Mexico on a Budget (Travel Guide 2022)
MEXICO TRAVEL GUIDE CONTENTS
Are you planning a trip to Mexico? This gigantic Mexico guide tells you everything you need to know about travel to Mexico on a budget. It includes a packing list, safety tips, foods to try, where to go, and how to find the best beaches.
Mexico is the land of margaritas and mariachi! What’s more exciting than snoozing on a beach, drinking $1 margaritas encompassed by sunshine, sombreros, and serenades? Or walking the busy streets at a festival in Oaxaca surrounded by giant paper mache skeletons?
Vamos! Let’s go! I’m stoked to share my best tips and tricks with you in this travel guide to Mexico and teach you how to max out on the Mexico fun! Whether you are just daydreaming or planning a trip to Mexico, grab a pen and a poncho, and let’s get going! Here’s your guide to budget travel to Mexico!
PLANNING A TRIP TO MEXICO ON A BUDGET
If you are planning a trip to Mexico and you’ve never been before, you will surely have a number of questions about the country. We aim to answer every single question you might have about Mexico so you’ll feel totally on top of everything before you go.
Even if you’ve been to Mexico before, you’ll be sure to find golden nuggets of information sure to make your travel around the country easier. I’m going to show you how to plan a trip to Mexico on a budget!
The biggest concern for many is the question of ‘is Mexico Safe?’ Simply, Mexico is safer than you think, but you should know how to avoid trouble too. We talk more about all of this in the section below.
Make sure you pack medicine for upset stomachs. Whether you drank one too many margaritas or just had a burrito that didn’t sit well with you… it’s always better to be safe than sorry! We also go into packing essentials for Mexico below as well.
You’re also probably also thinking ‘ How much money should I take to Mexico?’ There are ATMs accessible everywhere so there is no need to carry wads of cash. Plus most tourist destinations take cards.
We didn’t have more than 1000 pesos in our wallet most of the time, and this would cover eating and drinking out and transport around town.
What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to Mexico
Language – The language spoken in Mexico is Spanish, which sounds like a DUH moment, but hey, let’s be extra clear here. Most of the tourist hotspots are filled with people who can speak English.
On the other hand, my friend who is from Mexico says that throughout the country, probably only 40% of the population speaks English, just depends on how touristy you go. So it never hurts to brush up on some handy Spanish phrases. (See below, friends!)
Visa – It’s always a good idea to check up on Mexico visa requirements – for that matter, any country’s visa requirements before traveling.
If you’re from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, or any country in the Schengen, you won’t need a visa to visit Mexico. You just need to present your passport and fill out an immigration form at the airport and voila – you’re in!
Currency – Mexico is the land of pesos (MXN). Currently, 1 USD is roughly 21.5 MXN pesos, and 1 Euro is approximately 24 MXN pesos. The rates do fluctuate though, so it’s best to check a currency calculator.
There are awesome free apps out there; just go to the App Store and pick your poison. With such good Mexican currency conversions, it’s super easy to do Mexico on a budget. Although, you can also live large and do luxury for a lot less than you would in many other destinations!
ATMs – As Mexico gets more touristy, more and more ATMs are offering free transaction fees when using their ATMs. When I went, the only free ATM in Mexico was Citibank. Usually, ATMs in Mexico are free as long as they are part of the same network of the bank that you wish to withdraw money from. If in doubt, you can ask to find out with your bank which ATMs in Mexico allow feeless withdrawals.
Other than that, most of the ATM fees are only around 30 to 80 pesos, so it’s really not too bad! Also, most popular tourist places accept cards, so if your credit card doesn’t have foreign transaction fees – swipe that puppy and get spending!
Safety – Be careful of credit card scammers. Don’t let anyone take your card and walk away with it. I know some places we put our card in our bill and let the waiter ferry it away! But no, keep that card close at hand and don’t let it be whisked away to be copied down somewhere else. Avoid using debit cards that are directly linked to your bank account, stick to credit cards.
There are places in Mexico that do have high crime rates, so be a safe and smart traveler and don’t wander alone at night through sketchy alleyways. Don’t carry all your valuables with you either, stash some money or an extra credit card in a different spot than the rest, just in case the worst happens! Stay in groups at night and use your common sense.
LGBT Rights – LGBT rights in Mexico are pretty good and progressive; same-sex marriage is legal in 24 states, and there has been sexual orientation protection countrywide since 2003. I do want to mention that Puerto Vallarta has a fabulous gay scene. The city has lots of bars and hotels geared towards the community.
If you’re not too far off the beaten path in Mexico – in the rural and perhaps more old school areas – I’d say that there really isn’t much discrimination for people in the LGBT community who decide to travel and visit Mexico.
Electricity – I’ve never experienced a power outage in Mexico. In rural areas, they may lose power sometimes, but for every place I’ve been, power has never been an issue. Even running water hasn’t been an issue! The tourism industry in Mexico is massive, so they want to keep the tourists happy – electricity and running water are musts, right?
