Mexico Cycle Tours | Cycle Touring Through Mexico

It is our experience that Mexico has wrongly earned a reputation for being a dangerous place. The people are friendly, hospitable and curious. They have good family values and a strong sense of decency. Just like anywhere in the world, larger cities can be dangerous places; however we spend most of our time in small towns and in the countryside. Some common sense tactics will improve your safety still more; avoid carrying large sums of money and avoid wearing expensive jewellery. A humble appearance and attitude will go a long way for safety and will also make for richer, more down to earth interactions with the locals.

Will the food and water make me sick?

Cooking, peeling and/or washing food in pure water is the best way to get rid of germs. By always eating at popular, clean restaurants we ensure that the food is freshly prepared and served hot, thus safe. It is wise to avoid salads; uncooked vegetables; raw or rare meat, fish or shellfish; and unpasteurized milk or milk products. That said, Mexico has come a long way in hygiene from the days long ago when it had a bad reputation.

Inexpensive purified water (agua purificada) is available everywhere in sizes from 0.5 to 2 litres as well as gallon jugs and 5 gallon containers. This water is safe. Restaurants always offer purified water and hotels often supply it also.

Check out this excellent resource: Staying Healthy in Mexico

What vaccinations should I get?

The following information is based on the most recent IAMAT recommendations and our own experiences. The vaccinations listed are not a requirement for entry into Mexico. Please see your family doctor or a travel doctor if you have any concerns. For more information, you can also check: The Travel Medicine Centre.

Viral Hepatitis A & Typhoid Fever

Vaccination is recommended when travelling outside the areas usually visited by tourists, travelling extensively in the interior of the country (trekkers, hikers) and for persons on working assignments in remote areas. Viral Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food or water. Typhoid fever is spread through contaminated water or milk and food handlers who are carriers. You may want to consider these two vaccinations as we will be off the beaten track for much of our tours. Please see a travel doctor for more information.

Rabies

Rabies is a possible threat in Mexico, as in most countries. We do not feel that vaccination is necessary for our bike tours.

A pre-exposure rabies vaccination series is advised for persons planning an extended stay or on working assignment (naturalists, agricultural advisors, archaeologists, geologists, spelunkers, etc.). Although this provides adequate initial protection, a person bitten by a potentially rabid animal would still require additional inoculations. Children should be cautioned not to pet dogs, cats or other mammals.

Cholera

A cholera vaccination is not necessary nor recommended for travellers to Mexico. However care should be taken to ensure that food and water are not contaminated.

On June 14, 1991 the World Health Organisation announced that a cholera vaccination certificate is no longer required by any country or territory. Although at present cholera is active in parts of Mexico, the risk for western travellers is low and vaccination is advised only for medical and rescue personnel working in endemic areas. The best protection is to avoid potentially contaminated water and food. Persons living and working under inadequate sanitary conditions and those with impaired defence mechanisms (deficient production of gastric acid due to surgery for duodenal or gastric ulcer), persons on antacid therapy, and users of cannabis (smoking marijuana reduces acid secretion of the stomach) are more susceptible to cholera infection and meticulous food and water hygiene are essential when travelling in endemic areas.

What about malaria?

The risk of malaria is fairly low in Mexico but is present in some areas. The use of protective clothing (light coloured, long sleeves, pants) and insect repellent during the hours of dusk and dawn is good protection. It is also a good idea to avoid perfume and aftershave. Hotels in risk areas provide mosquito bed netting and window screens. We believe that an anti-malarial treatment approach is preferable to an anti-malarial prophylactic regimen which may have many undesirable side-effects. Our 1^st -aid kit includes a Fansidar^® anti-malarial treatment. Please see a travel doctor or contact IAMAT for more information.

Risk exists in some rural areas below 1000m including the Yucatan Peninsula and the Pacific coast. The less dangerous Plasmodium Vivax malaria is predominant, with Plasmodium Falciparum malaria present in small foci of Chiapas, Tabasco and Quintana Roo, in the forested border areas with Guatemala and Belize. IAMAT recommends that persons hiking along the coasts, and persons staying overnight at various caves and archaeological sights (including those visited by us) in Quintana Roo and Yucatan states should take a full course of suppressive medication. IAMAT recommends following a chloroquine (aralen) regimen in weekly doses of 500mg (300mg base), starting one week before entering the malarious area, and continuing weekly during your stay and for four weeks after leaving. The principal vectors for transmitting malaria in Mexico are the mosquitoes Anopheles Albimanus and Anopheles pseudopunctipennis. A. Albimanus is a coastal mosquito breeding in sunlit water collections; pools, lakes and lagoons. It feeds on humans from dusk to midnight and rests outdoors in shaded areas. A. pseudopunctipennis is a highland valley mosquito breeding in shallow pools, seepages, drying streams and tanks. It feeds avidly on humans indoors and also rests indoors.

