It is even more impossible to resist when, at sunset, the warm Mexican sun goes behind the horizon and leaves the vibrant cities and ancient ruins bathed in gold. For anyone looking for a truly cultural experience full of adventure and unforgettable encounters, Mexico stands out as a true paradise.
From the hustle and bustle of Mexico City through tranquil beaches in Tulum, colonial towns in Guanajuato, to majestic mountains in Oaxaca-Mexico calls upon travelers to find its secrets. Warm hospitality, delicious food, and infectious energy make Mexico a country that will beguile and inspire you.
In this blog, we will be turning the page to unveil the art of backpacking Mexico-sharing tales of adventure and immersion in culture, together with discoveries aside from the beaten paths. We are going to explore the vibrant cities of the country, its awesome natural landscapes, and ancient ruins to uncover those secrets that make Mexico a traveler’s heaven.
So, buckle up your rucksack, put on your sombrero, and get ready to be a part of all that has been in store for you: the pulsating culture, the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, and the moments that this great country has in store for you. ¡Vámonos!
How to get there:
The U.S.-Mexico border stretches over 1,900 miles, with numerous crossing points. Here are some popular routes:
- San Ysidro-Tijuana Border Crossing: Take the San Diego Trolley (Blue Line) to the San Ysidro Transit Center. Cross the border on foot and catch the Tijuana Metro (Line 1) to reach downtown Tijuana.
- El Paso-Juárez Border Crossing: Take the El Paso Transit bus (Route 50) to the El Paso-Juárez International Bridge. Walk across the bridge and catch the Juárez Metro bus (Route 1) to reach downtown Juárez.
- Nogales-Arizona to Nogales, Sonora: Take the Nogales Transit bus (Route 50) to the Nogales-Arizona border. Walk across the bridge and catch the Nogales, Sonora bus (Route 1) to reach downtown.
From Guatemala
The Guatemala-Mexico border offers several entry points:
- La Mesilla, Guatemala to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc, Mexico: Take a shuttle or bus from La Mesilla to the border. Cross on foot and catch the Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bus (Route 1) to reach downtown.
- Tecun Uman, Guatemala to Ciudad Hidalgo, Mexico: Take a ferry or shuttle from Tecun Uman to Ciudad Hidalgo. Catch the Ciudad Hidalgo bus (Route 1) to reach downtown.
From Belize
The Belize-Mexico border has two main entry points:
Santa Elena, Belize to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc, Mexico: Take a ferry or shuttle from Santa Elena to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc. Catch the Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bus (Route 1) to reach downtown.
Chactemal, Belize to Subteniente López, Mexico: Take a shuttle or bus from Chactemal to the border. Cross on foot and catch the Subteniente López bus (Route 1) to reach downtown.
When to go:
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild temperatures, averaging 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- Festivals:
- Semana Santa (Holy Week)
- Dia del Niño (Children’s Day)
- Tourist season: Shoulder season, fewer crowds
- Pros: Comfortable weather, vibrant festivals, affordable prices
- Cons: Some attractions may be closed for Holy Week
Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Hot temperatures, averaging 90-100°F (32-38°C)
- Festivals:
- Guelaguetza (Oaxacan cultural festival)
- Fiestas de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival)
- Tourist season: Peak season, higher prices
- Pros: Vibrant festivals, warm weather, beach destinations
- Cons: Crowds, heat, and humidity
Fall (September to November)
- Weather: Comfortable temperatures, averaging 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- Festivals:
- Independence Day (September 16)
- Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
