mexico tour budget

The Cost of Travel in Mexico: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

Ask me about my favourite country in the world and I’ll tell you about Mexico.

I’ve been fortunate to have visited over a hundred countries during my past decade of travel, but it’s Mexico that never fails to leave me swooning.

I love this country so much that I can’t recommend a visit highly enough. Not only is Mexico full of beautiful scenery, world-class beaches, and wonderful locals, but it’s relatively inexpensive, too. And the food . The tacos! Mexico is worth visiting for the food alone. And yes, I want to reassure you that it is safe to visit.

As I write this now, in January 2024, I’ve spent a whopping seven months in Mexico and I’m currently planning on returning for another three. Over that time, I spent months living in a hippie beach town on the Pacific Coast, several weeks in the central mountain ranges, and two months making my way around the Yucatan. In other words, I’ve seen a hell of a lot of this incredible country, and I’m excited to share this detailed budget breakdown with you all.

Because while I’ve been making my way across this wonderful country, I’ve also been tracking every single peso I’ve spent.

If you’re wondering how much it costs to travel in Mexico, let’s jump in.

The Cost of Accommodation in Mexico

I’ll kick things off by focusing on my backpackers and budget travellers out there. If that’s you, you’ll be glad to hear that you can get by in Mexico on very little. Note that all the prices I mention below are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

Cheap Accommodation

As in many parts of the world, hostels are one of the best low-cost accommodation options. Mexico has hostels in most major city and towns across the country, and they’re one of the best ways of saving money while still making friends. I always recommend staying in hostels if you’re going to be travelling alone!

Hostels in Mexico are similarly priced to those in Central America, so you can get by on not very much at all. You can expect to spend around $15-25 a night for a dorm bed in a well-rated hostel, or around $60 for a private room . If you’re travelling as part of a couple, you may find you end up spending a similar amount for a private room versus just getting two beds in a dorm.

Airbnb is another option worth keeping in mind, as staying in a private room ( not renting out the entire apartment!) with a local can often work out to be more affordable than spending a night in a hostel, especially if you’re a couple. Head on over to the Airbnb website and it’s not hard to find accommodation for $30 a night . You’ll be more comfortable than you would be in a hostel, receive faster internet, and will get to hang out with the locals, which is what travel’s all about! 

Free Accommodation

If you’re on a really tight budget, there are options in Mexico that mean getting to explore the country for  free . Couchsurfing has been a budget travel staple for over a decade now, and there are  hundreds of thousands of hosts  across the country. You’ll be able to stay for free with a local and gain an insight into life in Mexico that’s tough to experience when staying with other travellers in hostels.

Housesitting  is a more upmarket option, aimed at mid-range and luxury travellers. Housesitting involves taking care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, often (but not always) looking after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees, as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you’ll need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, though it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you can also check out  WorldPackers (use promo code neverendingfootsteps for a $10 discount). Through the site, you’ll receive totally free accommodation (and often food) in exchange for a few hours of work each day.

Think: working in a hostel, helping with gardening, or even taking care of alpacas. You’ll likely make tons of new friends, learn a new skill, and, depending on where you end up, see a side of Mexico that few travellers get to experience. 

My Accommodation Recommendations in Mexico

Tulum: Ah, Tulum. It has a reputation for being expensive, but bargains can still be had. Casa Almendro comes in at $51 a night — a steal for Tulum — and still manages to have the amenities of a luxury hotel. You’re within walking distance of the centre of Tulum, so finding a restaurant becomes a hell of a lot easier. You’ve got a kickass rooftop area with hammocks to lounge in. It’s directly opposite a market, so you can easily buy produce from there to cook, if you feel like eating in one night. And you can even rent bicycles to help you explore Tulum in more depth , something I can’t recommend doing highly enough.

Puerto Vallarta: I could say this about everywhere I’ve visited in Mexico, but I love Puerto Vallarta. It’s so much fun! With a great beach and delicious food, it combines the two best aspects of Mexican life. But where to stay? I stayed in Garlands del Rio at $88 a night , and loved its laidback vibe right on the river. There’s a lovely pool and bar area, and honestly, I wish everywhere offered me chips and salsa and a margarita on arrival like this place does! The owner seems determined to make everyone’s stay as perfect as possible, and when you do leave the hotel, restaurants, bars, and the city’s famous beach are all close by.

Mexico City: If there’s one thing you need to know about Mexico City, it’s that it’s large. And choosing a hotel — and indeed a neighbourhood — can be overwhelming. I recommend going for a place in Coyoacán, and in particular, I love what  Finca Coyoacán has to offer, at a price of $83 a night . You’ll be in the perfect place to explore the markets and restaurants of Coyoacán , and be able to retreat each nice to a safe haven with a super-comfortable bed, friendly staff, and even free fruit to snack on! There’s a reason why this is one of the best-rated properties in the entire city!

Oaxaca: When it comes to Oaxaca, I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere other than La Betulia , which comes in at $137 a night . It’s in one of my favourite areas of the city, just a few minutes away from the iconic Santa Domingo church, yet is still quiet enough for you to feel as though you’re worlds away from the city. And the breakfasts? Too good! What I love about La Betulia is that they offer up Mexican dishes for breakfast, in addition to the more Western flavours, so you’ll get to dive into the country’s cuisine and eat as the locals do. With some of the most welcoming locals in the city, beautiful rooms, and a propensity for attracting guests that fast become friends, there’s no wonder I can’t stop singing its praises!

Isla Mujeres: I stayed at the phenomenal Casa Barco Hotel while I was in Isla Mujeres; easily the best properties on the entire island! At a price of $130 a night , it’s also one of the best-value options in town (Isla Mujeres is pricey). It’s located in the north of the island, within walking distance to the one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen in Mexico. The staff were absolutely wonderful here and offered up some great food recommendations for our stay. And that swimming pool? So picturesque!

The Cost of Transportation in Mexico

Mexico’s a big country, but fortunately, it’s home to a solid public transportation system.

The bus is one of my favourite ways to explore the country, and it’s one of the cheapest, too. If you’re going to be travelling south of Mexico City, I can’t recommend the bus company ADO enough. They run luxury buses throughout this part of the country, offering comfortable reclining seats, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. They’re seriously up-market buses and well-worth paying for. I include some of their prices at the end of this section.

For smaller distances, you’ll be able to utilise colectivos , which are minivans that fit around 12 people. Just jump on board, tell the driver where you want to go, wait for the other people to get in, and then stop when you’re at your stop. They’re very affordable. I travelled by colectivo between Playa del Carmen and Akumal (M$40/$2.50)  and it as super-efficient, easy to use, and reasonably comfortable.

Unfortunately, trains don’t really exist in Mexico, with a couple of exceptions. Something that’s been on my Mexico wishlist for a while now is the Copper Canyon Railway, which runs through Mexico’s Copper Canyon and takes around 16 hours. There’s also a train that runs between Guadalajara and Tequila, which is known as the Tequila Express. Aside from those two journeys, though, you won’t be riding the rails while you’re in Mexico.

Once you’re on the ground, taxis are prevalent and Uber is available in several major destinations, like Mexico City, Cancun, Guanajuato, Tijuana, and Puerto Vallarta. There’s also the Cabify app, which works the same way as Uber. If you take regular cabs, you can expect to pay anywhere from M$10 to M$50 per km  depending on where you are in Mexico: as with basically every country in the world, expect to have a struggle to find a taxi driver that’s using their meter!

If you’re confident about driving in another country, you could always look into renting a car to explore the country. I have several friends who have done this and were surprised by how safe it felt to do so. They had no major incidents! A week-long car hire out of Cancun costs $110 for an economy option , so the prices aren’t too bad. I use  Skyscanner to find the cheapest car rentals.

Finally, I want to talk about flying in Mexico. If the distances are large (say you want to travel from Puerto Vallarta to Cancun), it makes more sense to fly. Mexico is a vast country and overland distances can take many days. I flew from Guanajuato to Cancun to save on the journey time and it ended up costing just $74 .

Here are some typical overland transportation costs you’ll come up against while you’re travelling in Mexico:

• Bus ride from Cancun Airport to Tulum: M$420 ($25)
• Bus ride from Tulum to Playa del Carmen: M$120 ($7)
• Bus ride from Playa del Carmen to Valladolid: M$250 ($15)
• Bus ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca: M$419 ($25)
• Bus ride from Mexico City to Puebla: M$174 ($11)
• Bus ride from Puerto Vallarta to Sayulita: M$55 ($3.50)
• Ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel: M$280 ($17)

The Cost of Food in Mexico

If the food doesn’t end up being the highlight of your time in Mexico, I’ll be more than shocked. After all, I’m the person who regularly plans trips to Mexico for the sole reason of eating as much food as possible.

In fact, Mexico is my number one country in the world for eating.

And most exciting of all? The local food in Mexico is so cheap! You can get by on $1-2 a meal if you’re on a tight budget, but if you’re willing to splurge, you’ll be looking at paying as much as $10 per meal . It’s all so inexpensive. And delicious! Have I mentioned that it’s delicious?

One dish that you have to try in Mexico is cochinita pibil — it’s my favourite thing to eat in the country! Cochinita pibil is pulled pork shoulder that’s been slow-roasted and braised in achiote, orange juice, and lime. Throw some pickled onions on top, and you have the most incredible dish. It’s tender, tangy, full of flavour, and you can eat it in sandwiches and tacos for a dollar or two. You’ll find it everywhere in the Yucatan.

Tacos are probably going to fuel your Mexico sightseeing activities, as they’re cheap, delicious, and easy to find. You’ll eat them in a corn tortilla rather than a flour one that’s more popular in Western countries, and there are dozens of different flavours to choose from.

One of my favourites is tacos al pastor, which features schwarma-style pork and grilled pineapple, but I also love the chorizo, carnitas (deep-fried pork), and carne asada. In case you hadn’t realised, yes, I’m a big fan of pork.

Now, tempting as it is to live on tacos the entire time you’re in Mexico (I won’t judge you if you do), there are so many other great eating options that you really do need to try.

Let’s start with breakfast. And by breakfast, I mean chilaquiles. I’m not saying this is the healthy option, but I am definitely saying it is the delicious option. I mean, how could you not love fried tortillas, chopped up and covered with salsa, crumbled cheese, beans, eggs, and whatever else takes the chef’s fancy? There are many variations around the country, and I think I’ve just about tried them all at this point! You’ll pay $6-10 depending on what’s on it and where you are.

Most of the things that go inside a tortilla can be found inside bread as well: tortas are everywhere, and just as delicious. You won’t be shocked to hear that cocinita pibil is my favourite filling here as well, but I’ve had everything from chicken, beans, and fish to, famously once, chilaquiles. Dave and I still talk about that meal to this day. Expect to pay around $3 .

Tamales are also easily available, at least in some parts of the country. Look out for vendors standing over the distinctive streaming metal containers on street corners and then run, don’t walk, to grab yourself something incredible to eat.

Made from masa (a dough made from ground corn) and filled with chicken, pork, cheese, or beans, they’re wrapped in corn husk or banana leaf, then steamed in that metal container until they’re soft and delicious. I loved them on chilly afternoons in Guanajuato, but honestly, I’d eat them no matter the weather! They’re usually $1-2 each.

The Cost of Activities in Mexico

The cost of your activities are going to vary based on which part of the country you’re going to be visiting. In the Yucatan, much of your pesos will be spent on ruin-hopping and jungle-trekking; on the Pacific Coast, you’ll all about whale-watching and surfing.

These are the entrance fees (2024) to many of the popular attractions across the country:

• Entrance to Chichen Itza: M$614 ($36)
• Entrance to Coba ruins: M$100 ($6)
• Entrance to Tulum ruins: M$90 ($5.50) + national park fee of M$58 ($3.50) for most visitors
• Entrance to Cenote Dos Ojos: M$350 ($21)
• Entrance to Guanajuato’s Mummy Museum: M$97 ($6)
• Entrance to Mexico City’s National Museum of Anthropology:  M$95 ($6)
• Entrance to Oaxaca’s Hierve el Agua waterfalls:  M$50 ($3)
• Entrance to Mexico City’s Frida Kahlo Museum:  M$250-270 ($15-16)
• Entrance to a Lucha Libre wrestling match:  M$120+ ($7) depending on your seat and who is fighting

As you can see, most attractions are pretty reasonably priced.

Let’s now take a look at the typical activities you can do in Mexico, as well as their costs. Whenever I visit a country, I always make sure to check out the tours that are available on Get Your Guide . I book 99% of the tours I take through there.

Other activities include:

• Earlier entrance to Chichen Itza : $70
• Sightseeing and Snorkelling catamaran cruise from Cancun : $59
• Rio Secreto underground river tour : $89
• Luxury sailing and snorkelling tour from Cabo San Lucas : $111
• Mexico City market and street food tour : $105
• Jungle buggy tour from Playa del Carmen with cenote swimming : $105
• Snorkelling tour to the famous Marietas Islands from Puerto Vallarta : $121

Overall, then, if you’re going to be travelling to Mexico on a budget, you can see that the activities are really going to be where your costs start to increase. Still, I don’t think the prices for the tours are outrageous — they’re similar to what you’d pay in the U.S. — although they may be something you’ll want to skip out on if you’re watching your money.

The Cost of Miscellaneous Items in Mexico

Travel insurance:  If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Mexico. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

A dry bag: If you’re going to be hitting the beaches in Mexico or taking any boat trips, I highly recommend packing a dry bag  to take with you. A dry bag has saved me while travelling on so many occasions:

• On a kayaking trip from Koh Yao Noi to Koh Nok, in Thailand, a freak wave splashed over me, as well as my camera and phone. Had I not had them in a dry bag, the water damage would have likely destroyed them.
• On a ferry ride in Thailand, the boat sprung a leak and began to sink. I was able to put my laptop, camera, hard drive, passport, and money in my dry bag, seal it up, and know that they’d stay safe and dry if the worst were to happen.
• I chartered a yacht in Greece and when mooring in tiny bays, was able to fill my dry bag with my camera, towel, and sunscreen, jump in the sea, and swim to the nearest empty beach without worrying about keeping my belongings dry.
• I also think dry bags are fantastic for solo travellers on beach days. In French Polynesia, I filled mine with my valuables and took it for a swim with me, rather than having to leave them on my towel while hoping nobody would grab them.

I love all things Sea to Summit, and after trying several of their dry bags out, my favourite is the Ultra-Sil 8L — it’s durable, thin, lightweight, and has never let me down — I’ve been using it for over five years.

A GRAYL water purifier bottle: In countries with unsafe drinking water, I recommend picking up a  GRAYL water bottle  to save money on drinking while also helping protect the environment. This bottle comes complete with a filter that makes tap water safe to drink — you fill the bottle with water, slide the filter down to the bottom, then drink away. Doing so kills 99.9999% of all viruses, bacteria, and parasites in water and gets rid of any sediment, heavy metals, or weird flavours, making it completely safe to drink. You can drink tap water anywhere in the world with this bottle and not get sick — whether you’re in Mexico, Mozambique, or the Maldives! Trust me — I’ve used it in dozens of countries and never fallen unwell from doing so.

My Overall Travel Expenses in Mexico

My daily expenses for a mid-range month-long trip through Mexico:

Accommodation: $62 a day Transportation: $11.80 a day Food: $13.70 a day Activities: $12.38 a day

Total: $99.88 a day

Related Articles on Mexico 🏖 28 Incredible Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 🏝 24 Incredible Things to Do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico ☀️ Isla Mujeres: My Mexican Island Paradise 🌈 Guanajuato: The Prettiest City in Mexico 🐚 Tulum and the Best Beach Ever 🧐 A Love-Hate Relationship with Playa del Carmen 🙈 That Time I Stayed in a Hotel Without Walls 🏡 Finding An Apartment in Sayulita

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Love this post! I’m going to be spending three months in Mexico in 2020 and this gives me a good idea of what I can expect to spend. My question for you, if you had to choose to spend three months on the west cost, east coast, or central area, which would you choose? Not that I’m necessarily going to do that, but I’m curious to get your answer. Thanks! :)

This was so helpful!! Would you mind sharing where you found such good prices for staying in Oaxaca?

Thank you! I actually just walked around town looking for any signs advertising rooms for rent. I ended up staying in a small studio apartment owned by a local woman — so not anywhere you could book online. If you want to stay long-term, it’s best to turn up and ask around to get the best deals.

thank you for the post! my partner and I are going to mexico in January for 2 months and are in a tight budget, I’d love to know where its the best place that you’d recommend for us to go or which route. Also we have a workaway account to volunteer for a bit we were thinking around 3 weeks.

Soooooo useful! I can’t wait to get to Mexico and I’m so happy to see it’s not going to be anywhere near as expensive as I was expecting. Slow travel is always the way to go!

Have an amazing time in Mexico! :-)

Thank you for the valuable info!! Looking to travel for a few months in Jan. 2021 if safe to do so. Very interested in Oaxaco area. Kind Regards

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• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Mexico Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Mexico?

• How much does a one-week trip to Mexico cost?
• How much does a two-week trip to Mexico cost?
• How much does a one-month trip to Mexico cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Mexico

Visitors to Mexico usually spend between $46 and $405 per day on average for one person and $92 to $810 for two people. While this is a wide range, the average daily cost averages $130 (M$2,180) per person. This average includes sightseeing, hotel, food, and local transportation expenses from other travelers. Your individual travel expenses may vary based on travel style and the locations visited, but if you plan wisely while visiting the most popular destinations, such as Mexico City, Cancun, and Acapulco de Juarez, then you'll likely spend somewhere in this price range while on your trip. Further down we have a breakdown of expenses by category, as well as a comparison of independent travel versus guided tour prices.

If you're considering an independent trip to Mexico, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $46 (M$773) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $130 (M$2,180) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $405 (M$6,793), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Mexico from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Mexico .

How much does a one week trip to Mexico cost?

Most visitors spend between $323 and $2,836 for a one week trip to Mexico, with the average being $910. This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to visit one, two, or maybe three locations in Mexico, depending on how in-depth you want to make your visit. Some of the most popular places to visit are Mexico City , Cancun , and Acapulco de Juarez .

How much does a two week trip to Mexico cost?

With two weeks, you should budget between $646 and $5,672 for your trip to Mexico. The average price for a two week trip is $1,820. Two weeks will allow you enough time to visit between three and five places. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider some of the more affordable places such as Oaxaca de Juarez, Mazatlan, and Acapulco de Juarez.

How much does a one month trip to Mexico cost?

With a month-long trip to Mexico, expenses can be anywhere from $1,383 to $12,154 with the average being $3,900. The cost of travel is dependent on your overall style of travel. If you have a full month, you'll likely want to stay at a vacation rental with a kitchen during at least part of your trip so that you can prepare your own meals. Backpackers often prefer hostels for the same reason. Hostels also offer a more social atmosphere at a very affordable price range.

Hostel Prices in Mexico

With more than 390 hostels in Mexico, the average price is $15 per night for a dorm bed. Hostels are a terrific option for younger independent travelers looking to save money while staying social during their trip. With many types of hostels, it can be overwhelming to sort out the best places, though. Our analysis of the hostels in Mexico not only found the average price, but also uncovered some surprises about the overall quality, amenities, and atmosphere of hostels in the region. You can see more details from our analysis about typical hostel prices in Mexico here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Mexico.

• $9 for a dorm bed at Tower Bridge Hostel in Puerto Escondido more details
• $15 for a dorm bed at Suites DF Hostel in Mexico City more details
• $9 for a dorm bed at Posada del Abuelito in San Cristobal de las Casas more details

Hotel Prices in Mexico

You'll find a wide range of hotel options across Mexico. Below are prices for some of the destinations, and for more details see our analysis of hotel costs in Mexico .

Newport House Playa Boutique Hotel

Hotel historico central.

Should you do an organized tour or travel independently in Mexico?

Organized tours are an easy and convenient way to visit Mexico. All of the details are handled by travel experts, and during the trip you'll benefit from the knowledge of an expert guide.

Traveling independently offers freedom and flexibility that is hard to find on an organized tour.

Many travelers appreciate the convenience and ease that an organized tour offers. Many tours provide transportation and expert guides that help you enjoy your trip.

Alternatively, you'll enjoy freedom and flexibility with independent travel that is difficult to find with an organized tour.

Comparing Trip Costs in Mexico

When we compare the prices of organized tours to the average costs of independent travelers, we can see that sometimes the prices are fairly even.

Tours vs. independent Travel: Pros & Cons

Organized tours.

• An expert guide familiar with the culture
• Convenient transportation
• Fellow travelers to socialize with
• Well researched activities
• Efficient and thought out itinerary
• The security of have a trip leader if something goes wrong
• Limited options
• Usually not customizable
• The fast pace often means you can’t visit one place in depth
• Usually more expensive than independent travel
• There may be limited time to interact with the local culture and community

Independent Travel

• Completely customizable
• Opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Can fully immerse yourself in the local culture
• Freedom to move at your own pace
• Flexibility to change your itinerary at any time
• More affordable
• Challenging to plan an efficient itinerary
• Transportation may be challenging or inefficient
• Booking and trip planning can be a hassle
• Popular sights may sell out well in advance
• If something goes wrong, you're on your own

Are organized tours more expensive than independent travel in Mexico?

Organized tours average $195 per day in Mexico, and are generally all-inclusive with one large payment. Independent trips usually average $130 (M$2,180) per day, and include individual payments to hotels, local transportation, food, and sightseeing. When compared, organized tours and independent trips each come with their own set of challenges and benefits. It's important to understand all aspects of both types of trips to make a fair comparison. You can see our thorough analysis of tour prices in Mexico here .

Here are a few sample tours in Mexico:

• Viva Mexico Tour - 11 Days ($2,165) 11 days, 18 destinations more details
• Chiapas Explorer ($1,220) 6 days, 8 destinations more details
• Chiapas Experience ($1,013) 5 days, 7 destinations more details
• 8 Days Tailor-Made Best Mexico Tour, Daily Start ($6,519) 8 days, 7 destinations more details
• Premium Mexico Yucatan Highlights ($3,380) 8 days, 5 destinations more details

More for Mexico

If you're planning a trip to Mexico, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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How to Vacation in Mexico on a Budget

Mexico has a reputation for being super-cheap, but just how affordable is it these days? Is it just as expensive as the United States (US) or closer in cost to nearby Guatemala ? Let's break down how much money you can expect to spend in Mexico, and, most importantly, how to save as much money as possible while you're in the country. 

Setting a Budget

How much money you should budget for Mexico travel often depends on where you're going. A non-urban location will be cheaper for many things. For instance, locally made handicrafts will be far less expensive than in the city if you buy close to the source—which is usually rural.

Resort areas can be just as expensive as any US city, though lesser-known beach areas like Tulum are cheaper than famous spots like Acapulco.

If you're a budget traveler, you're going to be pleasantly surprised by how low your expenses are. Let's say you travel overland using public transport, stay primarily in hostels, eat Mexican street food for three meals a day, and take a tour every couple of weeks or so. In this situation, you can expect to average just $25 a day in Mexico. 

If you're more of a mid-range traveler, you'll be looking to stay in decent hotels, splurge on some nice restaurant visits, occasionally take a domestic flight, and take several guided tours. In this case, you can expect to average $70 a day in Mexico.

If you're a luxury traveler, the sky's the limit! There's no real upper limit as to what you can spend in Mexico, so you could be looking at anywhere between $100 and $500 a day while you're there. 

And if you're a digital nomad that's looking to live in Mexico for a month or more, your monthly costs will be even lower. One digital nomad lived in Sayulita for three months on just $20 a day, in Guanajuato for a month for only $25 a day, and Playa del Carmen for a month for $30 a day.

Figuring Out Mexican Money

In July 2019, $1 equals approximately 18 pesos (actual  exchange rate  can change at any time), so roughly every 20 pesos equals $1. Don't use this formula to budget—but it's an easy way to guess rough costs when you're shopping.