Electrical Sockets – The Mexico plugs and sockets are Type A and B. For you electricity-savvy humans out there, the standard voltage is 127 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. That means if you’re from the USA, you don’t need a travel adapter in Mexico. If you’re from the UK, you definitely will need an adapter and converter!
Annoyances in Mexico
For all the first-timers to Mexico, be prepared to meet many locals trying to sell you trinkets. There’s a never-ending wave of people always trying to sell you something. It can be a little overwhelming, but just buckle down and plow ahead, dears! I will usually say a stern but respectful “no, thank you” if someone tries to sell me something directly.
If you are doing a road trip around Mexico (which I highly recommend, by the way) you may encounter roadblocks in some areas. Around the Yucatan Peninsula, the people blocking the roads simply want a coin or two of your spare change before letting you through. However, in some areas, the roadblocks are due to civil protests and could be dangerous. Please research your routes using my guide or joining a Facebook Group and asking for the latest information.
Transportation in Mexico
Bus – Depending on location, there are local buses without air conditioning for a handful of pesos. There are also luxury tourist buses that are definitely my favorite way to travel! I love traveling by bus when backpacking Mexico because you avoid baggage craziness and stress – and you get to see more of the country that way. Also, sometimes, you get the best travel stories on buses – like people bringing chickens along for the ride. You never know what will happen!
The bigger bus companies that operate across Mexico are ADO, Primera Plus, Estrella de Oro, Omnibus de Mexico, and ETN. The easiest way to book long-distance buses is to head to your nearest bus terminal a day or two in advance. Some companies such as ADO also allow you to purchase your tickets online.
Colectivo – This is one of my favorite ways to travel Mexico cheap. A colectivo is usually a minivan that acts as a bus picking people up at the terminals and along the road. They are usually extremely cheap and super fast. Just ask your hotel about the route you want to take or do a quick google search. Colectivo is the ULTIMATE budget travel Mexico style, do as the Mexicans do!
Taxi/Uber – If you feel like spending a little extra, taxis are plentiful in tourist hotspots and start from 20 MXN pesos (0.83 c USD). Depending on the city you are flagging them down from, the price will vary. For example, taxis in Cancun is are some of the most expensive ones in Mexico starting at 70 MXN pesos. Uber is slightly cheaper and operates in most of the touristy cities in Mexico. Keep in mind that Uber is a threat to the local taxi organizations so the operating areas of Uber in Mexico change occasionally.
Airplane – Mexico does have a handful of budget airlines, like Avolar, Azteca, Click, Interjet, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris. You can get stoked about super cheap fares, but as always with budget airlines, beware of the crazy baggage fees and requirements!
I use a combination of Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the lowest possible flight prices. You’ll be surprised about how cheap some of the internal flights within Mexico can get!
Car Hire – Renting a car in Mexico is super easy. It’s generally the same as it is anywhere else in the world. I highly recommend hiring a car to get between towns along the Riviera Maya and other places on the Yucatan Peninsula. We recommend using Hertz.
To rent a car in Mexico, you have to be 21 years old or over (max 75 years old) and have held your license for a minimum of two years. Drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. These guidelines may vary between rental suppliers though. I almost always rent cars through Hertz Car Rental since they are trustworthy and well-priced. Make sure you read my post on driving around Mexico to get tips on covering your butt when hiring a car in Mexico.
Subway – Mexico City and Guadalajara have great subway systems, and I highly recommend using them. They are cheap, fast and convenient. You can get a one-way ticket to most places in the city for 5 MXN pesos (0.25 c USD).
USEFUL PHRASES IN MEXICO
The language they speak in Mexico isn’t Mexican, it’s Spanish. So if there are Mexican words and phrases, they’re all slang terms heard only in Mexico. It’s a great idea for travelers to learn a few key Spanish phrases when planning a trip to Mexico.
Plus, it is always fun to make new local friends and show off your knowledge of the local Mexican phrases or impress a waiter, so I have included a few of my favorite Mexican slang words below.
Spanish is a pretty universal language, so you’ve probably picked up a few words here and there through osmosis. Just in case you haven’t, let’s cover the bases with a few key words and phrases!
Spanish
Hola – Hello
Cómo estás? – How are you?
Bien, ¿y tú? – Good, how about you?
Si – Yes
No – No
Yo quiero, yo no quiero – I want, I don’t want
Dónde está…? – Where is…?
Cuánto cuesta? – How much does it cost?
Tienes…? – Do you have…?
Yo tengo, yo no tengo – I have, I don’t have
Yo entiendo, yo no entiendo – I understand, I don’t understand
¿Entiende? – Do you understand?
El baño – The bathroom
Agua – Water
Mexican Slang
Güey – Mate/dude
Gringo – A person from the USA
¿Qué onda? – What’s up?
Buena Onda – Cool
No manches – No way
Baboso – Dumb/stupid
Órale – Right on/cool
Chingon – stud/bad-ass/macho man
Chela – Beer
Culo – Butt/ass
Mamacita – An attractive woman
BEST BOOKING RESOURCES FOR MEXICO TRAVEL
The following is a list of the best booking agencies for Mexico travel planning. I use these companies over and over again when I travel to Mexico and I have found they consistently have the best prices and great services. Most even have their own apps which make the booking process even easier.