- Tourist season: Shoulder season, fewer crowds
- Pros: Comfortable weather, cultural festivals, affordable prices
- Cons: Some attractions may be closed for maintenance
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cool temperatures, averaging 50-70°F (10-21°C)
- Festivals:
- Navidad (Christmas)
- Día de Reyes (Epiphany)
- Tourist season: Low season, lower prices
- Pros: Cooler weather, festive atmosphere, affordable prices
- Cons: Some attractions may be closed, cooler temperatures
Regional Variations
Mountain regions: Cooler temperatures year-round, potential snowfall in winter
Yucatán Peninsula: Dry season from December to April, wet season from May to November
Pacific Coast: Dry season from November to May, wet season from June to October
Best Itineraries:
Here are some sample itineraries for broke backpacking Mexico:
3-Day Itinerary: Mexico City
- Day 1:
- Explore the historic center (Zócalo, Palacio de Bellas Artes)
- Visit the ancient Aztec temple, Templo Mayor
- Stay at a hostel in the city center (~ $10-15 USD/night)
- Day 2:
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)
- Explore the trendy neighborhood, Condesa
- Enjoy street food and drinks in the evening (~ $5-10 USD)
- Day 3:
- Visit the ancient Mesoamerican city, Teotihuacán (~ $10-15 USD)
- Return to Mexico City, explore the Mercado de San Juan
1-Week Itinerary: Mexico City, Guanajuato, and San Miguel de Allende
- Day 1-2: Mexico City (explore historic center, museums, and markets)
- Day 3-4: Guanajuato (explore colonial city, visit Alhóndiga de Granaditas)
- Day 5-6: San Miguel de Allende (explore colonial city, visit Parroquia de San Miguel)
- Day 7: Return to Mexico City (~ $10-20 USD bus rides)
2-Week Itinerary: Yucatán Peninsula
- Day 1-3: Cancún (explore city, visit ancient Mayan ruins, beaches)
- Day 4-6: Tulum (explore ancient Mayan ruins, beaches)
- Day 7-9: Playa del Carmen (explore city, visit Xcaret Park)
- Day 10-14: Mérida (explore colonial city, visit ancient Mayan ruins)
1-Month Itinerary: Mexico
- Week 1: Mexico City, Guanajuato, and San Miguel de Allende
- Week 2: Yucatán Peninsula (Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen)
- Week 3: Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido, and Hierve el Agua
- Week 4: Guadalajara, Lake Chapala, and Ajijic
3-Month Itinerary: Mexico
Month 3: Explore southern Mexico (Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido, Chiapas)
Month 1: Explore northern Mexico (Chihuahua, Copper Canyon, Hermosillo)
Month 2: Visit central Mexico (Mexico City, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende)
Transportation:
Types of Public Transportation
- Buses (Autobuses): Long-distance buses connect major cities, while local buses serve urban areas.
- Colectivos: Shared vans or buses operating on fixed routes.
- Metro (Subway): Underground systems in Mexico City and Monterrey.
- Trolleybuses: Electric buses in some cities.
- Trams: Light rail systems in Mexico City and Guadalajara.
- Ferries: Connecting coastal towns and islands.
Bus Companies
- ADO (Autotransportes de Oriente): Covers eastern Mexico.
- Estrella de Oro: Connects Mexico City to southern states.
- Primera Plus: Offers luxury buses to various destinations.
- ETN (Enlaces Terrestres Nacionales): Links major cities.
Public Transportation Networks
- Mexico City Metro: 12 lines, 195 stations.
- Guadalajara Tren Ligero: 2 lines, 29 stations.
- Monterrey Metro: 2 lines, 31 stations.
How to Use Public Transportation
- Buy tickets: At bus stations, metro stations, or from vendors.
- Validate tickets: Before boarding, validate tickets at machines.
- Follow signs: Look for route information and destination signs.
- Ask locals: Don’t hesitate to ask for directions.
Costs and Payment Options
Metro fares: $0.25-0.50 USD (5-10 MXN) per ride.
Bus fares: $1-5 USD (20-100 MXN) for local routes.
Long-distance buses: $20-50 USD (400-1,000 MXN).