How can I cycle under the hot Mexican sun?

You can avoid heat problems by drinking plenty of fluids. We cannot over emphasise the importance of drinking lots - you should carry 2 or 3 large water bottles on your bike, and occasionally it may be necessary to carry a reserve. It is also important to replenish your electrolytes by ingesting salt (sodium and potassium) and sugar containing food and drink (such as Gatoraid or our very own "Basil-ade" mix) in low concentrations.

Always wear something on your head to protect against the sun. Even a bandanna goes a long way in keeping you feeling well under the hot Mexican sun. Sunscreen is a must - bring at least 15 to 30 SPF sunscreen with you. Sunscreen is also readily available in Mexico; however it is usually a little more expensive.

How hot will it be?

In the mountains the temperature is quite comfortable, ranging from freezing on the coldest nights to high 20's (celcius) midday in the sun.

At lower altitudes, the temperature ranges from about 15º celcius overnight to high 30's in the afternoon sun. We cycle early to avoid the peak heat of the day and drink special fluids to keep well hydrated.

Am I physically able to do this ride?

Everyone is capable of more than they think, which is partly why this can be such a rewarding experience. Check the difficulty rating of the tour that you are interested in, and if in doubt ask us.

Will I be too slow?

No. Everyone rides at their own pace. We are touring, NOT racing. We always have one guide in the front and one in the back, so everyone can go as fast or as slow as they like.

How do I get to Mexico?

Please check our links section for some different ways to find cheap flights: Airline, Flight and Travel Links.

How do I get my bike there?

Your bicycle must be packed carefully in a bike box. These are available at almost any bike shop, often for free. You can also use a special bicycle case if you prefer. We recommend having a reputable bike shop give your trusty bicycle a tune up before the trip. Some shops may even pack your bike for you for a small fee. You will need to remove the pedals, turn the handlebars sideways and remove the front wheel to make it fit. We will store your box at our starting hotel for you to use for your return flight home.

Some airlines may charge you extra to transport your bike, some may require a box, some may not. It is always best to call your airline beforehand to know what to expect. For some great tips on air travel with bicycles check Travel with Bicycles (Airlines).

There is a great way to avoid the extra airline fees if you plan to travel a lot with your bicycle. Think about investing either in a foldable bicycle such as a Bike Friday or in an S&S coupling system; either for your current bicycle or on a new bicycle. See below for more bicycle options.

The following chart gives the official airline bike carrying fees (each way) for economy class on flights to Mexico as of Aug. 20, 2003 (unless otherwise indicated). Please note that this information can and will change at any time so you should confirm it yourself with the airline. We don't accept any liability incase of incorrect information.

What sort of bike should I have?

AIRLINE	BIKE FEE	FREE BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE Max. dimensions (L+W+H) and weight	Last Update
Aeromexico	US$50	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each - 107" total, 70 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 22 lbs	-
Air Alaska	US$50	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 70 lbs each Carry-on: Any number; 45" total	-
Air Canada	CA$65 or US$50 (Sept.05)	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 70 lbs each Carry-on: 2 pieces; 1 standard article 23 x 40 x 55cm & 1 personal article 16 x 33 x 43cm	-
Air Transat	Free	Checked: Any number; 44 lbs total, PLUS bike Carry-on: 1 piece 9" x 16" x 20", 11 lbs	-
America West	US$80	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 50 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 45" plus 1 personal item	-
American Airlines	US$80	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 50 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 45", 40 lbs plus 1 personal item	-
ATA	US$50	Checked: 2 pieces (or 3 with NO carry-on); 62", 55" & 45", 70 lbs each, 140 lbs total Carry-on: 1 piece 9" x 15" x 25" on B737/B757 or 9" x 13.5" x 19" on L1011 plus 1 personal item	-
Aviacsa	US$45	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each(?), 70 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece	-
Continental Airlines	US$95	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 50 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 51", 40 lbs plus 1 personal item Please note the Excess Baggage Embargo	Oct.23,06
Delta Airlines	Free*	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 50 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 22" x 14" x 9", 40 lbs plus 1 personal item	Oct.23,06
Frontier Airlines	US$50	Checked: 2 pieces (or 3 with NO carry-on); 62" each, 70 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece plus 1 personal item	-
Mexicana	US$55 (Sept.05)	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" & 55", 70 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 45", 22 lbs	-
Northwest Airlines	US$80	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 50 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 22" x 14" x 9", 40 lbs plus 1 personal item	-
Skyservice	Free	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 44 lbs total, PLUS bike Carry-on: 1 piece; 9" x 16" x 20", 11 lbs	-
United Airlines	US$85	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 50 lbs each Carry-on: 1 piece; 22" x 14" x 9", plus 1 personal item	Oct.23,06
US Airways	US$80	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 70 lbs each Carry-on: 1 standard item & 1 personal item	-
USA 3000	US$50	Checked: 2 pieces; 62" each, 50 lbs each for scheduled flight, 50 lbs total for charter Carry-on: 1 standard item 24" x 14" x 10" & 1 personal item	-

