Mexico travel information
Occupying the southern part of North America, Mexico is mostly mountainous, with more than half the country being at an altitude above 1000 metres. The climate and ecosystems vary from dry desert conditions in the north to rainy and tropical in the southeast, with a mild climate in the central plateau. Mexico's geographical diversity is reflected in the variety of the country's 58 national parks and biosphere reserves – from coastal swamps and lagoons to high volcanic mountains, from rainforest to high desert – and there is a parallel range of activities to experience – from snorkelling and diving to trekking on foot, horseback, mountain bike or jeep. Among the many magnificent reserves is El Triunfo, one of Mexico's most pristine and diverse natural areas with several vegetation zones and immense biological richness. Home to many endemic vertebrates and more than 392 species of birds, the Reserve is also a refuge for the endangered jaguar, tapir and quetzal.
With a rich cultural heritage, from both native and colonial history, Mexico is also a modern developing nation. Magnificent pre-Columbian sites and grand old colonial towns vie for attention with futuristic city buildings and glitzy beach resorts, while many aspects of rural life still show persistent elements of ancient and colonial cultures – fetes, fiestas, festivals and markets are lively and colourful demonstrations of this rich heritage.
Country facts for Mexico holidays
Weather
The best time to visit Mexico is November to July.
Languages
The languages in Mexico are Spanish and various indigenous languages.
Money
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN).
Time zone
Most of Mexico is GMT-6 (UTC-6), the Pacific zone is GMT-7 (UTC-7) and the northwest zone is GMT-8 (UTC-8). Daylight saving time is used from April to October (UTC-5 to UTC-7).