Eating Cheap

How to do Mexico on a cheap travel budget? Let's first look at how to buy food for less than $10 per day in Mexico.

Assume that anything you like in the US, like Coke or McDonald's, is going to cost the same in Mexico—don't count on eating and drinking the way you do in the US and saving any real money. If you eat local produce and are adventurous with street food , you can get by cheaply. Although, if you're a fan of Coke, be sure to try some while you're in Mexico—it's made with cane sugar rather than refined sugar, and it makes a huge difference to the flavor. 

Large grocery stores exist in the cities, even small cities like Zihuatanejo , and some stuff, like bread, is a whole lot less expensive than in similar US stores.

Locally grown fruit anywhere in Mexico is cheap, but often especially cheap in mercados (open-stall community markets). An avocado in the Patzcuaro outdoor market is 3 cents; at the same time in Colorado, an avocado was $1.39.

Street food is super cheap; stock your backpack with mercado-bought fruit and veggies for breakfast while having a terrific culinary adventure for main meals.

• Fifty cents for an ear of roasted corn from a street vendor is top dollar; you can get a tamale for 35 cents.
• You can buy a big plate of hot carbs for a buck in the mercados—you have to get off any city's beaten path, even by one block.

Use Public Transportation to Save

In-country transportation is cheap, provided you use local buses. It's just 40 cents for an Acapulco bus down the main strip (50 cents if it's air-conditioned), for instance, which makes getting around within cities exceptionally inexpensive.

"Chicken" buses, thus named because they head to and from rural locales and sometimes host an animal or two (though livestock-on-bus sightings are not as frequent as some travel guides would have you believe), are cheap and pretty safe.

Stand by the side of the road or city street, looking into traffic, and raise an arm when you see a bus approaching—it will probably pull over. You can usually get off by hailing the bus driver at any point along the bus's journey.

The buses often run on a schedule; ask a local for advice on where they're going and when. The farther away from population centers you get, the farther apart buses will be (like hours or days), so ask someone, like a bartender or shop clerk, when the buses run in the area to which you're headed.

Cab costs vary but assume about $1 per 10 miles. Negotiate the rate before you get in.

Alcohol Sticker Shock

Beer and alcohol in Mexico aren't nearly as cheap as is usually assumed—expect to spend a dollar or $1.50 for a bottle of beer in a bar. Bottles of alcohol are only about 10% less than they are in the US. Beer is perhaps two-thirds of the price in the US if bought in a grocery store.

Budget Accommodation

If you're trying to travel as cheaply as possible in Mexico, you can save money on your accommodation fairly easily. You can camp on some of the beaches for free, but you should never assume without first asking a local if it's possible. Camping on a beautiful Tulum beach with access to a bathroom is $3; a very nice hostel in Cancun with breakfast is about $15.

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Mexico Travel Budget: What Does a Trip to Mexico Cost?

Mexico is, by and large, a very budget-friendly backpacker destination–but with options ranging from bare-bones dorm rooms to luxury resorts, it’s safe to say that a trip to Mexico costs exactly what you make it. Whatever your preferred Mexico travel budget is, you’ll almost certainly be able to create an itinerary to suit it.

The Mexico trip costs outlined here represent our time spent backpacking the country on what we would consider a flashpacker budget. Basically, no to dorm rooms, (mostly) yes to a/c, and no to major luxuries.

When we made our Mexico travel budget, we hoped to spend about $80 total per day, or $40/person–a huge departure from our first trip to Mexico, where we stayed in an all-inclusive resort !

And, after 43 full days of travel (not including one half day), it turned out that our trip to Mexico cost almost exactly that, coming in at an exact total of $3465.07.

Not only are we happy about sticking to our travel budget for Mexico, we’re thrilled with how far our money went.

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The trip to Mexico outlined here took us to Mexico City , Teotihuacan, Oaxaca City and the surrounding area, Puerto Escondido, San Cristobal de las Casas and the surrounding area, Palenque, Merida, Rio Lagartos, Valladolid , Isla Holbox , and Playa del Carmen–quite the expansive list of destinations!

Among many other experiences, we took surfing lessons, toured the area surrounding Oaxaca City, went horseback riding, visited waterfalls, spent a week on an island paradise, and saw five different sets of ruins.

All prices for our Mexico travel expenses are listed in USD unless otherwise noted, and, as usual for our travel budget roundups, we don’t include the costs of entering or leaving the country here, as those expenses can vary so dramatically depending on your starting point.

Our Lodging Costs in Mexico

Total: $1716.27, 43 nights, an average of $39.91/night..

Lodging was incredibly affordable in Mexico–we stayed in a combination of Airbnbs and comfortable budget hotels (wifi and air conditioning where the climate demands it are always a must!). As always, we rented apartments on Airbnb, rather than private or shared rooms.

With the exception of Playa del Carmen, where we spent around $72/night (gulp), our lodging fell comfortably into the $30-$40/night range.

We weren’t too surprised by the costs in Playa del Carmen, though–generally, you can expect when deciding where to stay in the Yucatan that it’ll be the most expensive lodging of the trip!

Some Places We Stayed in (+ Liked) While in Mexico

Oaxaca city.

Hotel Oaxaca Magico  — This hotel was exactly what we were looking for: clean and in a great location.

A budget hotel means a small room, but the 10-minute walk to the Zocalo, daily maid service/replacement of toiletries, and overall smooth experience left the tiny room in the back of our minds. We would be happy to stay here again!

Hotel Posada Osorio — This was the perfect budget hotel for us.

Located less than a 10-minute walk from the center square of Valladolid, the location was central to anywhere that we wanted to go in town. The room was bigger than average, and was cleaned daily–not something to take for granted at this price point!

In addition to our day trip to the pink lakes of Las Coloradas, Valladolid is popular for accessing Chichen Itza (about 45 minutes away by bus, though we didn’t go), Ek Balam, and the many surrounding cenotes–we visited several and enjoyed them all!

Isla Holbox

Golden Paradise Hostel — The charm of this hostel is less about the rooms (clean, basic, nothing remarkable one way or the other) than the beautiful yard that is complete with colorful hammocks shaded by palm trees.

There’s a large kitchen available, though we didn’t use it. Though the hostel isn’t on the beach, nothing is far on Isla Holbox: about a 10-minute walk will get you all the way through the center of town, past the biggest concentration of restaurants and shops, and onto the beach.

Our Transportation Costs in Mexico

Total: $366.41.

Transportation was extremely easy, comfortable (with the exception of the extremely unpleasant van ride from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido), and inexpensive–most of our major bus trips cost $10-20 per person.

The exceptions were 9 hours on an overnight bus from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas, which ran about $35/person.

Taxis normally cost about $1-2 (inflated to $2-3 in Playa del Carmen), and the metrobus and subway in Mexico City each cost about $0.25/ride.

Our Restaurant Budget in Mexico

Total: $567.59.

The food in Mexico is easily one of the greatest joys of traveling the country–Mexican cuisine tends to be both delicious and affordable!

Unsurprisingly, restaurants were most expensive in Playa del Carmen and Isla Holbox. In general, though, food was very inexpensive–about $5-8 for a meal at a sit-down restaurant and a couple of dollars for street food.

Unlike Southeast Asia, where American-style fast food is more expensive than at home, the American chains in Mexico had lower prices than in the USA–in Oaxaca , I bought a 6-inch Subway sandwich, chips and a cookie for $2.70.

Our Grocery Expenses in Mexico

Total: $197.01.

Groceries in Mexico were generally cheaper than in the USA–especially since we were willing to be flexible on brands.

We shopped extensively in Mexico City, Puerto Escondido, San Cristobal de las Casas and Playa del Carmen, eating 50% or more of our meals at home in those destinations.

Including restaurant food, we averaged a food cost of $8.89 per person, per day.

Cost of Tours + Excursions in Mexico

Total: $403.23.

There are so many incredible things to do in Mexico –and most of them are surprisingly affordable!

The inexpensive tours and excursions were one of our favorite aspects of traveling in Mexico!

In Oaxaca and Chiapas, an all-day, multistop tour ran $15-25/person, and three hours of horseback riding in Chiapas cost us $10/person. We paid just under $20/person per two-hour surfing lesson in Puerto Escondido .

Prices rose dramatically once we reached the Riviera Maya, and that was part of the reason we passed on taking tours there.

Overall, we loved that we were able to take part in all kinds of activities throughout the country without enormously impacting our Mexico travel budget.

Miscellaneous Mexico Travel Budget Costs

Total: $214.56.

This category on our travel budget for Mexico includes more money than we would have preferred to spend, but we had several unexpected costs, as well as some random expenses like tips, bathroom fees, small Mexico souvenirs , and mascara. 

Most notably, we had to buy a new camera charger in San Cristobal de las Casas for far more than it would have cost on Amazon, and we had to pay a bogus fee to exit Mexico.

Quick rundown: Mexico has a tourism tax.

If you fly into Mexico on a commercial flight, this cost is almost always built into your ticket, which was true for us. If you show proper documentation (check out this post which has a great rundown) to the Mexican officials on your way out of the country via bus or car, the immigration agents should not charge you again. If you fly back, you shouldn’t run into this issue at all.

We exited Mexico via overnight bus to Belize, documents in hand. The agents we spoke to almost certainly knew the rules regarding this tax, and many other people on our bus knew the rules as well–one well-traveled couple even said that it was their fourth time at this border crossing and they had never paid the tax.

Almost everyone who was familiar with the departure procedure got upset when the agents insisted that we all owed additional money, and more than one person got into a loud argument with the agents.

It didn’t matter: we weren’t getting out of Mexico and into Belize until each person gave the grumpy officers in the isolated office 500 pesos (about $25 USD) in cash at 4:00am.

While not an enormous deal in the long run, it was not our favorite way to spend $50.

Tips for Planning a Mexico Travel Budget

Mexico operates with the Mexican peso.

Major bank cards work at all ATM’s, and we relied on our Charles Schwab debit card throughout our trip to withdraw funds.

Mexico is a very cash-based country, so while you’ll be able to use credit cards for some purchases in large cities (think some hotels, chain restaurants, etc), for the most part, plan on operating with cash throughout your stay.

If you’re trying to budget for the cost of a trip to Mexico, we recommend taking your daily target spending amount ($30-40/day will work if you’re traveling on a budget, especially if you’re willing to sleep in hostel dorms, and of course the sky is the limit), multiplying that by the number of days you plan to stay, and using that as your baseline.

Don’t forget to include the costs of travel insurance , plane tickets, and gear purchased before arrival, as well!

We are extremely happy with how much we spent in Mexico. Not only did we stick to our Mexico travel budget , we feel that we got great value for our money on most things.

If you’re hoping to get by in Mexico on $40/day per person, or even $30 (if you’re willing to sleep in hostel dorms)–you’ll definitely be able to do it.

Though we have likely said goodbye to Mexico for the rest of the year, we consider it one of our favorite countries and I know that we will visit again.

Trip to Mexico Costs Update

Since finishing up this backpacking trip, my prediction did come true–we absolutely have returned to Mexico, and intend to keep visiting over and over again for the rest of our lives.

Though we don’t travel on as tight of a budget these days as the one reflected in this Mexico travel budget round-up, the cost of travel in Mexico hasn’t changed significantly since our backpacking days, and a similar trip on the budget we used here is still absolutely doable.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “Mexico Travel Budget: What Does a Trip to Mexico Cost?”

Thanks so much for this info. It is very important for me to be in budget and this definitely helps.

So glad it was useful! Enjoy your trip! 🙂

Love this! I went to Mexico last year and it was awesome!

Agreed! I’m already excited to plan trip #3 one day.

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How to plan a trip to Mexico on a budget

Mexico gets a harsh and somewhat unjustifiable slant when it comes to safety.

Whilst things were worse over the decades, the situation has improved.

For tourists, backpackers, and travellers alike, you’ll likely have no problems.

Now this does depend on where you are (be more cautious in the Northern States, Guerrero and around Mexico City) however you’ll find that as long as you are not being stupid or being an arsehole, you’ll be fine.

What's in this guide?

Before we cover budgeting when it comes to travel in Mexico, let’s look at other factors which will ultimately save you money if you get them right the first time.

Language and Currency

As with most of the countries in Latin America, Spanish is the primary language spoken here in Mexico.

Before backpacking Mexico we recommended learning some Spanish before you go . Not only does it make getting around and doing what you need to do easier, however, locals here are much warmer and really appreciate the effort!

Just think if you had a foreigner approach you in your country…

We are quite sure that you would be a lot more patient and helpful if they were making a brave effort to speak your native tongue!

Mexican Spanish

The Spanish spoken in Mexico is a lot more free in expression, and in our experience spoken slower than in Spain .

Our only caution is you avoid using the verb Coger , which means “To Take”.

Whilst fine in most other Spanish-speaking countries, here it has a slightly more grittier meaning. If you’re interested in learning more about this verb your old friend Google can help out 😉

You may also be surprised to learn that there are still many indigenous languages being used today throughout the country!

There as many as 68 native tongues still spoken today, such as Nahuatl, Mixtec and Zapotec.

Whilst you definitely don’t need to learn these, there are opportunities to hear the language and maybe pick up a few phrases from this book to use with the locals.

Mexican Pesos

The currency used here is Mexican Pesos . It’s quite a popular currency, so you should be able to pick this up at home before you go.

If not, its relatively easy to change up money in Mexico, of course depending on where you’re coming from (UK Pounds and US Dollars are the most common to change for).

At this time of writing: 🇺🇸 $1 = 20 Pesos , and 🇬🇧 £1 = 30 Pesos .

These are rough and always changing, so you can just Google for a more accurate rate for when you’re heading out.

Getting In and around the Country

Mexico is a big, BIG country. Many tend to actually be surprised of the distances once they arrive.

There are two main options for travel in Mexico which we will cover below.

On arrival, you will most likely be arriving at the Cancún or Mexico City international airports. These are the two biggest in the country and serve dozens of daily flights in from around the World.

In terms of getting around Mexico, buses will be your main friend, although you may find that domestic flights are extremely cheap and as cost-effective .

Viva Aerobus and AeroMexico are the two most popular and will make accessing smaller regions a lot easier and quicker (You can still always jump on a 20-hour bus if you want…).

Buses in Mexico

For most people who are backpacking Mexico getting around the country is conveniently simple.

The bus system being very well developed and you can find a wide a range of options to suit all budget and levels of comfort.

The main bus operators include:

• ADO (who serve the South)
• Grupo Estrella Blanca (for the North and connections with the USA)

The buses tend to be very clean and have air-conditioning which can be a double-edged sword (perfect during sweltering days, but not so much during cooler nights. Make sure to bring a blanket if traveling overnight).

With many different providers to choose from, you can browse through a range of classes and price options to find the most suitable for you.

First class tends to be more expensive, with less stops and sometimes food/beverages provided. Second class has more stops and a little more cramped, but much better for the wallet .

Entry and Exit

As already mentioned, if flying in, then you’ll most likely arrive in Cancún or Mexico City. Whilst on the plane you’ll receive a Visa/Entry form.

Fill this out whilst on the plane, as the queues can take a while in immigration.

You can also enter Mexico via three different land borders: Guatemala , Belize and the USA. The USA is the most notorious and popular .

We haven’t personally crossed this border, but it does seem to be set up quite well. Just use caution, as many Northern Regions in Mexico are not the safest.

The Belize crossing is at the border with Chetumal , a port city in the south of Mexico.

It can get more interesting with the border crossings both here and in Guatemala, as there is more likelihood of corruption.

Be sure to get advice on how much it should cost before you head to the borders and also how many days of visit you should be getting stamped.

If you are running out of your time on a VISA, you can either fly out and back in, or just do a quick overland tour to one of the neighbouring countries .

You may need to spend a few days out of Mexico for it “to work”, however this is a more cost-effective option than flying out and back in.

COVID Note and Info (July 2021)

We don’t know about you lot, but we’re sick to death of this word, and can’t wait until it’s a thing of the past.

Until then, though, we have to acknowledge the impact it’s having, and also the local advice from government (key word here is acknowledge – you’re all adults and can decide for yourselves if you follow it).

COVID has made an unprecedented impact on travel and backpacking around the World.

Thankfully, we’ve passed the bulk of it and many countries are re-opening their borders for tourism. Mexico has always been open throughout , with most major sights already reopened.

Mexico is currently operating (July 2021 at time of writing) with a four-level traffic light system. Each state is placed within one of these categories and is subject to review every three or so weeks.

The most liberated level is Green, then Yellow, Orange, and finally Red, which is pretty much a full-scale lockdown (although still more free than most European countries).

Preparing for a Trip

You’ve seen the destinations, found a cheap flight and now you’re ready to go. The only thing that beats the excitement of heading off somewhere new?

Knowing you’ve planned properly so you don’t screw yourself on arrival.

Again, when backpacking Mexico you’ll never be perfect with planning and most likely will forget something here, lose something there etc.

However, some planning before you leave can go a long ways.

Such as knowing…

What to Pack for Mexico

Mexico is an extremely diverse country. As we mentioned before, it’s home to as many as 8 different biomes , which means lots of different climates and temperatures.

If you know you’re only heading to the beach for the week, then you’ll probably be alright with just some light clothes and a jumper.

However, if you are looking at backpacking the entire country, then it’s best you re-read the region guides and check out the weather and rain for when you head there. Or see this guide on the best time to visit Mexico first.

Yeah, you can always buy stuff when you get there, but why bother if you have it sitting in your wardrobe already?

Aside from clothes and toiletries some other considerations include:

• Hiking boots ( these for men and also these for women )
• Sleeping mattress
• Backup wallets and cards
• Laptop or electronics
• Hammock or tent

It’s impossible to list everything here, so once you have your itinerary you just need to start brainstorming what might come in handy.

Why not see our Mexico packing list for the full low down on what to carry with you here?

More important than ever, you’ll want to make sure you are up to date with your vaccinations .

Of course, at this time, everyone’s talking about the COVID vaccine. Aside from the health benefits, from a travel perspective it doesn’t really make a difference when heading to Mexico.

Depending on when you’re coming from, no proof of PCR/Antigen test is required.

Here’s some of the most frequent vaccinations that travelers get before visiting Mexico:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B

In terms of all other injections you may need, consult your doctor . They know you best, so simply say where you’re going and listen to their advice.

When it comes to stomach bugs and food poisoning, you’ll want to read our guide on how to avoid getting sick in Mexico so you can concentrate on enjoying your trip.

Costs and Budgeting

Now onto the important bit. Unless you’ve got money growing on trees (inbox me and let me know how) then you’ll have a certain budget in mind.

Here we will look at the average budgets needed, depending on the lifestyle you’ll want and also how you may want to travel around. The costs we listed here as correct as of July 2021.

Here we’ll just outline some of the typical costs to help you plan your budget. Remember these can and will vary depending on where you are.

A popular city such as Guadalajara will most likely be more expensive than a lesser-known tourist spot, such as Ixmiquilpa.

• Average Dorm Bed = £5-10
• Private Single Room in a Hostel = £10-20
• A Street Food Dish = £1-2
• A Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant = £5-10
• Beer at a Local Bar or Dive = £0.50-£1.50
• Beer at a Touristy Bar = £2.50-3
• A typical 5-hour Bus Journey (such as Cancún-Chetumal) = £10
• One Way flight from Mexico City to Cancún = £30

Using Guided Tours

Whilst we swear by independent travel and freedom as much as possible, we do feel that guided tours around regions are also really useful.

Not only will you learn more about sites with a knowledgeable guide, they’re also handy for those who are short on time in Mexico.

One of our favourites is this tour from Mérida , which takes you all around the region of the Yucátan where you’ll visit many colonial cities and ancient ruins along the way

Crime in Mexico

Here’s a prime example of what happened to George, where he was arguably both (a massive stupid arsehole). He was robbed during the night while in Cabo San Lucas because he drank too much and passed out on a beach.

Whilst this is a great story to tell back home (we both try avoid it if we can)!

This was 100% down to him and his rash decisions.

Our go-to tips for safety in Mexico include dressing more low-key, avoid being out alone when its late, heed local recommendations depending on where you are, and most importantly – USE COMMON SENSE.

It’s also worth investing in quality security products before travelling to minimise your risk. A Safe Wallet like this one is a great option, as is this secure Money Belt which prevents you getting robbed whilst on the street.

Backpacking Mexico Travel Budget

Budgeting is pretty difficult to estimate. Everyone has their own wants, comforts and poisons so it’s bound to vary from person to person.

Note that the following only covers accommodation, food, and some extras (not flights, long buses, visas, impulsive spending etc).

The average backpacker will be spending around $40 a day . This would include sleeping in a dorm bed, sticking mostly to local food and cheap restaurants, maybe a taxi or two and also a few beers at night.

For a traveler who likes comfort, you’ll spend around $55-70 , which’d include a budget private room, maybe a two-course meal and some beers at night.

We’ve both made a lot of mistakes when budgeting, so see our list of tips below to help you plan a bit better, and not have to cut short a trip:

Work out your daily budget (in terms of accommodation and food) staying in one of the many hostels in Mexico and then add on $20.

We can be pretty stingy, however when you’re traveling, you’ll want to let go and enjoy yourself .

So, by already factoring in that extra amount, you won’t be anxious every time you pull out your wallet.

Daily Budgeting for Mexico

Set aside a separate budget for extras, such as bucket list items or one in a lifetime experiences. You’ll already have a pretty good idea what these might be, such as skydiving or bungee jumping etc.

Relax! Remember that you’ll always have unforeseen costs , no matter how much you plan.

Visas, buses, renting lockers, paying for laundry etc are all annoying but an inevitable part of the backpacker lifestyle.

Hopefully the above will help you get started. If you want more info or help planning your ideal budget, then get in touch with us and we’ll give you our advice.

Be sure to read our guide on backpacking Mexico for places to visit.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

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This page may contain compensated links. For more information read our disclaimer .

MEXICO TRAVEL GUIDE CONTENTS

❶  What You Need to Know ❷  Budget for Mexico ❸  Best Seasons to Go to Mexico

❹  What to Pack for Mexico ❺  Things to do in Mexico ❻  Mexican Festivals and Holidays

❼  What to Eat in Mexico ❽ Places to go in Mexico ❾ Where to Stay in Mexico

Are you planning a trip to Mexico? This gigantic Mexico guide tells you everything you need to know about travel to Mexico on a budget. It includes a packing list, safety tips, foods to try, where to go, and how to find the best beaches.

Mexico is the land of margaritas and mariachi! What’s more exciting than snoozing on a beach, drinking $1 margaritas encompassed by sunshine, sombreros, and serenades? Or walking the busy streets at a festival in Oaxaca surrounded by giant paper mache skeletons?

Vamos! Let’s go! I’m stoked to share my best tips and tricks with you in this travel guide to Mexico and teach you how to max out on the Mexico fun! Whether you are just daydreaming or planning a trip to Mexico, grab a pen and a poncho, and let’s get going! Here’s your guide to budget travel to Mexico!

PLANNING A TRIP TO MEXICO ON A BUDGET

If you are planning a trip to Mexico and you’ve never been before, you will surely have a number of questions about the country. We aim to answer every single question you might have about Mexico so you’ll feel totally on top of everything before you go.

Even if you’ve been to Mexico before, you’ll be sure to find golden nuggets of information sure to make your travel around the country easier. I’m going to show you how to plan a trip to Mexico on a budget!

The biggest concern for many is the question of ‘is Mexico Safe?’ Simply, Mexico is safer than you think, but you should know how to avoid trouble too. We talk more about all of this in the section below .

Make sure you pack medicine for upset stomachs. Whether you drank one too many margaritas or just had a burrito that didn’t sit well with you… it’s always better to be safe than sorry! We also go into packing essentials for Mexico below as well.

You’re also probably also thinking ‘ How much money should I take to Mexico?’ There are ATMs accessible everywhere so there is no need to carry wads of cash. Plus most tourist destinations take cards.

We didn’t have more than 1000 pesos in our wallet most of the time, and this would cover eating and drinking out and transport around town.

