Visiting Mexico

Entry requirements depend on your passport. Check your specific requirements on the Mexico page at Yoogo.

Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN). US dollars are accepted in many tourist areas, but you will usually get a better rate paying in pesos. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist destinations, though smaller towns and markets often prefer cash. ATMs are plentiful in urban areas.

Safety varies significantly by region. Popular tourist areas such as Mexico City, the Yucatan Peninsula, and Oaxaca are generally safe for visitors exercising normal precautions. Northern border regions have experienced higher levels of drug-related violence. Avoid driving in rural areas after dark, stay on well-travelled routes, and follow advice from your government's travel advisory for the specific regions you plan to visit.

Long-distance buses are the most widely used form of transport and range from comfortable first-class coaches to local services. They are affordable, reliable, and reach most destinations. Domestic flights connect major cities via Aeromexico, Volaris, and VivaAerobus. Rental cars are practical but Mexican auto insurance is mandatory and must be purchased separately. In cities, ride-hailing apps such as Uber operate widely and are a convenient option.

The dry season from November to April is generally the most pleasant time to visit, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall across most regions. The Yucatan coast is best visited outside the hurricane season, which runs June–November. Highland cities such as Mexico City and Oaxaca enjoy mild temperatures year-round. Beach destinations on the Pacific coast tend to be quieter and more affordable outside the December–January peak.

Spanish is the national language and is spoken throughout the country. Mexico also recognises 68 indigenous languages, including Nahuatl, Maya, and Zapotec, which remain in active use in many communities. In major tourist areas and large hotels, English is commonly spoken, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be warmly received and genuinely useful away from tourist centres.

No vaccinations are required to enter Mexico. Recommended precautions typically include hepatitis A and typhoid, particularly if you plan to eat street food or travel to rural areas. Check with a travel health clinic or your doctor well before departure for up-to-date recommendations. Tap water is not reliably safe to drink outside Mexico City; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Yes, tipping is an important part of the service culture in Mexico. In restaurants, 10–15% is standard for good service. Hotel porters, housekeeping staff, and tour guides also customarily receive tips. Petrol station attendants, supermarket baggers, and car park attendants are often tipped a few pesos for their assistance. Always tip in cash where possible.