Booking Flights to Mexico
Skyscanner – I love the ability on their website to search by month. You can then get an overview of the cheapest flights within the whole month on a calendar layout so you don’t have to manually look at each day separately. I always use Skyscanner to plan my flights.
Google Flights – Another good flight search option. If you hit the grid button during your search you can see a layout similar to Skyscanner with a whole month view. I always check Google Flights to see if they have different or cheaper options to Skyscanner.
Booking Accommodation in Mexico
Booking.com – This is always my first option when searching for accommodation. They consistently have the best prices, a lot of the time their prices are even lower than walking in off the street! Trust me, we tried doing that several times. Plus they have great loyalty discounts, so after you have used them a few times you will see those amazing discounts pop up. If you aren’t already signed up for Booking, here’s $25 off your first stay.
Airbnb – If you prefer the comfort of staying in a home when you travel or like the idea of living with local people, Airbnb is a great alternative. I use them a lot when I travel, especially for long stays where I would like access to a kitchen.
Hostelworld – The best booking website for hostels out there. They have a huge number of hostels listed with a great interface. They are easy to use and cheap.
Couchsurfing – This is a website that puts you in contact with local people at your destination and you can stay in their home (couch or spare room) for free. The intention is that you then offer your couch to other surfers once you are able to. The idea of it can be scary for some but I have surfed all over the world and have made very strong positive connections with local people that I would not have otherwise met.
TrustedHousesitters.com – If you are a long-term traveler and want to stretch out that cash as much as possible, two words, house sit! This website is awesome. Homeowners that need someone to either look after their place or to look after their fur babies create home profiles and date ranges of when they need someone to help. This is a great option if you can line up back-to-back house sits, which means no money spent on accommodation! There is a small sign-up fee of $100 USD, but if that’s all you have to pay it makes travel very cheap in the long term. I did this in Cozumel for 2 months and Puerto Escondido for 3 months.
Booking Tours in Mexico
Get Your Guide – This website is a search interface for a large range of local tours offered at your destination. Whether you want to hire a guide to take you to cenotes or show you around some ancient ruins, Get Your Guide is the best place to look.
Viator – Viator is the tour booking company associated with TripAdvisor. If you prefer using TripAdvisor while planning a trip to Mexico, Viator can help you book those experiences.
Booking Transport around Mexico
Hertz – My go-to for booking rental cars. They are trustworthy and always at a good price.
Uber – Uber is like booking a taxi, but with a local person in their own car. The entire process is organized through the app and the rating and tracking system keeps you safe. You can even share your trip live with someone at home if you are worried about safety. They also have an UberPool option in some cities where the driver will pick up other passengers along the way, essentially making your trip cheaper since you share the costs. Uber is only available in some states, so check the app once you are there.
Bla Bla Car – Do you need to get from A to B but don’t want to take a bus? Consider booking rideshare with Bla Bla Car. It’s like UberPool but for longer distances and it’s cheaper. The driver simply places their route within the app a few days before the trip and then passengers buy seats on the trip. In Mexico, I found Bla Bla Car to be even cheaper than the buses on some routes.
ADO – This is the main tourist bus company that serves roughly the eastern half of the country. Anyone can book buses using their website, however, if you don’t speak Spanish you may find the navigation a little difficult. You can also book ADO buses at the bus terminals and in most tour offices.
Travel Insurance
World Nomads – The best travel insurance for long-term travel which covers medical and property. They are also great because you can insure yourself once you are already overseas, which most companies do not offer.
SafetyWing – Another backpacker favorite and are often cheaper than World Nomads.
Clements – This is more of an expat insurance than traveler insurance as you need an overseas address. They offer really good coverage for personal property, especially for items that aren’t fully covered by your general travel insurance.
MEXICO BUDGET COMPARISON
It’s easy to travel to Mexico on a budget. Street food is incredibly cheap and even food in local eateries is shockingly budget-friendly. Accommodation is going to be one of your largest expenses in Mexico, but as long as you use the websites I recommend above, you’ll be able to find some really good deals on hotels.
If you are doing Mexico on a strict budget, I recommend limiting the number of different places you visit, to save money on travel. But catching colectivos and buses will keep your costs down too if you do need to travel to different areas.