What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to Mexico

Language – The language spoken in Mexico is Spanish, which sounds like a DUH moment, but hey, let’s be extra clear here. Most of the tourist hotspots are filled with people who can speak English.

On the other hand, my friend who is from Mexico says that throughout the country, probably only 40% of the population speaks English, just depends on how touristy you go. So it never hurts to brush up on some handy Spanish phrases. ( See below , friends!)

Visa – It’s always a good idea to check up on Mexico visa requirements – for that matter, any country’s visa requirements before traveling.

If you’re from the USA , UK, Canada, Australia , Japan, or any country in the Schengen, you won’t need a visa to visit Mexico. You just need to present your passport and fill out an immigration form at the airport and voila – you’re in!

Currency – Mexico is the land of pesos (MXN). Currently, 1 USD is roughly 21.5 MXN pesos, and 1 Euro is approximately 24 MXN pesos. The rates do fluctuate though, so it’s best to check a currency calculator.

There are awesome free apps out there; just go to the App Store and pick your poison. With such good Mexican currency conversions, it’s super easy to do Mexico on a budget. Although, you can also live large and do luxury for a lot less than you would in many other destinations!

ATMs – As Mexico gets more touristy, more and more ATMs are offering free transaction fees when using their ATMs. When I went, the only free ATM in Mexico was Citibank. Usually, ATMs in Mexico are free as long as they are part of the same network of the bank that you wish to withdraw money from. If in doubt, you can ask to find out with your bank which ATMs in Mexico allow feeless withdrawals.

Other than that, most of the ATM fees are only around 30 to 80 pesos, so it’s really not too bad! Also, most popular tourist places accept cards, so if your credit card doesn’t have foreign transaction fees – swipe that puppy and get spending!

Safety – Be careful of credit card scammers. Don’t let anyone take your card and walk away with it. I know some places we put our card in our bill and let the waiter ferry it away! But no, keep that card close at hand and don’t let it be whisked away to be copied down somewhere else. Avoid using debit cards that are directly linked to your bank account, stick to credit cards.

There are places in Mexico that do have high crime rates, so be a safe and smart traveler and don’t wander alone at night through sketchy alleyways. Don’t carry all your valuables with you either, stash some money or an extra credit card in a different spot than the rest, just in case the worst happens! Stay in groups at night and use your common sense.

LGBT Rights – LGBT rights in Mexico are pretty good and progressive; same-sex marriage is legal in 24 states, and there has been sexual orientation protection countrywide since 2003. I do want to mention that Puerto Vallarta has a fabulous gay scene. The city has lots of bars and hotels geared towards the community.

If you’re not too far off the beaten path in Mexico – in the rural and perhaps more old school areas – I’d say that there really isn’t much discrimination for people in the LGBT community who decide to travel and visit Mexico.

Electricity – I’ve never experienced a power outage in Mexico. In rural areas, they may lose power sometimes, but for every place I’ve been, power has never been an issue. Even running water hasn’t been an issue! The tourism industry in Mexico is massive, so they want to keep the tourists happy – electricity and running water are musts, right?

Electrical Sockets – The Mexico plugs and sockets are Type A and B. For you electricity-savvy humans out there, the standard voltage is 127 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. That means if you’re from the USA, you don’t need a travel adapter in Mexico. If you’re from the UK, you definitely will need an adapter and converter!

Annoyances in Mexico

For all the first-timers to Mexico, be prepared to meet many locals trying to sell you trinkets. There’s a never-ending wave of people always trying to sell you something. It can be a little overwhelming, but just buckle down and plow ahead, dears! I will usually say a stern but respectful “no, thank you” if someone tries to sell me something directly.

If you are doing a road trip around Mexico (which I highly recommend, by the way) you may encounter roadblocks in some areas. Around the Yucatan Peninsula, the people blocking the roads simply want a coin or two of your spare change before letting you through. However, in some areas, the roadblocks are due to civil protests and could be dangerous. Please research your routes using my guide or joining a Facebook Group and asking for the latest information.

Transportation in Mexico

Bus – Depending on location, there are local buses without air conditioning for a handful of pesos. There are also luxury tourist buses that are definitely my favorite way to travel! I love traveling by bus when backpacking Mexico because you avoid baggage craziness and stress – and you get to see more of the country that way. Also, sometimes, you get the best travel stories on buses – like people bringing chickens along for the ride. You never know what will happen!

The bigger bus companies that operate across Mexico are ADO, Primera Plus, Estrella de Oro, Omnibus de Mexico, and ETN. The easiest way to book long-distance buses is to head to your nearest bus terminal a day or two in advance. Some companies such as ADO also allow you to purchase your tickets online.

Colectivo – This is one of my favorite ways to travel Mexico cheap. A colectivo is usually a minivan that acts as a bus picking people up at the terminals and along the road. They are usually extremely cheap and super fast. Just ask your hotel about the route you want to take or do a quick google search. Colectivo is the ULTIMATE budget travel Mexico style, do as the Mexicans do!

Taxi/Uber – If you feel like spending a little extra, taxis are plentiful in tourist hotspots and start from 20 MXN pesos (0.83 c USD). Depending on the city you are flagging them down from, the price will vary. For example, taxis in Cancun is are some of the most expensive ones in Mexico starting at 70 MXN pesos. Uber is slightly cheaper and operates in most of the touristy cities in Mexico. Keep in mind that Uber is a threat to the local taxi organizations so the operating areas of Uber in Mexico change occasionally.

Airplane – Mexico does have a handful of budget airlines, like Avolar, Azteca, Click, Interjet, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris. You can get stoked about super cheap fares, but as always with budget airlines, beware of the crazy baggage fees and requirements!

I use a combination of Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the lowest possible flight prices. You’ll be surprised about how cheap some of the internal flights within Mexico can get!

Car Hire – Renting a car in Mexico is super easy. It’s generally the same as it is anywhere else in the world. I highly recommend hiring a car to get between towns along the Riviera Maya and other places on the Yucatan Peninsula. We recommend using Hertz .

To rent a car in Mexico, you have to be 21 years old or over (max 75 years old) and have held your license for a minimum of two years. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. These guidelines may vary between rental suppliers though. I almost always rent cars through Hertz Car Rental since they are trustworthy and well-priced. Make sure you read my post on driving around Mexico to get tips on covering your butt when hiring a car in Mexico.

Subway – Mexico City and Guadalajara have great subway systems, and I highly recommend using them. They are cheap, fast and convenient. You can get a one-way ticket to most places in the city for 5 MXN pesos (0.25 c USD).

USEFUL PHRASES IN MEXICO

The language they speak in Mexico isn’t Mexican, it’s Spanish. So if there are Mexican words and phrases, they’re all slang terms heard only in Mexico. It’s a great idea for travelers to learn a few key Spanish phrases when planning a trip to Mexico.

Plus, it is always fun to make new local friends and show off your knowledge of the local Mexican phrases or impress a waiter, so I have included a few of my favorite Mexican slang words below.

Spanish is a pretty universal language, so you’ve probably picked up a few words here and there through osmosis. Just in case you haven’t, let’s cover the bases with a few key words and phrases!

Hola – Hello Cómo estás? – How are you? Bien, ¿y tú? – Good, how about you? Si – Yes No – No Yo quiero, yo no quiero – I want, I don’t want Dónde está…? – Where is…? Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost? Tienes…? – Do you have…? Yo tengo, yo no tengo – I have, I don’t have Yo entiendo, yo no entiendo – I understand, I don’t understand ¿Entiende? – Do you understand? El baño – The bathroom Agua – Water

Mexican Slang

Güey – Mate/dude Gringo – A person from the USA ¿Qué onda? – What’s up? Buena Onda – Cool No manches – No way Baboso – Dumb/stupid Órale – Right on/cool Chingon – stud/bad-ass/macho man Chela – Beer Culo – Butt/ass Mamacita – An attractive woman

BEST BOOKING RESOURCES FOR MEXICO TRAVEL

The following is a list of the best booking agencies for Mexico travel planning. I use these companies over and over again when I travel to Mexico and I have found they consistently have the best prices and great services. Most even have their own apps which make the booking process even easier.

Booking Flights to Mexico

Skyscanner – I love the ability on their website to search by month. You can then get an overview of the cheapest flights within the whole month on a calendar layout so you don’t have to manually look at each day separately. I always use Skyscanner to plan my flights.

Google Flights – Another good flight search option. If you hit the grid button during your search you can see a layout similar to Skyscanner with a whole month view. I always check Google Flights to see if they have different or cheaper options to Skyscanner.

Booking Accommodation in Mexico

Booking.com – This is always my first option when searching for accommodation. They consistently have the best prices, a lot of the time their prices are even lower than walking in off the street! Trust me, we tried doing that several times. Plus they have great loyalty discounts, so after you have used them a few times you will see those amazing discounts pop up. If you aren’t already signed up for Booking, here’s $25 off your first stay .

Airbnb – If you prefer the comfort of staying in a home when you travel or like the idea of living with local people, Airbnb is a great alternative. I use them a lot when I travel, especially for long stays where I would like access to a kitchen.

Hostelworld – The best booking website for hostels out there. They have a huge number of hostels listed with a great interface. They are easy to use and cheap.

Couchsurfing – This is a website that puts you in contact with local people at your destination and you can stay in their home (couch or spare room) for free. The intention is that you then offer your couch to other surfers once you are able to. The idea of it can be scary for some but I have surfed all over the world and have made very strong positive connections with local people that I would not have otherwise met.

TrustedHousesitters.co m – If you are a long-term traveler and want to stretch out that cash as much as possible, two words, house sit! This website is awesome. Homeowners that need someone to either look after their place or to look after their fur babies create home profiles and date ranges of when they need someone to help. This is a great option if you can line up back-to-back house sits, which means no money spent on accommodation! There is a small sign-up fee of $100 USD, but if that’s all you have to pay it makes travel very cheap in the long term. I did this in Cozumel for 2 months and Puerto Escondido for 3 months.

Booking Tours in Mexico

Get Your Guide – This website is a search interface for a large range of local tours offered at your destination. Whether you want to hire a guide to take you to cenotes or show you around some ancient ruins, Get Your Guide is the best place to look.

Viator – Viator is the tour booking company associated with TripAdvisor. If you prefer using TripAdvisor while planning a trip to Mexico, Viator can help you book those experiences.

Booking Transport around Mexico

Hertz – My go-to for booking rental cars. They are trustworthy and always at a good price.

Uber – Uber is like booking a taxi, but with a local person in their own car. The entire process is organized through the app and the rating and tracking system keeps you safe. You can even share your trip live with someone at home if you are worried about safety. They also have an UberPool option in some cities where the driver will pick up other passengers along the way, essentially making your trip cheaper since you share the costs. Uber is only available in some states, so check the app once you are there.

Bla Bla Car – Do you need to get from A to B but don’t want to take a bus? Consider booking rideshare with Bla Bla Car. It’s like UberPool but for longer distances and it’s cheaper. The driver simply places their route within the app a few days before the trip and then passengers buy seats on the trip. In Mexico, I found Bla Bla Car to be even cheaper than the buses on some routes.

ADO – This is the main tourist bus company that serves roughly the eastern half of the country. Anyone can book buses using their website, however, if you don’t speak Spanish you may find the navigation a little difficult. You can also book ADO buses at the bus terminals and in most tour offices.

Travel Insurance

World Nomads – The best travel insurance for long-term travel which covers medical and property. They are also great because you can insure yourself once you are already overseas, which most companies do not offer.

SafetyWing – Another backpacker favorite and are often cheaper than World Nomads.

Clements – This is more of an expat insurance than traveler insurance as you need an overseas address. They offer really good coverage for personal property, especially for items that aren’t fully covered by your general travel insurance.

MEXICO BUDGET COMPARISON

It’s easy to travel to Mexico on a budget. Street food is incredibly cheap and even food in local eateries is shockingly budget-friendly. Accommodation is going to be one of your largest expenses in Mexico, but as long as you use the websites I recommend above, you’ll be able to find some really good deals on hotels.

If you are doing Mexico on a strict budget, I recommend limiting the number of different places you visit, to save money on travel. But catching colectivos and buses will keep your costs down too if you do need to travel to different areas.

Here is a quick overview of the type of prices involved with calculating your Mexico budget. It shows expected costs for backpackers, mid-range, and luxury travelers for comparison. This is the average cost of traveling in Mexico, just keep in mind that some places in Mexico are more expensive than others.

BEST SEASONS IN MEXICO

The weather in Mexico isn’t just sun, sun, sun. Mexico is a huge country and it isn’t sunshine everywhere all day. From snowy mountains to arid deserts, Mexico has it all. However, if you’re heading to the coast, it is balmy and pleasant year-round. But there is a rainy season too that you should be aware of. Generally, the rainy season is May through September/October.

Mexico is also at risk of hurricanes; nothing wrecks a vacation like a natural disaster. June through November is hurricane season, so check the weather forecasts and precautions. If you’re not hitting up the coastline, Google to find the weather details for each region by month. My favorite month to hit up the beaches in Mexico is in November, right after the rainy season. Gotta love warm days and cool nights!

Riviera Maya weather – The Riviera Maya covers the area between Cancun and Tulum. It includes Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel Island. Spring (March to June) is the best time to go to the Riviera Maya because it’s warm and sunny with just a few showers occasionally. Rainy/hurricane season is from May to September and although the Riviera Maya does not usually get hurricanes but the area can still get bad tropical storms.

If possible, avoid places in the Riviera Maya during July and August and the period from mid-December to early January since they are big tourist months.

Puerto Vallarta weather – Want to go to Puerto Vallarta on the pacific coast? The high tourist season is November to March. If you’re looking for a super good deal, hotel rates go way down (sometimes by 40%!) in July and October. You can expect college party-goers and rain in July, so October is my favorite month!

Mexico City weather – In Mexico City, rain hits in May and continues to fall on vacationers until halfway through October. I recommend going in November because it won’t be too hot or too rainy; if you time it right, you can even participate in the famous Day of the Dead celebrations!

Cabo San Lucas weather – If Cabo San Lucas is calling your name, you definitely want to plan a trip during February and March, when the Pacific Gray Whales migrate from the Arctic to mate and give birth off the shores of Cabo. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness!

WHAT TO PACK FOR MEXICO

When deciding what to pack for Mexico, where you are going will definitely influence what you pack. Because Mexico is utterly huge with loads of different biomes and temperatures take a look at my gigantic packing list for helpful advice on packing for Mexico.

Below, I’ll list some items you might forget to bring to Mexico. but first, let’s talk about the ideal type of backpack for Mexico travel.

Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack

A backpack crossed with a suitcase! The Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack is easily the best backpack ever. The functionality is perfect. I rarely need to use the Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack as an actual backpack, but when I do it’s easy to set up and works perfectly. But for most of the travel, I use it as a rolling suitcase which saves my back and means I can put heavier things in it without worrying about whether I’ll be able to carry it. This is the best multifunctional luggage that is perfect for traveling Mexico.

Packing for Mexico: Don’t Forget These Items

Here’s a list of all of the items you might easily forget when packing for Mexico. Click this link for a full comprehensive packing guide .

✔︎ Vaccination certificates ✔︎ Passport ✔︎ Biodegradable sunscreen (for snorkeling/cenotes) ✔︎ Aloe vera gel ✔︎ Bug repellant ✔︎ Chapstick ✔︎ Travel sewing kit ✔︎ Waterproof phone case ✔︎ Luggage locks

✔︎ Life Straw Water purification ✔︎ Rehydration packets ✔︎ Travel First-Aid kit ✔︎ Motion sickness wristbands ✔︎ Anti-theft belted wallet ✔︎ Travel pillow ✔︎ Microfibre towel ✔︎ Sarong ✔︎ Open hiking shoes ✔︎ Exercise/yoga pants

✔︎ Portable charger ✔︎ Mexico Travel adapter ✔︎ Lens kit for phone ✔︎ Wrap-around grip tripod ✔︎ Wireless speaker ✔︎ Headphone splitter ✔︎ Digital luggage scale ✔︎ Flashcard/USB ✔︎ Spare SD cards ✔︎ E-Reader

BEST THINGS TO DO IN MEXICO

Other than the obvious activities in Mexico like sunbaking on the beach, getting a massage or drinking a margarita, these are the best things to do in Mexico.

Swim in a Cool Cenote

Just what is a cenote you ask? It’s a natural sinkhole that occurs when a cave ceiling collapses and exposes the groundwater underneath. There are thousands of them all over the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, with a majority of them concentrated around Tulum, Bacalar, Valladolid, and Merida. The Yucatan Peninsula is like a giant sponge made of limestone, with cenotes all over the area. The cenotes were sacred to the Ancient Mayan people and it is understood that it is only because of these cenotes that their civilization was able to advance the way it did.

The cenote prices in Mexico vary, some are quite expensive over in the Tulum area but we found the Valladolid cenotes are more affordable and just as beautiful.

If you are interested in visiting a cenote somewhere in the Yucatan Peninsula, be sure to read my huge guides that help you find cenotes closest to your destination. These are the cenote guides I have: Tulum Cenotes | Riviera Maya Cenotes | Valladolid Cenotes . Or book a tour here!

Explore The Reef by Scuba Diving

There are absolutely fantastic scuba diving opportunities in Mexico. If scuba diving isn’t your cup of tea, snorkeling is a must. It’s pretty inexpensive to rent gear, so enjoy exploring the marine world at budget prices. I especially loved scuba diving with the manta rays at Socorro Island. Mind-blowing! Or, I’ve heard that at Isla San Pedro you can see baby sea lions. Apparently, 400 sea lions call San Pedro their home.

If you’re headed to the Riviera Maya, there is amazing scuba diving off Cancun , Cozumel Island, and Isla Mujeres. Cozumel is best for reef diving while Isla Mujeres boasts a shipwreck and an underwater museum.

Swim with the Fish While Snorkeling

There is pretty awesome snorkeling off the entire coast of Mexico. If you’re in the water with a mask and snorkel, the chances are you’ll see something very cool. The best snorkeling spot is in Isla Mujeres , which is offshore from Cancun. Here, you can snorkel with hundreds of whale sharks ! They are generally around from June to September each year. That’s definitely a Mexico bucket list item !

Highly recommended is the snorkeling in the cenotes near Playa del Carmen and Tulum . Cenote Azul is bountiful with rocks and freshwater fish, and Casa Cenote is closely connected to the sea, so is filled with some very interesting brackish-water fish like cichlids and giant tarpon.

Learn to Surf

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, or maybe you’re already a pro, why not go surfing! With 5,797 miles (9,330 km) of gorgeous coastline, grab a surfboard and go! And a little tip for those surfers who like empty waters, the further south you venture in Mexico, the more empty the beaches are of tourists and other surfers.

Puerto Escondido is perhaps Mexico’s most famous surfing spot. You can easily find surfing lessons on beaches in this town for as little as 500 MXN ($23 USD) per hour for a one-on-one lesson.

Marvel at Ancient Temples, Pyramids, and Ruins

Hiking an ancient Aztec or Mayan ruin should be on your Mexico bucket list ! When you travel to Mexico, don’t leave out the ruins. Make sure you visit some of the ancient architectural gems of Mexico. Teotihuacan is probably the most well-known pyramid in Mexico, and for good reason. It is unknown as to who actually built Teotihuacan, but the civilization unquestionably built it by hand more than a thousand years before the Aztecs arrived. However, it is the Aztecs that gave it its present-day name.

The Nohoch Mul pyramid in Coba is also dazzling; it’s the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula and offers stunning views of the jungle. It’s only 120 steps high, which doesn’t sound like a Fitbit goal or anything, but my oh my those steps are steep! It’s well worth it for the experience and views.

Dig Deep into Museums in Mexico City

Personally, I love Mexico City’s urban vibes and cool, modern architecture – plus, it’s mega affordable. If you’re in Mexico City , definitely hit up as many museums as you can. Mexico City actually has more museums than any other city in the whole wide world. My favorite is the Frida Kahlo House . What an artist, what a woman!

Lap Up All the Mexican Food

My favorite thing to do in Mexico is to hunt down the best tacos! Crunch and munch down on salty and salsa-filled goodness. I’m seriously getting cravings right now. Don’t expect American-style tacos when you arrive, either. These bad boys are filled with carne asada, cochinita, adobada, chorizo, fish, shrimp, or marlin tacos. Don’t worry, you can diet later. And it’s the tastiest way to do Mexico on the cheap.

Revel in Architecture Walks and Tours

I love the diverse architecture in Mexico, so not taking the time to walk around and explore the cities you visit is simply inexcusable! The pink quarry stone buildings in Morelia, Michoacan are jaw-dropping. So are the cities of San Cristobal de las Casas and Oaxaca City which are known for their beautiful colonial buildings. There are stunning cathedrals sprinkled through the entire country too that are not to be missed. Walking tours are great for your Mexico budget travel journey, as most of them are run by volunteers and you just tip or donate a reasonable amount.

Become Thrilled by Lucha Libre

Maybe wrestling isn’t your thing, I get it. But Lucha Libre is critical to Mexican culture and those masked Luchadores are iconic, come on! Instead of chilling on a Friday night with a book, go to a Lucha Libre match and bask in the machismo glory!

Fly High With Parasailing

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, you’re probably keen on getting in the water. Enjoy those sea activities to the fullest! But if you’re just a little wary of surfing or scuba diving, definitely go parasailing. There are tons of spots that offer parasailing , from Cancun to Playa del Carmen .

Spot Sea Turtles Nesting and Hatching

Sea turtles are fiercely protected in Mexico and Mexican waters, and this pays off for visitors. At Akumal, you can swim with huge sea turtles who go there to munch on the seagrass. You can help let go of baby turtles during the summer months around Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Tulum. You can see turtles mating at almost any time of year in the waters around Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, and Oaxaca in general. Because of this, there are a few places that support letting free baby turtles for a small fee in these areas.

Want to know how you can see turtles nest and hatch in Mexico, read my turtle spotting guide .

Go on an Adventurous Road Trip

Mexico is a great country to take a road trip in. Car rental is super cheap and if you plan to drive from the USA into Mexico, the process is quite simple and straightforward. If you hire a car to do a Yucatan Peninsula road trip around the Riviera Maya and beyond, the roads are flat and easy. Coming from the USA you can see the spectacular coastline of Baja California. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Why not do a Mexico City to Oaxaca road trip to delve right into Central Mexican culture.

Want to know more about driving in Mexico as well as read about 5 different but equally awesome Mexican road trips? Read my Mexico road trip guide .

HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS IN MEXICO

Day of the dead (dia de los muertos).

It’s hard to imagine Mexico without thinking of the colorful skull decorations and orange carnations of the Day of the Dead celebration. A two-day Mexican celebration each year on November 1 and 2, Dia de Muertos is a vibrant festival in which families remember and celebrate lost loved ones.

But there’s much more to Dia de Los Muertos than you could ever read about in a book and taking part in local Mexican celebrations is an intimate and authentic way of traveling Mexico. To learn about how you can do Dia de Los Muertos in Oaxaca, read my guide: How to do Day of the Dead the Mexican way .

Did you know that Mexico also has its own Carnival? In late February or early March, Mexico celebrates Carnival in true Mexican style – with colorful parades and lots of music and dancing. I recommend going to Carnival in La Paz or Veracruz, but I’m sure the whole country does Carnival the right way!

The Folk Dance Festival

It’s worth mentioning the Guelaguetza Dance Festival in Oaxaca, Guelaguetza. This traditional dance folk festival takes place each year in the middle of July. It’s filled with all the best Mexico’s indigenous tribes have to offer, from traditional dancing to native bands and gorgeous handicrafts – time to stock up on the souvenirs!

The Guadalajara International Film Festival

Another Mexican festival I want to plant a seed in your head about attending is Guadalajara’s International Film Festival. It’s usually in March and is a wonderful nine-day festival to see some of Latin America’s emerging filmmakers.

MEXICAN TRADITIONS

The afternoon siesta.

