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Travel advice for Mexico
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico
Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts
written by Rachel Lawrence
updated 9.01.2019
With sandy beaches, colourful markets and plenty of family-friendly attractions, there’s a huge amount to keep children entertained in Mexico. Our mini guide will help to make travelling in Mexico with kids fun, exciting and (relatively) stress-free.
17 days / from1590 USD
The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City
Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.
customize ⤍15 days / from1430 USD
Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan
Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.
customize ⤍18 days / from1735 USD
Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan
Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.
customize ⤍18 days / from2190 USD
Marvelous Mexico: From Yucatan to Mexico City
Your trip starts on the wonderful coast of Yucatan, exploring the beaches and archaeological highlights like Chichen Itza and Tulum. From there on continue the exploration to Palenque and Oaxaca before taking a flight to Mexico City - 3 days in the capital await your discovery.
customize ⤍10 days / from2147 USD
Mexico's Highlands and Coast
Discover Mexico City's historic highlights and the wonders of sites like Teotihuacan, Campeche and Palenque before you jet off to the Central HIghlands. Discover archeological ruins and traditional tribal villages, then fall for the charms of Mexico's old colonial cities and glitzy Caribbean coast.
customize ⤍7 days / from1499 USD
Mexico's Mayan Trail
Follow the Mayan Trail around Mexico on this archaeological adventure. Begin your journey with a refreshing taste of sea and salt air in the Yucatán Peninsula on one of Playa del Carmen's gorgeous Caribbean beaches before heading off to discover magical Mayan ruins and glorious colonial towns.
customize ⤍12 days / from3057 USD
Magnificent Mexico and Mayan Treasures
From Mexico City down to the southern state of Oaxaca, this trip packs in all of Mexico's colonial charms and archeological wonders. You'll also get to take to the beach at Playa del Carmen, swim in the Caribbean Sea and under cascading waterfalls and boat along lovely Sumidero Canyon.
customize ⤍7 days / from1518 USD
Mexico's Churros and Chiapas
Arrive in exciting Mexico City and get a taste of its surprising charms, imposing plazas and beautiful colonial old town. Then jet off to Chiapas where you'll spend your days exploring canyons, waterfalls and national parks. Then finish with a dose of Mayan culture deep in the jungle at Palenque.
customize ⤍10 days / from890 USD
Los Cabos Self Drive
Take your rental car and explore the beaches and islands of Cabo. Located in Baja California Sur, Los Cabos, Todos Santos, and Cabo San Lucas do not only have excellent beaches to offer for your exploration but also a fascinating wildlife.
customize ⤍15 days / from1450 USD
From Mexico City over Chiapas to Cancun: The Best of Mexico
This itinerary combines the metropolitan glamour of Mexico City with its fabulous museums and pyramids with an outdoor adventure in Chiapas visiting the Sumidero Canyon and the fascinating wildlife and cultural heritage of the Yucatan. Two weeks showing you the true highlights of Mexico!
customize ⤍9 days / from1670 USD
Mayan Heritage Tour in Yucatan
Yucatán is calling you, and this trip is the way to do it; go into the jungle and know it like no one else has ever known it; enjoy incredible food, beautiful sunsets, and the warmth of its communities that will do everything possible to offer you a dream experience. Are you ready?
customize ⤍8 days / from1516 USD
Mexico City to the Yucatán
Enjoy a whirlwind tour of Mexico City, taking in the museums, churches and colonial plazas of Mexico's vibrant capital. Then relax on Playa del Carmen's Caribbean beaches before you take off to explore some of the country's most amazing archeological treasures.
customize ⤍10 days / from2307 USD
Mexico's Nature and Beaches
Explore the nature and wildlife of Chiapas and Tabasco by visiting the Sumidero Canyon and Agua Azul waterfalls before heading off to the Yucatan Peninsula: Chichen Itza awaits to impress you with its magnificent pyramids before ending the trip at the white beaches of Holbox.
