Frequently Asked Questions about Mexico Sightseeing Tours

Q: Why this tour? Why Mexico?

A1: Because it could be a once-in-a-lifetime trip for you

If you’re going to spend your money and time, why not make it an unforgettable trip to Mexico, an unforgettable overseas journey? We excel at maximizing the output from the same resources, offering you an incredibly rich experience that will leave a lasting memory.

We provide:

  • Experiencing an incredibly immersive Mexico that cannot be experienced elsewhere
  • Gaining 100 years’ worth of energy and returning with unforgettable memories

A2: Because it’s a country where you can experience people and nature deeply

Teotihuacan is magnificent, but the ruins of Calakmul stand tall in the midst of the jungle, where you can listen for the movements of wildlife in the surrounding pristine forests. If you go to Oaxaca, why not experience local cooking and rug making with the locals? While you’re in the south, why not make your own chocolate in the birthplace of cacao? Harvesting and roasting your own coffee on a coffee plantation, followed by a freshly brewed cup of coffee, is a moment of pure bliss. You might say you haven’t truly been to Mexico if you haven’t experienced a Mexican night!

Mexico is a country that is deep, expansive, vibrant, and allows you to feel people and nature with your own senses.

Q: I don’t usually go on tours and prefer to travel independently. Are there any benefits?

A1: Cost-effective

Our Mexico sightseeing tours offer excellent value for money. As a Mexico guide with 18 years of residency, I can guide you anywhere in Mexico, from famous tourist spots to off-the-beaten-path Mexican gems. From planning your trip, welcoming you, guiding you throughout your journey, and providing emergency assistance, we offer efficient, safe, and streamlined services tailored to your needs.

Even if you’re not a fan of group tours, you’ll be satisfied with our convenient and cost-effective Mexico tours that cater to your specific interests.

A2: Supporting your personalized Mexico trip

We are not just typical “explanatory guides,” but guides who fully assist in creating a Mexico trip tailored to your preferences. We accompany you and provide support as needed, ensuring 100% flexibility for your individual journey.

Instead of simply purchasing pre-made tours like regular package tours, we involve you in creating your own itinerary. This allows you to enjoy the process of planning your Mexico trip and enhances your travel experience. With our pre-travel guide, you’ll be even more amazed during your trip.

A3: Connecting with the essence

Traveling independently or on regular tours often results in superficial experiences where you simply “go and see” without fully understanding the background. Our services are particularly beneficial for those who want to delve deeper into Mexico and foreign cultures.

Q: Is a completely private tour very expensive?

メキシコの観光ガイド岩﨑功がラパスで車の前で腕を組んで立っている

A: Don’t worry, you’ll be surprised by its affordability

With our tours, we plan your Mexico trip in accordance with your preferences, taking into account your needs and guiding you throughout your journey. Consultation regarding hotels, tourist attractions, and other aspects, as well as on-site guiding and efficient transportation, and emergency assistance are all included in our fixed-rate fee.

I have personally driven over 400,000 kilometers (equivalent to 10 times around the Earth) during my 20 years of residency in Mexico, maintaining a perfect safety record. Having lived in Mexico for nearly 20 years, I know “the real Mexico” in various regions, and I will personally guide you from start to finish.

We are also flexible and accommodating to special requests from individuals with physical limitations or other needs that may be difficult to address with other companies.

We offer family trips, small group trips, as well as special rates for solo travelers or couples. For more details, please refer to the “Rates and Services” section.

Q: I only have 3 days. Can I enjoy the trip?

A: Leave it to us

With the language barrier, inconvenience, and potential risks that come with traveling in Mexico, a country that is five times larger than Japan (400k m2 and where neither Japanese nor English is widely understood, it can be quite challenging for those unfamiliar with Mexico to travel efficiently and safely.

Through our services, we aim to:

  • Maximize your limited time
  • Make your Mexico trip more enjoyable and accessible
  • Provide invaluable experiences that money can’t buy

We offer all of this through your Mexico journey.

Q: How much is the fee?

A: We provide guided tours at a fixed rate for up to 12 hours per day, accommodating a maximum of 4 adults and 2 children (due to limited space in the third row seats). For detailed information, please refer to the “Services and Rates” section.

