Mexico Travel Guide: Highlights, Itinerary & Travel Tips
Welcome to the land of tacos, tequila, and turquoise waters! In this Mexico travel guide, you’ll discover everything you need to plan an epic trip — including the most viral Mexico highlights, savvy travel tips, and a complete backpacker-approved itinerary.
Mexico is a massive, vibrant country that offers everything from lush jungles and ancient Mayan ruins to world-class surf and bohemian beach towns. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or a sun-seeker, Mexico delivers an energy like nowhere else on earth.
I have explored Mexico for two months during my world travel in 2022 and I have been to Mexico on a regular vacation twice again. The culture, the food, and the people make it one of my favourite countries in the world!
Best Time to Visit Mexico
The best time to visit Mexico is generally between December and April, during the dry season when the weather is sunny and perfect for exploring.
- Comfortable temperatures (24–30°C / 75–86°F)
- Low humidity and minimal rain
- Peak season for whales and whale sharks
The "shoulder season" (May–June and October–November) is also great for avoiding crowds. While the rainy season (July–September) brings humidity and afternoon storms, the landscapes turn incredibly green and lush, and prices drop significantly!
Entry Requirements for Mexico
For most international travelers:
- A valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
- Most western countries get a 180-day FMM (tourist permit) on arrival
- Always check current regulations as requirements can change
Language in Mexico
The official language is Spanish, but:
- English is widely spoken in tourist hubs like Tulum and Playa del Carmen
- Learning basic Spanish phrases like "Una más, por favor" will go a long way with the locals!
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| Palenque |
Getting Around Mexico
Mexico is huge, but getting around is part of the adventure:
- ADO Buses: The gold standard for comfortable, reliable, and affordable long-distance travel. All bigger cities are connected through ADO. You can easily book your tickets on the ADO app.
- Colectivos: Local shared vans—super cheap and the best way to get between coastal towns.
- Domestic flights: Use budget airlines like VivaAerobus or Volaris for crossing the country.
- Tren Maya: The new rail link connecting the Yucatan Peninsula.
Is Mexico Safe?
Mexico is a safe and welcoming destination for millions of tourists, provided you use common sense:
- Stick to reputable transport (like ADO or Uber)
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded markets
- Respect local laws and stay away from illegal activities
My Mexico Travel Route
This itinerary covers the "Gringo Trail" and beyond, hitting all the major Mexico highlights:
- Puerto Escondido – The surfing mecca of the Pacific
- Oaxaca City – The culinary and cultural heart of Mexico
- San Cristobal de las Casas – Charming colonial vibes in the mountains
- Palenque – Mystical ruins hidden in the jungle
- Bacalar – The stunning "Lagoon of Seven Colors"
- Tulum – Boho-chic vibes and Mayan history
- Playa del Carmen – The hub for nightlife and cenotes
- Isla Cozumel – One touristy and one calm part of the island
- Isla Holbox – The ultimate car-free island paradise
Mexico Highlights & Experiences
Puerto Escondido – Surf, Sun & Sunsets
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| Puerto Escondido |
- Go surfing or take surf lessons
- Release baby turtles at sunset (an absolute must!)
- See the sunset at La Punta
- Swim in the bioluminescent lagoon at night
- Go on a whale watching tour
- Make a day trip to Mazunte
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| Whale Watching in Puerto Escondido |
Oaxaca City – A Foodie’s Dream
From Puerto Escondido, you can take a short flight or the new highway to Oaxaca City. It’s the soul of Mexico.
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| Oaxaca |
- Eat your way through the markets (try the Mole!)
- Take a day trip to the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua (Must do)
- Visit the Monte Albán ruins for incredible valley views
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| Oaxaca Food Market |
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| Hierve el Agua |
San Cristobal & Palenque – Jungle & Culture
Head into the highlands of Chiapas. San Cristobal is chilly and charming, while Palenque is a humid jungle dream.
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| Cañón del Sumidero |
- San Cristobal: Walk the colorful "Andadores" (pedestrian streets) and drink local coffee.
- Cañón del Sumidero: A huge canyon where you can see crocodiles and birds. You can book a tour from San Cristobal.
- Palenque: Explore the ancient Mayan ruins surrounded by howling monkeys. It feels like an Indiana Jones movie!
- Agua Azul: Visit these turquoise waterfalls on your way between the two cities.
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| Palenque - Ancient Mayan Ruins |
Bacalar – The Maldives of Mexico
Bacalar is a freshwater lagoon that looks like the ocean. It is much quieter than the coast and incredibly beautiful.
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| Bacalar Lagoon |
- Take a sunrise sailboat tour across the lagoon
- Float down the "Los Rapidos" natural river canal
- Stay in a hostel with a private pier for the best views
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| Bacalar Lagoon |
Tulum & Playa del Carmen – The Riviera Maya
This is the most famous stretch of coast in Mexico, known for white sand and crystal clear water.
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| Tulum |
- Tulum: Rent a bike, visit the ruins overlooking the sea, and take photos at the famous beach clubs. There are also a lot of Cenotes to visit.
- Playa del Carmen: The perfect base for shopping and "Quinta Avenida" nightlife. Very touristy tho.
- Cenotes: You must visit at least three! Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote are world-famous.
- Chichen Itza: From Tulum or Playa del Carmen you can book a tour to Chichen Itza, the world famous pyramids. The tours are pretty touristy. I would just go myself there and pay the entrance fee.
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| Chichen Itza |
Isla Cozumel – a little beautiful island
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| Isla Cozumel |
- Rent a scooter and explore the island
- Hang out by the beaches
Isla Holbox – No Cars, Just Vibes
Finish your trip on this sandy island where the streets are made of shells and cars aren't allowed.
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| Isla Holbox |
- Rent a golf cart to explore the island
- See the famous "hammocks in the water" at Punta Cocos
- During summer months, book a tour to swim with Whale Sharks
Cost of Traveling in Mexico
Mexico offers options for every budget:
- Hostel bed: $15–$30 per night
- Street Tacos: $1–$2 each (best value ever!)
- Daily Budget: $40–$60 for backpackers; $150+ for luxury
Tip: Always carry cash (Pesos) for small vendors and street food, as many don't take cards.
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| Mazunte - close to Puerto Escondido |
Final Thoughts on Mexico Travel
Mexico is a country that stays in your heart long after you leave. Whether you're surfing in Puerto Escondido or watching the sunrise over a lagoon in Bacalar, the magic is everywhere.
The people are amazing, the food is incredible and the country is a 10/10 for me. I have to say tho that the Caribbean coast from Tulum to Cancún is pretty touristy and crowded. I prefer the authentic Mexico.
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| Turtle Release Puerto Escondido |
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