Here is a quick overview of the type of prices involved with calculating your Mexico budget. It shows expected costs for backpackers, mid-range, and luxury travelers for comparison. This is the average cost of traveling in Mexico, just keep in mind that some places in Mexico are more expensive than others.
| Accommodation | Food | Transport | Attractions | Av. Daily Cost | |
| Backpacker | 200 MXN (~$9.25 USD) | 86 MXN ($4 USD) | 100 MXN (~$4.5 USD) | 300 MXN ($14 USD) | 570 MXN ($26.5 USD) |
| Mid-Range | 600 MXN ($28 USD) | 200 MXN (~$9.25 USD) | 150 MXN ($7 USD) | 300 MXN ($14 USD) | 1,000 MXN ($46.4 USD) |
| Luxury | 1,7000 MXN ($79 USD) | 550 MXN ($25.5 USD) | 500 MXN ($23 USD) | 1,000 MXN ($46 USD) | 3, 000 MXN ($139 USD) |
BEST SEASONS IN MEXICO
The weather in Mexico isn’t just sun, sun, sun. Mexico is a huge country and it isn’t sunshine everywhere all day. From snowy mountains to arid deserts, Mexico has it all. However, if you’re heading to the coast, it is balmy and pleasant year-round. But there is a rainy season too that you should be aware of. Generally, the rainy season is May through September/October.
Mexico is also at risk of hurricanes; nothing wrecks a vacation like a natural disaster. June through November is hurricane season, so check the weather forecasts and precautions. If you’re not hitting up the coastline, Google to find the weather details for each region by month. My favorite month to hit up the beaches in Mexico is in November, right after the rainy season. Gotta love warm days and cool nights!
Riviera Maya weather – The Riviera Maya covers the area between Cancun and Tulum. It includes Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel Island. Spring (March to June) is the best time to go to the Riviera Maya because it’s warm and sunny with just a few showers occasionally. Rainy/hurricane season is from May to September and although the Riviera Maya does not usually get hurricanes but the area can still get bad tropical storms.
If possible, avoid places in the Riviera Maya during July and August and the period from mid-December to early January since they are big tourist months.
Puerto Vallarta weather – Want to go to Puerto Vallarta on the pacific coast? The high tourist season is November to March. If you’re looking for a super good deal, hotel rates go way down (sometimes by 40%!) in July and October. You can expect college party-goers and rain in July, so October is my favorite month!
Mexico City weather – In Mexico City, rain hits in May and continues to fall on vacationers until halfway through October. I recommend going in November because it won’t be too hot or too rainy; if you time it right, you can even participate in the famous Day of the Dead celebrations!
Cabo San Lucas weather – If Cabo San Lucas is calling your name, you definitely want to plan a trip during February and March, when the Pacific Gray Whales migrate from the Arctic to mate and give birth off the shores of Cabo. Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness!
WHAT TO PACK FOR MEXICO
When deciding what to pack for Mexico, where you are going will definitely influence what you pack. Because Mexico is utterly huge with loads of different biomes and temperatures take a look at my gigantic packing list for helpful advice on packing for Mexico.
Below, I’ll list some items you might forget to bring to Mexico. but first, let’s talk about the ideal type of backpack for Mexico travel.
Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack
A backpack crossed with a suitcase! The Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack is easily the best backpack ever. The functionality is perfect. I rarely need to use the Osprey Fairview 65L Wheeled Backpack as an actual backpack, but when I do it’s easy to set up and works perfectly. But for most of the travel, I use it as a rolling suitcase which saves my back and means I can put heavier things in it without worrying about whether I’ll be able to carry it. This is the best multifunctional luggage that is perfect for traveling Mexico.
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZONPacking for Mexico: Don’t Forget These Items
Here’s a list of all of the items you might easily forget when packing for Mexico. Click this link for a full comprehensive packing guide.
✔︎ Vaccination certificates
✔︎ Passport
✔︎ Biodegradable sunscreen (for snorkeling/cenotes)
✔︎ Aloe vera gel
✔︎ Bug repellant
✔︎ Chapstick
✔︎ Travel sewing kit
✔︎ Waterproof phone case
✔︎ Luggage locks
BEST THINGS TO DO IN MEXICO
Other than the obvious activities in Mexico like sunbaking on the beach, getting a massage or drinking a margarita, these are the best things to do in Mexico.
Swim in a Cool Cenote
Just what is a cenote you ask? It’s a natural sinkhole that occurs when a cave ceiling collapses and exposes the groundwater underneath. There are thousands of them all over the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, with a majority of them concentrated around Tulum, Bacalar, Valladolid, and Merida. The Yucatan Peninsula is like a giant sponge made of limestone, with cenotes all over the area. The cenotes were sacred to the Ancient Mayan people and it is understood that it is only because of these cenotes that their civilization was able to advance the way it did.
The cenote prices in Mexico vary, some are quite expensive over in the Tulum area but we found the Valladolid cenotes are more affordable and just as beautiful.
If you are interested in visiting a cenote somewhere in the Yucatan Peninsula, be sure to read my huge guides that help you find cenotes closest to your destination. These are the cenote guides I have: Tulum Cenotes | Riviera Maya Cenotes | Valladolid Cenotes. Or book a tour here!
Explore The Reef by Scuba Diving
There are absolutely fantastic scuba diving opportunities in Mexico. If scuba diving isn’t your cup of tea, snorkeling is a must. It’s pretty inexpensive to rent gear, so enjoy exploring the marine world at budget prices. I especially loved scuba diving with the manta rays at Socorro Island. Mind-blowing! Or, I’ve heard that at Isla San Pedro you can see baby sea lions. Apparently, 400 sea lions call San Pedro their home.
