Mexico

Top destinations to visit in Mexico

Mexico City: The bustling capital city is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and culinary delights. Explore its historic center, visit world-class museums, and indulge in delicious street food with a private tour Mexico City.
Playa del Carmen: Just south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen offers a laid-back beach vibe with a bohemian atmosphere. Relax on its beautiful beaches, explore the nearby cenotes (natural sinkholes), and enjoy the lively Fifth Avenue with its shops, restaurants, and bars.
Tulum: This coastal town is famous for its stunning Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Explore the archaeological site, relax on the picturesque beaches, and swim in the crystal-clear cenotes.
Oaxaca: Known for its rich indigenous culture and culinary traditions, Oaxaca is a vibrant and colorful city in southern Mexico. Explore its historic center, visit ancient Zapotec ruins at Monte Alban, and savor traditional Oaxacan cuisine.
Guanajuato: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Guanajuato is a charming colonial town with colorful architecture and narrow winding streets. Discover its underground tunnels, visit the iconic Teatro Juarez, and explore the impressive Museo de las Momias.
Merida: Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Merida is a cultural gem with a strong Mayan heritage. Explore its historic center, visit the fascinating Mayan ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza, and indulge in the local cuisine.

Best time to visit Mexico

The best time to travel to Mexico is during the dry season, which spans from December to April, providing minimal rainfall. While the coolest months occur between December and February, temperatures can still reach an average of 82°F (28°C) during this dry period. The wet season commences in May and extends until October, primarily affecting the southern regions.

Experiences you should not miss in Mexico

1.  Experience the best train ride
The Copper Canyon Railway, also known as the Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico, offers an exceptional rail journey through the stunning landscapes of Latin America. This scenic train ride begins at Los Mochis, situated at sea level, and ascends to the adventurous town of Creel, passing through the breathtaking rocky terrain of the Copper Canyon. As you gaze out of your train window, you'll be treated to panoramic views of alpine forests, lush subtropical valleys, traditional Tarahumara villages, and glimpses of the world's deepest canyons. Enhancing this extraordinary experience, you have the option to stay overnight at picturesque lodges perched on the canyon's edge or extend your stay to fully explore this captivating destination. Engage in activities like hiking, horseback riding, and even zip-lining, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of one of Mexico's most remarkable destinations.

2. Explore Tulum
Renowned worldwide for its mesmerizing blend of Maya ruins and pristine Caribbean beaches, Tulum offers an enchanting experience. The range of accommodations available caters to all budgets, from charming beachside shacks to luxurious resorts. The town boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of fantastic restaurants and bars to choose from. Beyond Tulum, the surrounding area beckons with its array of attractions, including mesmerizing cenotes and other captivating Maya ruins. It's no wonder that visitors often plan a short stay but find themselves extending it due to the irresistible allure of Tulum. Exploring the nearby areas is immensely rewarding, with notable highlights such as the expansive Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an, the secluded fishing village of Punta Allen, and the awe-inspiring ruins of Cobá.

3. Discover the charm of Mexico City
Mexico City, as the nation's longstanding political capital, proudly takes center stage in Mexico's vibrant cultural scene. It serves as a testament to the country's rich artistic heritage, with iconic works left behind by top muralists like Diego Rivera and José Clemente Orozco. Rivera's cinematic murals in the Palacio Nacional and Orozco's social-realism masterpieces in the Palacio de Bellas Artes showcase the depth and significance of Mexican art.
Art, music, dance, and theater permeate every corner of Mexico City, creating an immersive cultural experience. Even a leisurely gondola ride along the ancient canals of Xochimilco is accompanied by the soul-stirring melodies of a mariachi ballad.
A stroll through the bustling downtown area reveals the city's rich historical tapestry, with architectural gems spanning pre-Hispanic and colonial eras juxtaposed against the dynamic backdrop of a modern metropolis. From traditional cantinas and intriguing museums to cutting-edge contemporary galleries and glamorous plazas, the city offers a diverse range of experiences. Shopping enthusiasts will delight in the treasure trove of artisanal crafts and designer boutiques found throughout the city.

4. Visit Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza, situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, is the largest among the Maya cities and a highly popular tourist attraction in Mexico. The temple pyramid of El Castillo stands as the most iconic landmark within Chichen Itza. Its architectural design holds significant astronomical meaning.
Remarkably, each face of the pyramid features a stairway with precisely 91 steps. When combined with the top platform, these steps add up to a total of 365, representing the number of days in a year. This ingenious design showcases the ancient Maya's advanced knowledge of astronomy and their deep connection to celestial cycles.
Aside from the temple pyramid, Chichen Itza offers other notable highlights to explore. The Great Ballcourt, an expansive playing field, bears witness to the ancient Mesoamerican ballgame, while El Caracol, a circular temple, served as an astronomical observatory, revealing the Mayans' astute understanding of the stars and celestial events.

5. Explore Guadalajara
Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, charms visitors with its small-town feel and vibrant attractions. From grand churches to lively markets, the city offers a delightful blend of cultural experiences. It is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting a diverse culinary scene with local specialties and fusion cuisine. Guadalajara is known for its lively nightlife, offering vibrant bars and dance clubs. The city embraces both tradition and modernity, with iconic cultural elements alongside contemporary museums and theaters. Explore Guadalajara to discover a captivating blend of culture, history, and artistic spirit.

Things to know before traveling to Mexico

Entry Requirements: Check the entry requirements for Mexico, including passport validity and visa requirements, and ensure that you have the necessary documents before your trip.

Safety Precautions: While Mexico is a popular tourist destination, it's important to be aware of safety precautions. Research the areas you plan to visit, stay updated on travel advisories, and take common-sense precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and using reliable transportation options.

Currency and Money: The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always useful to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergencies.

Language: The official language of Mexico is Spanish. While English is spoken in many tourist areas, especially in larger cities and popular tourist destinations, it's helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases or carry a translation app.

Transportation: Mexico has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, taxis, and domestic flights. Research the available transportation options and choose reliable and reputable providers. Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps when possible and exercise caution when using public transportation in crowded areas.

Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost or stolen belongings. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations in Mexico. Respect the laws regarding drugs, alcohol consumption, and local customs. It's also advisable to carry a copy of your passport and other identification documents while exploring.

Why choose Acqua?

Acqua offers access to local expertise through carefully selected tour operators who possess excellent language skills, destination knowledge, and buying power. Customize your trip to Mexico by choosing accommodation, transportation, activities, and pace. Directly booking with local operators ensures cost efficiency and supports local economies. Acqua partners with established operators for favorable rates, providing peace of mind with guarantees and insurance coverage. By choosing Acqua, you support responsible travel and contribute to community projects.