Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
The city experiences a tropical savanna climate, with hot temperatures generally year-round, accompanied by distinct wet and dry seasons. This climate shapes the natural landscape and outdoor activities.
The dry season, running from November to May, features agreeable weather conditions. Humidity levels are lower, and rainfall is less frequent. Average temperatures typically range from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C), with comfortable conditions for exploration. Evenings during the dry season are often cooler and more agreeable, making outdoor dining or strolling along the Boulevard Bahían enjoyable. This period is optimal for travel, with clear skies making for excellent photography and outdoor adventures.
Each period has distinct advantages and disadvantages for travelers.
High Season (December to April): Ideal weather, less rain, comfortable temperatures. Expect higher prices for accommodations and flights. Attractions may have more visitors. Booking well in advance warrants consideration. Shoulder Season (May, November): A good balance. Pleasant weather, avoiding peak heat and large crowds. Better prices for lodging and flights might be available. May transition into wet season; November has slight risk of tropical activity. Low Season (June to October): Lowest prices for travel and lodging. Less crowded attractions. High heat and humidity with frequent rain showers. Risk of tropical storms and hurricanes, especially Aug-Oct. Monitor forecasts closely; travel insurance for this time is a good practice.
Dec - Apr
Ideal weather, less humidity, pleasant temperatures. Calm, clear waters.
Higher prices, more visitors.
May, Nov
Good balance of weather and crowds. Potentially better prices.
Increasing humidity/rain (May), slight hurricane risk (Nov).
Jun - Oct
Lowest prices, fewer crowds, lush landscape.
High heat/humidity, frequent rain, hurricane risk.
For beach and water activities, like exploring Chetumal Bay, Laguna Bacalar, and nearby coastlines, the dry season (December to April) provides the best conditions. Skies are clearer, and the lower humidity makes time outdoors more comfortable. Visibility for water sports like snorkeling or diving in nearby areas like Mahahual is also at its best during these months.
For visits to archaeological sites like Kohunlich or Dzibanché, the dry season is also preferable. Trails are less muddy, and walking around extensive ruins under a less intense sun is more manageable. While cultural exploration is possible year-round, the comfortable temperatures of the dry season enhance the experience of walking through city streets, visiting museums, and enjoying outdoor markets. Chetumal’s unique charm awaits regardless of your visit timing.
Dry season (Dec-Apr) for clear skies, lower humidity.
Dry season for ideal water clarity and comfortable weather.
Best visibility during the dry season months.
Dry season for less muddy trails and milder sun exposure.
Comfortable temperatures of the dry season are preferable.
Mexico has a straightforward entry policy for tourists from many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, most European Union member states, Australia, and Japan. Citizens of these nations generally do not need a visa for tourism stays lasting up to 180 days. This permits considerable flexibility in travel plans.
For nationalities not on the visa-exempt list, obtaining a Mexican tourist visa (FMT) is a step. You apply for this visa at a Mexican embassy or consulate in your home country before your travel date. Requirements vary but typically include an application form, valid passport, photos, proof of financial solvency, and a detailed itinerary.
For air arrivals, the federal FMM fee is frequently part of your airline ticket price. Quintana Roo state charges a mandatory tourist tax called "Viisitax" (Visitax), approximately 271 MXN (about $15 USD) per person, payable via the official Visitax website or at kiosks at Cancun International Airport. If entering by land from Belize into Chetumal, the federal FMM fee may be separate (approx. 687 MXN), payable at a bank near the border.
The local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN), symbolized by the dollar sign ($), which can sometimes cause confusion with the US Dollar. Always confirm whether prices are in MXN or USD. Checking current rates before and during your travel warrants consideration.
Here is a detailed cost breakdown for different travel styles, providing estimated daily costs per person, excluding international flights:
Budget Traveler Daily Costs: $30 - $60 USD. Expect $15-25 USD for a hostel dorm or basic private room. Food around $10-20 USD focusing on street food and local eateries. Transportation with public bus system (colectivos) around $0.50-$1 USD per ride; total daily transport $2-5 USD. Activities for $3-10 USD for free attractions or low-cost museum entry.
