What is it Like to Land in Mexico?

Tourism is huge in Mexico. From ancient ruins to beaches, luxury resorts, and historical cities and towns, Mexico is a beautiful travel destination for millions of visitors looking to experience the wonders of the country. If you’re planning an upcoming trip or you’ve never been there but you’re wondering what it’s like or actually considering a visit, continue reading. There are a few things you should know.

First, travelers landing in Mexico by air do not need to have a Tourist Card ready anymore as it was suspended indefinitely.

Why Do People Go to Mexico?

Aside from some of the most popular resort destinations in the world, like Puerto Vallarta and Cancún, tourism in Mexico is popular because there’s so much more to see and do. You could literally spend a month in the country and still not see all of the wondrous sights.

What are the Main Entry Points?

Mexico is a large country with a lot of airports and other entry points, and which one you’ll arrive at depends on your departure country and final destination. For those arriving by air, there are 7 international airports that top the list. 

1. Mexico City International
2. Cancun International
3. Guadalajara International
4. Monterrey International
5. Tijuana International
6. Los Cabos
7. Puerto Vallarta

However, there are 50 international airports in Mexico and your itinerary could take you to any number of them.

The Process Once You Land

There are and always have been laws and rules that tourists must abide by. Of course, they can vary greatly depending on your country of origin and destination. While there are always the basics like passports, visas, and eTAs, in the age of Covid-19, those rules can change in a matter of hours. So, it’s always a best practice to regularly check the entry rules all the way to your departure date. At the moment, the FMM card is only mandatory if entering Mexico by land.

No matter what country you’re arriving from, you’re required to present a valid passport that is valid for, at minimum, 6 months from your time of arrival in the country. Unlike numerous other countries, Mexico’s Covid-19 protocols for travelers don’t include PCR testing before departure or upon arrival, and they do not require quarantine. You simply must complete a health declaration form and scan the QR code it generates on arrival.

Leaving the Airport

Once you’ve learned customs and gathered your luggage, the first thing you’ll probably want to do is check-in at the hotel and offload the suitcases and other gear. The good news is, there are over 140,000 taxis in Mexico City alone and the other major entry points also have plenty of options. Best of all, they tend to have fares much lower than what you’d pay in other countries.

Be Ready for a Couple of Surprises

Depending on where you live and where you’ve visited, Mexico’s weather could be a bit of a surprise. The average yearly high in Mexico City is 76F and the low is 69F, while down in Ciudad Hidalgo it’s slightly different with 95F / 72F average. Additionally, from around May to late October, most regions south of Mazatlán are in their rainy season. In other words, you should check the region’s average weather for the time you plan to visit, but it’s also a good idea to review the forecast right before you pack.

Lastly, depending on your own religious and personal culture, where you live or were raised, and where you visit in Mexico, you might encounter a little culture shock. Forget the stereotypes and tropes you’ve seen and heard, once you actually visit the country, those things seem sillier than they already did. When it’s all said and done, you’ll walk away with a love of Mexico and a deep appreciation for the people, the culture, and all the wondrous sights.

Conclusion

Mexico is a vibrant travel destination offering a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. As a traveler, it’s essential to be aware of entry requirements, such as the FMM card for those entering by land, and to have a valid passport. Mexican airports are well-connected, and transportation is affordable. Before visiting, research the regional weather patterns and be prepared for potential cultural differences. Ultimately, a trip to Mexico will leave you with unforgettable memories and a profound appreciation for the country’s rich heritage and diverse experiences.