customize ⤍14 days / from1350 USD
Chiapas, Tabasco, Yucatan: Explore the Eastern Highlights
Explore the wide depths of Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas, the fascinating archaeological site of Palenque in Tabasco before moving on to the Yucatan to explore Merida, Chichen Itza and the peaceful island of Cozumel. This itinerary offers adventure and relaxation in 14 days.
customize ⤍20 days / from1280 USD
Discovering Central Mexico: from Guanajuato to Oaxaca
With this itinerary, you will get to know the real Mexico: from magic towns to archaeological sites all the way down to the beautiful beaches of Huatulco - this itinerary combines history, cuisine, and relaxation, all compactly available in a 3-week trip.
customize ⤍21 days / from1490 USD
Enchanting Mexico: from the capital to the beaches
Discover Mexico's capital before heading to your first Mexican beach: Puerto Escondido. After some days relaxing in the sun, head to Cancun to pick up your rental car and explore the Yucatan Peninsula in your own car. From archaeological sites to stunning beaches, the peninsula awaits.
customize ⤍11 days / from2415 USD
Culture & Jungle in Chiapas
Get ready for an adventure through Chiapas with hosts who are prepared to welcome you and discover the natural beauty of canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and rivers! The magnificent archaeological sites will amaze you as well as the charming towns.
customize ⤍16 days / from1850 USD
Mexico City and the Yucatan - from the city to the beaches
Take this trip to explore the best of Mexico City: From the museums to the pyramids of Teotihuacán. Afterwards continue to Merida to explore the famous Pink Lake and the Haciendas of the Yucatan. At the ed, take your time relaxing on the beaches in Playa del Carmen and Cancun.
customize ⤍7 days / from925 USD
Authentic and unique Mexico City
Mexico City seems to have it all - over 50 museums, a beautiful historic city center, an extensive city park with a majestic castle, upscale neighborhoods like La Condesa or La Roma, bohemian Coyoacan and mouth-watering cuisine. This trip shows you the best of this mega city.
customize ⤍7 days / from590 USD
Mexico City Explored
Mexico City is one of the most fascinating cities in North America. This week-long itinerary grants you an insight to the museums, restaurants, and events in the capital, as well as exploring surrounding cities such as Taxco or Puebla. Get ready for a true Mexican adventure!
customize ⤍12 days / from3405 USD
Mexico's Tomb Raider Experience
Explore the caves, cenotes, pyramids, and beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. Inspired by the famous Tomb Raider video game, this itinerary takes you exploring across the pyramids of Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, and Coba, before relaxing at the white beaches of Cozumel.
customize ⤍10 days / from1695 USD
Oaxacan Coast Adventure
Adventure awaits you on this trip to the Oaxacan coast, a place as spectacular as the activities you will do. From a boat trip to the beautiful bays of Huatulco to a warm horseback ride on the seashore in Puerto Escondido. Enjoy freedom of traveling with your own rental car.
customize ⤍12 days / from850 USD
The Gems of Yucatan - a Self Drive Trip
Go at your own pace and discover the Peninsula de Yucatan with its many archaeological sites, its colonial villages, and stunning beaches. Having your own car allows you the maximum freedom to explore and the easy road access makes driving yourself a breeze.
customize ⤍11 days / from2846 USD
Amazing Mexico
This 11-day trip takes you from Mexico City, where you will enjoy the La Merced Market to Merida where you can discover Maya ruins...with more adventure along the way, such as Hierve el agua where nature will surprise you and Oaxaca city a great cosy UNESCO World Heritage City.
customize ⤍7 days / from2251 USD
Baja: Pacific Coast Paradise
Baja California is an off-the-beaten-track unspoiled paradise. The area is home to mountains, deserts and thousands of kilometers of gorgeous Pacific coastline. Come here to explore, snorkel, dive or do a spot of whale watching (in season). Otherwise, sit back and relax on its soft sandy shores.
customize ⤍9 days / from1475 USD
Taste of Mexico
Discover the most unique places in Mexico City before heading out to Puebla and Oaxaca, tasting the best Mexico has to offer: mole poblano, chocolate, a corn workshop - this is a hands-on tour, showing the variety Mexico has to offer, both in food and culture wise.