Mid-range Traveler Daily Costs: $70 - $150 USD. Comfortable mid-range hotel or private apartment for $40-80 USD per night. Food budget around $30-50 USD for casual restaurants and some nicer dinners. Taxis for convenience ($3-7 USD per ride) or ADO buses for longer trips ($5-10 USD); daily transport $10-20 USD. Activities including guided tours, main attractions, or a boat trip, for $10-25 USD daily.
Hostels/Budget Guesthouses: $15 - $30 USD
Mid-range Hotels: $40 - $100 USD / Boutique/Luxury Hotels: $100 - $250+ USD
Street Food (tacos, empanadas): $2 - $5 USD / Local Eatery: $5 - $10 USD
Mid-range Restaurant: $10 - $25 USD / Fine Dining: $30 - $60+ USD
Local Bus: $0.50 - $1 USD / Taxi (city): $3 - $7 USD / ADO Bus (Bacalar): $5 - $10 USD
Rental Car (daily): $30 - $60 USD (excl. Insurance/gas) / Museum of Mayan Culture: ~$3-5 USD
| Service | Typical Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10-15% (good service), 20% (excellent) | Valuable part of income |
| Taxis | Not typical | Unless extra service (e.g., heavy luggage); agree on fare beforehand |
| Bellhops/Porters | $1-2 USD per bag |
Regarding vaccinations, no specific vaccinations are a condition for entry into Mexico from most countries. However, consulting a healthcare professional several weeks before your trip for recommended vaccinations is a good practice. Your doctor might suggest ensuring routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella) remain up-to-date. Additionally, Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid vaccinations are often suggested, especially for travelers who might eat outside major restaurants or stay extended periods in local areas.
Drink only bottled or purified water, avoid ice unless purified, eat well-cooked food, avoid unpeeled fruits/vegetables washed in tap water. Anti-diarrhea medication (Imodium A-D Caplets) promotes quick relief.
Use Insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wear long sleeves/pants, especially at dawn/dusk. Strong repellent (Repel 100) provides protection.
Use High-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen (Reef Safe SPF 50), wear a Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, hydrate with purified water, seek shade 10 AM - 4 PM.
Rabies vaccination warrants consideration for those working with animals, planning long-term stays, or engaging in extensive outdoor activities in rural areas.
Healthcare and emergency services are available in Chetumal. The city has public hospitals, like Hospital General de Chetumal, and private clinics/hospitals, including H+ Chetumal. Private facilities often present higher standards of care and shorter wait times, but frequently call for upfront payment or direct billing via travel insurance. Pharmacies are widely available; many medications requiring prescriptions elsewhere are over-the-counter here.
For all emergencies (police, ambulance, fire), dial 911. Tap water in Chetumal is generally not safe for drinking. Stick to bottled, purified water. Most hotels feature purified water or large dispensers. For food hygiene, eat at reputable establishments with high customer turnover, which suggests fresh ingredients. Wash hands frequently.
Always verify the latest regulations from official sources before your trip, as rules can change.
Chetumal is generally safer than many other parts of Mexico. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas.
The city center (Centro), the waterfront (Boulevard Bahía), and most residential areas are generally safe during the day. Caution applies in isolated or dimly lit areas at night. Avoid walking alone late at night.
Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, carry only necessary cash, and use a Money belt or RFID blocking travel wallet for valuables. Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing apps that track your journey.
Chetumal is in a hurricane-prone region from June to November. If traveling during this season, monitor local weather forecasts closely. Hotels and local authorities typically have established protocols and evacuation plans in case of a severe storm. Heavy rains during the wet season also cause localized street flooding, but these typically subside quickly.
Travel insurance warrants strong consideration for all travelers. A comprehensive travel insurance policy should cover medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost or stolen luggage.
Research policies specifically covering any adventure activities planned, like diving or extreme sports. This forms a safety net for unforeseen circumstances.
World Nomads (adventurous travelers), SafetyWing (digital nomads), Insubuy (US visitors).
AirHelp assists with compensation for delayed or canceled flights.
