Book cheap flights to Cancún

Cancún’s tropical climate results in it being warm all year round. Peak tourist season occurs from December to March, when the weather is at its best. The beaches are usually crowded which can be unpleasant. Hurricane season runs from June to November, and it is advised to thoroughly check weather conditions during this time before making a final booking. The ideal time to visit Cancún is the period between April and May. This is low-season in Cancún, and the tourist crowds will have dispersed by then. Temperatures are not as hot as during November to March, but are still pleasantly warm.

South Africans travelling to Mexico do require a visa to enter the country. Leave plenty of time for visa application and processing before finalising your trip. Ensure your passport is valid at least six months after your date of departure.

For more information on requirements for a Mexican visa, please contact the South African Honorary Consul in Cancún with the following information:

Address: Granada No. 30, Pacifico, Colonia Supermanzana 2A, 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Phone: 502 2332 6953

Phone: 502 2331 5734

Cancun is one of the busiest, most tourist-frequented cities in Mexico, and thus enjoys a high police presence and relatively low crime rate. Most tourists do not venture further than the busy downtown area unless accompanied by local friends or family. Petty crime can occur in the city and on the beach, so remain vigilant of your possessions and do not leave handbags and expensive accessories unattended. Do not leave drinks unattended in restaurants and bars.

Be wary of scammers at the airport offering “free accommodation” or “free transportation” to arriving tourists.

Most visitors coming to Cancún are coming for the incredible weather and beaches, and will no doubt want to be within walking distance to the beach. Tourists wishing to do so should look for accommodation in Cancún’s “Hotel Zone”, located along the beachfront strip, and within walking distance to restaurants, bars and coffee shops.

Visitors working on a stricter budget, or simply wanting a quieter, less busy stay, should avoid the Hotel Zone and look for accommodation in Downtown Cancún. Located just twenty minutes from the beach front, this less-touristy side of Cancún offers accommodation at more affordable rates, and is no less exciting, filled with plenty of restaurants and clubs.

The cheapest method of transportation in Cancún is by public bus. The bus system follows routes all around the city, and operates 24/7.

Taxis are a faster, alternative option for getting around. Note that you will be charged more if you stand outside your hotel and flag down a taxi, than if you walk down the street and do so. Taxi rates are posted in most hotels for visitors to see. If you are unsure and don’t want to get overcharged, ask your local hotel for their estimation of your destination fare.

Other options for quick transportation include bike hire, car rental and moped rental (not recommended for safety reasons due to Cancún’s bustling traffic).