Mexico
A Vagabond Life
Our Mexican journey took us from the mountains of Oaxaca to the plains of the Yucatan, we explored ancient ruins and dined with locals in the markets.
MEXICO TRAVEL STATS
- FOUR MONTHS
- FIVE CITIES
- 3900 KM (mostly) BY BUS
Mexico Travel Guide A Vagabond Life
The “Mexico Travel Guide by a Vagabond Life” offers an expansive exploration of this mesmerizing southern North American country, a land of profound history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. As the 13th largest nation globally, sprawling across nearly 2 million square kilometers, and the 10th most populous with a population surpassing 125 million, Mexico’s sheer size and scale are awe-inspiring. Recognized as one of the cradles of civilization, its roots stretch back to 8000 BC, presenting a rich tapestry of history that predates and follows the Columbian era.
Mexico’s geography is as varied as its history, featuring towering mountains nestled with quaint villages, expansive deserts adorned with cacti, bustling cosmopolitan cities, and a staggering coastline that extends over 10,000 kilometers, offering a myriad of breathtaking beaches. This incredible variety makes Mexico a destination that caters to an extensive array of interests and activities. Whether you’re drawn to explore ancient archaeological sites, immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, or simply relax on a pristine beach, Mexico’s vast and varied terrain has something to offer for every type of traveler. This guide is your gateway to uncovering the unique experiences that await in this captivating country, where every corner holds a new adventure.
Mexico Table Of Contents
Mexico Travel Map
Mexico Travel Guuide
Top 5 Things To See & Do In Mexico
Need To Know - Mexico Travel Guide
Five Quick Facts About Travelling In Mexico
- Mexico is big! It is the 13th largest country in the world and has a very diverse terrain from huge mountain ranges to flat desert, Travel plans need to take into account the sheer size of the country. Fun fact The Unite Kingdom would fit 7 times into Mexico.
- Mexico has a good transport system from getting around the country with a number bus companies serving all parts to all of the country. See Getting Around Tab for more information
- English is spoken in the main tourist hubs, however if you are travelling in lesser known areas there maybe little to no English. It is a good idea (and polite) to learn a few basic works of the language and have access to a translate app.
- Mexico is relatively cheap to travel in however you will pay premium prices in Mexico City and on the popular tourist coastal regions. ATM’s can be found in most larger towns and cities.
- Tipping is customary and at time expected in Mexico. As a rough guide – 10% to 20% for service restaurants, cafes, tour guides etc, 30- 50 pesos for luggage and housekeeping in hotels and the same for taxi drivers if they assist with luggage.
Mexico is a great place to travel to at any time of the year. Here is a guide to the different seasons and times of year.
High Season (December – April)
- The dry season and popular with people from the colder northern climates.
- Night tempuratures can be cold in the mountainous inland regions.
- Great time of the year for hiking and outdoor activities.
- Book ahead for accommodation as places get booked out early.
Shoulder Season (July and August)
- Hot across Mexico and wet on the Pacific coast. Escape to the mountains to escape the worst of the heat.
- The Mexican holiday season is on and Mexicans flock to the Riverina Maya beaches causing hotel prices to rise.
- The beginning of the Hurricane season in Riverina Maya.
- Prices on the Pacific coast drop and this is a popular time for surfers.
Low Season (May & June, September – November))
- May and June are the hottest time in Mexico.
- September is the peak month of the Hurricane season, this does not always mean there will be hurricanes but there is heavy rain and strong winds on the coasts at this time of year. The upside of this means there will be good hotel deals to be found.
- Inland the weather is mild, with some showers. A great time to explore inland Mexico.
Mexican Currency
The currency in Mexico is the Pesos.
ATMs can be found in larger towns and cities. It is advisable to always carry a small amount of cash as not all eftpos machines accept foreign cards and not all establishments accept cards.
Mexico Visas
Foreign Nationals must obtain a visa to enter Mexico unless they are nationals one of the 68 countries that are visa exempt.
Mexico | Visa Free Countries | Electronic Visa | Visa Required |
Visa Exempt Countries
Nationals holding passports of Visa free countries can enter Mexico without a visa and can stay for up to 180 days.
Electronic Visa
Nationals holding passports from countries requiring E-Visa can apply on line for this visa. E-Visa is a single entry valid for 30 days. When entering Mexico, visitors are authorised to stay for up to 180 days. This visa is not valid for sea or land entry.
Visa Required
Passports holders in this group need to apply for a visa via their embassy or consulate.
Disclaimer: This information is provided as a guide only. Contact the Mexico consulate in your country for information.
Mexico has an excellent internal transport system with many options to get around the country.
Plane
A number of Airlines fly between most larger Mexican towns including ;
- Aeromexico
- Volaris
- VivoAerobus
Flights are relatively cheap if travelling with only carry on however prices increase dramatically if you have luggage to check.
Bus
The easiest and cheapest way to get around Mexico is by bus, with buses running to everywhere throughout the country. Buses in Mexico come in all shapes and sizes from collectivo’s (mini vans) to luxury buses. If travelling long haul it is really advisable to treat your self to the best bus on that route.
There are many bus companies in Mexico, the most popualar are;-
ADO
The largest bus company in Mexico covering Yucatán peninsula, Quintana Roo, Yucatan, Campeche and Chiapas. Ado have 3 level of buses. Booking tickets online on the ADO website is very easy and tickets can be downloaded or added to the APP
ADO run three different types of bus – ADO regular, ADO GL – Great Luxury and the top of the range ADO Platinum.
Grupo Senda
Covering Aguascalientes, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de México, Jalisco, Nuevo León, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Georgia (U.S.), North Carolina (U.S.) and Texas (U.S.)
Omnibus de Mexico
Covering Aguascalientes, Estado de Colima, Estado de México, Jalisco, Nuevo León, Querétaro
ANC Auto buses
Covering both sides of the Mexico – US border and throughout Mexico.
Grupo AERS
Covering Michoacán, Guerrero, Morelos
ETN and Turistar Lugo
The most luxurious bus line in Mexico covering Aguascalientes, Coahuila, Estado de Colima, Durango, Guerrero, Jalisco, Estado de México, Michoacán, Nayarit, Nuevo León, Querétaro and San Luis Potosí.
Mexico Travel Stories
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