• HOME
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • WORK WITH ME
  • COURSE
  • Nav Social Icons

  • Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • WORK WITH ME
  • COURSE
  • Mobile Menu Widgets

    Connect

    Search

Bucketlist Bri

Bucketlist Bri

Adventurous Slomad Travel

  • Start Here
  • Destinations
  • Bucket List
  • Digital Nomad
  • Slow Travel
  • Van Life

The Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.6.6″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” max_width=”1200px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.6.6″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” custom_margin=”-11px|-18px||||” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]

The Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide

woman demonstrator holding palm leaf

Where is Mexico, really? Mexico is a HUGE country with 32 very diverse states. While it does identify as being Latin American, many people think Mexico is located in Central or South America. It’s not! Mexico is located in North America, just south of the U.S. border.

Languages: Spanish is the national language but there are over 68 recognized indigenous languages like Mayan or Nahuatl. These indigenous languages also can have hundreds of dialects. English is spoken in major urban areas and popular tourist towns.

Indigenous Groups: Mexico is an extremely diverse country with dozens of ethnic groups. In fact, in Mexico’s Constitution, it describes Mexico as pluricultural because of the original peoples that existed before European settlers arrived in prehispanic Mexico.

Currency: Mexican pesos – $1 USD is about $20 pesos (give or take depending on the current rate).

Religion: Most Mexicans today are Catholic (~82%). As such, you’re likely to see numerous religious ceremonies and active churches and cathedrals throughout the country.

Culture: Mexicans are especially hospitable, friendly, and hard-working. They highly value community and family and are proud of their regional traditions and culture! Many of the Mexicans I have met (from all over the country) have shown having a deep connection to nature, family, and their historical and indigenous heritage.

Best Time to Visit Mexico

kids playing in the ocean on san pancho beach

Thanks to Mexico’s diverse landscapes, you can visit Mexico practically year-round.

  • Dry season: November – May. In the wintertime, Mexico’s coastlines are perfect for a tropical getaway.
  • Wet season: June – October. Summer is the hot and wet season, making it the perfect time to escape the cities and head to the mountains.

Here are some of the best times to visit places in Mexico depending on your destination:

Yucatan and Quintana Roo (Riviera Maya): Visit during November – April during the dry season when temps are nice and hot and humidity is low. If you can, go before or after the holidays to beat intense crowds.

Mexico City and central Mexico: Visit March-May in the springtime (or in the fall). Mexico City becomes very cold during winter as it sits in the high plateaus in central Mexico. Likewise, the city is unbearably hot during the summer with lots of humidity and rain.

Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit: December – May is ideal for vacations on the coast of the lovely Riviera Nayarit. I recommend skipping holidays though as it does get crowded, especially in the smaller magic towns by the beaches. From January-April, lots of festivals and events are happening and the weather is 99% sunny skies with hot days and cooler nights.

Popular Things to Do in Mexico

calakmul mayan ruins pyramid in campeche, mexico

Mexico has ENDLESS things to do. The country is so vast, diverse, and beautiful. It’s got lush jungles, peaky mountains, pristine beaches, vast deserts, two oceans, and everything in between! With that said, don’t miss out on these top things to do on a trip to Mexico!

1. Wander at lost cities and ancient Mayan ruins

Mexico has incredible archaeological sites that once upon a mysterious time were thriving Aztec and Mayan cities. A trip to Mexico isn’t complete without seeing some of these impressive sites!

Chichen Itza is the most famous, but there are plenty of others worth seeing. Also check out the ruins at Coba, Palenque, Tulum, Calakmul, and Teotihuacan, among others.

2. Explore Mexico’s tropical islands

With two oceans, countless bays, and beaches, you know Mexico has islands worth exploring. In fact, Mexico has close to 100 beaches!

With that said it won’t be possible to island-hop them all. I have been to a few and definitely can recommend visiting Isla Holbox, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres for trips to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

3. Jump in fresh underground cenotes

Cenotes in Mexico are so much fun to discover! Cenotes can be found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula (there are over 6,000 cenotes!). These mostly underground freshwater caverns make the adventure in me come to life. Here are my favorite cenotes and why.