Top things to do:
Mexico City:
- Explore the Zócalo (main square)
- Visit the ancient Aztec temple, Templo Mayor
- Discover street art in La Condesa
- Wander through Chapultepec Park
- Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul)
- Explore the vibrant neighborhood, Roma Norte
- Visit the ancient Mesoamerican city, Teotihuacán (~ $10-15 USD)
- Palacio de Bellas Artes
- Coyoacán neighborhood
- Xochimilco floating gardens
Yucatán Peninsula:
- Explore ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum (~ $10-15 USD)
- Visit the stunning beaches of Playa del Carmen
- Swim in cenotes (natural swimming holes)
- Explore the colonial city, Mérida
- Visit the ancient Mayan ruins, Chichen Itza (~ $20-25 USD)
- Relax on the island of Cozumel
- Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (~ $10-15 USD)
- Visit the ancient Mayan ruins, Uxmal (~ $10-15 USD)
- Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Bacalar
- Explore the vibrant city, Cancún
Guadalajara and Surroundings:
- Explore the historic center, Guadalajara
- Visit the Hospicio Cabañas (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Discover the charming town, Tequila (~ $10-15 USD)
- Explore the ancient ruins, Guachimontones (~ $10-15 USD)
- Visit the picturesque town, Lake Chapala
- Explore the vibrant neighborhood, Americana
- Visit the beautiful agave fields
- Explore the charming town, San Juan de los Lagos
- Visit the ancient ruins, Los Guajes (~ $10-15 USD)
- Explore the scenic valley, Valle de Tlacolula
Pacific Coast:
- Relax on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta
- Explore the vibrant nightlife, Puerto Vallarta
- Visit the ancient ruins, Ixtapa (~ $10-15 USD)
- Explore the charming town, Zihuatanejo
- Visit the stunning beaches of Mazatlán
- Explore the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains
- Visit the historic town, San Blas
- Explore the scenic coastline, Manzanillo
- Visit the beautiful lagoons, Laguna de Potosí
- Explore the charming town, Barra de Navidad
Oaxaca and Surroundings:
- Explore the ancient Zapotec ruins, Monte Albán (~ $10-15 USD)
- Visit the vibrant markets, Oaxaca City
- Discover the traditional crafts, Oaxaca City
- Explore the stunning beaches, Puerto Escondido
- Visit the ancient Mixtec ruins, Mitla (~ $10-15 USD)
- Explore the scenic valley, Valle de Tlacolula
- Visit the traditional villages, San Bartolo Coyotepec
- Explore the ancient ruins, Zaachila (~ $10-15 USD)
- Visit the stunning waterfalls, Hierve el Agua
- Explore the charming town, San José del Pacifico
Baja California:
- Explore the stunning beaches, Tijuana
- Visit the vibrant city, Ensenada
- Explore the scenic coastline, La Paz
- Visit the ancient missions, Loreto (~ $10-15 USD)
- Explore the beautiful islands, Espíritu Santo (~ $20-25 USD)
- Visit the scenic town, Todos Santos
- Explore the vibrant nightlife, Cabo San Lucas
- Visit the stunning beaches, Rosarito
- Explore the scenic valley, Valle de Guadalupe
- Visit the ancient ruins, El Vizcaíno (~ $10-15 USD)
Other Destinations:
- Puebla: Explore the historic center, visit the ancient ruins of Cacaxtla
- San Luis Potosí: Visit the ancient ruins of Tamuín
- Guanajuato: Explore the colonial city, visit the ancient ruins of Pénjamo
- Querétaro: Visit the historic center, explore the ancient ruins of Tequisquiapan
- Durango: Explore the scenic Sierra Madre Occidental mountains
Food:
Mexican cuisine teems with the country’s rich cultural heritage-the eclectic mix of influences blended together: indigenous, European, African. As a poor backpacker, you are going to enjoy the gastronomic spectrum of this country, with a lot of eating out inexpensively but authentically, from busy streets of Mexico City up to tranquil towns of Yucatán.
The streets of Mexico are filled with the tantalizing aroma of meats sizzling in oils, fresh bread, and steaming vegetables. The streets are utterly dominated by street food vendors, otherwise known as “vendedores,” serving scrumptious dishes from morning to night. From tacos al pastor to tortas, from churros to elote-the flavors will tease your taste buds. Be sure to try the local specialties, whether tacos de lengua in Mexico City or de camarón in the Yucatán.