customize ⤍8 days / from2230 USD
Small Group Tour: Yucatán Off the Beaten Path
This is a trip immersed in Maya culture, considering visits to essential places, accommodations in different Maya communities, and cultural and outdoor sports activities. Trip starts February 1st & April 29, 2024 - prefer to do this trip in private? Send us a request for individual pricing.
customize ⤍9 days / from3035 USD
Mayan Heritage on the Yucatan Peninsula
Embark on a Yucatan self-drive adventure, blending renowned treasures like Tulum and Chichen Itza with hidden gems. Wander off the beaten track to discover local communities, engaging in community-based experiences. Delve into Mayan culture, sample authentic cuisine, and explore the region.
customize ⤍7 days / from1800 USD
Immersive Mexico City
Discover the vibrant heart of Mexico City in 7 unforgettable days. A stroll through historic downtown, explore colorful markets, and savor delicious street food. Day trips to Teotihuacan's ancient pyramids and Chapultepec Park's museums offer cultural enrichment.
customize ⤍10 days / from3275 USD
Flavours of Central Mexico
Start in Mexico City, exploring its rich history and vibrant markets. Journey to Cholula to uncover ancient pyramids and partake in cooking classes. Conclude in Oaxaca, where you'll dive deep into local markets and culinary traditions, forging unforgettable memories.
customize ⤍From the sun-soaked beaches of the coastlines to the vibrant markets and historical treasures of the cities, Mexico offers a diverse range of activities that promise endless fun and lasting memories for families with kids.
Imagine the wonder in their eyes as they discover the towering pyramids of Teotihuacan or the fascinating Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza. The colourful streets of towns like San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca invite them to immerse themselves in traditional crafts and local festivities.
The coastal regions offer a paradise for families seeking relaxation and adventure. Snorkelling in the cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, exploring marine life at the Riviera Maya, or simply building sandcastles on the shores of Baja California.
This article will serve as your guide, offering insights and tips for travelling to Mexico with kids.
Planning a trip to Mexico? Browse our Mexico itineraries for more inspiration.
In addition to the general advice for visiting Mexico with kids listed above, we have also compiled for you 10 tips that may not immediately come to mind when planning a family trip.
If you’re intending to travel on public transport, you should be prepared for some very long journeys. Taking an internal flight may be worthwhile for the time and stress it saves. Be sure to pack some activities and locally themed books (on the Aztecs or Frida Kahlo, for example), to help stave off boredom on a long trip.
For travelling to Mexico with kids, it is best to choose to fly by plane @ Shutterstock
Children under the age of 18 can enter the country either with their own passport or on the passport of a parent with whom they are travelling. There is one caveat: if they are not accompanied by both parents, they will need written consent from whichever parent is absent.
Prepare all the necessary documents for your Mexican family vacation © Shutterstock
While many Mexican dishes are not especially spicy in themselves, they are often served with fiery salsas which can be a problem for kids who are not used to them. Watch out too for tamarind- and mango-based sweets; they are often loaded with chillies. Tortillas and tamales are a good bet for fussy eaters and egg dishes, avocados and fresh fruit are readily available.
Food can be a challenging subject when exploring Mexico with kids © Tono Balaguer/Shutterstock
The intensity of the sun across the country means it’s vital to use sun protection while travelling in Mexico with kids. Keep children away from the sun in the middle of the day and encourage them to play in the shade instead. Always use protective clothing and apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30, taking care not to forget necks, ears and shoulders, which often bear the brunt of the sun. Bodysuits or T-shirts are good choices for the beach.
Acapulco Beach, Mexico © Shutterstock
The Papalote Museo del Niño offers fantastic hands-on experiences for all ages, while The Aztec and Maya exhibits at the Museo Nacional de Antropología bring the region’s pre-Columbian history to life. Older children will enjoy learning how money works at the Museo Interactivo de Economía or exploring the universe at Universum Museo de las Ciencias.