You can use any bicycle that you are comfortable riding day after day. People have successfully toured (ie: they enjoyed it) with us on quite a variety of different bicycles including road, touring, mountain, cross, hybrid, tandem, recumbent and foldable. The most unusual bicycle we've had so far was a tandem recumbent trike. With a trailer. Add three foldable Bike Fridays to the group and you get the picture. We turned a lot of curious heads and met a lot of friendly locals because of it.

You must have a rack, or the ability to attach a rack to your bike so that you can carry your panniers. Another option is to pull a trailer. Whatever sort bike you use, high pressure street tires (60 to 100psi) are recommended. In general, tire widths between 1 and 1.75 inches (25 - 44c) are good, most of the roads are in excellent condition. Check out the "What to Bring" document on the info-pack page for more information.

There is a great way to avoid the extra airline fees if you plan to travel a lot with your bicycle. Think about investing either in a foldable bicycle such as a Bike Friday or in an S&S coupling system; either for your current bicycle or on a new bicycle. We understand that some bicycle tour operators think that foldable bikes are silly. We think that these tour operators are silly. We welcome any bicycle choice, within reason (we don't recommend a single speed in the mountains - though we've seen it). We have had many cyclists, some who have become loyal repeat clients and good friends, tour on Bike Fridays . We have seen enough to know that, to quote a cliche, "it's the cyclist, not the bike" and a quality foldable bicycle will certainly not hold back a keen cyclist.

What identification and documents do I need to bring?

A valid passport is essential for avoiding problems while travelling in Mexico. Citizens of Canada, EU countries, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, Israel, Japan and Argentina do NOT require visas to enter Mexico as tourists. However they must obtain a Mexican government "Tourist Card" (FMT). This card is usually provided on the airplane and validated in the airport upon arrival to Mexico.

Should I bring a tent?

Generally not. This depends on you and on the tour. Most tours do not require you to camp but offer the option for some nights. Please see the specific tour itinerary to see if camping is required or possible.

Should I bring rainwear?

This depends on the tour. While in the mountains, a light rainjacket is a good idea as it can get quite chilly. At lower altitudes all you need is quickdrying clothing, infact a rainstorm can be quite welcome at times.

What should I pack?

Check out the "What to Bring" information on the info-pack page. This should give you the general idea. Please don't hesitate to write or call if you have any questions.

Where can I get a good map of Mexico?

You don't need a map, we have all the necessary maps for the tour. If however you just LOVE maps like I do, then here is what I recommend.

The best, most detailed maps are made by Ediciones Independencia and by Guia Roji. Each company publishes a map of each of Mexico's 31 states and 1 district. For some states one company's map is better, and for other states, the other. Both companies also publish other maps. These maps are easily found in Mexico, or if you wish, you may order maps online from Amazon.com. Click for Ediciones Independencia and Guia Roji.

Another good set of maps is made by International Travel Maps and Books. They publish regional maps, including excellent Yucatan Peninsula and of Mexico South Map maps. They may be ordered directly from ITMB or from Amazon.com.

Can I get coffee in the mornings?

Sometimes, but not always. Though Mexico is a major coffee producer, most coffee is exported. In the small towns and villages that we cycle through, sometimes the best that you can get is instant coffee, if there is coffee at all. If you must have coffee in the morning, then we suggest that you buy a small jar of instant coffee at the start of the tour to have with you, or perhaps bring along some sort of a substitute such as chocolate covered coffee beans.

What about doing laundry?

We suggest washing as you go. When you take a shower after our day's ride you can wash the clothes that you were wearing either in the shower or in the sink. If you have a clothes-line with you, hang up your clothes and they should be dry by morning. Sometimes there will be a clothes-line outside, perhaps on the roof of the hotel where the sun will dry everything quite fast. Alternatively you may choose to take some time on rest days to look for a laudromat. All larger towns and cities have full service laudromats.

Do the hotels we stay in have hot water?

Some do, some don't. While in the mountains, where the cold water is really cold, there will always also be hot water available. While in the lowlands where it can be very hot, some hotels will have hot water and some won't. Infact you'll probably prefer a cold shower after a hot day of cycling.

What about air conditioning?

In the hot lowlands, our hotels will always have at the very least a fan (with the rare exception of when we stay in cabañas). Occasionally, our rooms will have air conditioning instead and sometimes you will have a choice of AC or fan. We highly recommend avoiding the AC when possible because this will help you to aclimatize to the heat faster and so be more comfortable while cycling under the hot sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico safe?