Walking through the markets, the “mercados,” is an experience unto itself: with all the colors, the sounds, the smells coming at you from every direction. The vendors tempt you with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and fresh-baked goods. Then there’s traditional pozo-try not to sample menudo or chilaquiles, hearty breakfast dishes made with hominy, pork, and spices to get your day started.
Each of the various regions in Mexico possesses its specialty foods. One could try Yucatán for citrus-marinated slow-roasted pork, cochinita pibil. It is a traditional Mayan dish steamed in a pit oven until it develops that tender and smoky flavor. Mole negro in Oaxaca has rich and complex flavors. The togetherness of chocolate, spices, and nuts makes this iconic sauce, served over chicken or pork.
Be sure to try the famous Sonoran hot dogs-wrapped in bacon and served with sliced tomatoes and onions-in the north. This is a regional specialty that’s a staple of Mexican street food and will surely hit the spot. And don’t miss out on the local seafood dishes, such as fish tacos or shrimp cocktail.
In Mexico, mealtimes are sacred; it’s a time when family and friends come together to share tales and laughter. Don’t be surprised if you get invited for a family dinner where you will be treated to home specialties and warm hospitality. The local culture will be well experienced, as well as gaining some new friends on the way.
Eating in Mexico is very inexpensive. Street food and meals from markets cost from 10 to 20 pesos, ~ $0.50 to 1 USD, while restaurants catering to the middle class have delicious meals that run between 50 to 100 pesos ~ $2.5 to 5 USD. Upscale restaurants that offer gourmet cuisine charge anything from 200 to 500 pesos ~ $10-25 USD. Consequently, in Mexico, a poor backpacker will feel like he entered some sort of food heaven on earth, eating his brains out without damaging his wallet.
The farther you go into this land, the more food will become a part of the culture. Whether it is traditional dishes or modern cuisines that involve a fusion concept, each meal represents the great heritage of this nation. Take your time to enjoy each flavor, and you will be given the warm reception by the Mexican people.
But besides being a wonderful eat, Mexico is also full of food culture-from festivals to classes, there are myriad ways to get into the local scene. Take a cooking course to learn the secrets of this traditional cuisine or go to a food festival and taste the latest that local chefs have concocted.
From gourmands to backpackers, and everyone else who just enjoys a good meal, Mexico has something in store for you. So come and explore the flavors of this great country and enjoy the warm hospitality of its people. ¡Buen provecho!
Culture:
The Mexican culture is a picturesque fabric interwoven by strands of its very indigenous, European, and African legacy. This diverse cultural outlook gave birth to a unique and intriguing nation where tradition and modernity blend in seamlessly.
The family is at the core of Mexican culture: the more close-knit and warm, the more representative. Respect and loyalty to elders are in high demand in every family; therefore, close by all means. This family promise reflects itself through an innumerable amount of feasts and celebrations that bring people together, such as the Day of the Dead, where families honor their ancestors with feasts, music, and offerings.
The Mexican culture also draws greatly from an indigenous past. The Aztecs and Mayans left a strong mark on architecture, art, and spirituality. The ancient city of Teotihuacán, with its majestic pyramids, testifies to the great civilizations that once prospered here. Today, many Mexicans still conduct traditional curanderismo healing rituals and celebrate ancient festivals such as the spring equinox.
The Spanish conquistadors brought much change to the Mexican cultural landscape: Catholicism became the predominant religion, while European customs, language, and traditions were imposed on the native people. It was their resilience and adaptability that helped the indigenes retain their cultural identity, adapting Catholicism along with their existing beliefs.
This syncretism shows up in the vivid arts of Mexico. Colorful textiles, intricate pottery, and ornate architecture speak to the country’s rich cultural heritage. The icon works of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, two of Mexico’s most celebrated artists, have presented the nation’s complex history and its people in struggle.
