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Whether you're interested in history, food or outdoor activities, Mexico’s diverse and rich culture makes it a popular destination for tourists worldwide.
- Currency: Mexican Peso
- National language: Spanish
- Time difference: Mexico is typically 6 hours ahead of UK time
- Flight time: Average flight time to Mexico is 12 hours
Why do I need travel insurance for Mexico?
Mexico is a popular destination for British visitors and most trips are incident-free, but you can never guarantee your holiday will go as planned. From tracking down lost luggage, cover for delayed flights, and getting sick abroad, there are many eventualities that travel insurance protects against.
Although rare, Zika virus has been reported in Mexico and it’s advised that you have additional funds to pay for any healthcare treatment you may need.
Before you travel, make sure you know what vaccinations to get, whether there are any specific risks you need to be aware of, and whether you need to declare your prescription medication or not.
What does our travel insurance to Mexico cover?
Our travel insurance for Mexico covers:
- Up to £10 million of emergency medical cover.
- Compensation of up to £10,000 for unforeseen trip cancellations.
- Cover for up to ten people on one policy.
- Full cover for travellers over 65.
If, after travelling to your destination, the FCDO advice is to leave the area you're staying in, then you're covered to cut your trip short.
If this situation arises, please contact our 24-hour assistance helpline on +44 1243 621 537 (01243 621 537 from the UK). For Text Phone first dial 18001. Calls may be recorded.
If the FCDO advice is simply against travelling to the destination you're already in, there's no cover to cut your trip short; however, you can call the 24-hour helpline if you need any help or advice.
Entering Mexico
You don’t need a visa to enter Mexico from the UK and tourist destinations like Cancún or Mérida are generally considered safe. As with many countries, you’ll need to complete an immigration form when you arrive. It’s important to keep this safe throughout your trip as you’ll be asked for it at the end of your holiday.
Getting around Mexico
It’s best to avoid Mexico’s land border as this is one of the most high-risk areas. Getting around is fairly easy but it’s worth considering Mexico’s size. Buses are widely regarded as the best way to get from one place to another. There are normally two classes – first (primera) and second (segunda).
First-class buses often make for a more comfortable ride because of things like air-conditioning and better seats but the main difference is that second-class buses will take much longer.
Cancún
Cancún is renowned for its party lifestyle and if you’ve come to Mexico to dance, you certainly won’t be disappointed, but you’d be mistaken to think that’s all it has to offer. Dive into Mayan culture or sample local flavours from vendors throughout the city.
Mexico City
The bustling Mexican capital is home to more than 21 million people and has undergone a significant facelift since celebrating 200 years of independence in 2010. Pyramids, Aztec canals and a plethora of cool, modern eateries adorn this completely captivating city.
Tulum
One of Mexico’s hidden gems, there’s so much to explore in this beautiful coastal town. Tulum’s main attraction is undoubtedly its Mayan ruins, and it boasts a number of unforgettable restaurants and hotels to try out during your stay.
Yucatán
The Yucatán Peninsula is home to Cancún and many other tourist hotspots, like Playa del Carmen, but its headline act has to be the ruins at Chichén Itzá. The region also offers rich, diverse rainforests and jungles intertwined with incredible Mayan history to explore.
Riviera Nayarit
Between the beautiful Pacific Ocean and Mexico’s western Sierra Madre Occidental mountains lies Riviera Nayarit. Widely regarded as the next Mexican hotspot, get there before the crowds do and see the historic port of San Blas for yourself, or simply relax on any of its 200-mile stretch of beaches.
Wherever your itinerary takes you on your trip to Mexico, make sure you have the right level of cover. Speak to LV= to find travel insurance that suits your needs.
Things to do in Mexico
Mexico offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying vibrant cultural experiences.
Here are some popular activities to consider when visiting Mexico:
1. Explore ancient ruins: Visit iconic archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza, Teotihuacan, and Palenque to learn about Mexico's rich pre-Columbian history and the civilizations of the Maya and Aztecs.
2. Culinary experiences: Savor authentic Mexican cuisine by trying tacos, mole, and tamales. Consider taking a cooking class or visiting local markets to experience the flavours of Mexico.
3. Cultural festivals: Experience Mexico's vibrant culture by attending festivals such as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Guelaguetza in Oaxaca, and the Carnival in Veracruz.
4. Visit colonial cities: Explore charming colonial cities like San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, and Puebla, known for their beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history.
5. Art and museums: Discover Mexico's rich artistic heritage by visiting museums like the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City, the Museum of Anthropology, and the Diego Rivera murals.
6. Wildlife and nature: Visit natural reserves and parks such as Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and Sumidero Canyon for wildlife watching and nature exploration.
7. Visit Mexico City: Explore the vibrant capital city, with attractions like the historic Zocalo, Chapultepec Park, and the bustling neighbourhoods of Roma and Condesa.
8. Shopping: Shop for traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs in local markets and artisan shops across the country.
Are there any risks when travelling to Mexico?
When traveling to Mexico, it's important to be aware of potential risks to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some common risks and safety considerations:
1. Crime: While many areas in Mexico are safe for tourists, some regions experience higher levels of crime, including theft, robbery, and drug-related violence. It's important to stay informed about the safety situation in specific areas and follow local advice.
2. Food and drink: To avoid illnesses like traveller's diarrhoea, think about food and water safety. Drink bottled or purified water and eat at reputable establishments.
3. Health risks: Make sure all your vaccinations are up-to-date and consider vaccines for hepatitis A and typhoid, depending on your travel plans.
4. Natural disasters: Mexico is prone to natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. Familiarise yourself with emergency procedures and stay informed about weather conditions, especially during hurricane season (June to November).
5. Road safety: Road conditions can vary, and traffic can be chaotic in some areas. If driving, exercise caution, avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas, and be aware of local driving laws and customs.
6. Altitude sickness: Some regions in Mexico, such as Mexico City, are at high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness. Allow yourself time to acclimatise and be sure to stay well-hydrated.
7. Scams and fraud: Be cautious of scams targeting tourists, such as overcharging or misleading offers. Use reputable services for tours and transportation, and be wary of unsolicited assistance.
8. Beach and water safety: Be mindful of local warnings about strong currents and jellyfish when swimming in the ocean. Only swim in designated areas and exercise caution during water activities.
9. Political demonstrations: Avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, as they can sometimes become unpredictable.
Remember to take all the usual safety precautions, like keeping valuables secure and paying attention to your surroundings. To minimise risks, register with your embassy and stay up to date with the government's latest travel advice.
Whether you’re drawn to its delicious cuisine, vibrant landscapes and dramatic coastlines, or its intriguing Hispanic and indigenous history, a holiday to Mexico isn’t complete without travel insurance.
For more information about Mexico, go to visitmexico.com
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