4. Visit Mexico’s charming Magic Towns (Pueblos Magicos)

There are currently 111 magic towns in Mexico. Magic Towns began as a tourist initiative by Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism to bring tourism to small Mexican towns that are rich in cultural and historical heritage, who aim to preserve local traditions, culture, food, and celebrate local and regional indigenous peoples. Basically, they want to bring awareness to the fact that Mexico offers SO MUCH more than just beaches and beer.

Notable magic towns: Bacalar, Todos Santos, Cholula, Sayulita, Bernal, Cuetzalan, Atlixco, Izamal, and many more!

Best Mexican Food & Drinks to Try

chille relleno in yucatan peninsula mexico

Speaking of tacos… Here are must-try foods and drinks in Mexico when you visit! (I may be biased since I’ve lived here for a while, but Mexican food is my absolute favorite!)

Here are some of the must-try foods when you travel to Mexico:

Pozole – a traditional Mexican brothy soup of hominy (big corn), meat (usually pork, beef, or chicken) often comes with shredded lettuce, lime, tostadas, and sour cream. It can be served vegetarian too!

Chilaquiles – chilaquiles are usually a breakfast-brunch dish with fried tortillas smothered in a green or red sauce and served with refried beans, hot corn tortillas, and topped with cheese, sour cream, scrambled eggs, or meat.

Chile Relleno – chile relleno is simply a stuffed poblano pepper that’s filled with meat or cheese and is then deep-fried and covered in sauce. It originated in the city of Puebla but you’ll notice various regions have their own style of chile relleno.

Tostadas – tostadas are basically tortilla chips that are shaped like round saucers. They are served smothered in toppings – ceviche, tuna, shrimp, meat, cream, salsa, avocado, etc.

Tortas – tortas are buttery Mexican sandwiches stuffed with grilled meat and sandwich toppings like pickled jalapeno, tomato, shredded lettuce, and served with sauces like sriracha ranch. You can make them vegetarian with grilled panela cheese (panela asada).

Tacos al pastor – if you eat pork, you have to try local Mexican tacos al pastor which are marinated in a juicy blend of spices and served on corn tortillas (most come with a pinch of fresh pineapple).

Mole sauce (pronounced mole-ay) – mole is a chocolaty sauce that originates from the state of Oaxaca. It’s all at once spicy, sweet, savory, chocolaty, and sour! It’s super delicious served over enchiladas.

Must-try drinks:

Chelada – a chelada = your beer of choice mixed with 1/3 lemon/lime juice and served with a salted rim.

Michelada – beer of choice mixed with tomato juices and spices (clamato juice), served with a salted rim.

Mezcal – often considered the “smoky brother of tequila” however, while mezcal can be made from any agave plant, tequila is only made from the blue agave plant. The mezcals I’ve had in bars were always served with orange slices and 3-4 different types of salts (volcanic salt, spicy salt, etc). I don’t like alcohol but I enjoy mezcal oddly!

Pulque – is another alcoholic drink made from the agave plant (the maguey) except for this time it’s fermented from the agave plant’s sap. It has a sour taste but is refreshing! Everywhere I’ve tried it has been commonly served in little coconut husks.

Margarita – everyone knows a margarita but have you ever had one served with Mexican tequila (or mezcal) in Mexico? Hmm? Plus, you can get every type of margarita imaginable. The fresh passion fruit ones are good!

Traveling Responsibly in Mexico 

tulum street art

Traveling responsibly, sustainably, and ethically is the best way to travel! Here are some ways to be a more mindful traveler in Mexico:

Shop local — Seek out the local vendors when you travel. Support responsible businesses and restaurants who aim to reduce their environmental impact!

Avoid activities/tours that exploit animals — Not all tours featuring animals actually respect the environment or the animals’ well-being. Please do a bit of research before booking your tour. Reviews can be deceitful. In general, don’t pay to see animals in captivity.

Say no to plastic — Mexico’s new law prohibits the use of plastic bags in markets and stores. Bring your own reusable shopping bags (and on that note – also bring a reusable drinking water bottle). Please help Mexico reduce its plastic use!