Sometimes, it’s nice to be a nap queen (or king). In Mexico, it’s a daily part of the routine to nap it up in the afternoon right after lunch. Snuggle up on the couch after a burrito and treat yourself to an authentic Mexican tradition – siestas!

Mariachi Music

Oh, mariachi! The tradition of mariachi music dates back to the 18th century and is a crucial part of Mexico’s music history. A small group of musicians, mostly playing string instruments, wear traditional “charro” costumes. Catching a mariachi show is a must of visiting Mexico. Listening on Spotify doesn’t count, guys.

This is my favorite of all the Mexican traditions. In many Mexican songs, but especially in mariachi music, you will hear a distinctive yell, interjected with a passion that speaks to the soul. It is a sort of “aaaaaaayeeeee” or “ahhhhhaahaaa” sound that represents a long, drawn-out laugh, or sometimes the wail of a mournful cry.

This yell is called a ‘grito’ and is an internationally recognized behavior in Mexican culture. Music isn’t the only place reserved for a ‘grito’ though. Mexican people practice and perfect their own special ‘grito’ from a young age and grito competitions between family members at gatherings are commonplace.

The Quinceañera

This is an important celebration in Mexico as it marks the passage from a girl into a woman on her 15th birthday. The fiesta is generally as expensive as the means of the family will allow. Usually, the day will involve the daughter dressing up in elaborate clothing, going to mass, cutting a giant cake, and having a party with friends and family.

Often, entire streets will be shut off unauthorized by family members while neighbors and passers-by are invited to join in on sharing food and drinks. If you are ever invited to a quinceañera, take up the offer. The parties are often wild and a true example of Latin-American culture.

I’ve whacked a good few piñatas in my day. I’m sure you have too! All the coolest elementary school birthday parties, had them right? Well, in Mexico it isn’t a fiesta without a piñata. Apparently, the ancient Aztecs had a similar tradition involving clay pots. It is also thought that the tradition has Chinese origins.

Family Focus

Most of the traditions of Mexico are focused on family. Mexico is a country renowned for its bright, vibrant fiestas and religious celebrations that place families right in the center. I love how family-focused the culture and traditions of Mexico are. They have such beautiful rituals and practices of honoring the members of their family with food, fun, and festivities.

In fact, there are almost innumerable holidays and traditions in Mexico that bring families together to celebrate their connection. You’re fortunate if you get invited to a family holiday celebration. If you do receive the honor, make sure you bring flowers and gifts as a sign of appreciation.

Want to read more about Mexican traditions that are endemic to Mexico and make the country so special, take a look at my post; Reasons to Love Mexico .

WHAT TO EAT IN MEXICO

Delicious oozy meat covered in luscious sauces, pickled onion, and coriander. Yum! There are so many types of amazing tacos but my favorites are always ones that involve marinated and slow-cooked meats. For me, Cochinita Pibil is the best, slow-cooked underground with citrus. Al Pastor is a close second, is based on shawarma spit-grilled meat brought by Lebanese immigrants to Mexico. It is best paired with jalapeño cream. Google the best tacos in your area and go exploring!

Flavorful Mole

Besides delighting in tacos, make sure you try the crazy umami flavors of mole. There are, in fact, three states that claim to be the original home of mole. If you have never heard of mole, it’s a rich sauce that has 20 or more ingredients including chocolate. Each mole will taste a little different because each family’s or restaurant’s recipe is usually passed down for generations.

Tasty Tamales

What to eat in Mexico? Don’t forget to gobble down some tamales. I can practically still taste them. Please go out and eat a tamale or two for me! The genesis of tamales was actually from the ancient Aztec, Mayan, and Inca tribes, who needed portable food to take into battle. Wrapped like a present in either corn husks or banana leaves, these pocket-sized cornmeal blankets, stuffed with vegetables and meats, is pure yumminess.

PLACES TO GO IN MEXICO

These are the best places to go in Mexico, ranked for their strong culture, amazing beaches or awesome activities, and how cute the actual township is.

Tulum is home to some of the best-preserved 1,000-year-old Mayan ruins that have the Caribbean ocean in the background. Talk about astounding… Tulum is also home to some mind-blowing cenotes that you can explore by either snorkeling or scuba diving (an adventure I highly recommend, if you are game enough). Tulum is just 90 minutes south of Cancun and has incredible white sand beaches and really impressive jungle-immersed hotels and restaurants which are what makes this place so special. Tulum can be pricey and may eat into your travel budget but it’s worth having a look.

Isla Cozumel

Indeed, Cozumel Island with its gorgeous turquoise waters and perfectly powdery sands is exactly what I can’t get enough of! It is crowded though, but this small island has so much to offer. The shallow reefs are glorious, especially for scuba diving. There are fun tours you can do like a jeep safari with reef snorkeling . But I also recommend watching the underwater magic unfold through a glass-bottom boat tour .

Mexico City

Mexico City is the museum hot spot, remember? Plus, it’s also got mega-awesome street art! Pretty much the whole country has lots of amazing street artists throwing up their art all over the city, but Mexico City is a great place to explore and appreciate. In the central part of Mexico City known as the Zocalo, there’s basically a mural around every corner! There are also organized street food and art tours if you want to find a group! For more information, read my Mexico City guide .

Wondering where to stay in Mexico City? I stumbled upon Casai which are the up-and-coming competitors to Airbnb.

The point of difference is that Casai owns the vacation apartments, which means they are thoughtfully designed and selected in fantastic neighborhoods, filled with local artisan and artist decor, updated with smart technology and fast wifi, and who doesn’t want a 24/7 concierge that can help with tickets and events.

Oaxaca state and Oaxaca City are both seriously awesome places to go in Mexico. They are full of Mexican culture, art, and biodiversity. Plus Oaxaca boasts some of the best beaches in Mexico, don’t believe me? Read my Oaxaca beaches post, featuring beaches in Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, and Chacahua.

Oaxaca is one of the poorest states in Mexico, so this means that travel in this state is extremely cheap. In Oaxaca City , you will also have the chance to encounter a strong art scene (have you ever heard of alebrijes?) as well as the gorgeous cobblestone streets and colorful buildings that all your Mexico dreams are made of. I very much recommend a popular day tour from Oaxaca City to an impressive petrified waterfall, that stops at the archeological zone of Mitla as well as a mezcal factory and a textile workshop.

Palenque is a fantastic off-the-beaten-path destination in Mexico for two reasons: Palenque Ruins and cascades! Palenque Ruins are a mesmerizing set of ruins made even more special by the fact that you can climb on them (you can’t climb most ruins in Mexico). The Palenque Ruins are just as important historically as Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Tikal, mainly for their extensive hieroglyphics that tell stories and show historical facts.

The Agua Azul Cascades is also a top-rated activity in Palenque. They are a series of bright blue waterfalls set amongst the rainforest that visitors can swim in. The natural waterpark is surely an adventure, and exploring the site in full will take an entire day.

Want to know more about Palenque? Read my full Chiapas Guide .

Okay, I want to let you in on a little secret gem in Mexico. It’s free of American chain restaurants and free of spring break students going wild. It’s the magical small beach town in Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco called Yelapa. It is one of my favorite places to go in Mexico. It’s very close to Puerto Vallarta, a city which I’ve already expressed my adoration for. And Yelapa is quite near to the world’s 7th largest bay – the Bahía de Banderas.

Puerto Vallarta

So, if I haven’t talked you into checking out Yelapa , definitely at least pop over and visit Puerto Vallarta. The beaches, scuba diving, and snorkeling opportunities there are endless. It’s also a little less westernized than places like Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, so I appreciate that I get more local Mexican vibes there. Plus you can do a tour to the famous Playa del Amor on the Marieta Islands – you’ve surely seen those stunning pictures of the secluded beach!

If you’re staying in Puerto Vallarta, try to avoid staying in the Nuevo side of town, which has become a bit too fancy and westernized. When traveling to Mexico, we want things safe and comfortable, but still want to feel like we’re in Mexico, right?

Close to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, sits a small unassuming coastal town called Mazunte. It is somewhat of a secret meaning it is almost completely free of tourists during the off-season. It has just one main street lined with luxurious hotels that are budget-friendly as well as some health food restaurants and a whole lot of yoga studios.

The beach is covered in gorgeous golden sands and if you are there during the summer you may even find the sand completely covered in turtles nesting in “arribadas”. Looking for more information on Mazunte? Read my things to do in Mazunte post.

WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO ON A BUDGET

Mexico is a huge country with lots of good accommodation to offer for any and every price range. Even those penny pinchers out there will be thrilled at the great budget options both on Airbnb and booking.com . Just remember to book your accommodation early, especially if you’re booking a popular hotel. Mexico can get really busy in the high season, so book early and avoid disappointment!

The most budget option, which I did twice during my travels in Mexico, is to house sit. I stayed for two months on Cozumel Island and three months in Puerto Escondido for FREE! How? Through this website trustedhousesitters.com . There are a lot of ex-pats who travel back to their home countries that like to have people stay at their houses, water the plants, and feed their animals.

I don’t know about you, but I sure could use some time kicking back on the beach with a good book and a margarita right now. Whether you are in winter weather and want to escape the cold, or you’re looking to learn to surf or attend a festival, there’s so much Mexico has to offer. Maybe it is time to plan a trip to Mexico after all…

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This huge guide lists all of the best Mayan Riviera cenotes including La Ruta de Los Cenotes in Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen cenotes. Includes all you need to know, so you can visit the amazing natural cenotes in the Riviera Maya without paying for a tour!

MEXICO TRAVEL BUDGET FAQS

There are many cheap places to visit in Mexico such as Mexico City, Puebla, Guanajuato City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, San Cristobal de Las Casas, and Puerto Escondido. Places in or near the Riviera Maya such as Valladolid, Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum can also be traveled cheaply by staying in backpacker hostels, taking public transportation, and doing your own tours. One place in Mexico that might not be suitable for budget traveling is Baja California. This Mexico State is known for its extravagant accommodations, exclusive private tours, and exquisite entertainment venues.

Mexico is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in the world. However, as a popular tourist destination, Mexico has the potential to be both cheap and expensive. When it comes to accommodation, Mexico has a huge variety of selections – from budget hostels to luxurious all-inclusive resorts, so you can spend 10 USD a night or 300 USD a night. The same thing happens for food. You can choose cheap street tacos or dine in one of the extravagant restaurants Tulum or Cabo San Lucas has to offer. Lastly, the same phenomenon happens for tours and visiting places in Mexico. You can decide to take public transport to save money, or take one of the exclusive private tours for more comfort and convenience!

Though Mexico has a notorious reputation when it comes to safety, it is a country that we personally found to be pretty safe. Touristic places tend to be safer than off-the-beaten-path destinations, simply because tourist money is a huge part of Mexico’s economy. Try to avoid being alone on the streets at night and don’t make it easy for potential predators by being under the influence. For travelers that are concerned about safety, there are plenty of guided tours that offer security, convenience, comfort, and professional guides.

How much money do you need per day in Mexico largely depends on what kind of traveler you are? From our experience, budget travelers should be able to travel comfortably on 570 MXN pesos or 26.5 USD per day, mid-range travelers around 1000 MXN pesos or 46 USD, and luxury travelers around 3000 MXN or 139 USD per day.

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OUR MEXICO TRAVEL BUDGET BREAKDOWN

• Last updated on: February 12, 2020
• First published on: January 25, 2020

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we will receive a tiny commission if you choose to click through and make a purchase. But don’t worry, clicking on them won’t cost you a penny more – it just means we can keep creating free content for you – and that our furry companions can keep living their best life with all their fancy toys.  

Soon after we embarked on our yearlong honeymoon , we started getting questions from our friends, relatives and even some strangers (ok, my mom’s coworkers who were pushed to read this blog, but anyway).

Do you think they wanted to know how we were doing, how we felt about Latin America or what our favourite things were?

Yeah, right.

They were all interested in one thing only.

Whether it was engaging with our Instagram stories , commenting on Facebook posts or just sending random messages, it was all the same thing:

“ Is Latin America expensive?”

“How much does it cost?” or

“Are you within your Mexico travel budget?” (spoiler alert: of course NOT )

Wait, people aren’t interested in what we are doing but in how much money we spend ( sobs resentfully )??

“Oh, just quit with that self-centered sass, honey” , Bojan one day commented. “Of course they wanna know about money – they’d like to plan their own vacation and would find it helpful, yes?”

OH. ( light bulb turns on )

Since we were already tracking our daily expenses, which is something you have to do on a year-long trip if you don’t want to return home-er – 6 months earlier, we could at least put it all in an article that might help somebody else plan their trip. You know, so they won’t think the budget for Southeast Asia will suffice for Latin America, as some people mistakenly did (ahem , let’s pretend that’s not us )?

Table of Contents

HOW DO WE TRACK OUR TRAVEL EXPENSES?

There are a large number of applications that can be downloaded and we tried a bunch of them only to realize that either a) you have to pay to get full access (but we are trying to save money, man!) or b) they just seemed too damn complicated.

At this point, I can totally relate to all the grandpas that are offered a brand new smartphone instead of a good old corded phone.

Now, we don’t use paper and pencil (though it did cross my mind to do just that) but we stick with yet another “good old option” – an Excel spreadsheet ( Who else here is a fan of spreadsheets, hands up?! Love ya guys! )

So, here it is, our Mexico travel budget breakdown for 44 days in Mexico . This travel budget won’t suffice for a luxury retreat in Tulum, tossing down waay too expensive cocktails and on the other hand, we didn’t sleep in hostel dormitories either ( A honeymoon, remember? ).

We still like to consider ourselves as budget travelers … except when it comes to adventure and booze. 😁

Travel time: 44 days

Total cost: $ 3537 +  $809 for a scuba diving course for both of us and underwater equipment for our GoPro (we did not count the latter in our average daily budget since it is a one-time thing)

The average cost per day: $ 78.50 or $39.25 / person

(All prices are in USD)

ACCOMMODATION: $ 1238 (approx. 35%)

So, on average we spent $ 28 per day for accommodation which is clearly not that bad (even though we aimed for accommodation to be 30% of the total cost), considering we always had our own room but a couple of times with a shared bathroom).

However, the prices of accommodations in Yucatan differ from ones in the rest of Mexico .

For example, we paid for a simple double room with private bathroom from $12 ( San Cristobal ) to $28 (in Bonobo Surf House and Hotel Mala Vecindad ). Accommodations sometimes included breakfast while in others a common kitchen was available.

In Yucatan, however, the prices started at around $28/night (o uch ). The priciest accommodation we were in was a boutique hotel in Tulum for $67 / night  (and this was a discounted price, the regular price is much higher!🤐). Not a backpacker’s budget, right? Yeah, but we just HAD to splurge, it was my birthday. This was obviously one of the nicest places we have stayed in on our yearlong honeymoon!

Some places that we really liked in Mexico: 

Hotel Mala Vecindad: A beer-themed hotel in Mexico City close to “centro historico” and next to a subway station, which makes transportation around Mexico City super easy. Since this hotel is in the center of the city, the area is lively and authentic, but keep in mind not to walk around alone with your flashy new camera late at night. 😉

Andaina Youth Hostel: An enormous three-floor hostel in Oaxaca close to the city center with spacious rooms, shared bathrooms and kitchen area. Bonus: rooftop terrace with a view all around the city.

Bonobo Surf House: This is our favourite hostel EVER. Like, EVER EVER. It is located in Puerto Escondido and owned by a German girl (and 2 fluffy dogs) this hostel is professionally managed but has a real tropical vibe. In a matter of minutes, you will feel like home with one big family around you. Healthy breakfasts, tons of fun activities every day and an always smiling staff will make you wanna stay here forever.

Hotel Doralba Inn Big hotel in Merida with spacious rooms near the town center. It features an inner terrace where it is pleasant to chill out and a big swimming pool – a real treat since the climate can be quite humid here!

We always book accommodations through Booking , Airbnb or Hostelworld  (and if the accommodation has a puppy, we are sold souls ).

While planning your Mexico travel budget, we’d recommend you anticipate somewhere between $25-30 /room for a budget accommodation and between $50-70/room for a midrange accommodation.

TRANSPORTATION: $ 1070   (approx. 30%)

We travelled around Mexico by using buses , minibuses (“taxi collectivos”) and a rental car (6 days).  In Mexico City, we also used the subway which is really cheap (approx. 30 cents/ride)

… WITH A BUS

ADO is the main bus operator in Mexico with offices all around the country, and you can also see prices, hours of departures and (approximate) occupancy on their website in advance. The buses are super comfortable with a lot of space , so even a 13-hour night ride from Puerto Escondido to San Cristóbal wasn’t unbearable (the distance is not so long, but the roads are bad).

Buses are also a very affordable option (the 13-hour bus was around $40 and a 6-hour bus around $25).

… WITH A TAXI COLLECTIVO

Taxi collectivos (vans) are, er – a backpackers choice, usually. So you know what to expect 😉 They do leave on time, but you will be cramped with no space for legs and it’s possible an oblivious chicken or two will be sharing the ride with you. It’s still all fun and all that… as long as you aren’t on an extremely curvy road from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, with the average speed high above the limit. 😀 But hey, that’s a price for paying $12 for a 9-hour ride. 😀

… WITH A CAR

The last option hit our Mexico travel budget quite a bit. Instead  of the anticipated $189 we had to pay $333 in the end.

Wanna hear why? (It’s half a-shame-we-don’t-know-how-to-count story and half we-got-scammed-again story)

Ok, so here’s how the story goes…

We had booked our rental car through an Economy Car Rentals website and Bojan read the fine print at least ten times (cuz I was bugging him to do so, obviously). We had paid $67 in advance and the rest ($122) we were supposed to pay directly at the company (Hertz).

When we came to the company we were told that we had only basic insurance and we would have to pay extra for an upgrade. Sure, what else  were we expecting. Less than $200 for a week-long rental was apparently just too good to be true.

That was the first shock.

She said: That will be $333, please .

What, what are you talking about?! You mean, in addition to that $67 we have already paid?!

Turns out, she didn’t know anything about that $67 that we had already paid,  and to be frank, she didn’t care either.

After some arguing ( while people in a line behind us were getting impatient since they all wanted to start their vacation ASAP ) I said that I wouldn’t pay unless she explained all the details to me.

She threw herself into a super-rapid explanation that $122 is for the rental fee and basic insurance and then an additional $22 per day for full insurance. However, at the same time, she immediately offered an extra discount and a price of $17 /day and explained that in this case, the total price would be $266.

Confused and angry, we just signed the papers, paid the $266 (on  top of that $67) and drove away.

After a few minutes of silence and contemplation that we  just lost almost $150 unexpectedly, a bulb turned on in my head:

“Bojan… She said $122 for the rental fee, right? And another $17 per day, RIGHT? Well, this is $100 for a full 6 days. Which sums up to F***ING $222 and not $266, AM I RIGHT?!?”

Bojan: “Shit.”

And that’s how we got screwed over when renting a car in Mexico.

FOOD AND DRINKS: $ 783 (approx. 22%)

GROCERIES: $154 RESTAURANTS: $463 ADDITIONAL BEER/COFFEE: $166

In fact, we spent less money on food and drinks than we thought we would 😊 Food in stores is cheap (imported brands are slightly more expensive) and supermarkets are well equipped. Street food is good and even cheaper (but not as cheap as Asian, I can’t forgive them this 😛 ) but you can not eat fried tacos all the time. Can you?

Prices in restaurants are also affordable; the price of a small beer (Mexican Sol or XX) is somewhere between $1-2 (except for Yucatan where it can also be $3 ).

The price of coffee is around $2 , so we went to Starbucks quite often since the price of a coffee there was comparable to prices in other coffee shops ( yep, sorry, gotta admit, I’m a sucker for Starbucks ). And of course, because you can sit there with your laptop for the whole afternoon. 🙂 #pretendingtoblog

TOURS AND ENTRANCE FEES: $ 363 (approx. 10%)

Wow, so many things to do in Mexico and surprisingly they are also affordable! We only spent 10% of our Mexico travel budget for  activities!

The entrance fees for the museums and for most of the ruins are quite low (on average $2-3.5); we paid a little more to visit the cenotes in Yucatan ($7-8) and Chitzen Itza ruins -$12.

In Oaxaca and San Cristobal, we went on a day trip (both extremely cheap – around $15 per person) and in Puerto Escondido, we went to see the phenomenon of bioluminescence   – for just over $11 you swim in the ocean surrounded by a plankton and “shine bright like a diamond” ( in Rihanna’s voice, obviously ) – how cool is that?! We also took a surfing lesson there ($28 per person).

The priciest thing was a one-day mountain biking t our that Bojan went on in Oaxaca (around $110).

As I mentioned above, we didn’t count our diving course (PADI Open Water certification) in these expenses. We had decided to do a diving course somewhere during our trip (and then ended up doing it in Cozumel ), so we had an “extra special budget” for it.

MISCELLANEOUS: $79 (approx. 2%)

In Mexico, we did not spend too much money on “other costs”, considering we were there for 6 weeks. They were random expenses such as tips, bathrooms fees, laundry, SIM card and mobile data.

More notably, we had to pay an (illegally imposed?) exit fee for Mexico which cost us around $60!

A FEW EXTRA TIPS

The Mexican currency is a Mexican peso and the ratio is: US $1 = approx. 18,7 M$ (January 2020)

It is possible to find an ATM practically anywhere in the country (and they accept Maestro, MasterCard, Visa, …) so there is no fear of ending up without cash. Take into consideration banks will charge you a commission of $3-4 per withdrawal, so it is better to withdraw the maximum possible amount.

Additionally, you can pay with US dollars in many places. But (!) – pay attention especially in Yucatan where prices in dollars can be up to 15% higher in comparison to prices in Mexican pesos.

When planning your (backpacking) Mexico travel budget we’d suggest you take your planned daily budget and just multiply it by the number of days you are planning to stay there.

$30 per day will be enough if you are travelling on a shoestring and you don’t mind sleeping in dormitories, $40 is a comfortable backpacker’s travel budget for Mexico and $50 per day will put you in more a “flashpacker” shoes. 🙂

Of course, don’t forget to add costs for the plane ticket, travel insurance and any other special activities (like a diving course for example).

SO… DID WE STICK TO OUR MEXICO TRAVEL BUDGET?

Well, ALMOST!

We would have if….

….we weren’t the ones assuming a Southeast Asia budget would suffice for Latin America,and thus planning to spend max $70 per day (for both of us). Oops. 😁

We also feel that in Asia you get better value for your money on things like accommodation and food, but hey – that’s Asia. 😀 Looking back, we are quite happy with how much we spent in Mexico and are definitely going back to explore the northern part of the country one day!

You may also like these articles:

• One Month Mexico Itinerary
• Mexico City 5 day Itinerary

Happy Vagabonding!

Planning a trip to Mexico in the future? Save this for later!

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10 Responses

Wow, that sounds like an awesome trip! Just curious…How is your level of Spanish? Was it tough to navigate Mexico with the language barrier?

Well, honestly, I speak Spanish – not fluently, but enough to have a simple conversation with locals, which was really beneficial. However, in all bigger tourist areas there will be some English spoken (restaurants, hostels, etc), so I think you can get by without Spanish as well.

Thanks for sharing. It’s good to have an idea of the costs of a trip to Mexico. Any tips on community-based tourism?

You’re welcome 🙂 Unfortunately we didn’t have any experience with community-based tourism in Mexico, so I wouldn’t be the right person to give you tips on that. But if you are interested in it, we would suggest you to try to find some options outside Yucatan as Mexico is more authentic in other areas, or at least we felt so. 🙂 Happy travels!

Love these helpful tips. I havent been to Mexico and ages and would love to make a return trip to the Yucatan soon!

Yup, Yucatan is indeed lovely for a vacation 🙂 And there’s always one more cenote to jump in 😉

This post was so helpful! I love being able to visually see a breakdown of what it really costs to travel and am planning a trip to Mexico soon so this was perfect!

