San Miguel De Allende Northern Central Highlands, Mexico Travel Guide
Climate patterns vary. Spring (March-May) brings the warmest months, with average highs of 28-30°C (82-86°F) and low humidity. Summer (June-September) marks the rainy season, with common afternoon showers. Average highs are 25-27°C (77-81°F). Autumn (October-November) offers pleasant temperatures, 23-26°C (73-79°F) with less rain. Winter (December-February) days are mild, 21-24°C (70-75°F), but nights become cool to cold.
The high season (November-April) means excellent weather but higher prices and crowds. Shoulder season (May-June, October) offers good weather with fewer crowds and better deals. May can be very warm before the rains. Low season (July-September) has the lowest prices and lush landscapes due to afternoon rains, which can briefly disrupt outdoor plans.
Most visitors find the process straightforward. Citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union countries, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many other nations do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 180 days. A valid passport is sufficient. For other nationalities, check the official website of the Mexican Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence for specific requirements and application forms. Begin this process well in advance.
A valid passport is a must for your entire stay. All foreign visitors need a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) tourist card, typically distributed on flights or at land entry points. Immigration officials stamp your FMM on arrival, and you keep a portion for departure. Losing it brings fines and delays. Consider keeping it with your passport in a Secure travel wallet. Airline or immigration officials may ask for proof of onward or return travel and sufficient funds. Entry fees for air arrivals are often included in ticket prices. For land arrivals, you may pay separately.
Up to 180 days
Passport, FMM, Proof of Travel
Passport valid for entire stay, stamped FMM for departure.
Proof of onward/return travel. Evidence of sufficient funds (rarely requested).
Straightforward Process
Present passport and FMM at INM. Photos and fingerprints may be taken.
No separate entry fee for visa-exempt tourists; FMM fee often in air ticket. Confirm with airline.
The official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Exchange rates change daily. ATMs are widely available and generally safest inside banks. Notify your bank of travel plans. Hotels, larger restaurants, and many shops take credit cards, mainly Visa and Mastercard. Carry cash for street vendors, small shops, markets, and taxis, especially small denominations.
Tipping ("propina") is standard. 10-15% is standard for good restaurant service (20% for exceptional). For taxis, a small tip for long journeys or luggage assistance is appropriate. Tip bellboys MXN 20-50 per bag, and housekeeping MXN 30-50 per night. Tour guides generally receive 10-20% of the tour cost. Gas station attendants receive MXN 5-10 for extra service.
$33-$75 for hostel, street food, public transport.
$108-$258 for boutique hotel, mixed dining, taxis.
$312+ for high-end hotel, fine dining, private transport.
Hostels $15-$30, Budget $35-$70, Mid-range $90-$180, Luxury $210+.
Street food $1-$3.50, Casual $9-$21, Fine dining $54+.
Mexico is a generally safe country for tourists, but taking precautions is always advisable.
No specific vaccinations are typically required for entry. Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before travel to update routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP, Varicella, Polio, flu shot). Hepatitis A is recommended for most travelers. Typhoid is a consideration if eating outside established restaurants. Hepatitis B for prolonged stays, and Rabies if working with animals or in rural areas.
Traveler's Diarrhea is the most common ailment. Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid ice made from tap water. Eat well-cooked food. Carry an anti-diarrhea medicine like Imodium A-D Caplets. For altitude sickness, hydrate and avoid strenuous activity initially. For sunburn, use Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen SPF 70 and a Wide-brimmed hat. For mosquitoes, use DEET insect repellent.
Mexico is an active seismic zone, so tremors may be felt. During rainy season (July-September), heavy downpours can cause localized street flooding. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. A good policy covers emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen luggage, and personal liability.