If you’re headed to the Riviera Maya, there is amazing scuba diving off Cancun, Cozumel Island, and Isla Mujeres. Cozumel is best for reef diving while Isla Mujeres boasts a shipwreck and an underwater museum.
Swim with the Fish While Snorkeling
There is pretty awesome snorkeling off the entire coast of Mexico. If you’re in the water with a mask and snorkel, the chances are you’ll see something very cool. The best snorkeling spot is in Isla Mujeres, which is offshore from Cancun. Here, you can snorkel with hundreds of whale sharks! They are generally around from June to September each year. That’s definitely a Mexico bucket list item!
Highly recommended is the snorkeling in the cenotes near Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Cenote Azul is bountiful with rocks and freshwater fish, and Casa Cenote is closely connected to the sea, so is filled with some very interesting brackish-water fish like cichlids and giant tarpon.
Learn to Surf
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, or maybe you’re already a pro, why not go surfing! With 5,797 miles (9,330 km) of gorgeous coastline, grab a surfboard and go! And a little tip for those surfers who like empty waters, the further south you venture in Mexico, the more empty the beaches are of tourists and other surfers.
Puerto Escondido is perhaps Mexico’s most famous surfing spot. You can easily find surfing lessons on beaches in this town for as little as 500 MXN ($23 USD) per hour for a one-on-one lesson.
Marvel at Ancient Temples, Pyramids, and Ruins
Hiking an ancient Aztec or Mayan ruin should be on your Mexico bucket list! When you travel to Mexico, don’t leave out the ruins. Make sure you visit some of the ancient architectural gems of Mexico. Teotihuacan is probably the most well-known pyramid in Mexico, and for good reason. It is unknown as to who actually built Teotihuacan, but the civilization unquestionably built it by hand more than a thousand years before the Aztecs arrived. However, it is the Aztecs that gave it its present-day name.
The Nohoch Mul pyramid in Coba is also dazzling; it’s the tallest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula and offers stunning views of the jungle. It’s only 120 steps high, which doesn’t sound like a Fitbit goal or anything, but my oh my those steps are steep! It’s well worth it for the experience and views.
Dig Deep into Museums in Mexico City
Personally, I love Mexico City’s urban vibes and cool, modern architecture – plus, it’s mega affordable. If you’re in Mexico City, definitely hit up as many museums as you can. Mexico City actually has more museums than any other city in the whole wide world. My favorite is the Frida Kahlo House. What an artist, what a woman!
Lap Up All the Mexican Food
My favorite thing to do in Mexico is to hunt down the best tacos! Crunch and munch down on salty and salsa-filled goodness. I’m seriously getting cravings right now. Don’t expect American-style tacos when you arrive, either. These bad boys are filled with carne asada, cochinita, adobada, chorizo, fish, shrimp, or marlin tacos. Don’t worry, you can diet later. And it’s the tastiest way to do Mexico on the cheap.
Revel in Architecture Walks and Tours
I love the diverse architecture in Mexico, so not taking the time to walk around and explore the cities you visit is simply inexcusable! The pink quarry stone buildings in Morelia, Michoacan are jaw-dropping. So are the cities of San Cristobal de las Casas and Oaxaca City which are known for their beautiful colonial buildings. There are stunning cathedrals sprinkled through the entire country too that are not to be missed. Walking tours are great for your Mexico budget travel journey, as most of them are run by volunteers and you just tip or donate a reasonable amount.
Become Thrilled by Lucha Libre
Maybe wrestling isn’t your thing, I get it. But Lucha Libre is critical to Mexican culture and those masked Luchadores are iconic, come on! Instead of chilling on a Friday night with a book, go to a Lucha Libre match and bask in the machismo glory!
Fly High With Parasailing
If you’re planning a trip to Mexico, you’re probably keen on getting in the water. Enjoy those sea activities to the fullest! But if you’re just a little wary of surfing or scuba diving, definitely go parasailing. There are tons of spots that offer parasailing, from Cancun to Playa del Carmen.
Spot Sea Turtles Nesting and Hatching
Sea turtles are fiercely protected in Mexico and Mexican waters, and this pays off for visitors. At Akumal, you can swim with huge sea turtles who go there to munch on the seagrass. You can help let go of baby turtles during the summer months around Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Tulum. You can see turtles mating at almost any time of year in the waters around Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, and Oaxaca in general. Because of this, there are a few places that support letting free baby turtles for a small fee in these areas.
Want to know how you can see turtles nest and hatch in Mexico, read my turtle spotting guide.
Go on an Adventurous Road Trip
Mexico is a great country to take a road trip in. Car rental is super cheap and if you plan to drive from the USA into Mexico, the process is quite simple and straightforward. If you hire a car to do a Yucatan Peninsula road trip around the Riviera Maya and beyond, the roads are flat and easy. Coming from the USA you can see the spectacular coastline of Baja California. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Why not do a Mexico City to Oaxaca road trip to delve right into Central Mexican culture.