Q: Can I change the itinerary or cancel?

A: Itinerary changes are free of charge. If the cancellation is made within 30 days of the confirmed date, a full refund of the days confirmed will be given. If the cancellation is made more than 30 days in advance, the tour fee is free, but a non-refundable fee of USD 295 for the “Mexican Travel Advisor & Support” (as stated in the “Services and Rates” section) will be charged if a “Proposed Itinerary” PDF has been submitted. The fee paid will not be refunded. In such cases, please consider changing the itinerary. If we have made hotel or ticket arrangements on your behalf, refunds may not be possible.

To ensure your utmost satisfaction with our services, we spend time and resources preparing from the moment we receive your inquiry. Therefore, we kindly request your cooperation to avoid sudden loss of communication, cancellation, or unpaid fees. Before contacting us, please make sure to read the “Rates and Services” and “Important Notes” sections. If you have any questions or concerns about the content, please inquire before requesting our services, and use our services only after understanding and agreeing to the entire process.

Q: Can I pay in cash?

A: Cash payment is possible, depending on the amount. However, it is advisable to avoid carrying large amounts of cash in Mexico, as it increases the risk of theft or loss. Please consult with us in advance. We currently accept payment only in Mexican pesos.

Q: How is the security situation?

A: It is a difficult question to answer. Security is a concern when traveling abroad, not just in Mexico. Even in Mexico, there are places where it can be dangerous to enter a back street or where you can be robbed even in crowded areas. While the internet and travel magazines may optimistically claim “security is not a problem,” it is always best for travelers who are not familiar with the local situation to remain cautious and attentive. Unfortunately, long-distance buses, taxis, and other modes of transportation are not highly recommended. However, if you use our services, we can guide you with proper security measures, as we are well-versed in the local security situation, greatly reducing the risk of incidents.

Q.Where can I get a SIM card for my mobile phone to access the internet?

A.You can purchase a SIM card at local convenience stores. Alternatively, we offer pocket WiFi rental services. By using our pocket WiFi, you can avoid the hassle of purchasing and setting up a SIM card and also share WiFi with your companions. Please inquire about rental fees and data plans.

Q.Another company offers a lower price. Can you do something about it?

A.As you may know, the pricing of services can vary significantly depending on the content. First, please check the details of the tour offered by the other company (such as whether it is a private or shared tour, tour duration, number and location of tourist spots, availability of licensed guides, and pre- and post-care services). If you still find our prices “too high” after considering these factors, please let us know the details. While we cannot promise to lower the prices, I will sincerely consider what I can do and make efforts to maximize your satisfaction.

Q.I don’t use either email or WhatsApp. Do you have a fax or any other means of contact?

A.At the moment, we are unable to receive inquiries via fax. We apologize for the inconvenience. The easiest way to contact us is through “Chat” or “Phone.” Please refer to the following instructions. Although the example is based on a computer screen, the same applies to smartphones. If you prefer “Phone,” simply press the button, and you will be able to have a direct conversation with me.

How to use:

1. Press the red circle button in the bottom right corner of the screen. Two buttons will appear: “Chat with us” and “Call Us.” If you prefer to communicate through chat (text), click “Chat with us.” If you wish to make a phone call, click “Call Us.” Please consider the time difference with Mexico (Japan is 15 hours ahead). I am available for calls from around 7 AM to 10 PM in Mexico time.

2. A small window will open. Please enter your name and click the Start button. Before making an inquiry, please review the menu options “Fees” and “Notes.”

3. Enter your question in the lower part of the window.

4. Once you have finished typing, click the red airplane icon on the right to send.

5.After sending, you can close the site. If you visit again from the same computer or smartphone, the messages will still be there unless you click “Exit.”

6.We will reply within 24 hours (usually around 2 hours). To view our reply, you can either wait or visit our website again, click the red circle button in the bottom right corner, and continue the conversation. Alternatively, we can reply to you via LINE, email, or phone number if you provide them. If you choose a phone call, please note that the incoming call will be from a foreign number and appear as “Unknown” or “Private.”

7.If you wish to end the message exchange, click the “X” button in the top right corner of the window. If you want to continue, leave it as it is. If you are concerned about privacy, we recommend clicking “X” every time.