Support indigenous populations — There are many indigenous vendors and businesses whom you should support. Their art and culture need preserving and your financial support enables them to keep their traditions alive.

Staying Safe in Mexico

woman riding scooter on a day trip from Tulum to Punta Allen

We have lived in Mexico for two years now and have traveled often throughout the country. We have, for the better part, felt completely safe as tourists in Mexico.

Mexico gets its bad reputation because there are undeniably several instances of gang activity from criminal groups who aim to control the local populations in the states they inhabit. These groups are in competition with one another to take control and power over the transport of goods and so on.

As a traveler in Mexico, you are just as safe as in the United States, Canada, Europe, etc. Of course, please be aware that scams and petty theft do occur, even in smaller towns. You are not likely to encounter these groups as you travel to tourist destinations.

  • Avoid walking or driving alone at night in places you’re unfamiliar with
  • Don’t buy drugs
  • Keep your wits about you at all times – never stay out intoxicated or be obnoxious
  • Secure your wallet and valuables
  • Practice good judgment and trust your gut when something doesn’t feel right

Packing List for Mexico

jump shot cenote cristal dji osmo action

I always travel with only a carry-on. Traveling lighter saves so much hassle, plus it’s better for the environment!

What to pack for Mexico will depend on your ultimate destination (city vs. beach). Nonetheless, there are some general Mexico-specific items you should pack:

  • light linens (breathable shirts and skirts)
  • reef-friendly sunscreen!
  • bathing suits
  • biodegradable mosquito repellent (here’s a travel-handy bug balm)
  • sandals
  • kindle (for waterproof reading by the pool or beach)
  • plug adapter if needed (plugs here are US-style)
  • reusable water bottle, reusable straws, reusable bags
  • plus all my camera gear!

 

Save this Mexico Travel Guide to Pinterest!

mexico travel guide
mexico travel guide
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
Share
Pin
Tweet
Share
Share
6 Shares

Primary Sidebar

hello!

I’m Bri, an adventurous digital nomad living abroad full-time since 2015. It is my hope to inspire you to live a life of adventure, seek out meaningful experiences, and travel slowly and mindfully!

About Me

Connect

join the list

Featured Posts

Moving to San Pancho, Mexico | Bits of Bri

Moving to San Pancho, Mexico: Why, When, & How?

Mercado San Pancho | Farmer's Market San Pancho | by Bits of Bri travel blog

10+ Treasures of the Mercado Artesanal in San Pancho

40 Things to Do in San Pancho Mexico | Bucketlist Bri

40 Awesome Things to Do in San Pancho, Mexico

QUICK LINKS

  • HOME
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • WORK WITH ME
  • COURSE

Search

Follow Our Adventures

@bucketlistbri

National Park Week has got me feelin’ a serious National Park Week has got me feelin’ a serious case of nostalgia for our 2-week Southwest USA road trip! 🏜

The NP’s we visited on this trip:

📍Arches National Park
📍Canyonlands National Park
📍Zion National Park
📍Bryce Canyon National Park
📍Grand Canyon National Park (North & South Rims)
📍Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

+ Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock State Park, & Monument Valley Navajo Park!

Head to my blog bucketlistbri.com for the full 2-week itinerary plus detailed guides & itineraries to each NP!*

*except for BCotG

.
.
.

#nationalparkweek #utahrocks #zion #bryce #southwestusa #roadtripusa #desertvibes #archesnationalpark #moab #canyonlands #roadtripamerica #grandcanyonnationalpark
"From Santa Catarina Palopó" 💜 I saw her gigg "From Santa Catarina Palopó" 💜

I saw her giggling and chatting with a friend from across the street and, despite my shyness, waltzed over to ask if I could take her photo. 

She was simply radiating sitting there; an amateur portrait photographer's dream. Except I don't even own a portrait lens and this was only the second time ever in my life that I whisked up the courage to ask for something that feels so... intimate. 

But without hesitation, she gazed into my lens and pierced my heart. It was like being drawn to a joyous light that I just couldn't resist. So I dared to ask. 