Want to know more about driving in Mexico as well as read about 5 different but equally awesome Mexican road trips? Read my Mexico road trip guide.
HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS IN MEXICO
Day of the Dead (Dia de Los Muertos)
It’s hard to imagine Mexico without thinking of the colorful skull decorations and orange carnations of the Day of the Dead celebration. A two-day Mexican celebration each year on November 1 and 2, Dia de Muertos is a vibrant festival in which families remember and celebrate lost loved ones.
But there’s much more to Dia de Los Muertos than you could ever read about in a book and taking part in local Mexican celebrations is an intimate and authentic way of traveling Mexico. To learn about how you can do Dia de Los Muertos in Oaxaca, read my guide: How to do Day of the Dead the Mexican way.
Carnival
Did you know that Mexico also has its own Carnival? In late February or early March, Mexico celebrates Carnival in true Mexican style – with colorful parades and lots of music and dancing. I recommend going to Carnival in La Paz or Veracruz, but I’m sure the whole country does Carnival the right way!
The Folk Dance Festival
It’s worth mentioning the Guelaguetza Dance Festival in Oaxaca, Guelaguetza. This traditional dance folk festival takes place each year in the middle of July. It’s filled with all the best Mexico’s indigenous tribes have to offer, from traditional dancing to native bands and gorgeous handicrafts – time to stock up on the souvenirs!
The Guadalajara International Film Festival
Another Mexican festival I want to plant a seed in your head about attending is Guadalajara’s International Film Festival. It’s usually in March and is a wonderful nine-day festival to see some of Latin America’s emerging filmmakers.
MEXICAN TRADITIONS
The Afternoon Siesta
Sometimes, it’s nice to be a nap queen (or king). In Mexico, it’s a daily part of the routine to nap it up in the afternoon right after lunch. Snuggle up on the couch after a burrito and treat yourself to an authentic Mexican tradition – siestas!
Mariachi Music
Oh, mariachi! The tradition of mariachi music dates back to the 18th century and is a crucial part of Mexico’s music history. A small group of musicians, mostly playing string instruments, wear traditional “charro” costumes. Catching a mariachi show is a must of visiting Mexico. Listening on Spotify doesn’t count, guys.
El Grito
This is my favorite of all the Mexican traditions. In many Mexican songs, but especially in mariachi music, you will hear a distinctive yell, interjected with a passion that speaks to the soul. It is a sort of “aaaaaaayeeeee” or “ahhhhhaahaaa” sound that represents a long, drawn-out laugh, or sometimes the wail of a mournful cry.
This yell is called a ‘grito’ and is an internationally recognized behavior in Mexican culture. Music isn’t the only place reserved for a ‘grito’ though. Mexican people practice and perfect their own special ‘grito’ from a young age and grito competitions between family members at gatherings are commonplace.
The Quinceañera
This is an important celebration in Mexico as it marks the passage from a girl into a woman on her 15th birthday. The fiesta is generally as expensive as the means of the family will allow. Usually, the day will involve the daughter dressing up in elaborate clothing, going to mass, cutting a giant cake, and having a party with friends and family.
Often, entire streets will be shut off unauthorized by family members while neighbors and passers-by are invited to join in on sharing food and drinks. If you are ever invited to a quinceañera, take up the offer. The parties are often wild and a true example of Latin-American culture.
Piñatas
I’ve whacked a good few piñatas in my day. I’m sure you have too! All the coolest elementary school birthday parties, had them right? Well, in Mexico it isn’t a fiesta without a piñata. Apparently, the ancient Aztecs had a similar tradition involving clay pots. It is also thought that the tradition has Chinese origins.
Family Focus
Most of the traditions of Mexico are focused on family. Mexico is a country renowned for its bright, vibrant fiestas and religious celebrations that place families right in the center. I love how family-focused the culture and traditions of Mexico are. They have such beautiful rituals and practices of honoring the members of their family with food, fun, and festivities.
In fact, there are almost innumerable holidays and traditions in Mexico that bring families together to celebrate their connection. You’re fortunate if you get invited to a family holiday celebration. If you do receive the honor, make sure you bring flowers and gifts as a sign of appreciation.
Want to read more about Mexican traditions that are endemic to Mexico and make the country so special, take a look at my post; Reasons to Love Mexico.
WHAT TO EAT IN MEXICO
Oozy Tacos
Delicious oozy meat covered in luscious sauces, pickled onion, and coriander. Yum! There are so many types of amazing tacos but my favorites are always ones that involve marinated and slow-cooked meats. For me, Cochinita Pibil is the best, slow-cooked underground with citrus. Al Pastor is a close second, is based on shawarma spit-grilled meat brought by Lebanese immigrants to Mexico. It is best paired with jalapeño cream. Google the best tacos in your area and go exploring!
Flavorful Mole
Besides delighting in tacos, make sure you try the crazy umami flavors of mole. There are, in fact, three states that claim to be the original home of mole. If you have never heard of mole, it’s a rich sauce that has 20 or more ingredients including chocolate. Each mole will taste a little different because each family’s or restaurant’s recipe is usually passed down for generations.