 

Q.Can I use a credit card?

A.Credit cards are generally accepted almost everywhere, but it is recommended to use cards with an IC chip. Magnetic stripe cards have a higher risk of skimming. However, small shops, taco stands, and ticket booths at archaeological sites or museums may not accept cards. You can use a credit card for payment to our company.

Q.Can you assist with airport transfers and check-in at the hotel?

A.Yes, we would be happy to assist you. For detailed information, please refer to the “Transfer Service” section under “Services and Fees.” We will also help with check-in and check-out at the hotel. We can provide airport transfers to nearby regional airports or hotels for an additional fee. The fees may vary depending on the location, so please feel free to inquire.

Q.Can I change the route or itinerary during the trip?

A.Certainly, it is possible. Your time during the tour is your “free time.” As long as it is within the allotted time, you are free to change the route as you wish. Please feel free to inform us of your preferences. If hotels or other accommodations have already been booked and paid for, you will be responsible for the full cost of those arrangements.

Q.What should I do in case of trouble, accidents, sudden illness, or injury during the trip?

A.Your safety and well-being are our top priority. We always carry primary first-aid supplies (bandages, gauze, iodine, thermometer, oxygen saturation meter, blood pressure monitor, etc.). We are familiar with the locations of hospitals along the routes and, if necessary, we will make changes to the itinerary or cancel it partially or entirely to take you to the nearest hospital. We can provide interpretation services, so please rest assured. Regarding extended hospital stays or exceeding the requested period of service due to ongoing treatment, we will consult with you at that time. In the event of any negligence on our part (such as health issues or accidents), we will arrange alternative guides or drivers at our expense.

Q.Is it advisable to have travel insurance?

A.We strongly recommend obtaining travel insurance. Without insurance coverage, we may be unable to provide certain services. Please check the conditions of insurance coverage before your trip. Various insurance companies offer plans, usually ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 yen for an 8-day trip. Although it is not related to our company, you can refer to this website for more information: [link]. Please review the coverage details, particularly regarding disability, illness, emergency expenses, and personal liability. If you have any pre-existing conditions, please inform us in advance.

Q.I plan to participate in a group tour, but can I hire a guide only during free time?

A.Yes, of course! Please let us know your desired date and time as soon as possible. We will arrange a guide for your free time accordingly.

Q.How much should I tip at restaurants?

A.10% is the standard tipping practice.

Q.What transportation options are available?

A.There are public transportation options such as city buses, subways, long-distance buses, and taxis. However, they are not as convenient and comfortable as in Japan. Buses and subways do not have fixed timetables. Long-distance buses technically have timetables, but they may not arrive or depart on time. Therefore, if you have limited time, we do not recommend relying solely on public transportation. Long-distance bus routes and taxis are not recommended for those who are not familiar with traveling in Mexico due to safety reasons. At our company, we prioritize the “safety and efficiency” of your journey, so we provide all transportation with a driver (Ko Iwaaski) who is familiar with the traffic conditions in Mexico.

 

Questions related to Business Assistance

Q.I’m going to Mexico for business negotiations. Can you arrange the itinerary, transportation, interpreters, and hotel accommodations?

A.Yes, absolutely. We can assist you with all those arrangements. If you are having difficulty with communication for setting up appointments with local contacts, we can help with that as well. If you require interpretation during the meetings, please inform us in advance, especially for specialized discussions. If we determine that we cannot provide the required level of interpretation, we will arrange for a professional interpreter. In such cases, the cost will be borne by you.

 

Q.Can I request on-site surveys?

A.Yes, we would be happy to assist you with on-site surveys. Please inform us of the details of your request, and we can discuss the specifics, including fees and deadlines.

 

Q.Can you handle proxy sales for me?

A.Yes, we offer proxy sales services. I have approximately 12 years of sales experience in Mexico, primarily in the Japanese business sector.

 

Q.Can you help with obtaining and shipping product samples?

A.Yes, we can assist you with that. Please refer to the “Investigation and Procurement of Goods” section under “Services and Fees” for the applicable charges.

 

Q.We are planning a company trip to Mexico. Can you organize a tour for us?

A.Certainly, it is possible. Please let us know your requirements and preferences, and we can create a customized tour for your company.