Planning a trip? Don't miss our guide to where to stay in Mexico City.
Mexico City's Museo Nacional Antropologia © Shutterstock
Flamingos, quetzals and parrots are just a few of the colourful bird species to be found in Mexico. Older kids will enjoy whale-watching off Baja California, but if several hours on a boat is likely to prove too much for your little ones, the aquarium in Mexico City is an excellent substitute.
You will also find a variety of bird species, mammals, reptiles and amphibians in Centla Biosphere Reserve in Tabasco. Overall, we encourage you to visit this undeservedly overlooked region of Mexico, as you'll find plenty of things to do while on a family trip.
Whale spotting in the Sea of Cortes in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico © HTurner/Shutterstock
There are plenty of family-friendly resorts along the Riviera Maya (and they're a good option if you fancy some downtime while the kids enjoy some organised activities), but if you’re after something that allows for more interaction with the locals, Tulum is a fun place to stay, as is Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific Coast.
Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula. From colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this tailor-made trip to the Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City shows you the real Yucatan.
View of Banderas Bay and Puerto Vallarta © Ferenz/Shutterstock
Many restaurants serve a comida corrida (known in smarter places as the menu del día or menu turístico), usually consisting of three or four courses for around US$5–8.
A typical comida consists of soup followed by a rice dish or perhaps a plate of pasta, beans or guacamole, then a meat or fish main course, followed by fruit, flan (a crème caramel concoction) or rice pudding. In general, restaurants welcome children and are happy to adapt dishes to suit less adventurous tastes.
Delicious taco with guacamole © Shutterstock
Markets are a great place to pick up toys and wrestler costumes, try street food and sweets, and experience Mexico’s vibrant culture. The floating gardens of Xochimilco in Mexico City will appeal to kids of all ages – take in the carnival atmosphere while being punted around the canals and serenaded by mariachi bands.
Traditional Mexican trajinera boat in Xochimilco channels © Marcelo Rodriguez/Shutterstock
Mexicans dote on children – so prepare them to expect more than the usual amount of hugs and kisses, even from new acquaintances.
Maya woman with kids in Chamula by Cristobal de las Casas in Mexico © Shutterstock
Mexico boasts a huge number of interesting and exciting things to do. Below we have compiled a list of places that will appeal to children and adults alike.
Looking for more family holiday travel ideas? Read our guide to the 30 best places to go with kids.
What makes Mexico City an ideal destination for family adventures is its unique blend of wit, laid-back charm and cosmopolitan vibes that create an unforgettable atmosphere. With an efficient metro system and a convenient street grid, getting around the city is easy, making it accessible and family-friendly.
The possibilities for family holidays are endless. From exploring historical sites to discovering the rich cultural heritage, your children will love the many activities Mexico City has to offer. With museums, parks and family attractions located at every turn, your little ones are sure to delight.
Mexico City seems to have it all - over 50 museums, a beautiful historic city centre, an extensive city park with a majestic castle, and upscale neighbourhoods. This tailor-made trip to Authentic and unique Mexico City shows you the best of this mega city.
Mexico City, Palacio Bellas Artes @ Shutterstock
For travelling to Mexico with kids, Tulum has a few things to offer. Firstly, it is one of the most picturesque ancient Mayan sites. Beyond that, Tulum is a wide strip of white beach dotted with a variety of accommodation options many of which are family-friendly.
Finally, it is a thriving city (often called Tulum Pueblo to distinguish it from the beach) that has evolved from a roadside car park to a real population centre. Excursions can be also booked here, with the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve being a particular favourite with the kids.
Tulum Playa del Carmen beach, Mexico © Shutterstock
The stretch of coast between Cancún and Tulum, known as the Riviera Maya is an ideal destination for family holidays in Mexico with kids thanks to its beautiful beaches, family-friendly resorts and a variety of activities for children.
The region's safe and calm waters make it ideal for swimming and children's play. Local family-friendly resorts offer amenities such as kids' clubs and water parks. Riviera Maya adventure parks such as Xcaret and Xel-Ha offer exciting activities such as zip-lining and snorkelling. You can also swim with dolphins and enjoy a variety of water activities in the region.