Tasty Tamales
What to eat in Mexico? Don’t forget to gobble down some tamales. I can practically still taste them. Please go out and eat a tamale or two for me! The genesis of tamales was actually from the ancient Aztec, Mayan, and Inca tribes, who needed portable food to take into battle. Wrapped like a present in either corn husks or banana leaves, these pocket-sized cornmeal blankets, stuffed with vegetables and meats, is pure yumminess.
PLACES TO GO IN MEXICO
These are the best places to go in Mexico, ranked for their strong culture, amazing beaches or awesome activities, and how cute the actual township is.
Tulum
Tulum is home to some of the best-preserved 1,000-year-old Mayan ruins that have the Caribbean ocean in the background. Talk about astounding… Tulum is also home to some mind-blowing cenotes that you can explore by either snorkeling or scuba diving (an adventure I highly recommend, if you are game enough). Tulum is just 90 minutes south of Cancun and has incredible white sand beaches and really impressive jungle-immersed hotels and restaurants which are what makes this place so special. Tulum can be pricey and may eat into your travel budget but it’s worth having a look.
Isla Cozumel
Indeed, Cozumel Island with its gorgeous turquoise waters and perfectly powdery sands is exactly what I can’t get enough of! It is crowded though, but this small island has so much to offer. The shallow reefs are glorious, especially for scuba diving. There are fun tours you can do like a jeep safari with reef snorkeling. But I also recommend watching the underwater magic unfold through a glass-bottom boat tour.
Mexico City
Mexico City is the museum hot spot, remember? Plus, it’s also got mega-awesome street art! Pretty much the whole country has lots of amazing street artists throwing up their art all over the city, but Mexico City is a great place to explore and appreciate. In the central part of Mexico City known as the Zocalo, there’s basically a mural around every corner! There are also organized street food and art tours if you want to find a group! For more information, read my Mexico City guide.
Wondering where to stay in Mexico City? I stumbled upon Casai which are the up-and-coming competitors to Airbnb.
The point of difference is that Casai owns the vacation apartments, which means they are thoughtfully designed and selected in fantastic neighborhoods, filled with local artisan and artist decor, updated with smart technology and fast wifi, and who doesn’t want a 24/7 concierge that can help with tickets and events.
Oaxaca
Oaxaca state and Oaxaca City are both seriously awesome places to go in Mexico. They are full of Mexican culture, art, and biodiversity. Plus Oaxaca boasts some of the best beaches in Mexico, don’t believe me? Read my Oaxaca beaches post, featuring beaches in Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, and Chacahua.
Oaxaca is one of the poorest states in Mexico, so this means that travel in this state is extremely cheap. In Oaxaca City, you will also have the chance to encounter a strong art scene (have you ever heard of alebrijes?) as well as the gorgeous cobblestone streets and colorful buildings that all your Mexico dreams are made of. I very much recommend a popular day tour from Oaxaca City to an impressive petrified waterfall, that stops at the archeological zone of Mitla as well as a mezcal factory and a textile workshop.
Palenque
Palenque is a fantastic off-the-beaten-path destination in Mexico for two reasons: Palenque Ruins and cascades! Palenque Ruins are a mesmerizing set of ruins made even more special by the fact that you can climb on them (you can’t climb most ruins in Mexico). The Palenque Ruins are just as important historically as Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Tikal, mainly for their extensive hieroglyphics that tell stories and show historical facts.
The Agua Azul Cascades is also a top-rated activity in Palenque. They are a series of bright blue waterfalls set amongst the rainforest that visitors can swim in. The natural waterpark is surely an adventure, and exploring the site in full will take an entire day.
Want to know more about Palenque? Read my full Chiapas Guide.
Yelapa
Okay, I want to let you in on a little secret gem in Mexico. It’s free of American chain restaurants and free of spring break students going wild. It’s the magical small beach town in Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco called Yelapa. It is one of my favorite places to go in Mexico. It’s very close to Puerto Vallarta, a city which I’ve already expressed my adoration for. And Yelapa is quite near to the world’s 7th largest bay – the Bahía de Banderas.
Puerto Vallarta
So, if I haven’t talked you into checking out Yelapa, definitely at least pop over and visit Puerto Vallarta. The beaches, scuba diving, and snorkeling opportunities there are endless. It’s also a little less westernized than places like Cancun and Cabo San Lucas, so I appreciate that I get more local Mexican vibes there. Plus you can do a tour to the famous Playa del Amor on the Marieta Islands – you’ve surely seen those stunning pictures of the secluded beach!
If you’re staying in Puerto Vallarta, try to avoid staying in the Nuevo side of town, which has become a bit too fancy and westernized. When traveling to Mexico, we want things safe and comfortable, but still want to feel like we’re in Mexico, right?
Mazunte
Close to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, sits a small unassuming coastal town called Mazunte. It is somewhat of a secret meaning it is almost completely free of tourists during the off-season. It has just one main street lined with luxurious hotels that are budget-friendly as well as some health food restaurants and a whole lot of yoga studios.
