Some basic vaccines may be required, depending on the regions you are visiting. Visit your GP or travel clinic 6-8 weeks before departure to ensure you are up to date.

Malaria is restricted to a few regions – the Chiapas region of Mexico and the lower lying lands of Escuintla and Alta Verapaz regions in Guatemala if you are doing a two country tour. However, risks are low. But always check with your doctor and tour operator for more details. Long sleeves and insect repellent are recommended as an extra precaution.

Dengue is on the increase in Mexico. There is no vaccination, so cover up and always use a good insect repellent.

Tap water is not recommended in Mexico, so stick with bottled water. Check with your guide or accommodation if you are unsure, particularly in rural regions and, if in doubt, boil it for one minute.

Get travel insurance that included adventure activities and also emergency repatriation.

Visit the NaTHNaC website for up to date health information.

Be vigilant in Mexico City, where gang related crime and robberies do happen. But they are well policed too. Always carry ID, and make copies that you can keep separately at your hotel. In general, most people don’t wander around at night.

Only use licenced taxis which are red with a white roof. There are pirate taxis, however. The Taxiaviso app is now very popular, as you can check if a licence plate or taxi company is authentic.

Water currents and riptides can be strong in Mexico, so always be water aware. Especially as few beaches have lifeguards outside the main resorts. Never go into the water in areas where there are known to be riptides. If you do find yourself being carried rapidly away from the shore, don’t swim against the current; you won’t beat it. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the rip, or float until the current subsides – then you can swim back onto the beach. Drowning occurs when swimmers exhaust themselves by struggling against the current.

Don’t hesitate to check safety procedures with an adventure company. Ask for buoyancy aids and helmets, and make sure they fit properly. A responsible tour operator will only work with reputable local adventure providers.

Check the FCO website for safety information and entry requirements.