Music and dancing are significant in Mexican culture, where the streets and plazas reverberate with the touching sounds of mariachi and ranchera. Jarabe tapatío is a typical folkloric dance that characterizes the energy and sexiness of the country. There is cheering music to be heard, along with dancing, during the celebrations of the Day of the Dead as the people greet the spirits of their forefathers.
Mexican culture is so welcoming to guests, showing them a very warm sense of hospitality. Visitors can feel the greeting of jolly smiles, open arms, and the sharing of food and drinks. The greeteest reception is but a manifestation of the country’s strong sense of community and social bonding.
Side by side in Mexico, there is tradition and modernity; both live together with no problem. Ancient traditions here stand side by side with modern novelties. From the hustle and bustle streets of Mexico to the quiet towns of Yucatán, every region has its cultural peculiarities.
The culture of Mexico can be felt while understanding its history, tradition, and even daily life. It is interesting to explore the vibrant markets of the country, attend local festivals, and peep into the lives of its people.
Its cultural diversity has enlivened for many centuries the minds of every traveler, artist, and intellectual. As a nation, Mexico continues to grow day by day, mixing its past with the present, and inviting the world towards it for feeling its warm reception, vivid arts, and strong spirit.
Resources are readily available for those who would like to study and explore further the culture of Mexico. Museums, cultural centers, and festivals within the country are prepared to give a great deal of information and knowledge. Academic institutions, research centers, and cultural organizations also provide resources to scholars and enthusiasts alike.
Accommodations:
For any poor backpacker, finding appropriate, affordable, and authentic accommodations in Mexico is truly a challenge. However, lively hostel scenes are relieving the country’s-and shoestring-travelers. From the bustling cities down to tranquil towns, hostels in Mexico shelter adventurers looking for community, comfort, and cultural immersion.
The hostels in Mexico are super cheap; you can find dorms for as low as $5-10 USD per night. Private rooms exist, often $20-30 USD per night. This will make Mexico a great destination for broke backpackers because they will truly be able to stretch their money further.
Just as the cultural diversity will vary, so will the hostels across Mexico-in the most astonishing ways. From 16th- and 17th-century colonial mansions to modern, eco-friendly designs, each is unique unto itself. Some reflect a focus on community with kitchen areas and social rooms, while others focus on relaxation, offering amenities such as gardens and rooftop pools.
When it comes to booking hostels in Mexico, the simple strategy is to book the cheapest. It’s pretty counterintuitive, but these hostels really often prove to be where the most memorable moments will take place. Without the frills and by stripping down to the bare essentials, these hostels are raw, real, and ridiculously fun.
First of all, in order to enjoy your stay in Mexico hostels as much as possible, it is highly desirable to research rather diligently in advance. Look for hostels with good reputations among travelers and read reviews to determine what the atmosphere and quality are like. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, especially for long-term stays. Be prepared to face variable Wi-Fi quality from time to time and the occasional power outage.
Your time in Mexican hostels will be one of a kind in this regard. While traveling, accommodations in locally-owned hostels help the communities and allow visitors to get firsthand ideas about the daily life of the locals. Many hostels also provide exchange programs, language classes, and cultural classes that deepen the cultural experience.
The scene of hostels in Mexico is a haven for the broke backpacker, offering up affordability, variety, and just that hint of adventure. From its vibrantly colored culture to its spectacular landscape and warm hospitality, Mexico has become a favorite hot spot for any backpacker who wants to get more from his or her travel experience.
Nightlife:
When the sun dips into the horizon, Mexico catches life with the rhythm of music, laughter, and adventure. Nightlife in this country is a riot of colour, sound, and smell, from traditional ways to modern flair-anything that one could imagine, the choice is endless.
From the pulsating streets of Mexico City to the laid-back beaches on the Yucatán, each region shows up with its own personality at night. Some cities buzz with energetic clubs and bars; other cities offer more low-key, bohemian assemblies. The diversity is amazing, with every night promising to be different.