The beach is covered in gorgeous golden sands and if you are there during the summer you may even find the sand completely covered in turtles nesting in “arribadas”. Looking for more information on Mazunte? Read my things to do in Mazunte post.
WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO ON A BUDGET
Mexico is a huge country with lots of good accommodation to offer for any and every price range. Even those penny pinchers out there will be thrilled at the great budget options both on Airbnb and booking.com. Just remember to book your accommodation early, especially if you’re booking a popular hotel. Mexico can get really busy in the high season, so book early and avoid disappointment!
The most budget option, which I did twice during my travels in Mexico, is to house sit. I stayed for two months on Cozumel Island and three months in Puerto Escondido for FREE! How? Through this website trustedhousesitters.com. There are a lot of ex-pats who travel back to their home countries that like to have people stay at their houses, water the plants, and feed their animals.
| Location | Accommodation | Picture | Why Stay Here | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cabo San Lucas | Mayan Monkey Hostel |  | Amazing bar and spectacular pool! | |
| Cancun | Bed and Breakfast Pecarí |  | Affordable private rooms with an amazing breakfast included, all located in the center of town. | |
| Cozumel | Hotel Boutique Vista Del Mar |  | Beachside hotel that it still affordable! | |
| Cozumel | Amigos Hostel Cozumel |  | Affordable hostel with a beautiful shared pool where you can meet other cool travelers! | |
| Isla Mujeres | Poc Na Hostel |  | Sand garden with hammocks, sand volleyball court, and pool table! What a place! | |
| Mexico City | Mexico City Hostel |  | Cheap and right next to the Zocalo, where all the awesome street art can be found! | |
| Oaxaca | Hostel Central Oaxaca |  | Great location with chill vibes and they’re known for having an exceptionally kind staff! | |
| Playa del Carmen | Selina Playa del Carmen |  | On-site bar with an amazing rooftop and dorms for cheap prices! | |
| Puerto Vallarta | Lindo Mar |  | There is snorkeling right off the beach, and they have an awesome little beachside restaurant. It is a bit on the luxurious side though. | |
| Puerto Vallarta | Hostel Boutique Vallarta |  | A cozy and affordable hostel with air-conditioned dormitory rooms! The terrace also offers superb views. | |
| Puerto Vallarta | Hostel Vallarta |  | Perfect for budget travelers who want a good spot to socialize and kick back with a cold beer. | |
| Tulum | Casa Abanico Tulum |  | An awesome location but slightly tucked away in a quieter area of Tulum. | |
| Yelapa | Hotel Casa Iguana Mismaloya |  | Affordable with a tasty breakfast buffet included |
I don’t know about you, but I sure could use some time kicking back on the beach with a good book and a margarita right now. Whether you are in winter weather and want to escape the cold, or you’re looking to learn to surf or attend a festival, there’s so much Mexico has to offer. Maybe it is time to plan a trip to Mexico after all…
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This huge guide lists all of the best Mayan Riviera cenotes including La Ruta de Los Cenotes in Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen cenotes. Includes all you need to know, so you can visit the amazing natural cenotes in the Riviera Maya without paying for a tour!
MEXICO TRAVEL BUDGET FAQS
There are many cheap places to visit in Mexico such as Mexico City, Puebla, Guanajuato City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, San Cristobal de Las Casas, and Puerto Escondido. Places in or near the Riviera Maya such as Valladolid, Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum can also be traveled cheaply by staying in backpacker hostels, taking public transportation, and doing your own tours. One place in Mexico that might not be suitable for budget traveling is Baja California. This Mexico State is known for its extravagant accommodations, exclusive private tours, and exquisite entertainment venues.
Mexico is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in the world. However, as a popular tourist destination, Mexico has the potential to be both cheap and expensive. When it comes to accommodation, Mexico has a huge variety of selections – from budget hostels to luxurious all-inclusive resorts, so you can spend 10 USD a night or 300 USD a night. The same thing happens for food. You can choose cheap street tacos or dine in one of the extravagant restaurants Tulum or Cabo San Lucas has to offer. Lastly, the same phenomenon happens for tours and visiting places in Mexico. You can decide to take public transport to save money, or take one of the exclusive private tours for more comfort and convenience!
Though Mexico has a notorious reputation when it comes to safety, it is a country that we personally found to be pretty safe. Touristic places tend to be safer than off-the-beaten-path destinations, simply because tourist money is a huge part of Mexico’s economy. Try to avoid being alone on the streets at night and don’t make it easy for potential predators by being under the influence. For travelers that are concerned about safety, there are plenty of guided tours that offer security, convenience, comfort, and professional guides.
How much money do you need per day in Mexico largely depends on what kind of traveler you are? From our experience, budget travelers should be able to travel comfortably on 570 MXN pesos or 26.5 USD per day, mid-range travelers around 1000 MXN pesos or 46 USD, and luxury travelers around 3000 MXN or 139 USD per day.
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© Castaway with Crystal - 2021