Yep, this way is easier to plan! We always search for budget breakdowns before going to a certain country, so that we aren’t surprised later 🙂

That really sucks about the rental car. But at least you didn’t let it ruin your whole holiday

No, we didn’t let it ruin it! 🙂

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Last Updated on February 12, 2020 by Sandra

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Mexico trip cost: how much budget do you need?

• April 11, 2022

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Are you looking for tips for lowering Mexico trip cost and do you want to know how much budget you need? If so, you are on the right page. In this article, you read how much a trip to Mexico cost and how high your Mexico travel budget should be depending on what type of traveler you are.

We spent $60 dollars a day during our 25 day trip through Yucatan and in this article we share in detail how we did it.

In general, Mexico isn’t expensive to travel to. However, it depends on which area you are going to travel to. So is for example the province of Yucatan is more expensive than other parts of Mexico.

It is important to know how much budget you need when traveling to Mexico. This partly determines your choice if you’re going to travel to Mexico or not.

Our tips, categories, and our personal Mexico trip cost are based on the trip we made through Yucatan. So keep in mind that when you travel to other areas that trip to Mexico cost will be lower.

Tip: it is possible to pay with US dollars at certain places. We advise you not to do this because they calculate with a bad exchange rate. Withdraw your money yourself at the ATM so you always have the best exchange rate.

Trip to Mexico cost per day?

Important to start with is that when you travel to Mexico on a budget you still can have an amazing trip. For $50 or less per day, you can stay in great hostels, eat at local restaurants, and see a lot of the country by doing activities on your own.

Budget traveler: if you have a tight budget and you pay close attention to what you spend, $35 – $50 per person per day may be sufficient.

Mid-range traveler: If you want it a bit more luxurious where you do a few more expensive activities or stay at nicer accommodations, plan a budget of $50 – $100 per person per day.

Luxury traveler: when staying in the best accommodations in Mexico and you want comfort during your vacation in Mexico you spend above +$100 per person per day.

The amounts don’t include airline tickets. Flight costs are very diverse. We always use Skyscanner and recommend it!

Mexico trip cost: Accommodation

To keep the costs of your trip low, there are several options for budget travelers. First of all, you have the choice between staying in hostels and hotels. If you travel alone, we always recommend staying in hostels so that you can meet new people there. If you travel as a couple, it is sometimes nice to stay in a hotel and enjoy some luxury. We are not saying that you should skip hostels! We always love to stay in a hostel even though we travel as a couple. We always enjoy meeting other travelers, this is difficult in a hotel.

Hostels and hotels are comparable in price to other countries in Central America and South-east Asia. A dormitory will cost you about $6 to $18, a double budget room $24 to $42 and if you want more luxury, you will spend more than $70 per night.

An important tip for lowering Mexico’s travel budget is to pre-book all your accommodations. The advantage is that you have more choices so that the options you can afford are still available. If you are late with your booking, only the more expensive accommodations may be available.

Are you curious about our favorite places to stay in Mexico? Find out more .

Mexico trip cost: Food

It is important to say that the food in Mexico is delicious! You have enough choices, from very simple and cheap to culinary delights, but which is of course more expensive. Also, be aware that the more popular places are more expensive. On average you pay about $6 for a burrito at a restaurant. At a local taco tent, this costs about $1. If you want to eat more elaborately with a bit more luxury, this will cost you around $12 to $18.

If you want to keep costs low, you can easily buy your food in a supermarket. We often buy vegetables, snacks, and drinks in the supermarket.

You should try the following dishes: cochinita pibil, tacos, and Mezcal. Cochinita pibil is a pulled pork that is prepared by slow cooking in annatto, orange juice, and lime. It is served with some pickled onions on top giving you an incredible dish. Tacos can be found everywhere in the province of Yucatán, they are cheap and delicious. Burritos are more difficult to find because this is a dish from northern Mexico. Finally, you must have tried Mezcal. This is tequila’s little sister and worth a try.

Looking for an itinerary through Yucatan? Read more .

Mexico trip cost: Transport

Mexico is a large country, so it is advisable to visit a certain part of Mexico. This has a couple of advantages because you have to travel less great distances so that you spend less time traveling itself. An additional advantage is that when you visit a certain area you can often use the bus which is the cheapest way to travel in Mexico.

We have traveled through Yucatan and it’s awesome to travel to because there are many things to see in a relatively small area. This keeps transport costs low. Read our Yucatan itinerary here if you want to know more about it.

You can find all the transport tickets at Bookaway . We used Bookaway to book all our bus tickets. They’re easy to use and book with, and we’ve explored the best destinations with their busses.

if you are in Mexico at a certain destination and you would like to buy tickets on the spot we recommended using bus company ADO. They have bus connections between all popular destinations. You can check via their site actual time schedules.

Other transports that can be used in Mexico are flights, cars, ‘colectivos’ and taxis. For smaller distances, the best option is to use colectivo. This is a small minivan that travels short distances between places. If you want to use this, ask at your accommodation on the spot where you can find it. If you want to bridge very short distances and want to get to a specific place, you should take a taxi. In Mexico, they work with fixed prices so negotiation is not possible.

If you travel to Mexico by plane and you are looking for a car to rent, you can rent it through Rentalcars . We use Rentalcars when we want to travel by car to discover new destinations. They’re easy to use and book with.

Planning a road trip through Mexico? Here’s is our Mexico road trip guide .

Mexico trip cost: Activities

In Yucatán, excursion and activity costs will vary widely. For example, swimming with whale sharks is $129, which is relatively expensive. For us, this was acceptable in terms of amount, because we saw this as a “once in a lifetime moment”. The entrance to Chichen Itza is also relatively expensive because you pay $24. In contrast, for example, visiting ruins in Tulum is very cheap with an amount of $4. Or sailing in Bacalar where you have a boat excursion for a few hours for $36.

Usually, the more expensive excursions are very special, which makes them relatively expensive. We always advise not to cut on activities because the activities make a trip incredibly fun and ensure that you see and do a lot.

Mexico trip cost: Miscellaneous

A travel guide provides you with detailed information about the country itself, weather, culture, travel routes, advice on where to eat and to stay. We always use Lonely Planet and we love it! You can combine this with our articles. It is best to order this book for Mexico.

Most foreign citizens are eligible for a Tourist Card for Mexico . Apply for it on Natvisa and get it in less than 10 minutes.

A water bottle is always handy to have with you. We use a crazycap , this is a water bottle that kills all bacteria in the water using UV. This allows us to drink tap water anywhere in the world through this bottle. So we never have to buy water and can always drink tap water safely.

If you are in Yucatán and you would like to do a lot around the water, we advise you to buy a drybag . We don’t want to risk our valuables items getting wet and damaged. This bag will often save you, we speak from our own experience.

Finally, you can also buy a sleeping bag , the advantage of this is that you always sleep in “your bed”. If you find it annoying to sleep in unknown beds and do you like hygiene, sleeping in a sleeping bag is a good solution. 

Travel insurance

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

H ow much did Mexico cost us per day

• Accommodation $17
• Transport $7
• Activities $17

Total: $60 per day (amounts have been rounded). This doesn’t include airline tickets and miscellaneous costs. The airline tickets were $920 for us. In total our trip costs per person: 25 (days) x $60 + $920 = $2420.

We always stayed in great places, enjoyed food at good restaurants, and did all the activities that we wanted to do.

Accommodation : If you want to travel cheaper than we did it is possible only we don’t recommend cutting down on accommodation costs. Most of the time cheaper accommodations are located outside the center and the facilities are not that good.

Food : When you enjoy breakfast at the accommodation that we recommended on this list you will not spend a lot of money on food. It is possible to cut down on food expenses by eating at cheaper restaurants or cooking for yourself during your trip.

Transport : If you visit a certain area in Mexico such as Yucatan and you mainly buy your upfront via Bookaway , transport costs will not be high.

Activities : When you see for example all the articles we wrote about Mexico you will see that a lot of things can be done in Mexico. Recommended is not to cut down on activities. After all, you are going to travel to Mexico to see and do things right?

Trip to Mexico cost FAQ

1. how much does it cost to go to mexico.

If you are a middle-class traveler for example going to travel for 3 weeks through Yucatan province, coming from the United States, and flying to Cancun, will cost you a trip to Mexico $1460 for couples per person.

For accommodation, food, transport, and activities you will spend 21 days x $60 average = $1260. Flight costs will be approximately $200 per person.

2. How much money to take to Mexico?

Bring $300 with you so that you can pay for your first expenses when you arrive such as the bus, taxi, food, and accommodation. Then it is recommended to go to the local bank and withdraw money. Exchange rates are a lot better than when you exchange money at home.

In every village or city, there is a bank where you can withdraw money. Therefore it is not needed to bring a huge amount of money with you when you are going to travel to Mexico.

3. How much does it cost to go to Mexico for a week?

Of course, it depends on what you are going to do. But in general, if you are a middle-class traveler a one-week trip in Mexico will cost +/- $760 for couples per person.

We spent $60 on accommodations, food, transport, and activities, but if you go for one week you want to see and do things in a shorter period with results that the average cost is higher. That’s why you’ll spend $80 per person a day.

For accommodation, food, transport, and activities you will spend 7 days x $80 average = $560. Flight costs will be approximately $200 per person.

4. How to visit Mexico on a budget?

It is possible to make a great trip to Mexico with a limited budget. For this, you need to do the following things to spend +/- $40 a day.

Stay in hostels and book them well in advance. This gives you the most choices so that the cheaper hostels are still available. When you do this you will spend +/- $10 per day.

To keep food expenses low, book a hostel that includes breakfast. This means you only have to eat in the afternoon and evening. Eat where the locals eat, often it is, the simpler from the outside the tastier and cheaper the food. You will spend $20 on food per day.

For transport, it is recommended to choose a small area and keep distances as short as possible. You can also choose to visit only a certain couple of destinations instead of a lot so that the transport costs remain low. By doing this you will spend $4 a day on average.

Sometimes it is necessary to pay an entrance ticket for sights but most activities can you do perfectly yourself, $5 a day is enough.

Conclusion cost of travel in Mexico

Mexico isn’t expensive to travel to. Now that you know this, you come to the next point in preparation for your trip: drawing up your travel route through Mexico. To help you on your way, we have put together a travel route through Mexico in which you will see all the highlights. For each destination, there is an article in which you can read everything in detail if you want to know more. Click here to open it: Mexico itinerary .

If you are still looking for a complete overview that shows how to prepare yourself, we recommend that you read our travel guide to Mexico . Here you can read which period is the best to visit Mexico, how safe Mexico is, how to pack your bag and much more useful information.

What do you think of our budget tips for Mexico? Share your thought in the comments below!

Did you enjoy this article? Then save it to Pinterest for later!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

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8 Responses

I haven’t been to Mexico yet, so it’s great to hear how it’s a budget-friendly destination. I enjoyed reading your breakdown of what to expect for a trip here. I’ll probably end up spending lots of money on the delicious street food and side excursions.

Hi Jackie, thanks! Indeed Mexico is not as expensive to travel through as most people think. If you follow our tips of this article and the articles use we have written about specific destinations you can have a budget-friendly trip through Mexico without any problem.

The monetary values are in which currency?

Hi Cidella,

As you can see all amounts are mentioned in dollars.

Regards, Alexander

bookmarked!!, I like your website!

Thanks. We try to post every month some articles to share our travel passion. Let us know if you want to read about a specific topic. Greetings, Cynthia

Hello, Thank you for these details. I consider to going Mexico within 1-2 months. I just wonder mentioned budgets for per person or two person/ per day?

Mexico is a great country to travel to. But regarding the prices everything is per person, so the budget figures in the beginning of the article are showed per person. Only in the details the accommodation costs are showed per room. We will update it that it is per person to make it more clear:). Let me know if you have more questions.

Greetings, Alexander

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Mexico City Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Founded in the early 14th century by the Aztecs, Mexico City is one of the oldest capital cities in the Americas. Today, it is one of the most fascinating cultural destinations in the world, with eclectic art galleries, animated food markets, bustling nightlife, and grandiose historic buildings on tree-lined streets.

I was late to visit Mexico City, but once I spent time here I fell in love. The museum, parks, and food scene make this a world-class city in my view. It’s also super affordable and has a growing expat/digital nomad scene so it’s easy to visit long-term and make connections.

This travel guide to Mexico City can help you make the most out of your trip, save money, help you stay safe, and ensure you have an amazing visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Mexico City

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Mexico City

1. Walk through the Zócalo

Encompassing the Templo Mayor, Palacio Nacional, and Plaza de la Constitución, the Zócalo is the heart of Mexico City’s Historic Center. Originally the site of an Aztec Temple, the Templo Mayor was destroyed to make room for a new Spanish cathedral in 1521. Rediscovered in the 1970s, you can now view ancient artifacts uncovered from the site alongside the stunning Spanish colonial architecture of La Catedral Metropolitana. Exploring the Zócalo area is the perfect introduction to Mexico City’s rich culture and history. Start your visit here.

2. Relax in Chapultepec Park

Spanning 1,695 acres in the heart of Mexico City, here you’ll find a zoo, La Feria amusement park, and nine unique museums. Chapultepec Park is one of the world’s most visited urban parks, and you can spend days strolling around forest paths and relaxing by the water. Here you’ll find the Museum of Anthropology, which houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations (admission is 70 MXN). You can also rent a rowboat or paddle boat and go out on Chapultepec Lake for 60 MXN. And history buffs will love a visit to Chapultepec Castle, the former home of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota. It was built on a sacred Aztec site. Admission costs 80 MXN and is free on Sundays.

3. Participate in Day of the Dead

Every November, on the 1st and 2nd of the month, the entire country joins in a mass celebration of the dead. Everywhere you go, there are decorated sugar skulls, candy treats, and baked goods known as Pan de Muerto . The festival is a vibrant and lively affair with celebrations for those who are gone but not forgotten, including parades of elaborate and colorful costumes. It’s a must-do and an incredibly vibrant cultural experience you will never forget. All you have to do is show up!

Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera are two of the biggest names in Mexican art. Frida was particularly famous for her portraits and self-portraits. A tour of their old home (the “Casa Azul”) is a worthwhile experience to see where and how she lived, as well as some of her original artwork. Caza Azul also hosts a variety of artistic workshops monthly, so check out the schedule if you’re interested in learning a new skill during your Mexico City trip. Tickets are 250 MXN. Buy tickets in advance because tickets are high in demand.

5. Check out the art and history museums

There are tons of museums and galleries in Mexico City, perfect for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Worthwhile museums include the Museum of Anthropology, the National History Museum, the Modern Art Museum, the National Art Museum, and the Museo do Arte Populare (folk art museum). Mexico City can compete with any other culturally rich city so be sure to spend some time admiring these massive collections. Tickets start at 70 MXN.

Other Things to See and Do in Mexico City

1. visit castillo de chapultepec.

The only castle in North America to house sovereigns, Chapultepec Castle was built in 1725 as a large manor house for the Viceroy (the colonial administrator from Spain). Abandoned during the Mexican War of Independence in 1810, Chapultepec later became the residence of Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota in 1864 during the Second Mexican Empire (1864–1867). Today, Chapultepec Castle is home to Museo Nacional de Historia, which tells the story of Mexico from the time of Tenochtitlan to the Mexican Revolution. It costs 85 MXN.

2. Explore Templo Mayor

Mexico City is a hotbed of historical landmarks, particularly those dating back to the Aztec period, and there is no finer example than the Great Temple of Tenochtitlan. Located in the heart of the Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco, Templo Mayor is an example of life in Mesoamerica before the arrival of the Spanish in 1519. The Aztecs believed the area to be the literal center of the universe, and it was here where they sighted the eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak — the symbol of Mexico today. Admission is 85 MXN and includes entrance to the museum and the archeological site.

3. Feast in the Zona Rosa

One of the most popular neighborhoods in Mexico City, Zona Rosa is historically known for being the heart of the city’s gay community and boasts an array of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. This is the best nightlife area in the city. Make sure to dress well here too. Try places like Cafeteríra El Péndulo, Xaman Bar, and Cabaretito Fusión. If you have a taste for Korean barbeque (Zona Rosa has a huge Korean community!), head to BiWon.

4. Visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología

Found within Chapultepec Park, this world-class anthropology museum is the largest museum in Mexico, at 45,000 square meters (it’s also the most-visited museum in the country). Open since 1964, the museum houses a vast collection of sculptures, jewels, and artifacts from ancient Mexican civilizations. There’s an exhibition on the culture of Native Americans in Mexico as well as numerous rotating temporary exhibitions (often on other great cultures from around the world, such as Iran, China, and Greece). Admission is 85 MXN.

5. Tour a megalibrary

Situated among gardens, the Biblioteca Vasconcelos is a temple to books, often referred to as a “megalibrary”. Opening its doors in 2006, the library features transparent walls and intentionally mismatched floors, six floors, and houses over 600,000 books! The library also offers cultural activities like concerts, plays, and dance performances, and there’s also a 26,000-square-meter garden filled with trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Admission is free. Check the website to see what events are happening during your visit.

6. Check out the Basilica de Guadalupe

The Basilica de Guadalupe is a Catholic church, basilica, and world-famous shrine, drawing thousands of pilgrims every year from all over Mexico. The yearly celebration of the shrine is on December 12th, which makes this a crazy, festival-like place to be during that time. Take time to explore the grounds, as well as the basilica and shrine. The old basilica was constructed from 1695-1709, built on the spot where the Virgin of Guadalupe had first appeared to the peasant-turned-saint Juan Diego in 1531. The old basilica began to sink in its foundation, and a new basilica was constructed from 1974-1976. Just make sure to dress respectfully during your visit as it is a place of worship.

7. Marvel at the Soumaya Museum

Housing 66,000 pieces of Central American and European art, the Soumaya Museum displays works not only by Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and Rufino Tamayo, but also by famous masters like Botticelli, Dalí, and Rodin, to name a few. The museum was donated and constructed by one of the world’s richest men, Carlos Slim Helú (a Mexican business magnate). In Northern Mexico City, the Soumaya Museum is a stunning building covered with 16,000 aluminum hexagonal tiles, which sparkle in the sunlight. It’s considered to be the most beautiful modern building in Mexico City. Admission is free.

8. Attend a lucha libre

Mexican free wrestling is a favorite pastime among locals. Extremely entertaining and affordable, Lucha libre takes wrestling to a whole new level, and the cheers and heckles from the crowd add to the fun. Grab a beer or a shot of tequila, and get ready to holler some Spanish jeers – and whatever you do, do not look away during a match as anything can, and will, happen. General seating tickets can be as little as 56 MXN each. Don’t go with a tour or book ahead of time as you’ll pay a lot more. Do not buy from scalpers either, because the police are always around and you’ll get in trouble. Look for a tequila (ticket booth) sign to be sure that you are paying the right price. Do not bring your camera, as you will be forced to check it at the door.

9. Visit the UNAM Botanical Garden

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

This green space is not only a haven for people but the local wildlife as well. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers, owls, hummingbirds, rattlesnakes, lizards, and the Pedregal tarantula, which is a species only found in this small area of Mexico City. Admission is free.

10. Have some tacos at Taqueria los Cocuyos

There are tons of taquerias (taco stands) around Mexico City, but this 50-year-old establishment in the Historic Center has a vast array of meats to choose from. They have standard fillings like carnitas or chorizo, but why not try a tripe, brains (they have a creamy consistency), or tongue (this melts in your mouth like pot roast) taco? Anthony Bourdain absolutely loved this taqueria so need I say more?

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

• Cancun Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide

Mexico City Travel Costs

Hostel prices – During peak season, the price per bed in a 4-6-bed dorm starts at 300 MXN per night, whereas a private room for two ranges from 600-1,900 MXN per night. In the shoulder season, those prices drop to 225 MXN and 850 MXN respectively. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star rooms in Mexico City start around 300 MXN, while a three-star hotel ranges from 500-900 MXN. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, AC, and occasionally free breakfast.

Airbnb is also an option in Mexico City, with private rooms starting at 220 MXN per night (though most are around 600 MXN). Entire homes and apartments start at 700 MXN and go up from there. Book early to find the best deals.

Food – Typical Mexican dishes include tacos, mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, often including chocolate), salsa, enchiladas, tamales (stuffed corn pockets), pozole (hominy stew topped with onion, avocado, and chili) guacamole.

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

A cheap meal at a restaurant costs around 150 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. If you want to splash out, a three-course meal costs around 325 MXN.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 130 MXN for a combo meal. Pizza starts at 400 MXN while Chinese food costs around 200 MXN for a main dish.

Beer is 50-80 MXN while a latte/cappuccino is 55 MXN.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a portable water purifier or use bottled water ( LifeStraw makes a good one.)

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 500-585 MXN per week for groceries that will include rice, vegetables, chicken, tortillas, and beans. However, with street food so cheap and most hostels and hotels without kitchens, it’s best to simply eat local rather than cook.

Backpacking Mexico City Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Mexico City, expect to spend 1,050 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few attractions (such as museums and galleries) each day. If you plan on eating out more or drinking, you’ll need to add another 100 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,900 MXN per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, visit more attractions, enjoy a few drinks, and take the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,800 MXN or more per day, you can stay at a hotel, eat out for all your meals, have plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere, and do some guided trips and tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

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

Mexico City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Mexico City is a really affordable city to visit. While prices have risen in the last couple of years, there’s tons of affordable street food and accommodation. Plus, lots of free activities to help keep your costs down. To help keep your budget intact, here are some ways to save in Mexico City:

• Eat street food – Save money on food by eating at the big markets or from the vendors on the street. You’ll get big, flavorful, and filling meals for only a few dollars. If you’re wary, just eat wherever you see children eating. If kids can eat that food, you’ll be fine!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. Not only will this lower your accommodation costs but you’ll get to connect with a local insider who can share their tips and advice.
• Go on a free walking tour – Learn the history behind the places you are seeing and to avoid missing any must-see stops in Mexico City. Estacion Mexico Free Tours has a historic downtown tour that can show you what the city has to offer. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico City, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Take public transit – Public transportation is the most affordable way to get around. You can purchase a rechargeable Smartcard at any of the metro stations and you can use the card for the metro and metro buses.
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water bottle with a built-in filter. LifeStraw is my go-to choice as it ensures your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Mexico City

Mexico City has a bunch of affordable hostels that are fun and safe. Here are some of recommended places to stay:

• Suites DF Hostel
• Mexico City Hostel
• Massiosare El Hostel
• Hostel Home

How to Get Around Mexico City

Public transportation – Mexico City is very large and the best way to get around is the subway (metro) system. It’s usually busy and crowded but it’s efficient. You can buy a rechargeable smart card at any of the Metro stations for 16 MXN (this includes the first 5 MXN ticket), and you can use the card for the metro and metro buses. A public city bus costs 6 MXN. You also can ride a Microbus (or a pesero as it’s commonly known), which are privately-run. A ticket for these costs 2.50-4 MXN.

Alternatively, Turibus is a touristy hop-on hop-off bus with four routes in Mexico City. These buses can be a good way to get your bearings and discover areas of the city you may want to explore further. A 1-day ticket is 160 MXN on weekdays and 180 MXN on the weekends.

Bicycle – For bike rentals, check out EcoBici, a bike-sharing program. It offers the first 45 minutes free. After that, your first hour is 25 MXN and each hour after is an additional 50 MXN. A full day is 118 MXN. After you’re done riding, you can return the bike to any kiosk with an open dock (indicated by a green light).

Taxis – Taxi fares start from around 25 MXN and then each kilometer is an additional 16 MXN. Don’t hail a taxi which is passing on the street. Instead, take one from outside a hotel or restaurant as these are authorized taxis and safer to use.

Ride-sharing – Uber, an alternative to taxis, operates in Mexico City and is generally cheaper than taxis.

When to Go to Mexico City

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

April to June are typically the hottest months with temperatures averaging a high of 27°C (80°F). This is also one of the busiest times of year so be sure to book early.