Mayan Riviera © Shutterstock
Chichen Itza, the most famous and well-restored Mayan landmark, is an incredible option for Mexico family vacations. Conveniently located along the main highway between Mérida and Cancún, it is just over 200 kilometres from the Caribbean coast. To fully appreciate the ruins and avoid the crowds of tourists, it's best to stay overnight either at the site itself or in the nearby village of Piste, 3km to the west.
There are accommodation options in Piste, allowing the whole family to start their adventure early in the morning. For a more fulfilling experience, you can stay in the larger and more economical town of Valladolid to the east, which offers convenience and local familiarity. Chichen Itza is a fascinating journey into history, educational and awe-inspiring for children and adults alike.
Chichen Itza sunset, Mexico
Yucatán state’s second city, Valladolid is around 40km east of Chichén Itzá, still close enough to beat the crowds to the site on an early bus, and of interest in its own right.
Undoubtedly children and adults alike will be mesmerised by Cenotes X'keken and Samula. Perhaps the most photogenic swimming hole in the Yucatán, the remarkable Cenote X’keken is also called Dzitnup like the nearby village.
Visitors descend through a tunnel into a huge vaulted cave, where a nearly circular pool of crystal-clear turquoise water glows under a shaft of light from an opening in the ceiling. A swim in the ice-cold water is an invigorating experience. A short walk away, in the same complex, at the even more impressive (thanks to spooky natural lighting) Cenote Samula, the roots of a huge tree stretch down towards the pool.
Cenote in Vallodolid Mexico © Shutterstock
Near the northeastern corner of the Yucatán, Holbox (pronounced “ol-BOSH”) has just one small sand street village of about two thousand people, wooden houses and virtually no cars. It’s technically not an island, but a very long peninsula – but you still must cross by ferry from the village of Chiquilá.
The gulf waters here do not have the same glittering clarity as the Caribbean (nor the vibrant reefs), but they’re warm and clean and perfect for swimming and cooling off. Isla Holbox is rapidly becoming one of the best family holiday coastal destinations in the region.
Tropical beach setting on Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo, Mexico © Shutterstock
Oaxaca, one of Mexico's most charming destinations, is a true wonderland for Mexico family vacations. The state capital exemplifies the region's diverse offerings, combining cosmopolitan charm with authentic Mexican culture. Indigenous traditions flourish here, vibrant markets burst with colour and exuberant festivals fill the air with excitement.
Oaxaca is characterised by the preservation of ancient languages and customs, creating a unique opportunity for children to experience living history. The city's landscape is amazingly transformed from a barren desert to lushly forested hillsides, providing a visual feast for young adventurers.
This tailor-made Oaxacan Coast Adventure awaits you on this trip to the Oaxacan coast, a place as spectacular as the activities you will do. From a boat trip to the beautiful bays of Huatulco to a warm horseback ride on the seashore in Puerto Escondido.
Beach Zipolite, Oaxaca, Mexico @ Shutterstock
With its mesmerising sunsets, miles of sandy beaches and tranquil colonial centre, Puerto Vallarta is a great place for a holiday with children. It's smaller and quieter than Cancun and Acapulco, and its location surrounded by high mountains is spectacular. Beyond the beaches is a lively Mexican town, virtually untouched by tourists.
This means the selection of delicious and cheap street food - especially tacos - is some of the best on the coast. and between the souvenir shops and chic boutiques are some exceptionally good art galleries. However, the beach remains the main attraction. The less crowded resorts and villages of Bahia de Banderas are fringed by endless stretches of sand and surrounded by jungle.
View of Banderas Bay and Puerto Vallarta © Ferenz/Shutterstock
Ready to start planning your trip to Mexico with kids? Check out the Rough Guide to Mexico. Read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Mexico.
If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Mexico without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.
We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.
Top image © Romrodphoto/Shutterstock
written by Rachel Lawrence
updated 9.01.2019
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