In Mexico, nightlife is steeped in tradition-rich heritage from this ancient country. The sounds of traditional music, like mariachi and norteño, dance in the air because of more modern DJs, whose pulsating rhythms marry indigenous beats with global influences. That’s an irresistible fusion that keeps dancers moving until dawn.
The atmosphere is electric: all walks of life unite, rejoicing in the mere act of living. Strangers become great friends over shots of tequila or cold cervezas, while locals tell you about their city and its secrets. Every night feels like a fiesta with the warmth and hospitality of the Mexican people.
Expect the unexpected as you make your way through Mexico’s nightlife scene: street performances break out, jamming sessions can start anywhere, and parties pop up-literally-anywhere, beckoning unsuspecting onlookers to join in for an unforgettable night.
Safety, however, always stands above all. Similar to any nightlife scene, the rule of thumb is to always know where you are, stay with people you trust, and avoid suspicious areas. Major cities in Mexico have already done great work in improving their security, but you never know what to expect from anywhere.
For the more laid-back, there are several rooftop bars and lounges with great vistas of the city or tranquil ocean views. One can relax and converse in style at these stylish retreats, usually with live music playing or disc jockeys.
In Mexico, the night simply never is over. When the first light of dawn surpasses the horizon, the party may slow down but it actually never stops. The real die-hard will find an after-hours club or a secretive get-together where the music keeps going, and with it, the magic.
Nightlife in Mexico is an odyssey of sound, color, and passion, just begging to be explored. From the ultimate party animal to the curious traveler, this country’s nocturnal landscape promises a never-to-be-forgotten adventure for anyone. Come be a part of the rhythm and excitement; let nightlife in Mexico take your breath away.
Meanwhile, for travelers in search of inside information, the amount of online forums and travel blogs concerning nightlife in Mexico is simply at hand, and even local guides would be very useful. Of course, word of mouth from fellow travelers and locals often uncovers hidden gems and secret hotspots.
It’s not about partying in Mexico; it’s about a celebration of life, culture, and bonding. So join the fiesta, let loose, and let the vibrant spirit of Mexico guide you through the night.
Backpacking Mexico costs:
Daily Budget Breakdown:
Total: $10 USD per day
Accommodation: $3-5 USD (camping, hostel dorms, or couchsurfing)
Food: $2-3 USD (street food, markets, or cooking own meals)
Transportation: $1-2 USD (local buses, walking, or hitchhiking)
Attractions: $1-2 USD (free or low-cost activities, parks, or museums)
Miscellaneous: $2-3 USD (sundries, snacks, or unexpected expenses)
Conclusion:
As you take off on your Mexico adventure, keep in mind that Broke Backpacking is all about embracing the unknown, immersing in the culture, and finding your freedom in the unplanned.
The vibrant cities and landscapes of Mexico, amidst warm hospitality, will get your senses going and question everything you thought you knew. From the cacophony of rushing streets in Mexico City to serene beaches in Yucatán, every instant is an invitation to explore, learn, and move closer.
Indeed, the most fantastic treasures lie beyond the beaten tourist trails, in the ups and downs of broken backpacking. Venture into the unknown, strike conversations with locals, and watch out for experiences that push one beyond their comfort zone.
For the more adventurous, do not miss the opportunity to explore Mexico’s psychedelic landscape, from traditional peyote ceremonies to modern psilocybin retreats. Wholly unique are the chances to delve into a world of psychedelics.
A Word on Psychedelics in Mexico:
The indigenous communities of Mexico have regarded psychedelics as sacral for hundreds of years in an effort to further spiritual growth and self-discovery. Today, relaxed laws and rich cultural heritage make Mexico an ideal destination for people in pursuit of profound psychedelic experiences.
From the breathtaking beauty of Sierra Madre to the mystical energies of Mayan ruins, Mexico’s landscapes lend the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable psychedelic journey.
So take a deep breath, let your fears go, and dive into this life-changing journey. From spiritual enlightenment to creative inspiration, or maybe you are just looking from another perspective, Mexico’s psychedelic landscape opens its doors.
