Mexico Grande

Highlights

• What does a modular trip mean?A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
• What can I expect when travelling in Mexico?Flexibility is key when you’re travelling in Mexico. The itinerary will give you a good idea of what your trip is gonna look like. But routes, schedules, hotels & modes of transportation may be subject to change without prior notice because of local circumstances or events beyond Contiki’s control.
• How can I purchase Free Time Add-Ons?You’ll now book and pay for your Free Time Add-Ons through WeTravel — a simple website link where you can browse all the FTAs, pick what you’re keen on, and pay directly by card, in any currency. You’ll get the link in your Welcome Email, usually 3–5 days before your trip starts. Once you’re in, it’s easy: check out the pics, descriptions and prices, add your chosen experiences to your cart, then check out online. You can book before your trip starts or while you’re on the road, up until each activity’s booking deadline. Missed the link? No stress. Your Trip Manager can share it with you on trip too.
• Which currency should I bring?You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).
• Can I get access to an ATM when in Mexico?It depends on where you’re travelling to. Mexico has lots of ATMs (just be careful of those sneaky fees). But you’re better off carrying cash when visiting rural places.
• Is it customary to tip?You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill.
• What’s the best time to travel to Mexico?Mexico is marvellous all year round. But if you’re looking for the sweet spot - visit Mexico between November and March, since the weather is perfect for exploration. And that’s what we like!
• What is the local food like in Mexico?As good as you’re expecting, if not better! Street food is very common in Mexico, so you can expect a steady supply of meats and veggies, served with tortillas and plenty of grated cheese.
• How much luggage can I bring?You can bring 1 hand luggage + 1 suitcase or backpack per person. Internal flights are included in this trip (your Trip Manager will have your tickets ready for you). Each traveller is allowed 1 checked bag & 1 carry-on bag/personal item (eg: small backpack/handbag or laptop bag). Our suitcase restriction above means that the checked bag will be within the limitation for this flight. The carry-on bag must not exceed 114 cm (45”). Extra or overweight bags will incur a fee by the airline which is the traveller’s responsibility. Fees range from US$25.00-US$100.00.
• What should I pack for my trip?You’ll be able to buy a lot of things at an affordable price once you arrive. But we’d suggest you bring: • Summer clothes: shorts and lightweight tops essential for keeping cool. • Warm overcoat: there’ll be colder parts of your trip, even in summertime. • Good walking socks & shoes: keep comfy on any terrain. • Sturdy backpack: one you don’t mind getting dusty too! Weather in the Mexico is unpredictable, so please make sure you also bring these items with you: - Teva-style sandals (thongs or flip-flop sandals are not suitable for hikes) - Swimming (bathing) suit & towel - Light to medium fleece jacket - Gore-Tex (or similar) rain jacket - Shorts, T-shirts, Long pants, Long-sleeve shirt, Hat or cap - Sunglasses (preferably polarised) - Socks (athletic style socks for walking & hiking) - First aid & medication - aloe vera gel, sunblock or sunscreen of the highest SPF possible, insect repellent, hand sanitiser or gel, moisturising cream, pain relief (e.g. aspirin etc for headaches or muscle pain) motion sickness medication - Water bottle - Plastic Ziplock bags (to protect valuables from drizzle, rain etc)
• What is the weather like in Mexico?Mexico’s climate varies by region - arid in the west and central-north, rainy in the mountains and southern tropics. Summer’s the wettest season. And annual rainfall ranges from 20 inches (central-north) to 118 inches (in Chiapas). Temperatures average 81°F (27°C) in Yucatán and 60°F (15°C) in central areas. So pack accordingly!
• Will I need vaccinations prior to travelling?Please check the latest travel info from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if you're travelling to Mexico. We also recommend that you consult your local health clinic or doctor for more details.
• Is there any trip specific information I need to know?Ground Handler Information Contiki sometimes uses ground handlers or third parties to assist with the full or partial operation of our products. The ground handler for this trip is Journey Mexico. Passport Information A passport is needed to enter Mexico for all passengers unless they are residents or citizens of Mexico.
• What is the role of the Trip Manager?Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you'll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant.
• What power adapters do I need?Most places use similar plugs to the US and Europe, but it’s a good idea to bring a circular two-prong adapter just in case. No voltage converter is needed for devices like phones and laptops, but you may need one for high-powered devices (e.g., hairdryers).