Destination: Mexico

Mexico is a vast country located on that narrow strip of land that connects South America to the North, and it’s been a family-favourite destination for many years now. With it’s thrilling history of the Aztecs and the Mayans and their unique history of spiritual human sacrifices and rituals, tourists flock to visit the country’s unique architecture and experience a taste of its exotic culture.

Mexico is the country responsible for introducing the Western world to the delights of their traditional foods, and visitors here can sample traditional enchiladas, sumptuous fajitas and flavourful burritos. It’s also famed for its tequila, and as well as drinking this unique liquor there are also plenty of dishes that are cooked in it!

Holidays to Mexico are as exotic as the destination itself. Here, visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon on one of the many beaches, like the mysterious stretch of sand at Tulum, or take a trip to visit the ancient Mayan temples and spend the afternoon exploring the ruins. There are trips to local markets on offer, and the locals welcome guests to sample some of the varied fresh fruits on sale before they purchase some native carved gifts to remember their holiday by.

The weather in Mexico is as warm as you’d expect from a tropical climate, and the driest months are November through to April. The hurricane season is June to October, but only parts of Mexico (mostly the southern end) tend to be affected by it.

Things to do in the Mexico with Children

Take a tour to the Chichen Itza Ruins and explore these fabulous Mayan temples, once the sites of human sacrifices to the Gods. These temples have been declared one of the seven Modern Wonders of the World, and during your tour, your guide will explain their cultural and historical significance. There is no age limit for this tour, which includes transportation from all major hotels in the region. More details...

Paradise Island is an exciting tropical water world filled with exotic fish and colourful reefs. Explore this location on a trip in a submarine, before heading to the surface to snorkel away the afternoon hours. There’s no age limit for this fabulous 3 hour trip, and it’s a great way for families to enjoy the wonders of the natural habitat together. More details...

Families can hop aboard the fantastic Columbus Ship Cruise and enjoy a two hour sailing aboard a replica of the legendary wooden seafaring ships of old. This family friendly trip will make several stops, including one for snorkeling, and also includes a lobster or BBQ fish lunch on board. More details...

Children aged 8 years and older will be delighted to have the opportunity to swim with Dolphins at Isla Mujeres . These interactive experiences include the chance to ride on a dolphin’s belly, or be pulled along by its dorsal fin. Other experiences in this delightful paradise include visit with manatees and cuddles from Sea Lions. It’s an aquatic adventure not to be missed. More details...

Visit an incredible eco-archaeological park near Playa del Carmen, the family can spend a day in paradise, relaxing and enjoying nature, snorkeling, activities, shows and much more! More details...

The Selvatica Extreme Adventure excursion is a fantastic trip over America’s longest zip wire circuit. Children as young as 3 years old are welcome to enjoy the delights of the 12 individual zip lines under the expert eye of qualified staff. Back on land, and you can join in with a jeep tour through the Mayan jungle before you reach a hidden grotto that’s just perfect for exploring. More details...

You can find a wide selection of day trips in Mexico with both Isango, and Attractiontix.

Recommended family friendly hotels in Cancun

Cancun tends to be the best area for family friendly holidays and accommodation in Mexico. It’s 25-km Hotel Zone is double water fronted, with ocean on one side and the lagoon on the other with plenty of resorts to choose from, most of which welcome families.

The ME Cancun hotel is a contemporary luxury resort which has recently become all-inclusive. Due to being one of the hippest hotels in Cancun and adult only pools and floor it attracts a younger crowd. But for those looking for some peaceful luxury where children are also welcome will love this stunning resort. There is a variety of entertainment, attractions and area activities and two children under 12 stay free of charge when using existing bedding. More details...

If you are looking for a hotel where your little ones will have plenty do to from sports, water fun, arts and crafts to making lots of new friends then Hotel Rui Cancun has just that. At night there is a mini disco where kids can get their boggie on till 9pm and nightly entertainment kicks in later for the older ones. Find more information about this hotel with Thomson Holidays.

Or the Gran Caribe Real Suites & Spa, with its Oki Splash® , a full range of activities for every family member including kids pool, water slides, Oki® Kid’s Club, T-Zone, paddle tennis, and a mini disco. The resort also allows up to 5 people in the Family Junior Suites, Gran Master and Presidential Suites. Find out more information about the Cran Caribe Real Suites and Spa with First Choice.

On its own Penisula, Club Med occupies possibly the best location in Cancun, once an adult only, now welcomes all ages including babies to teens. Qualified nursery staff and fun filled and active programmes geared to teach, keeps children entertained throughout their holiday. Club Med think of everything when travelling with a baby, so your room will be kitted out with a cot, pushchair, bath tub, and even a bottle warmer! More details...