico, and giving general information.

We advise Brits traveling to Mexico to register with the Embassy to receive important information. You’ll also have a line of assistance in case of emergency.

Paseo de la Reforma, Torre de Angel 350-Piso 20

06600 Ciudad de México

British Embassy Updates for UK Citizens

British citizens may now easily register with the UK embassy in Mexico. This service allows you to enjoy extra peace of mind by receiving up-to-date information about security and safety in the country.

• Get the latest information from the UK Government to help plan a trip to Mexico.
• Be traced easily if an exceptional situation occurs, such as a natural disaster.
• Allow friends and family to get in contact quickly if emergencies occur at home.

British passengers can easily choose this service when getting a Mexican tourist card. Simply select the option for British Embassy registration on the application form payment page of this website.

British Consulates in Mexico

In addition to the British Embassy in Mexico City, the United Kingdom also has a Consulate General in Cancun . This diplomatic mission provides consular services to Brits living in or visiting the States of Yucatan and Quintana Roo.

ETA UK for Mexican citizens

United kingdom eta requirements from mexico.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Mexican citizens is part of the UK government’s plan to digitalize its borders.

The UK ETA visa waiver will soon be mandatory for Mexicans travelling to the UK without a visa.

Applying for a UK ETA from Mexico is simple. Read on for all the conditions and requirements to apply online .

Do Mexican citizens need a visa to enter the UK?

Mexican tourists, business travellers, and students do not need a visa to enter the UK for up to 6 months. This is not about to change .

The only difference is that Mexicans will need to register online for an ETA before travelling to the UK. The ETA is for foreign visitors from visa-exempt countries.

With the ETA, Mexican passport holders can continue to enjoy short visa-free stays in the United Kingdom.

A UK visa for Mexicans is required to stay more than 6 months or for purposes such as work or long-term study.

Meeting the UK ETA requirements from Mexico

These are the UK ETA requirements Mexicans need to meet:

• Valid passport (use the same one to apply for the ETA and travel to the United Kingdom)
• Active email address to receive the approved ETA
• Pay the ETA processing fee via credit or debit card
• Comply with the ETA conditions regarding permitted stay in the UK
• Travel to the UK with the ETA only for approved travel reasons

How to apply for an ETA for the UK from Mexico

Applying for the UK ETA from Mexico is straightforward. Travellers have to fill in an online UK ETA application form, pay the processing fee, and wait for the approved ETA to be sent to their email address.

In the online application form , the following information will be required:

• Personal details: full name, date of birth, nationality
• Passport details: number, issuing country, date of issuance and expiry
• Contact details: home address, phone number, email address
• Travel plans

Note : To avoid processing delays, applicants are encouraged to ensure that all the information provided is accurate . Spelling mistakes or other inaccuracies may even lead to rejection of the UK ETA.

ETA processing takes approximately 72 hours.

UK ETA documents required for Mexican citizens

To be eligible to apply for the UK ETA from Mexico , travellers must have:

• A biometric passport
• A credit or debit card
• An active email address

ETA UK benefits for Mexican visitors

The following are the main benefits of the UK ETA for Mexican visitors :

• Easy application form available entirely online
• Fast processing
• Faster border controls upon entry into the UK
• Improved border safety for both foreigners and nationals

Travel from Mexico to the UK

The UK ETA will contribute to the implementation of digital borders in the UK . To enter the country, holders of the UK ETA will simply need to scan their passports.

There are several direct connections from Mexico to the UK , including flights to London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow.

UK embassy in Mexico

British Embassy in Mexico City, Mexico

Address: Rio Lerma 71, Col Cuauhtémoc

06500 Mexico City, Mexico

Additionally, the UK has two consulates in Acapulco and Cancun and three representative offices in Guadalajara, Monterrey and Tijuana.

In the UK, Mexican travellers can contact the embassy in London or one of the four consulates in Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow and Manchester. Below is the address of the Mexican embassy in the UK:

Mexican Embassy in London, United Kingdom

Address: 16 St. George Street, Hanover Square

London W1S 1FD, United Kingdom

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On the path of Latin America's greatest wildlife migration

In the highland forests of Michoacán, Mexico, nature tours are helping local communities safeguard millions of monarch butterflies that arrive each winter — an important migratory phenomenon that’s remained unchanged since its discovery was published in National Geographic in the 1970s.

‘I gazed in amazement at the sight’ reads a photocopy of a 1976 National Geographic article on my lap. The words are bouncing on the page as the truck flies over steep mountain roads, but I can’t stop reading. ‘Butterflies — millions upon millions of monarch butterflies!’

