Sombreros, tequila, tortillas and mariachi music – a Mexican with a large sombrero sits alone leaning against a cactus, next to him is a bottle of tequila. Not infrequently, our associations with a trip to Mexico correspond exactly to this picture. The sombrero-wearing “vaqueros” are just as much a part of Mexico vacations as tequila, tortillas and mariachi music. But there is a lot more to see in the country that is five times bigger than Germany.
Out and about in the land of the Maya
The excavation sites, which testify to the ancient high culture of the Maya, particularly attract travelers. The pyramids tower imposingly and sometimes seem a bit out of place in the middle of the rainforest. But not only the Mayan sites, but also a refreshing dip in a cenote, the Cascadas Agua Azul or towns like the white city of Mérida are part of a vacation in Mexico. Come with us on a fascinating trip to Mexico!
Travel information in brief
Travel time
Mexico’s rainy season is between June and October. At this time you have to expect showers that last for several hours every day. The rest of the year the weather is relatively constant – but there is also one or the other rainfall. Due to the different climatic zones, the north is characterized by hot desert and steppe regions, the highlands by a moderate climate and on the Yucatán peninsula it is hot and humid all year round.
Currency / money
The Mexican currency is the Nuevo Peso. It is advisable to take a basic stock of cash in euros with you and to exchange it directly on site due to the exchange rate. You can change and withdraw money in any major city. The banks in Mexico accept both credit cards and cards with the Maestro symbol. Credit cards are also mostly accepted as a means of payment, but not in small shops, restaurants and accommodations.
Vaccinations
There are no mandatory vaccinations for Mexico. However, most doctors recommend vaccination against polio, tetanus, and diphtheria. If you are thinking about malaria prophylaxis, ask your doctor or a tropical medicine doctor directly. Since you should be vaccinated no later than 2 months before departure, it is best to contact your doctor when you are planning your trip and discuss the necessary vaccination protection together.
Visa / entry
Germans, Austrians and Swiss citizens need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months to enter Mexico. In addition, a tourist card is required upon entry, which is handed out free of charge on the plane. This is valid for a total of 180 days, is intended for a single entry and is almost more important than the passport due to the roadside checks. Please also inform yourself about entry at the Federal Foreign Office: www.auswaertiges-amt.de.
Viva Mexico!
Regardless of whether you want to discover desert landscapes, long for a beach holiday, prefer the temperate climate or explore tropical rainforests – everything is possible in Mexico. Anyone who has always wanted to observe whales up close can make this wish come true on the Baja California peninsula. From December to April, gray whales migrate south from Alaska and pass the Mexican peninsula.
But even a train ride in Mexico can be a unique experience, because the “Chepe” crosses the state of Chihuahua and takes you directly to the Barrancas del Cobre, a gigantic system of deep gorges that almost overshadow the Grand Canyon of the USA. Those interested in culture get their money’s worth in several places. In the lowlands, especially on the Yucatán Peninsula, you can be transported back to the world of the Maya and Aztecs. In the moderate climate of the plateau, many cities were founded in the colonial era, which today attract visitors with beautiful historical centers and imposing cathedrals. Stroll through small alleys and let yourself be seduced by the charm of the small towns!
In Mexico, dreamlike beaches are not only found in the Caribbean. Many coastal regions – including the Pacific – are lined with small bays and miles of beaches, where you can relax wonderfully. But what really defines Mexico are its people. You can quickly get carried away by the positive and happy manner of the Mexicans. Celebrating, being together, eating and drinking – that’s what Mexicans attach great importance to. If you have the opportunity to take part in a small fiesta – and a spontaneous invitation is not unlikely – you should definitely not miss it.