Semana Santa is one of the biggest holidays in Mexico, next to Christmas and Day of the Dead. It takes place the week before Easter, when a re-enactment of the crucifixion takes place. Día de la Independencia takes place September 16th, but the celebrations begin the night before in Mexico City’s Zócalo, complete with fireworks. This is Mexico’s independence day, not Cinco de Mayo which is a celebration of the battle of Puebla which takes place in the state of Puebla, to the south of Mexico City.

In November, the streets and cemeteries of Mexico come alive as locals celebrate Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), a time when locals hold all-night vigils and commune with loved ones who have died. It’s also a time of parties and parades and sugar skulls. An unforgettable experience, especially in Mexico City. If you want to visit for the festival, book well in advance. The city books up fast and accommodation prices rise.

How to Stay Safe in Mexico City

The media (especially the American media) likes to paint Mexico City as a dangerous place to visit, but the reality is that a lot of Mexico City is completely safe. While petty theft (including bag snatching) is common here, most of the serious conflict is between the authorities and Mexican drug cartels, which will have little impact on your trip.

Stay away from neighborhoods like Tepito and Iztapalapa, and be aware of your surroundings in large crowded markets where it is easy to be targeted by pickpockets. Do your best to blend in and always keep your valuables secure and out of reach.

The people who tend to get in trouble are often involved in doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Stay away from that stuff for many reasons.

Locals are friendly and helpful. If you’re not sure about a neighborhood, ask a local. They can tell you whether or not it is a good idea to go there.

A local once described the city as a night city, which meant that, since there are lots of people out at night, there are eyes everywhere which helps reduce the likelihood of crime. I’ve never felt unsafe walking alone, especially when I’m in areas like Condesa, Roma Norte, or Jaurez, which are the areas you are likely to be in as a tourist.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, though I would take extra caution at night. The standard safety precautions apply (never walk home alone intoxicated, never leave your drink unattended at the bar, etc.). Be sure to read one of the many solo female travel blogs for specific tips.

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

If you need emergency services, dial 911.

While Mexico’s water purification and treatment systems have improved, it’s still not safe to drink tap water when visiting. Use a LifeStraw to avoid single-use plastic and ensure your water is safe. It has a built-in filter to purify your water.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

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

Mexico City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Mexico City Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

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

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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• Related Blogs

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Palm-fringed beaches, chili-spiced cuisine, steamy jungles, teeming cities, fiesta fireworks: Mexico conjures diverse, vivid dreams – and then delivers them.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Mexico. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological zones in Mexico and for good reason: it’s sublime. The ruins sit on seaside cliffs, high above turquoise…

Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

A white sand beach with manta rays gliding through the shimmering turquoise waters. No hotels. No nightclubs. No roads or cars of any kind. It’s hard to…

Teotihuacán

North of Mexico City

This fabulous archaeological zone lies in a mountain-ringed offshoot of the Valle de México. Site of the huge Pirámides del Sol y de la Luna (Pyramids of…

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel, you feel like you’re in a giant cocoon. Nature surrounds you, inside and out:…

Palacio de Bellas Artes

Alameda Central

Immense murals by world-famous Mexican artists dominate the top floors of this splendid white-marble palace – a concert hall and arts center commissioned…

Jardín Botánico de Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta

For a change of scenery from the beach, head for the tropical highlands of the Sierra Madre mountains and wander the well-curated Jardín Botánico de…

Museo Maya de Cancún

Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the contemporary Museo Maya de Cancún is a welcome respite from the beach and buffet lines of the neighboring high…

Home to a small fishing community, the picturesque beach of Yelapa hugs an emerald coastline backed by jungle-shrouded mountains. The remote coastal…

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The best things to do in mexico: 19 unmissable experiences.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Oaxaca City

Looking for cheap street food? Look no further. Dozens of good, clean comedores (food stalls) fill this large market where wait staff will thrust menus to…

Museo del Tequila y el Mezcal

Centro Histórico

This museum on Plaza Garibaldi has exhibits explaining the origins and production process of Mexico’s two most popular distilled agave drinks. The tour…

Los Danzantes

Excellent Mexican fusion food in a spectacular architect-designed patio makes Los Danzantes one of Oaxaca’s special dining spots. The hierba santa …

Museo Frida Kahlo

Coyoacán & San Ángel

Renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo was born in, and lived and died in, Casa Azul (Blue House), now a museum. Almost every visitor to Mexico City makes a…

Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

Guadalajara

Standing proudly at the eastern end of dramatic Plaza Tapatía is one of Guadalajara’s architectural landmarks, and a Unesco World Heritage site since 1997…

Templo Mayor

Before the Spaniards demolished it, the Aztec 'Great Temple' Teocalli of Tenochtitlán covered the site where the cathedral now stands, as well as the…

Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso

Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco and David Siqueiros painted murals here in the 1920s. Most of the work on the main patio is by Orozco; look for the…

Plaza Garibaldi

Every night the city’s mariachi bands belt out heartfelt ballads in this festive square. Wearing silver-studded outfits, they toot their trumpets and tune…

Jardín Etnobotánico

In former monastic grounds behind the Templo de Santo Domingo, this garden features plants from around Oaxaca state, including a staggering variety of…

Xochimilco Canals

Mexico City

Hundreds of colorful trajineras (gondolas) await passengers at the village’s 10 embarcaderos to paddle you through the waterways dotted with birdlife and…

Plaza de los Mariachis

Just south of Avenida Javier Mina and the Mercado San Juan de Dios, this is the very birthplace of mariachi music. By day it’s just a narrow walking…

Los Cocuyos

Suadero (beef) tacos abound in the capital, but this always-open stand reigns supreme. Follow your nose to the bubbling vat of meats and go for the artery…

Auto-mechanic shop by day, taco diner by night. No worries, though: the experts slicing down those excellent al pastor (spit-cooked pork) tacos aren't the…

Playa Carrizalillo

Puerto Escondido

Small is beautiful at Carrizalillo, set in a sheltered cove west of the center that's reached by a stairway of 157 steps. It’s popular for swimming and…

Museo Memoria y Tolerancia

A mazelike, unique museum of 55 halls dedicated to preserving the memory of genocide victims. The multimedia exhibit chronicles crimes committed against…

Museo de la Tortura

Displaying European torture instruments from the 14th to 19th centuries, including a metal-spiked interrogation chair and the menacing skull splitter,…

Museo de Arte Popular

A major showcase for folk art, this is a colorful museum that even kids love. Crafts are thematically displayed from all over Mexico, including carnival…

Mano Santa Mezcal

Often compared to having a drink at home because of the cheap, quality mezcal (or because you live in a designer-school laboratory), this small bar…

Museo de la Revolución

This pockmarked 19th-century house was the scene of the first battle of the 1910 Revolution. The renovated house retains its bullet holes and some…

Blink and you might walk right past the coolest neighborhood mezcalería in town. Behind the Bósforo’s nondescript curtain await top-notch mezcals, an…

Por Siempre Vegana Taquería

Vegans can join in the street-food action with soy and gluten taco versions of al pastor, loganiza (sausage) and chorizo. The late-night experience is…

Museo Mural Diego Rivera

This museum is home to one of Diego Rivera’s most famous works, Sueño de una tarde dominical en la Alameda Central (Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the…

Museo del Calzado El Borceguí

At this shoe museum – and the oldest shoemaker in Mexico, operating since 1865 – there are over 2000 pieces of footwear on show, many from famous feet…

Pirámide Tepanapa

The incredible Pirámide Tepanapa looks more like a hill than a pyramid, but it's still the town's big draw, and with miles of tunnels veining the inside…

Mercado Medellin

Self-caterers can stop into this colorful market for quality cuts of meat, fresh produce and nuts amongst the piñatas. It's also a popular spot for lunch:…

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Best Things to Do

From swimming in cenotes and eating street food to soaking up the history and culture of this vibrant nation, here are the best things to do in Mexico.

Transportation

From ski slopes and jungle to deserts and sublime stretches of sand, expect to use many transport options to get around the world's 13th biggest country.

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If you’re planning a vacation in Mexico, these are some of the ins and outs of navigating its visas, tourist permits and more.

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Soak up history and art without spending a cent, and find out how to make every peso stretch further with our top tips for visiting Mexico on a budget.

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Fuel your wanderlust on the open road in Mexico with these epic drives.

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Family is at the center of daily life in Mexico, and children are warmly welcomed almost everywhere. Here are the top things to do with little ones in tow.

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Peel back the lucha libre mask and you’ll find a patchwork of cultures and customs mixed into one flavor-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 colorful Oaxaca , or, best of all, kick back with a horchata in the lazy seaside port of Merida .

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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 between September and June in the cool, dry season. July and August can be very hot and humid, but perfect for swimming, snorkeling, 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. Characterized by strong regional identity, locals are affiliated directly to the region they hail from with each region having its own unique customs, cuisine and even language 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 honor of local saints are commonplace, and offer travelers the chance to witness the customs and rituals of this vibrant culture.

Eating and drinking

One of Mexico's biggest draws 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 traveler. 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 what to eat in Mexico

Read 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 and 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 neighbors 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 colorful 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 flavors here are simply phenomenal and unlike mass-produced chocolate in the Western world. Spiced with chili, cinnamon and cloves, you won’t soon forget the taste of Oaxacan chocolate.

3. Sunshine and snorkeling

Mexico’s Caribbean coastline showcases expanses of clear blue water, white sand beaches, vibrant reefs and plenty of sunshine. Snorkeling over colorful 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 splendor

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-honored commercial traditions unfold in Mexico’s well-patronized markets. Hear the banter of stallholders, smell the fragrant scent of sizzling meat and admire the colorful 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 snorkeling 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 colorful cities. Stop by the local markets to browse locally-made handicrafts with colors that rival those of the city itself.

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

Travelers 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. The United States and Canada generally have strict customs 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 colorful 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.

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 colorful 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 colors, 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 travelers 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 travelers 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 travelers 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 traveling 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 who 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 percent at restaurants (if the service charge is not already included), 5–10 percent 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 cell phone in Mexico?

If you wish to use your cell 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 traveling 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 bottled 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. Travelers 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 is renowned for its sunshine and sandy beaches, but the weather can vary depending on the region you’re traveling 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: Labor 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 travelers 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 travelers 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 travelers 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 traveling 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 73°F during the day, so it’s important to be prepared for both ends of the spectrum.

What's the accommodation like in Mexico?

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

When traveling 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 traveler. 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 traveling?

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 traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling 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 traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing 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), traveling 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.

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Mexico Tours & Trips

As famous for ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins as it is for its tequila, tacos and laid back way of life, Mexico is a fascinating mix of cosmopolitan cities and native villages. Experience the essence of the Caribbean on the sandy beaches of Cancún, see howler monkeys swing in the trees of Palenque National Park, witness the illuminated grounds of Chichén Itzá in Yucatán , or just hang in a hammock and watch the sun set into the Pacific. A Mexican vacation is full of adventure, alluring culture, and feisty food you just can't wait to experience!

250+ Mexico tour packages with 948 reviews

Mexico Yucatán Experience

A brilliant trip with a great combination of activities and an excellent tour guide who was so fun and helpful along the way and who shared so much information with us about Mexican history and culture.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Wonders of the Maya

Thank you TourRadar to provide a such a mazing destinations. We got the great tour guide ( Miguel and driver (Alfredo ) we had a great tour group. This package tour we got to see major historical sites and beautiful beautiful beaches. Love everything about this tour . Perfect ?

• Christmas & New Year

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.

Classic Mexico Adventure

This tour was a great introduction to Mexico - different cities, food, traditions and history.

Yucatan Adventure: Merida, Tulum & Jungle Swims

I am very happy with a trip and the guide Alonson. He was very knowledgeable and caring. When we had some issues he was one who tried to help/solve and arrange them. I highly recommend the trip.

• Food & Culinary

Mexico Real Food Adventure

Excellent tour of Mexico and the different cuisines. Our tour guide Mario was amazing. Full of history, cultural and food knowledge and always willing to help with anything (even things unrelated to the tour). Our group was small enough to get to know everyone really well. Some of the hotels could have been a little nicer, but were still ok. The overnight bus was an experience! Many meals are included, and there's a flight back to Mexico city, so it is good value for money. Would definitely do this tour again!

• Sightseeing

Aztecs & Mayas

This was one of the best holidays I have been on. Mexico was amazing, Tour Radar was very easy to deal with especially due to the fact that the original holiday was booked during Covid so it was postponed. The tour guides on each tour were amazing and the communication was very easy. Would totally use Tour Radar again for booking holidays

Looking for tours beyond just Mexico?

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Mexico.

Mayan Adventure

The tour was interesting, well balanced, so that it was possible to also independently enjoy each and every city we stayed at. The only thing I disliked was the fact that in the offer was included only American breakfast. So it was not possible to chose anything else, although the hotel's offer was much bigger.

Colonial Mexico ( 9 days )

Capitals of Mexico ( 7 days )

Mexico Unplugged

The Mystical Mayan Trail: A Trip Through Mexico's Vibrant Culture and Natural Beauty

Die Route und die Dauer der Tour durch das schöne Chiapas war für uns perfekt. Die Abwechslung von Natur und Kultur war optimal. Die Hotels waren bis auf eine Ausnahme (Palenque) gut, das Frühstück überall sehr gut. Der Comfort des Minibusses war ausbaufähig. Bei größerer Körpergröße gibt es eigentlich nur einen Sitzplatz, der in Frage kommt, der insbesondere auf längeren und kurvigen Strecken ungemütlich ist. Die Tourguides und Fahrer waren allesamt äußerst kompetent und freundlich. Insbesondere Hector und Francisco, die uns über mehrere Tage begleitet haben, haben die Reise zu etwas besonderem gemacht. Auch, weil sie uns bei gesundheitlichen Problemen beratschlagt haben. Am Ende der Reise konnten wir uns in Valladolid (statt Cancun) absetzen lassen, was unsere Weiterreise erleichtert hat.

Colonial Treasures of Mexico

My wife and I along with three friends signed up the tour to Mexico from Indus Travel. The total 12-day Maya Culture trip really gave us opportunities to learn Mexico indigenous cultures thoroughly. We have seen a lot of ruins and pyramids, each of them has different representations and can tell the history of what was happening atthat time. We also had chances to visit the indigenous families toexperence the real Mexican people's life inthe rural area. The views of volcanoes, villages and canyons are also unforgettable. This is a small group with total 7 tourists, our driver/tour guide is a very experienced guide, Jose explained the history in sequence of events in and out. Most of all with 2500km driving he made us fell safe with his skills. All in all, this trip worths a 5+ star. I was so surprised that Indus Travel assigned a tour coordinator dedicated to our group, Kathlene helped a lot to make the arrangements for the whole trip, her prompt responses made us worry free.

Premium Mexico in Depth

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.

What people love about Mexico Tours

Awesome trip, great way to see so much of Mexico in a short space of time. Top moments were the beach at Holbox, swimming in the 7 colours lagoon, experiencing the cenotes, all the guacamole, delicious breakfast recommendations, seeing Xichen Itsa and biking in Tulum. Our guide was Eve and she was THE BEST. We have done a bunch of other trips and she was by far the most personable, creative, fun, lovely person with a lot of experience and wonderful ability to share her knowledge with us. Highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to party and catch a lot of culture all in one trip. I loved that the group was only 10 people, gave us a chance to meet everyone and there wasn’t a divide in the group nor too many people.

An excellent tour to appreciate and learn about the Mayan civilisation. Very happy to have done this. Miguel is a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic tour guide with a good sense of humour. We felt very safe in the hands of our driver, Edgar. All of the hotels were decent and centrally located. We had a minor issue with the airport transfer to the hotel as we didn’t see anyone holding out a sign with our name. The assistance contact number provided by Destination Services was useless, no one answered when we called. Luckily we had the number of the guide, he helped us find the right guy in the busy Cancun airport!

Mexico Destinations

• Central Mexico (51)
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• Chiapas (22)
• Copper Canyon (18)
• Yucatan (17)
• Chichen Itza (12)
• Western Caribbean (12)
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Mexico Tours starting in

• Starting in Mexico City (120)
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• Mexico Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Mexico Vacation Packages 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

• Yucatan Peninsula
• Central Mexico
• Pacific Coast
• Northern Mexico
• Mexican Culture
• Trip Planning

8 Easy Mexico Travel Budget Tips For Families

Taking a vacation to Mexico with your family doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg! In fact, Mexico can be a very affordable vacation destination for your family if you plan your Mexico travel budget carefully.

Prices in Mexico are a fraction of what they are in the United States, Canada, or Europe. This means you can have a memorable family vacation in Mexico without going into debt. For families wanting to save a bit of money on a family vacation, Mexico is a great affordable option!

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Table of Contents

Typical daily Mexico travel budget costs for a family

As you're planning for your Mexico family trip , set a budget for what you expect to spend each day.

The typical daily costs for a family of four traveling in Mexico can range from $90 to $190, depending on the city. This includes lodging, in-city transportation, food, activities, and miscellaneous supplies. 

In general, prices in Mexico are much cheaper than other North American countries, as well as European countries. Most basic supplies are readily available in Mexico, including diapers, clothes, shoes, swimsuits, sunscreen, and toiletries. This is especially true in major cities and popular tourist destinations.

Airfare costs for your Mexico travel budget

When it comes to airfare, the prices will depend on where you are flying from and what part of Mexico you are flying to. The airline you book will also affect the cost of airfare. International airlines that fly into Mexico include Delta, Alaska Airlines, United, and Air Canada. Mexican airlines that fly between the United States and Mexico include AeroMexico, AeroMar, Volaris, Interjet, and Viva Aerobus.

When you’re planning your Mexico travel budget, think about the time of year that you will be traveling. Airfare costs tend to rise in the spring and summer. But flying in the fall and winter months may yield you cheaper prices. 

On average, for a family of four, airfare in and out of Mexico costs around $1,200-$2,500. Round-trip flights from Los Angeles to Cancun during the high season (December to April) can range from $500-$1,000 per person. A similar round-trip flight originating from New York will range from $700-$900. And from Seattle, that flight will cost between $600-$1,500. During the low season, flights cost around  half of what they cost during the high season.  

Mexico travel budget tip #1: Plan your trip for the low season

Lodging costs for Mexico travel budget

The next big ticket cost in Mexico travel budget is lodging. Hotel prices in Mexico can be as cheap as $30 a day, or as expensive as $300. Some beach hotels in cities like Tulum can get as high as $800 per night!

You can get a feel for how much hotels might cost by looking in the Lonely Planet Mexico guide book . But in general, it really depends on the type of hotels you want to stay at.

An alternative to hotel stays are vacation rentals, primarily Airbnb. As with the hotels in Mexico, you can certainly splurge on gorgeous Airbnb properties that can be upwards of $250-$350 per night. But there are also budget-friendly options available. Daily lodging costs can range between $40-100, depending on the city. 

Mexico travel budget tip #2: Look for lodging outside of the city center or hotel zone

Costs for groceries, snacks, and restaurants

If you’re not eating out at five star restaurants every day, you’ll actually find that food prices in Mexico are pretty reasonable. You can feed a family of four for as little as 120 pesos (or $6) at a taco stand. Of course, you can also spend over 1,200 pesos (or $60) when you splurge on a dinner of fresh oysters or artisan burgers! Anything is possible in Mexico!

One tip for keeping food costs down is to shop at the markets or grocery stores and cook your own food. You can also limit your restaurant outings to once per day. For snacks, street vendors tend to be cheaper than convenience stores like OXXO. For a family of four, daily food costs can range from $34 to $55 per day. 

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases for travel beforehand so that you can ask for the price of an item or ask for the check at a restaurant.

Mexico travel budget tip #3: Eat meals at locally owned taco stands or loncherías.

Buses and in-country flights

Getting around Mexico is relatively easy. Bus companies like ETN , Primera Plus , and ADO can take you between cities. And there are also many domestic airlines that fly across the country. Some of the better domestic airlines include Aeromexico, Aeromar, and Interjet..

For the buses, aim to arrive between one hour to thirty minutes before departure. But for flights, you should plan to be at the airport at least an hour and a half before take-off. Many of the cheap domestic airlines have long lines during check-in, so you don’t want to accidentally miss your flight. Depending on where you plan to travel while you’re in Mexico, you can expect to spend around $290 for buses or domestic flights.

Mexico travel budget tip#4: Save money on domestic travel by taking a bus instead of flying.

Renting a car in Mexico

If you’re planning to rent a car in Mexico, the costs will vary depending on the length of your car rental. Costs will also vary depending on the rental company you use. There are internationally recognized car rental brands like Avis and Hertz. Or you can use locally owned car rental companies.

While Mexico does not have specific federal laws related to children riding in cars, each state does have their own specific regulations. As a precaution, you might want to bring along a child car seat or a travel booster seat for your kids. If your children are old enough for booster seats, consider taking along a Bubble Bum inflatable booster seat or mifold booster seat . Car rental companies might not have car seats or booster seats available to rent.

Expect to pay between $40-$80 per day to rent a car. This cost will include insurance, which is required by law for all car rentals.

Mexico travel budget tip #5: Rent directly with locally owned car rental companies when you get there.

Adding local transportation costs to your Mexico travel budget

Uber is available in over 50 cities in Mexico. In some cases, Uber is much cheaper than a taxi. But in some cities, you may end up waiting a long time for an Uber to come. That’s why taxis are still a solid option for getting around a city. Most taxi rides cost around 50 pesos per 1-2 kilometers.

Another option for traveling around a city is taking public transportation. Mexico City, for example, has an extensive subway system that is relatively easy to navigate. Most cities have minibuses, called a collectivo , that travels a set route. A collectivo ride can cost between 20-40 pesos per person.

On average, expect to spend between $3 to $9 per day on local transportation. This includes a combination of taxis, Uber, and public transportation. 

Mexico travel budget tip #6: Ask locals or other travelers ahead of time what the standard taxi rate is to avoid getting overcharged.

Budgeting for supplies and miscellaneous expenses

Sometimes there are occasional supplies that you’ll need to buy during your Mexico family travel vacation. Most travel supplies and miscellaneous items are readily available in Mexico. This is true especially if you’re in a city with a relatively large expat population.

Expect to spend $9 to $15 a day for supplies. But it really depends on the location and the type of property you are staying in. These costs can also include any medical costs you might need, as well as new clothes or games for your family. 

Mexico travel budget tip #7: Save baggage space by buying toiletries, sunscreen, or insect repellent in country.

Incorporating activities and entertainment into your Mexico travel budget

The last set of costs to think about are activities and entertainment. Prices in Mexico vary when it comes to activities and entertainment. If you’re on a budget, you can limit yourself to free or cheap museums, and local activities like going to the movie theaters (they’re so much cheaper than theaters in the US!). 

But if you’re willing to splurge, you can spend a few hundred dollars per person on activities. On average, expect to spend between $15 to $35 per day on activities and entertainment. Local museums in smaller towns can be as little as 50 pesos per person to enter. Mayan ruins can range from 75 pesos per person for lesser known ruins to over 400 pesos per person for popular ruins. A tour can cost around $30 to $90 per person, depending on the type of tour and the length of time.

Take a look at the different activities you can do during a 10 day Mexico itinerary .

Mexico travel budget tip #8: Book activities directly from independent and locally-owned companies rather than booking through your resort, travel agent, or an international chain.

Taking advantage of affordable prices in Mexico

A Mexico family vacation can truly offer families the best value for their experience. For less than the price of a Disney Cruise, you can easily have the time of your life in Mexico with your family!

If you’re thinking of ideas for your next vacation with your family, consider taking advantage of the affordable prices in Mexico and take your family to visit this beautiful country! 

Have you spent time in Mexico with your family? Share your thoughts on what was in your Mexico travel budget on our Facebook page .

Looking for ideas of where to go in Mexico? Take a look at these family-friendly 10 day Mexico itinerary ideas.

