Mexico
North America • MEX
Last updated: September 14, 2026
Mexico is a vibrant destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and world-class culinary scene. From ancient Mayan ruins to pristine Caribbean beaches, it offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and EU member states, can enter Mexico for tourism for up to 180 days without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity
- Completed FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) entry form
- Proof of return or onward travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay
Popular Attractions
Chichén Itzá: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this massive Mayan archaeological site features the iconic El Castillo pyramid.
Tulum: Famous for its breathtaking cliffside ruins overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, it is a perfect mix of history and beach relaxation.
Teotihuacan: Located near Mexico City, this sprawling site is home to the towering Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.
Cozumel: Renowned globally for its spectacular coral reefs, this island is a premier destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Oaxaca City: A cultural hub celebrated for its colonial architecture, colorful markets, and traditional mezcal distilleries.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greeting locals: A polite 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' is the standard way to greet people when entering a shop or restaurant.
Tipping culture: It is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% in restaurants, as service staff rely on these gratuities.
Punctuality: The pace of life in Mexico is relaxed, and being slightly late for social appointments is often socially acceptable.
Dress modestly: While beach attire is fine in resorts, dressing more conservatively when visiting churches or smaller towns is considered respectful.
Bargaining: Haggling is common in local craft markets, but it should be done in a friendly, respectful manner.
Safety Tips
Use reputable transportation: Stick to official radio taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber rather than hailing cabs off the street.
Stick to tourist areas: Research your destination and remain in well-populated, designated tourist zones, especially after dark.
Drink bottled water: Avoid tap water entirely to prevent stomach illnesses; always opt for bottled or filtered water.
Secure your belongings: Keep your valuables, passport, and cash in a hotel safe and carry only what you need for the day.
Stay vigilant: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics in public, as this can make you a target for opportunistic crime.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Proof of vaccination is required for travelers aged 1 year or older arriving from countries with risk of YF transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Includes measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, polio, chickenpox, and yearly flu shots.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Tdap, Polio, Varicella)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to prevent common preventable diseases.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Recommended to prevent mosquito bites due to potential transmission of diseases.
Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Important precaution for all travelers to avoid foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
Drink bottled water and avoid raw foods.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures (e.g., insect repellent and protective clothing)
Source: CDC
Due to risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccination
Source: CDC
Travelers should be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
Source: CDC
All travelers should ensure they are up to date on routine vaccines before traveling to Mexico.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases such as dengue and Zika.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
To protect against common vaccine-preventable diseases when traveling.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To prevent foodborne illnesses during travel.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential exposure through food and water.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers, particularly if not up to date on vaccinations.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers born after 1956 who haven't had the vaccine.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety
Source: CDC
Precautionary measures to avoid traveler's diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Drink only bottled or boiled water; eat only cooked food or peelable fruit.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes and other insects.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and stay in climate-controlled or screened-in rooms.
View sourceFood and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Preventive measures required to avoid travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
Eat only food that is cooked and served hot. Drink only bottled or boiled water.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use permethrin-treated gear.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Preventive measures for gastrointestinal illness; drink safe water and eat well-cooked food.
Eat and drink safely to prevent travelers' diarrhea and other foodborne illnesses.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date for bloodborne pathogens, especially in medical settings.
View sourceInsect bite prevention (including malaria prevention)
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of insect-borne diseases.
View sourceTyphoid vaccine
Source: CDC
Consider if traveling to smaller cities or rural areas with food and water safety concerns.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to risk of infection.
View sourceMeasles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
Recommended for protection against measles, which can be common among international travelers.
View sourceFlu vaccine
Source: CDC
Recommended for all adults before traveling during flu season.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To protect against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities and rural areas.
Risk is higher from contaminated food and water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to the risk of exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Hepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers who might have sexual contact with new partners or undergo medical procedures.
View sourceCOVID-19 Vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for optimal protection while traveling, in accordance with local requirements.
View sourceCholera vaccine
Source: CDC
For those traveling to areas with active cholera transmission.
View sourceRabies vaccine
Source: CDC
For those planning to be in close contact with animals or adventure travelers at risk.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccine
Source: CDC
Particularly for travelers who may have exposure to bodily fluids.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have intimate contact with the local population.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers involved in outdoor or adventure activities that might bring them into contact with dogs, bats, or other wildlife.
View source