Ancient civilization ruins, tropical weather, stunning nature, and authentic food are just a few of the many attractions that lure travelers to Mexico. Mexico is the most competitive Latin American travel destination, based on the last Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI), a method that evaluates infrastructure, policies, resources, and enabling conditions for tourism in countries around the world.
For this reason, tourism is a major economic activity in the North American country. By the end of the last decade, this sector was responsible for more than 8.5 percent of the Mexican gross domestic product (GDP), which is the second-largest GDP in Latin America and the Caribbean.
International and domestic tourism in Mexico
With the largest number of international tourist arrivals among Latin American and Caribbean countries, Mexico alone accounted for approximately one-quarter of the region’s international tourism revenue in 2019. By a wide margin, the United States is the main source market for Mexico’s inbound tourism. In 2020, arrivals of air travelers with U.S. residency were nearly three times higher than the combined number of air passenger arrivals from the other 11 leading countries of origin for international tourism in Mexico.
Nonetheless, it is domestic tourism the main driver of the sector’s economy. Throughout the 2010s, the tourism consumption by domestic travelers more than tripled the expenditure of inbound and outbound tourists. In that same decade, the number of domestic overnight guests in Mexican hotels climbed by 39 percent, peaking at more than 60 million in 2019.
The Heart of Mexico: Cities and Culture
- Mexico City: Discover a dynamic metropolis with world-class museums, like the National Museum of Anthropology, historic plazas, and vibrant street life.
- Puebla: Savor the flavors of this city known for culinary delights like mole poblano, and admire its colorful Talavera pottery and colonial architecture.
- Mérida: Experience the Yucatán’s rich Mayan heritage in this colonial city with lively markets, grand plazas, and proximity to archaeological wonders.
Unforgettable Fiesta and Culinary Adventures
- Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos): Participate in this vibrant celebration honouring deceased loved ones, with colorful altars, music, and joyous traditions.
- Mexican Cuisine: Delight your taste buds with the endless variety of regional dishes, from sizzling tacos and rich moles to fresh seafood and sweet treats.
- Tequila and Mezcal: Explore the heartland of these iconic spirits. Visit distilleries, learn the production processes, and indulge in tastings.
Mexico offers experiences to suit every traveler. Whether you seek history, adventure, culinary delights, or pure relaxation, this extraordinary country promises to leave a lasting impression.