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• All-Inclusive
• Cabo San Lucas

The 13 Best Bang-for-Your-Buck All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

See recent posts by Megan Johnson

No matter where you fall on the love-’em-or-hate-’em spectrum, we can all agree that all-inclusive resorts make sticking to a travel budget a breeze. With that in mind, we found 13 all-inclusive hotels in Mexico — from Cabo to Cancun and everywhere in between — that offer the most value for the price. We’re talking a wide range of amenities and inclusions here, from top-shelf liquor to amazing dining options, a wealth of activities, and great pool scenes. Some cost more than others, though we’re breaking down exactly what you get. Read on for the 13 best bang-for-your-buck all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and start planning your getaway.

1. Panama Jack Resorts Cancun

Panama Jack Cancun is easily one of the best bargains in Cancun’s Hotel Zone . Rates include a wide array of perks for adults and children, though it’s a family-friendly resort through and through. Panama Jack’s Splash Park is free for kids, and the entertainment throughout the day is universally beloved. There are five restaurants serving everything from Mexican and Italian to international buffets. While you won’t score top-shelf liquor in your rates, international brands are included, and it’s hard to argue with the contemporary style throughout the property. Rooms are some of the nicest on this entire list. Many of them overlook Cancun’s stunning beach and the Caribbean Sea. Given its prime Hotel Zone location and rates lower than almost any other upscale all-inclusive in Cancun, Panama Jack is hard to beat.

2. The Fives Azul Beach Resort Playa del Carmen

Chic style, a prime location outside of Playa del Carmen’s hectic city center, and an excellent beach are just the beginning of what’s on offer at The Fives Azul Beach Resort . This property also has five pools, a list of activities that includes archery and yoga, amazing children’s amenities, and a modern fitness center. Dining scores rave reviews — and we enjoyed all of our meals during our recent visit. Many of the restaurants at The Fives Azul Beach Resort have a refined look that matches the luxe appeal of the property, though you’ll need dinner reservations at some. Butlers are available to help with those reservations, and you can expect everything from top-shelf cocktails to delicious fresh juices and smoothies at the various bars, cafes, and dining spots around the resort. Looking to spoil yourself? Try the Italian restaurant Arezzo, which has a 150-bottle-long wine list. All of this comes at rates far lower than other regional luxury properties.

3. Marquis Los Cabos

The first adults-only resort on our list, Marquis Los Cabos , also happens to be one of the best all-inclusive deals in Los Cabos (where hotels can be incredibly pricey). We love the little extras here: sweets and treats are delivered to your room every day, the beachside infinity pools are stunning, and some casitas have their own pools. Dining here is exceptional for an all-inclusive resort. You’d do best at Sakke Japanese restaurant for sushi or head to Vista Ballena to soak up the sea views and your meal. The only dining exclusion is the six-course tasting menu at Canto del Mar, though you’ll be perfectly happy sticking to the included restaurants. Another high-end touch is the nightly turndown service. Given the often low price tag for Marquis Los Cabos, it’s all pretty astonishing.

4. Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa

Situated in the exclusive Playa Mujeres development, a 30-minute drive north of Cancun, the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres is one of the best values in an otherwise expensive part of Mexico. It’s a popular choice for couples and families alike, with three pools (including one for kids) plus 10 restaurants and 19 bars, all of which are included in rates. The beach stays serene, as Playa Mujeres is far more mannered than the Cancun Hotel Zone, and the style throughout the property is fresh and modern. We love the chic and spacious rooms, which come with Nespresso machines, minibars, and 50-inch flat-screens. You’d do well to book a unit with a whirlpool tub on the balcony if you really want to spoil yourself. Entertainment goes from morning until night and gets solid marks, and children are well taken care of — there are three kids’ clubs with access included in rates.

5. Paradisus Cancun

Cancun is packed with all-inclusive resorts, but Paradisus Cancun offers an incredibly value for reasonable rates, and it all comes without upgrading to the pricier Royal Service at Paradisus Cancun . This is a massive resort that caters to literally everyone. There are numerous adults-only spots here, and plenty for kids to do as well. Expect nightclubs, kids’ clubs, theme nights, beach parties, golf and tennis — plus yoga and Pilates all included in rates. Dining options are numerous as well, and all of them are included in rates with the exception of Tempo. You’ll find certain Paradisus Cancun restaurants reserved for adults-only, giving couples a chance to unwind in peace and quiet. The beach is truly stunning, and the pools have plenty of space for everyone (not to mention a swim-up bar). Liquor options include several international brands in the all-inclusive plan, as well as wine and beer.

6. Royal Solaris Los Cabos

Royal Solaris Los Cabos is a friendly and affordable all-inclusive resort for families, with three outdoor pools (one adult-only), daily activities, and evening entertainment. All guests at Royal Solaris are on an all-inclusive package that gives them access to food and drink outlets (four of each) around the resort. The 400 rooms have traditional furnishings, mini-fridges stocked with free beer and water, and balconies — though some are tiny. A free, fun kids’ club for ages 4 and up includes a pool with a series of waterslides, giant animals, and fountains. The hotel is steps from a great beach with rows of loungers and palapas, though shady spots often get snagged early and riptides can make the water too dangerous for swimming.

7. Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda

Beautiful rooms, a pretty beach, a lovely spa, and numerous restaurants all make Paradisus La Esmeralda one of the most popular all-inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen . It’s an especially great pick for families with kids, as Family Concierge upgrades provide private pools, a club lounge, and expedited services. The swimming pool, with a pirate ship playground and a swim-up bar, makes it a popular spot among families and those who like to loosen up with a cocktail or margarita. Even the most affordable rooms include marble floors and sensory soaking tubs. You can expect dining options ranging from show cooking buffets to Argentinian-style steaks and sushi, all included in rates (international liquor options are also included).

Related: The Ultimate Naughty Packing List for a Sexy Vacation

8. El Cozumeleno Beach Resort, Cozumel

A 251-room all-inclusive resort popular with families, El Cozumeleno is a beachfront property 10 minutes from the downtown area of Cozumel , Mexico’s largest inhabited island and a snorkeling paradise. Guests come here for the value and for the numerous features offered in the all-inclusive package. The pools are the highlight (one has a popular swim-up bar), but golf is also a draw due to the resort’s location across the street from the island’s only golf course (guests get discounted rates). El Cozumeleno freebies include water aerobics classes, Wi-Fi, parking, and non-motorized water sports.

9. Samba Vallarta All Inclusive, Nuevo Vallarta

When the 183-room, family-oriented Samba Vallarta was constructed, the north end of Nuevo Vallarta was still fairly remote. Since then, a number of large-scale resorts have sprung up, making Samba Vallarta feel refreshingly small-scale compared to its mega-resort neighbors. The grounds and gardens are well-kept, and the pool, with its linked sections for adults, kids, and toddlers, is perfectly scaled for the number of guests. The kids’ playground by the beach is simple and functional, and the beach itself (usually uncrowded) has palapas for shade and free non-motorized water sports, including kayaks, boogie boards, sailboards, and Hobie cats.

10. Oasis Cancun

The 879-room mid-range Oasis Cancun is party central, with something happening all the time for guests who are young, sociable, and loud. The crowd generally does not respect quiet hours, and prospective visitors should be aware that the noise is truly round the clock. There are 10 on-site restaurants and snack bars and 11 bars, including three swim-up venues, illustrating this resort’s focus: the booze is more important than fine food. The resort designates “Official Party Staff” members to keep the shindig going, and vodka is dispensed via soda guns. Hammocks are strung around the grounds — which include an expansive white-sand beach with free kayaks, boogie boards, and sailboats — where guests can pass out in the sun in a snatched quiet. Amenities in the rooms are limited compared to other area hotels, with old-school tube TVs, no mini-fridges, and free bottled water strictly limited to two bottles per day.

11. Velas Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta

The upscale, 345-room Velas Vallarta is one of the most popular all-inclusive resorts in the region, thanks in part to its big rooms with kitchenettes — many with great views — and three pools, including an oceanfront pool with a swim-up bar, and a lazy river. The gardens and grounds are charming (there’s even a roaming family of peacocks), the recreational options are excellent, and the restaurants have good quality food, especially for an all-inclusive. Wi-Fi is free, though some report that the signal can be weak from the rooms.

12. Krystal Grand Los Cabos Hotel, San Jose del Cabo

Krystal Grand Los Cabos is a contemporary and family-friendly resort located directly on The Corridor , the strip that runs between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Though the ocean is too rough for swimming, Krystal’s beachfront setup includes lounge chairs and Balinese beds. The hotel has a massive pool terrace and kids’ club, and, after renovations throughout 2017, a fitness center and spa. Renovated rooms are also contemporary, with purposeful minimalism throughout: open spaces, clean lines, and neutral colors. All-inclusive rates include dining at all on-premise restaurants, two bars, and minibars in the rooms.

13. Posada Real Los Cabos, San Jose del Cabo

Locals and North American travelers of all ages can be found at this authentic — albeit aging — beachfront resort. The 152-room Posada Real is one of the lowest-priced options in San Jose del Cabo , with an all-inclusive package that offers decent food, basic liquors, nightly live music, and a few free activities, like water aerobics and mini-golf. Simple rooms have balconies (all with partial ocean views), mini-fridges, beach towels, and free Wi-Fi, but bathrooms could stand some updates. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the Cactus Restaurant, while beachside Wahoo Taco Bar provides snacks during the day. Parking and Wi-Fi are additional freebies.

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By Daria Bachmann. This guide sharing when to visit Holbox Island contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Trying to figure out the best time to visit Holbox Island, Mexico ? 

You’ve come to the right place!

Holbox Island is a popular vacation spot off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, Holbox is a perfect spot for wildlife watching, basking on white sand beaches with shallow waters, and enjoying a laid-back beach lifestyle.

But what is the best time to go to Holbox Island?

The island has a humid tropical climate similar to the rest of the Yucatán Peninsula, and while you can enjoy the island most of the time, there’s always a chance of rain.

I’ve traveled all over Mexico, including visits to Holbox several times during rainy and dry seasons. Because of this, I have first-hand knowledge of how different the weather can be on this island depending on the time of the year. 

This guide will tell you about the best months to visit Holbox so you can enjoy a fun vacation with the best weather and the most sunshine. 

Note: This guide uses the names “Holbox Island”, “Isla Holbox,” and “Holbox” interchangeably. They all refer to the same island destination in Mexico .

⏳ Short on time? My top recommendations for visiting Holbox Island Mexico include: 🏨 Hotel: Hotel Casa Bárbara Holbox . You can also click here for a Holbox hotel map . 🚗 Airport Transfer: Along with taking the ADO Bus (also bookable on BusBud ), you can take a shared shuttle or a private shuttle 🗺️ Tours: Viator and GetYourGuide 📍 Recommended Excursions: – Classic Three Island Tour – Isla Holbox Mangrove Kayaking Tour – Whale Shark & Snorkeling Adventure from Isla Holbox 🚶‍♀️ Getting Around: You can walk or bike to most of the main things to do on Holbox Island 🏥 Travel Insurance: SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (more comprehensive) 📞 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Where Is Isla Holbox?

Holbox is located along the Gulf of Mexico, right off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Specifically, it belongs to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo and lies within the municipality of Lázaro Cárdenas.

This location allows it to have some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. In fact, along with Playa Santispac in Baha California and the beautiful beaches in Campeche , Holbox has some of my favorite stretches of sand in Mexico!

What Is The Weather Like In Holbox? 

The weather in Holbox is warm and tropical year-round, but the island has distinct seasons.

The dry season—which runs from December to April—has generally clear skies with little to no rain and less humidity, making it an excellent time for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

The wet season from June to October sees increased rainfall, occasional storms, and higher humidity; however, even during the wet season, you can still experience some sunny days.

Best Time To Visit Holbox Island

High season vs shoulder season.

The best time to visit Holbox is from December through March when the island has perfect sunny weather and minimal chance of rain.

It’s also the busiest time on the island when the prices of hotels and tours tend to be the most expensive.

If you want to avoid the crowds and save money, visit Holbox during November or May , which are shoulder months. Both months to visit Holbox mark the transition between dry and rainy seasons.

Winter crowds usually die down in May, because the weather on Holbox Island becomes hotter and more humid.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to book a whale shark tour in late May, as the whale shark season runs from mid-May to mid-September. Just note that May only sees occasional sightings, with peak season being July and August.

On the other hand, November is usually a quiet month after the hurricane season when you can enjoy pleasant sunny weather and take advantage of lower prices before the busy winter season kicks in. 

Cheapest time to visit Holbox

The cheapest time to visit Holbox is during the hurricane season from late August through October. While you will save on accommodations and activities, the inclement weather can negatively affect your travel plans, making it difficult to enjoy this destination. 

Least busy time to visit Holbox

The least busy time to visit Holbox is from June through the end of October when tourism on the island dies down because of more frequent rain. 

Hurricane season in Holbox 

August marks the beginning of the hurricane season in Holbox and the rest of the region. This is the worst time to visit Holbox when the island experiences rainstorms and inclement weather that can disrupt your plans.

Holbox has dirt roads, which get washed out during the rainy season, making it challenging to get around without getting covered in mud. 

Precipitation during the hurricane season is usually more intense than during May and June when rains tend to be more sporadic and happen in the afternoon.

Holbox Weather By Month

Here is a look at the Isla Holbox weather by month. The information is based on analyzing the AccuWeather calendars as well as the Climate Data website.

Isla Holbox weather in January 

January is a popular month for visiting Holbox because of the sunny weather and clear blue skies. It’s also one of the busiest months on the island when many travelers visit to escape the cold weather up north.

However, it’s also the coldest month in Holbox, with temperatures fluctuating between just below 55°F to 86°F (13°C to 30°C).

Isla Holbox weather in February

February is another popular month for visiting thanks to the dry and mild climate on Isla Holbox.

The first half of February is chillier with temperatures getting down to 57°F (14°C); however, the second half of the month is warmer with temperatures ranging from 63°F to 86°F (17°C to 30°C).

Isla Holbox weather in March

March is when temperatures in Holbox start to increase gradually. Expect temperatures of about 59°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C).

The high season in Holbox begins to wind down in March, and it’s a good time to score better deals on hotels and tours, especially in the second half of the month.

Isla Holbox weather in April 

April is the transition month between winter and summer in Holbox. Temperatures continue to rise during this month to about 70°F to 93°F (21°C to 34°C). April is the last month before the island starts to get very hot and humid.

Isla Holbox weather in May

May marks the transition to low season in Holbox. Temperatures continue the upward trend, and you can expect a range of about 74°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C).

May is also the beginning of the seaweed season in Holbox. Also known as “sargazo” in Spanish or “sargassum”, seaweed is a smelly algae that washes up on many Caribbean beaches from late spring through fall.

While the seaweed in Tulum has long been a problem, for a while, Holbox escaped the issue; however, in recent years, it started showing up on Holbox beaches . 

Isla Holbox weather in June 

Check the Holbox Island weather forecast before heading out, as June is the beginning of the rainy season. While temperatures fluctuate from about 74°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C), humidity and precipitation increase significantly compared to May. 

Isla Holbox weather in July 

Holbox continues to see rain in July, although it’s typically more occasional than continuous. If you come to Holbox during this time of the year you can still enjoy your trip; but, be prepared for increased chances of showers and muddy roads.

The temperature in Holbox Island at this time ranges from 74°F to 93°F (23°C to 34°C).

Isla Holbox weather in August 

The weather in Isla Holbox, Mexico during August is sticky, with humidity levels continuing to rise throughout the month.

Additionally, hurricane season officially kicks off at the end of August—which is also the hottest month of the year in Holbox, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 93°F (24°C to 34°C).

Isla Holbox weather in September 

September is the first hurricane month in Holbox when the island experiences drastic changes in weather with heavy rainstorms, gusty winds, and limited opportunities for activities.

During this time, the precipitation averages about 31 inches of rain, and temperatures fluctuate from about 73°F to 91°F (23°C to 33°C).

Isla Holbox weather in October 

October is the rainiest month in Holbox, with an average of 48 inches of precipitation. It’s the worst month to visit as many places close down because of the constant rain and lack of visitors.

Temperatures during October in Holbox tend to be between 66°F to 90°F (19°C to 32°C).

Isla Holbox weather in November 

November is the end of the rainy season in Holbox when you still see some precipitation; but, there’s more sun and tourism starts to pick up slowly.

Precipitation decreases in November with an average of about 26 inches per month. Temperatures range from about 68°F to 88°F (20°C to 31°C).

In my opinion, this is possibly the best time to visit Holbox, as it’s a shoulder month, meaning you can score deals and the weather is still pleasant.

Isla Holbox weather in December 

December is one of the colder months in Holbox and it marks the beginning of the busy winter season. The weather is mostly dry and sunny and temperatures range from about 64°F to 88°F (18°C to 31°C).

Seasons In Holbox 

Like the rest of the Yucatán Peninsula, Holbox has two seasons: the dry season and the wet season. 

Holbox rainy season

Pros & cons.

The rainy season in Holbox is from June through October. During these months, the island experiences increased precipitation and higher humidity. 

If you visit Holbox from June through early August, you can still enjoy outdoor activities, as rains tend to be more sporadic than continuous and usually occur in the afternoon.

Lower prices . The rainy season in Holbox is the best time to save money on accommodations, tours, and even street food. Many vendors on the island are willing to haggle at least a bit during this time as there is a limited number of visitors (though try to be mindful of this, too).

• Better opportunities for wildlife watching. One of the top things to do in Holbox is spot wild animals. Because the island tends to be less busy from June through October, you can typically spot them more easily.

Fewer crowds . If you don’t want to visit Holbox during the busy season, the summer months are a great alternative, as they are generally quiet due to the lack of crowds. 

Not much going on. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lively atmosphere, the rainy season might not be the ideal time for your trip to Holbox, because things begin to slow down when June comes around.

Higher chances of rain . If you are visiting Holbox from June through August, expect to see some rain on your visit, and if you are visiting it from September through October, be ready for the chance of a hurricane. 

• Not the best time to enjoy Holbox. While you can sit out an occasional rain and go back to your activities later, waiting for a hurricane to pass could take a couple of days, which is not ideal, especially if you only have limited time on the island.

Places to go in Holbox during the rainy season

If you visit Holbox during the rainy season when you can’t always enjoy the beach, consider going to places on the mainland like Valladolid and Merida to explore the culture of the Yucatán .

Valladolid is a designated Pueblo Mágico , famous for its cenotes and pastel-colored architecture. It’s also a gateway to Chichen Itza and you can easily combine the two activities. 

Merida is the capital of Yucatán and is known for its rich culture and history. In fact, it’s the cultural hub of the peninsula and is the second-largest city in the region after Cancun . The city boasts an ornate central plaza, several landmarks, and museums. 

If you are looking to get some authentic Mexican crafts created by local artisans, there’s no better place than La Casa De Las Artesanias de Yucatan in Merida, a large gallery-style store where you can purchase goods made by Indigenous groups from across Mexico, including Yucatán. 

Things to do in Holbox during the rainy season

See Holbox wildlife. If you’re interested in seeing whale sharks or sea turtles, the best time to go to Isla Holbox is July and August, which is peak whale shark season.

This is when these gentle giants migrate to the area to feed on plankton. Adult whale sharks can reach up to 41,000 pounds and up to 33 feet in length. 

And while they are huge, swimming next to them is perfectly safe as long as you keep your distance and don’t bother them. When booking a whale shark tour , carefully read other travelers’ reviews to make sure you support an ethical company. 

While you have the highest chance of seeing whale sharks during this time of the year, there is never a guarantee. Watch out for companies that make promises or tell you that they follow whale sharks closely. Whale sharks are protected by law, and all tour operators have to maintain a safe distance. 

Similarly, sea turtle nesting season occurs from May to September, with peak nesting activity usually in June and July.

Restaurant hop. Isla Holbox is home to many delicious restaurants, some offering trendy vibes and others providing a more local experience. You can even gamify the experience by challenging yourself to find the best tacos on the island.

My personal favorite for this is Barba Negra , which serves up fish and shrimp tacos packed with filling.

Take a cooking class. La Puerta Rosa offers morning, evening, and private cooking classes in Holbox. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture on the island.

Listen to live music. Many of the bars and restaurants on Holbox host live music acts. While you can ask your hotel what’s going on that day or night, you can also simply wander around Holbox Town and let your ear be your guide.

Take a class. Holbox Island is home to a rich wellness culture, so you’ll find options for yoga and fitness classes at places like Samah Wellness  and  Holbox Yoga  (which does yoga on the beach!).

For some cultural fun, you might also take a local salsa class at Che Holbox Hostel & Bar , the local chapter of Salsa Lovers Worldwide, or a local studio.

Get a spa treatment. Speaking of wellness, you can also relax at one of the many spas on the island. A top recommendation includes Aguas Spa , located within the luxurious  Hotel Casa Las Tortugas .

Things to pack for the rainy season in Holbox

The rainy season in Holbox Island means you might need to pack some additional gear, including:

Waterproof jacket . This is a must-have in case it starts raining.

Mosquito repellent. Regardless of the season, pack mosquito repellent on your trip to Holbox to avoid bites. 

Quick drying clothes . When visiting Holbox during the rainy season, bring lightweight clothes from materials that dry fast. 

Swimsuit. While the rainy season brings more precipitation to Holbox, you can still enjoy some water activities and go for a swim. Personally, I love the bathing suits and beach coverups from Kenny Flowers .

Sunscreen . Especially as Isla Holbox is located within the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, it’s important to pack reef-friendly sunscreen for your trip.

Holbox Dry Season

The dry season in Holbox is from December through April. It’s the best time on the island when thousands of visitors arrive to enjoy the perfect sunny weather in this tropical paradise. 

• Plenty to do. Businesses are in full swing in Holbox during the dry season, as it’s when most tour agencies, restaurants, and hotels make their money. Unlike summer months, when some places close for the season, winter is when you have the most options on the island.

Perfect weather. If you are looking for picture-perfect weather, the dry season is the best time to visit Holbox. 

• Great parties. Depending on what you are looking for, this could be a pro or con. The dry season is when most people travel to Holbox, and you can be sure that you will find some great beach parties on the island in many bars and restaurants. You can also enjoy the many Holbox beach clubs .

High prices. The peak months in Holbox are December and January when prices are the highest. It’s a busy time for international tourism when many people visit to escape the cold weather in their home countries. 

• Crowds. Holbox can get very crowded in winter, especially during holidays like New Year and Christmas, when many domestic and international tourists come to celebrate. 

Tougher to spot wildlife. If you travel to Holbox during the high season, it could be tougher to spot wildlife, as many animals move away from busy parts of the island and go deeper into the Yum Balam Reserve. 

Places to go in Holbox during the dry season

Yum Balam Nature Reserve. One of the best places to visit in Holbox, Yum Balam is a protected area that can be visited with a guided tour from Holbox. I booked a kayaking tour of Yum Balam during my trip and had a great time paddling through the mangroves and spotting different animals like crocodiles, flamingoes, and other birds. 

Islands around Holbox. Taking a Classic 3 Island Tour is one of the most popular excursions from Holbox and includes visits to Yalahau Cenote , Punta Mosquito (Mosquito Point), and Isla Pasión (Passion Island). At certain times of the year, you might also visit Isla Pájaros (Bird Island) instead of Punta Mosquito.

Things to do in Holbox during the dry season

High season is the best time to bask in the sun on Holbox beaches, enjoy a lively atmosphere at Holbox restaurants, and take tours. Below are some of the most popular activities on Holbox during the high season:

Spot bioluminescence. Isla Holbox is one of the handful of places in Mexico where you can see bioluminescence—a natural phenomenon that occurs when plankton in the water emit light through a chemical reaction.

The easiest way to see bioluminescence is by joining a guided bioluminescent kayaking tour ; but, you can also take a quick trip to Playa Punta Cocos on the west side of Holbox.

I was able to see bioluminescence on Playa Holbox at night. All you need to do is walk into the water and make movements with your hands to see the glowing plankton. 