As soon as she said yes, I hurriedly clicked a few shots; rushing so as to not waste her time. After showing her portraits to her, she gave me a big nod and said softly, "de Santa Catarina Palopó" with immense pride.

I think her sweet smile & kind eyes speak for themselves... ✨ 

You can read more about the indigenous Kaqchikel Maya and the colorfully painted town of Santa Catarina Palopó, Guatemala on my blog @bucketlistbri 💜
10 years together 💛😱 It’s not our annive 10 years together 💛😱 

It’s not our anniversary (it was technically last month, depending on who you ask) and we're not even celebrating Valentine's Day today, but...

I just wanted to remind the internet that I have a pretty badass partner (& not to mention the best cat dad) who puts up with both my silly madness and my need to live around the world in pursuit of adventure. 

If I have any advice for love and long-term relationships, it's this:

Keep choosing each other;
again, and again, and again,
over everything else, no matter what you go through. 

❤️❤️❤️

Can you guess which one of us first "friend-requested" the other all those years ago? 😉

#internationalcouple #ourlove #travelcouplegoals #10yearstogether #digitalnomadcouple #adventuretogether
On every adventure, I’ve thought of you. I am On every adventure, I’ve thought of you. 

I am the granddaughter of a guiding light, a woman so lovely and gentle and spiritual and strong that she attracted to her all walks of life. 

I was the butterfly enamored by her glow. The ship lost at sea that found safety at her shores. 

On every adventure, I’ll think of you. On every adventure, you’ll be with me. 

🦋 ✨
Add this hike to your Caribbean bucket list! ☀️ 

Guadeloupe is rich in breathtaking, diverse landscapes — La Pointe des Châteaux is no exception! Magnificent rocky pillars jut out of the ocean & create a magnificent view that’s best experienced at sunrise from atop Morne Pavillon, the hill marked by the large cross on its summit.

TIPS FOR VISITING:

🚗 Like everywhere in Gwada, you'll need a rental! Parking is free.
☀️ Sunrise and sunset are around 6am and 6pm
🥾 The hike itself only takes 15-20 minutes and is easy!
🦀 Watch for wildlife and other critters (this is a protected heritage site!)
🌊 Plenty of beaches are nearby, including a nude beach and a private beach with cool wave splashing action called "La Douche" (meaning shower 🚿) 

Read more about this epic spot + other must-see places in Guadeloupe on the blog @bucketlistbri 🌴

.
.
.
#guadeloupeislands #caribbeanisland #pointedeschateaux #wanderlusttravel #caribbeanlife #caribbeanvibes #gwada #hikingtheworld #islandphotography #travelaesthetic
I'M READY FOR YA, 2022 ✌️ HERE'S WHY: ✍️ I'M READY FOR YA, 2022 ✌️ HERE'S WHY:

✍️ 2022 is going to be the year I become a published author. 

💛  It's the year I celebrate 10 years of love & adventure with my best friend. 

💻  It's the year I register my LLC and level up my business. 

🌎  It's the year I hit my bucket list of "slow living in 10 countries" as a nomad and the year I travel and discover even more destinations. 

And some folks will think (do think), "overnight success." But the reality is (as my sweet friend @redwhiteadventures reminded me), it's been about putting one foot in front of the other -- just like on a hike up a mountain (or in this case, to the cliffsides overlooking the Caribbean and Atlantic!). 

2022 is going to be the view from the top!! (Sure, I may get there, and see another summit I want to climb. But I'm so ready for the challenge(s), the journey, & the adventure!) ⛰ 

What are you excited about in 2022?! 

📍Hell's Gate / Porte d'Enfer, Guadeloupe (click the link in my bio to read about this hike!)
Follow My Adventures

Footer

On the Blog

  • Start Here
  • Destinations
  • Bucket List
  • Digital Nomad
  • Slow Travel
  • Van Life

Info

  • Work With Me
  • My Course
  • Shop
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy

adventures await x

Copyright © 2022 · Bucketlist Bri | All Rights Reserved