The monarch’s wintering home — a mystery to scientists until the 1970s — was confirmed when Canadian zoologist Fred Urquhart and American entomologist Lincoln Brower were called to the northern Michoácan mountains in early 1976. Urquhart had spent 30 years studying their winter migration and the discovery made the cover of National Geographic a few months later, with a feature written by him.   Almost 50 years on, I’m making the same journey to Mexico’s Central Highlands, hoping to see the world’s greatest insect migration for myself. These days it’s possible to take a tour. I’ve joined a five-day trip to El Rosario and Sierra Chincua, two UNESCO-protected sanctuaries in the Highlands. Between November and March, they become the wintering grounds for millions of monarch butterflies seeking refuge from the freezing temperatures in North America.  

Our open-air truck rattles on a cobbled road as we climb to 9,850 feet above sea level. Now and again I get a glimpse of the mighty Sierra Madre: a chain of densely forested mountains cloaked in wisps of pearl-coloured fog, or perhaps smoke from a village cooking fire.

Cowboys ride the cobbled streets on horseback, trailed by dogs that look like polar bears. At El Rosario, we mount horses to help us reach the monarch colony. When the steep, muddy trail opens into a clearing, we dismount and continue on foot. Raindrops hang from pine needles like icicles and I see a flash of green and red as a white-eared hummingbird sips on nectar.  

With every step, the number of dead or drowsy butterflies resting on the forest floor multiplies. Their wings, thin as parchment paper, are a deep orange with black veins and white spots along the edges. “We’re getting close,” whispers one of our guides, Eric Ramirez.  

Up ahead, I spot enormous native oyamel fir trees covered in a strange textured shadow that runs along the trees’ midriffs, like an embroidered dress woven in grey and pale orange threads; their branches droop and sway with great effort in the wind. “We’re here,” says Eric, excitement ringing in his voice.  

It takes me a moment to realise but, just as Urquhart had described, thousands of monarchs are clinging to the trees in thick clumps with wings closed tight, like a beehive protecting its queen. While a single monarch weighs less than a gram, their combined weight is heavy enough to warp the branches of an ancient oyamel tree. Despite never visiting this forest before — it takes at least four or five generations of monarchs to complete the round-trip from North America to central Mexico — the butterflies return to the same group of fir trees every year, huddling in ‘roosts’, to minimise predation.

“It’s a mystery how they know where to go,” Eric tells me as we take a closer look through a telescope. “Brower had a theory that they use magnetite crystals in the earth to navigate, but we don’t know for certain.”

The next morning, 11 miles north in the butterfly sanctuary of Sierra Chincua, the sun pierces through the clouds, warming the monarchs’ wings and sending them fluttering into the air. Their deep orange sets the blue sky ablaze, as if someone has lit a million pieces of paper on fire and dropped them from a plane.

Surrounded, I’m sure I can hear their wings beating through the air, like a whisper in my ear.“If you’re quiet enough, you can hear them talking,” says a man next to me. He’s a mezcal producer from the nearby city of Zitacuaro, visiting with his family. I ask who he means by ‘them’. “Our ancestors,” he responds.  

Monarchs often arrive in Mexico around Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead; 1 -2 November), a time when Mexicans believe the departed can rejoin their families for feasting and celebration. The timing led the Purépecha — an Indigenous group that settled in Michoacán around the 11th century — to believe monarchs were the souls of their ancestors returning to Earth.  

“You think this is beautiful,” says Diego Gonzalez, our guide in Sierra Chincua, as the butterflies flutter back to their branches. “I remember when we had 400 trees full of monarchs — you couldn’t see the sky there were so many.”

It’s difficult to believe while I’m surrounded by thousands of them, but monarch butterflies are at their lowest-ever numbers. According to WWF, their population has declined by 90% in the last two decades due to illegal logging in Mexico, the use of herbicides in the US and Canada, and extreme weather conditions caused by global warming.

Conservation organisations such as WWF and the Monarch Butterfly Fund are working with land owners and governments to reduce deforestation and protect the monarchs’ wintering grounds. Sustainable wildlife tourism — the most obvious alternative to logging — could be part of the solution.  

“We know monarch populations can bounce back quickly given the chance,” says Fernando Romo, who’s been guiding monarch tours like this one for Natural Habitat Adventures, WWF’s official tourism partner, in Michoacán, for over 20 years. “I’ve noticed big changes in the town of Angangueo — more children are going to school, houses are in better condition, and there’s very little illegal logging within the sanctuaries now. That’s all down to tourism.”

Whether the only known butterfly migration on Earth will still exist in another 50 years is uncertain. But, for now, Mexico’s conservation efforts and the commitment of local communities gives me some hope for the monarchs’ survival.

Related Topics

• WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
• BUTTERFLIES
• ANIMAL MIGRATION

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U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.