Take a kite surfing lesson. Isla Holbox is one of the best spots for kite surfing in the Yucatán Peninsula thanks to plenty of wind and shallow waters. There are several kite surfing schools around the island where you can hire an instructor or you can book a kitesurfing lesson in advance here .

Rent a paddleboard. Early morning is the best time to paddle board around Holbox when the island has calm, glass-like waters. There are numerous places where you can rent a paddleboard or even book an aquatic adventure tour, like Kayaking Holbox .

Rent a bicycle. Biking is a popular way to get around Holbox thanks to the compact size of this island. You can rent one at places like Bikes Holbox .

Things to pack for the dry season in Holbox

Swimwear. The dry season is the best time to enjoy water activities in Holbox like swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. Again, I love the bathing suits and beach coverups from Kenny Flowers .

Mosquito repellent. Always have a mosquito repellent in your bag when heading to Holbox or other parts of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. The weather is generally warm and sunny in Holbox from December through March, so make sure to pack light clothing.

Flip flops and sandals . Don’t forget about beach footwear.

Worst Time To Visit Holbox Island

The worst time to visit Isla Holbox is during September and October, which are the wettest months of the year. This is also when activities are limited and many businesses close down.

If you are looking for a more relaxed getaway, it’s a good idea to skip Holbox during major holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter when the island gets busy and there are usually loud parties and music.

If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May and November when the weather is still pleasant but there are fewer tourists.

Travel Insurance For Holbox Island 

When visiting Holbox Island—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Best Time To Vist Holbox Island: FAQ

Now that we’ve gone over the best time to visit Isla Holbox, Mexico, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

Q) Is Holbox worth visiting?

Isla Holbox is one of the most beautiful places in Yucatán that’s worth a visit if you are looking for gorgeous beaches, wildlife-watching opportunities, and a laid-back lifestyle. 

Q) How many days do you need for Holbox?

Especially as it’s farther to reach, it’s recommended to spend about five days on Holbox to enjoy its beaches, sample delicious food, and book fun tours.

Q) Does it rain in Mexico?

Yes, it rains in Mexico. The rainy season occurs in many parts of Mexico, but it’s more pronounced in coastal areas that experience significant precipitation and even hurricanes from June through October. 

Q) How do you get to Isla Holbox?

To reach Holbox Island, you can take a ferry from the town of Chiquilá, which is approximately a two-hour drive from Cancún. Chiquilá and Holbox are separated by a small channel and the boat ride between them takes about 20-30 minutes.

Another option is to take a flight from Cancun International Airport (CUN) to Holbox Airport (HOL). It’s a more expensive but much faster option that saves you hours on the road. 

Other options for getting to Chiquilá from Cancun Airport include taking an ADO Bus (which you can book on BusBud ), a s hared shuttle , or a private shuttle . You can also take a taxi, though this is not recommended as it’s overpriced.

Q) What is the best time of year to visit Holbox Island?

The best time of the year to visit Holbox is between December and late March when you can enjoy dry weather with low humidity and plenty of sunshine. That is unless you want to swim with whale sharks, which is best done in July and August when sightings are most frequent.

Q) What is the best month to visit Holbox Island?

The best time to visit Holbox is from December through March when the weather is sunny and there is little to no rain.

Q) What is the best time to see bioluminescence in Holbox?

The best time for seeing bioluminescence in Holbox is summer when there is a much greater amount of bioluminescence plankton along the coast of Holbox than during other times of the year. You can see it when walking through or making movements with your hand in the water.

The amount of light pollution also has an effect on how much bioluminescence you can see, which is why it’s best to do during a dark night with no moon.

Q) When are the high and low tourist seasons in Isla Holbox?

The high season in Holbox is from December through March and the low season is from June through October. 

Q) Is there daylight savings time in Quintana Roo?

There is no daylight savings in the Mexican State of Quintana Roo. 

Q) When is the rainy season in the Yucatán Peninsula?

June through October is the rainy season in the Yucatán Peninsula when the region has more rainy and humid weather with some occasional sun. This is the low season when you can score good deals on hotels, tours, and transportation. 

Final Thoughts On The Best Time To Go To Holbox Island

Holbox is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula.

Known for its gorgeous beaches, incredible wildlife, and warm climate, Holbox is a perfect destination almost year-round—as long as you avoid September and October, the two hurricane months. 

Just make sure you check the Holbox Mexico weather forecast before booking your trip!

Ready to book your trip to Holbox? Check out:

• Is Holbox Worth Visiting?
• 23 Best Things To Do In Isla Holbox
• 6 Best Beaches In Isla Holbox
• 15 Best Beach Clubs In Isla Holbox

When do you think is the best time to visit Holbox Island, Mexico?

About The Author

This guide is written by Daria, a travel blogger who encourages her audience to get outside their comfort zone and explore through her websites, The Discovery Nut and Explore Baja California . Daria has traveled all over Mexico and spent several months camping and exploring Baja California.

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The Busy Retiree

2024’s Top 15 Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations

Posted: March 7, 2024 | Last updated: March 7, 2024

Deciding on a budget-friendly travel adventure doesn’t mean compromising on the excitement of exploration. In 2024, several enchanting destinations offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or beach lover, these affordable destinations promise a memorable journey. Let’s look into the cheapest places to travel in 2024, where your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief while you create lasting memories.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Ho Chi Minh City is a budget traveler’s dream. Explore the bustling streets filled with delicious street food, visit historic landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, and take a boat trip through the iconic Mekong Delta.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Wander through the historic center, marvel at ancient Aztec ruins in Teotihuacan, and savor authentic tacos at local markets. With affordable accommodations and many free cultural attractions, Mexico City is a top pick for budget-conscious travelers.

Sofia, Bulgaria

For a taste of Eastern European charm without the hefty price tag, Sofia is an excellent choice. Visit the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, stroll through Vitosha Mountain, and indulge in budget-friendly local cuisine. The affordable public transportation and low-cost attractions make Sofia an ideal destination for those seeking an affordable European getaway.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Another gem in Vietnam, Hanoi boasts a unique blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese culture. Explore the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, sample delicious pho at street stalls, and take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi’s affordability extends to accommodations and local experiences, making it a top destination for budget travelers.

Quito, Ecuador

Nestled in the Andes, Quito offers a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, take a cable car ride up Pichincha Volcano, and discover the vibrant markets. Quito’s affordability makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to experience the charm of South America.

Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, charms visitors with its colorful neighborhoods, historic architecture, and scenic views. Enjoy affordable local cuisine, explore the iconic Belem Tower, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem. Don’t miss the famous custard tarts, Pastéis de Nata, at a fraction of the cost compared to other European capitals.

Krakow, Poland

Steeped in history, Krakow offers a budget-friendly European escape. Wander through the picturesque Old Town, visit the Wawel Castle, and experience the lively atmosphere of the Kazimierz district—all at an affordable cost. Enjoy a ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage through the charming streets of the Old Town.

Bucharest, Romania

Romania’s capital, Bucharest, is a blend of grand architecture and modern delights. Explore the Palace of the Parliament, stroll through Herastrau Park, and indulge in the city’s thriving nightlife without breaking your budget. Discover hidden gems in the city’s lively neighborhood of Lipscani, filled with trendy cafes and vintage shops.

Kathmandu, Nepal

For an adventurous yet budget-friendly trip, head to Kathmandu. Discover ancient temples in Durbar Square, trek the nearby Himalayas, and experience the rich cultural heritage of Nepal without straining your wallet. Dive into the local culture with a visit to the bustling Thamel district, known for its vibrant street markets.

Bogotá, Colombia

Colombia’s capital, Bogotá, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Explore the historic La Candelaria neighborhood, visit the Gold Museum, and take a cable car ride to Monserrate for panoramic views—all within a budget-friendly travel plan. Immerse yourself in the city’s artistic spirit by exploring the vibrant street art scene in La Candelaria.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Home to the iconic Angkor Wat, Siem Reap offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Explore ancient temples, discover the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, and enjoy affordable street food in this enchanting Cambodian destination. Catch a breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat, a moment that won’t cost you a dime.

Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse cultural scene. Visit the historic Belgrade Fortress, stroll along the Danube River, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife—all without breaking the bank. Join locals in a traditional kafana for live music and a taste of Serbia’s hospitality.

La Paz, Bolivia

Nestled in the Andes, La Paz captivates with its stunning landscapes and indigenous culture. Explore the Witches’ Market, take a cable car ride for panoramic views, and embrace the unique atmosphere of one of the world’s highest capitals. Challenge yourself with a stroll along the famous El Camino de la Muerte, the Death Road, for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Manila, Philippines

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, offers a mix of history and modernity. Explore the historic Intramuros district, visit Rizal Park, and indulge in the diverse street food scene—all at an affordable cost. Attend a traditional Filipino cultural show to witness the country’s rich heritage come to life.

Accra, Ghana

Experience the vibrant culture of West Africa in Accra. Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, explore Jamestown’s colonial architecture, and relax on the beautiful Labadi Beach, all while enjoying the affordability of this welcoming city. Join locals in a dance at Independence Arch during one of Accra’s lively festivals.

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of discovery. The cheapest places to travel in 2024 provide unique experiences, rich cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes—all without breaking the bank. From the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the historic charm of Mexico City, these destinations offer budget-friendly adventures that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and explore the world affordably in 2024!

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The Americans retiring to Mexico for a more affordable life: ‘We are immigrants’

There’s been much ado about northbound migration across the Mexico-US border – but some are moving in the other direction

Don’t call Jym Varnadore an expat.

Yes, he and his wife, Renee Varnadore, are living abroad. But they left the United States in search of a quality of life that’s no longer in reach for them stateside. Now, the clear blue waters of Rosarito Beach are quickly becoming home.

Their condo is just the right size for two. It’s intimate but not without its luxuries, like a huge bathtub with jacuzzi jets. Then there’s their balcony, overlooking a world of ocean that bleeds into the horizon. It’s a view reserved for millionaires and billionaires in the US, but not here.

“We are immigrants. And I think it’s disingenuous to call us anything else,” Jym said. “When I decided that I wanted to move out of the US, it was eyes wide open with that word in mind. I am an immigrant.”

If the Varnadores’ life in Mexico is a choice, they say that moving away from San Diego wasn’t. Jym had been working his way through biweekly bill payments when he decided to check in on his 401(k) and social security. As he started crunching the numbers, he found that – after retirement in a matter of years – they would be able to afford either groceries or the mortgage on their condo, but not both.

His epiphany coincided with the 2016 presidential election, a political train wreck that had also been bothering Jym. But when he called Renee over to talk, the question he posed was first and foremost about financial planning.

They had two options, he told her: stay in San Diego and substantially lower their standard of living, or leave the city she had resided in for most of her life.

“We’re gonna move,” Renee said, without missing a beat.

So they started scouring the US for a new home – maybe Oregon, or northern California, or Seattle. Renee would look up real estate prices online, and often, they’d go scout especially promising locations in person. They even visited Hawaii – another place mainlanders flock to , not without controversy – and found a potential property there, but the cost ended up being much the same as their expenses in San Diego, defeating the purpose.

One day, Renee came to Jym, despondent. The only places they could afford long-term in the US either had terrible weather, terrible politics or – she felt – no culture.

It was time to start thinking beyond the US’s all-too-limiting borders. Soon, they were looking south.

I t’s true that San Diego tends to drain its residents’ pocketbooks, continuously ranking high among US cities with the most expensive housing costs. Amid a deepening housing shortage, plus dwindling state and federal funding to produce and preserve local housing, the southern California metropolis’s typical home value has reached nearly $1m.

Renters in the area have to make almost three times the city’s minimum wage just to pay the average monthly rent, while roughly a third of homeowners exist at or beyond the boundary of the federal definition for cost-burdened, spending 30% or more of their household income on monthly property costs alone.

But similar circumstances exist across the US. Nearly half of Americans say that the availability of affordable housing is a major problem in their communities, and even during a Covid-induced economic downturn, the price tag for a single-family home has soared over the last few years. Rents have soared, too, turning something as basic as reliable shelter into a luxury around the country.

Such a lack of viable housing options for so many Americans is just one of myriad signs pointing to growing inequalities. Among those whose families make less than $100,000, nearly one in 10 cannot get the medical care they need because of the cost. And as the middle class shrinks , both income and wealth inequality have surged higher in the US than in nearly any other developed nation.

These systemic failings exact a heavy toll on the US’s ageing and elderly, who are rapidly comprising more and more of the country’s population. Almost half of families in the US have no retirement account savings whatsoever, while more than 15 million Americans aged 65 or over are considered economically insecure. “The retirement system does not work for most workers,” according to the Economic Policy Institute – especially not for Black, Latino, lower-income and non-college-educated Americans, though it often fails more affluent, white professionals as well.

Overburdened by student loans, medical bills and other near-constant financial drains, some older Americans have reconciled themselves with the morbid reality that living in the US with so few safety nets means they will need to work until the day they die.

Others with the agency to make a choice have been unwilling to accept this bleak future – and have started seeking security and opportunity elsewhere. Their path – punctuated by bureaucratic hurdles and cultural adjustments – is not always as easy or romantic as it may seem. Yet even so, it can be worth the peace and security that comes next.

N o one visits the Contreras’s house in Baja California, Mexico, without letting out a “wow”. The view from their huge deck is what elicits such a strong reaction – smack-dab on the Pacific Ocean, deep blue water all around and waves crashing just below. The word “paradise” immediately comes to mind.

“We’re lucky. We’re very, very lucky,” Mary Contreras said from her immaculately curated living room.

Surrounded by such humbling expanse and calm, it’s hard to imagine anywhere someone would rather be. Yet for decades, when Mary traveled to Mexico for getaways, she had never thought that she and her husband, Chuck, would end up here full time. After all, they had roots back in the US. She was an educator and fourth-generation Californian. He worked for a non-profit, providing assistance dogs to kids and adults. They lived in Carlsbad, California, for the better part of three decades.

After a great career helping people, Chuck had every intention to meet his goal of retirement before the age of 60. But on Mary’s salary alone, in an economy that doesn’t value education as much as other professions, they couldn’t realistically continue thriving in the community they called home, where she had served so many other families as an English teacher and principal.

“That I can’t continue living there – having worked my entire life and worked hard – that to me is just like, something’s wrong. Something’s really wrong,” Mary said.

“I feel incredibly blessed and fortunate to be living here,” she said of her life in Mexico. “I love living here. So it’s not that,” she quickly clarified. But “every now and then I get in touch with some anger … We had a beautiful home up there, and we had a beautiful life there. And why that couldn’t continue?”

Similarly, Renee taught English and drama to middle schoolers and high schoolers in California for more than a decade. Jym, meanwhile, comes from a military family and spent years in intelligence for the navy, working in the informational nerve center of a ship.

You can take the boy out of the navy, but you can’t take the navy out of the boy, as Jym says. So when, during tours of Mexican real estate, he walked into a unit where he could see the vastness of the ocean through a floor-to-ceiling glass wall – in a huge apartment with a price tag far below what they were paying for their condo in San Diego – he turned to Renee and told her he was ready to sign a lease.

“I love it, I live for it. People write songs about this stuff, you know? ‘The sea’s in my veins. My tradition remains.’ It’s true. It’s true,” Jym said.

For Renee, the decision to move to Rosarito Beach wasn’t so easy. She didn’t have particularly fond memories of Mexico, a country that for her was defined by a family vacation gone awry and uncomfortable drives to Tijuana as a teenager for orthodontics. Plus, the look and feel of Rosarito bothered her – rusted-out houses on the brink of collapse, juxtaposed right next to luxury high-rises where many of the expats lived.

But then, Renee started to connect with Rosarito’s more humane approach to – among other issues – homelessness. There, unhoused people’s possessions were not trashed and disrespected in the kinds of police sweeps that often defined life on the streets in San Diego, and meanwhile, Baja California was jam-packed with community-based organizations doing good, which she learned from reading the region’s English-language newspapers like the Gringo Gazette .

Once the Varnadores made up their minds, it took about two weeks for them to fix up their home in San Diego, and another week to get six offers on it. When they had a garage sale to get rid of much of their stuff, Renee cried.

But, about six months into living by the ocean in Mexico, walking on the beach every day and feeling the waves come in, something had changed inside her.

“I started healing, not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually,” Renee said.

O n the drive to the San Ysidro land port of entry that cuts between Tijuana and southern California, English-language billboards advertise beachfront properties and luxury condos. “Own the dream in Baja,” reads one, adorned with an idyllic image of a home by the ocean.

“Starting at 347 K,” reads another, promising opulence for less in Rosarito Beach.

It’s not hard to conceive of the signs’ target audience: middle-class Americans, drawn to Baja for a holiday, now on their way back to the US and dreading it. The billboards vocalize what many of these vacationers have probably been quietly imagining since they arrived: a new American dream, here in Mexico. Property ownership. A place to go for weekends, and maybe even to eventually retire. Pura vida.

“It’s great to think about it and talk about it, but doing it is a different story. ’Cause you’re actually really doing it. You’re moving to another country. You’re leaving a country that you were born and raised in, and you have friends and family,” said Chuck Contreras.

“It’s gonna be tough. It’s gonna be hard. It’s gonna be scary,” he continued. “But most things that are worth it, you know, are hard.”

There’s been much ado – now, and for the last century plus – about northbound migration across the Mexico-US border. Meanwhile, traffic in the other direction has flown comparatively under the radar. But it’s always been there, in a history that often says just as much about the shortcomings of the US as it does about the appeal of other countries.

Before the civil war, people fled enslavement in the US to Mexico. After the second world war, American veterans moved there in search of a “GI paradise”. And during the cold war, political types stateside went south as a red scare “exile” to evade persecution under McCarthyism.

Often, though, Americans have simply turned to their southern neighbor to live better and more cheaply while staying relatively close to the US – to get ocean views for a fraction of the price , and still be able to visit family across the border on weekends. Especially post-pandemic, as remote work has surged, younger US professionals have descended on popular metros like Mexico City in such droves that they’ve at times clashed with locals, some of whom view these newcomers as gentrifiers taking advantage of Mexico’s lower cost of living to party away their youth.

Whatever the motivations, when US citizens move to Mexico, they are crossing an international line, a choice that brings with it not only culture shocks, but also serious legal obligations. The Varnadores and the Contrerases were both careful to follow Mexico’s immigration laws, but the process wasn’t easy. Jym described hoop after administrative hoop he and Renee had to jump through to build their lives aboveboard in Rosarito Beach – consular appointments, photos, paperwork, fingerprinting. One of the toughest, or even insurmountable, hurdles for many applicants are high financial requirements to show “economic solvency”, demonstrated through bank statements, investment reports or other records.

For Americans moving to Baja because it’s where they can afford a roof over their heads – who are renting apartments for $300 or less – those economic thresholds can be untenable. So instead, Renee said, people come in on tourist visas and overstay, much like the US’s own undocumented community.

Then, there are Americans with the means and qualifications to immigrate legally, who simply don’t want to follow the process – a particular pet peeve for Mary.

“I have a real issue with people who live here – and some of our friends who have been here longer than us – who don’t have permanent residency,” she said. “To me, you know, how dare you talk to me about immigration, or any issues with immigration, if you’re not gonna do what the country you’re in requires you to do.

“You don’t have a voice then. You know, and don’t talk about it [immigration] about the United States, either.”

She and Chuck felt strongly about doing everything the law required, from following immigration rules to getting local car insurance and healthcare. They’ve also bought two “memberships” at a funeral home, the ultimate permanent residence.

“We want to make this our home,” Mary said. “Truly, our home. We’re not visiting. We’re living here. And we want to be a part of the community.”

F or Día de los Muertos, the Mexican holiday to commemorate the dead, Jym and Renee install an altar at their home. They decorate it with photos of the loved ones they’ve lost, surrounded by beautiful ephemera like marigolds and candles.

Some of the honorees, including Jym’s mother, have been up there for a long time. Others, like Renee’s mom, are more recent additions.

One is their pet cat that crossed the border with them years ago, whose photo and ashes they place alongside a dish of water and some food. The food is gone by morning. Was it their other, living cats who ate it? Maybe so, but the Varnadores like to think otherwise.

“This holiday makes sense to us,” Jym said. They and the Contrerases embrace Mexican traditions, do their best to learn Spanish, find ways to give back to the local community and are acutely aware of not imposing US norms on to Mexico.

In essence, they try.

Admittedly, Mary has learned some hard lessons after misguided steps or language-related miscommunications during community work. Now, she has conversations with non-profits and the people who lead them about how to make a positive difference alongside their Mexican neighbors.

“The thing that I think we have to be sensitive to and aware of is that we’re not doing it at them, but with,” she said. “Involving them and asking what is it they need and want from us, you know, rather than coming in and looking like the Americans who know it all and can fix things and make it, you know, everything better. It does not work, and it’s not appropriate or right.”

That’s not to say that Americans in Baja don’t still celebrate their culture from home. They do, just like diasporic communities in the US. It just may look a little different.

Around Thanksgiving, the Contrerases had decked out their dining table with gourds, flowers and a big “thankful” centerpiece. Their neighbors and friends were coming over for Friendsgiving – a celebration their son had started with them while he was in college – and their table was laid with themed napkins and cups.

But instead of turkey, they’d be eating Chuck’s tacos. “He makes utterly incredible tacos,” Mary gushed.

The Contrerases’ home is filled with little mantras: a hanging scroll that reads “In a world where you can be anything, be kind!” and a stone that simply says “gratitude”, next to a rendering of the Virgen de Guadalupe.

Yet the words that ring most meaningful are stitched on a pillow, simple and even a little basic but somehow also profound: “I love this place.”

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Breaking news, budget hotel vacancies top 50% as inflation-weary americans cut back on travel.

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More than half the rooms at budget hotels nationwide were vacant during the first three months of 2024 as inflation-battered travelers cut back on spending, according to the latest data from the hotel industry.

Hotels like Econo Lodge, Days Inn, Super 8 and SureStay posted occupancy rates of  48.7% in the first quarter – down 5% from a year ago, according to preliminary first quarter data from STR/CoStar, which tracks the hotel industry.

The 51.3% vacancy rate has led to revenues per available room dropping 6.5% from the same period a year ago, the largest decline among all hotel segments, the data showed.

The results are “weaker than we thought,” Jan Freitag, national director for hospitality market analytics at CoStar, told The Post on Tuesday.

Midscale hotels, the next level up from economy that include chains like Best Western, saw revenue per room drop 4.5%. Upper-midscale hotels, such as La Quinta, declined 2%. At the other end of the spectrum, luxury hotels suffered just a 0.3% revenue drop, while upper upscale and upscale lodgings increased 3% and 0.4%, respectively.

“We are seeing a bifurcation in the US lodging industry, where higher-end hotels continue to perform well from increases in corporate travel and continued healthy demand from high-end leisure travelers, [while] people in a specific income level are traveling less,” Freitag said.

Room rates for luxury hotels are essentially flat from a year ago at $453 per night on average, while rates at economy properties are down 4% over the same period to an average of $70 per night, according to STR/CoStar data.

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In March, the occupancy rate at lower-end hotels was 53% compared to 71% in the luxury market, according to STR/CoStart data.

The actual revenue decline in the economy sector is likely greater because the number of rooms have decreased by 2% as some of the hotels have simply closed or were converted to residential properties over the past year, according to the research firm.

There are other signs that consumers on a tight budget are pulling back.

In January, an American Hotel & Lodging Association survey found that 56% of consumers who earn less than $50,000 said that inflation would play a significant role in reducing the chances of them staying in a hotel over the next four months, while just 51% of people earning $100,000 or more said that inflation was a factor in booking a hotel stay over the same period.

But some budget properties are doing well, particularly in Sun Belt cities where a number of infrastructure projects are fueling demand for inexpensive rooms, according to a report in Skift. 

Among the rising costs from a year ago weighing on consumers are car insurance (up 22.2%), car repairs (11.6%), rent (5.7%), housing (4.7%) and transportation up (4.2%), according to government data.

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