Headwaters Mexico Expedition Preparation Guide
Preparing for an international educational experience is an exciting process, and we know families often have questions along the way. This page is designed to provide an overview of our program, answer some of the most common questions we receive, and help you feel informed as you prepare for the journey ahead.
We believe that thoughtful planning, open communication, and strong partnerships with families create the foundation for exceptional educational experiences. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to connect and support you throughout the planning process.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
1. Is Mexico City safe for student travel?
This is one of the most common—and most important—questions we receive.
The short answer is yes. We believe Mexico City is an outstanding destination for student travel when programs are thoughtfully designed, carefully managed, and led by experienced educators.
Like every destination around the world, Mexico City has its own unique opportunities and considerations. Rather than viewing travel as simply "safe" or "unsafe," we believe responsible international travel begins with understanding the environment, planning accordingly, and making informed decisions every step of the way.
At Global Treks, every program is built on a comprehensive risk management framework. Before and throughout the program, we continuously monitor local conditions, maintain strong relationships with trusted community partners, and make decisions based on current information and established best practices. Every aspect of the experience—from accommodations and transportation to daily activities—is intentionally designed with student well-being in mind.
Our preparation includes:
Comprehensive pre-trip risk assessments
Ongoing monitoring of local conditions and travel advisories
Carefully selected accommodations and transportation providers
Established relationships with trusted local organizations and community partners
Detailed emergency response and communication plans
Staff trained in emergency response and incident management
Identified medical facilities throughout the itinerary
Registration with the U.S. Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), when appropriate
Awareness of local emergency resources, including the U.S. Embassy and Consular Services
International travel always requires preparation, awareness, and flexibility. Should conditions change before or during a program, we are prepared to modify activities or itineraries based on our risk management protocols.
Our goal is to provide students with an extraordinary educational experience supported by thoughtful planning, experienced leadership, and a commitment to making informed decisions throughout the journey.
2. How does Global Treks approach U.S. travel advisories?
We closely monitor guidance from the U.S. Department of State as part of our comprehensive risk management process. Travel advisories are one of many tools we use when evaluating destinations, planning programs, and making informed decisions before and during travel.
It's important to understand that U.S. travel advisories are issued for entire countries and often reflect conditions occurring hundreds or even thousands of miles from the locations where educational programs take place. They are designed to encourage travelers to understand local conditions and make informed decisions—not to suggest that travel should never occur.
At Global Treks, we evaluate the specific neighborhoods, accommodations, transportation providers, educational partners, and daily activities that make up each program rather than relying solely on a country-wide advisory. We also continuously monitor changing conditions and maintain the flexibility to modify activities or itineraries if circumstances warrant.
Our commitment is to thoughtful planning, sound judgment, and ongoing assessment throughout every stage of the program. We believe informed travel, combined with strong preparation and experienced leadership, provides students with extraordinary educational opportunities while thoughtfully managing risk.
3. How does Global Treks monitor and manage safety throughout the program?
Safety and security are actively monitored throughout the entire program—not only during the planning process. Before departure, program details are carefully planned, including accommodations, transportation, daily routes, activity locations, local contacts, medical resources, and communication procedures. Once in country, Global Treks leaders continue to assess conditions each day and make adjustments when needed.
Students travel together as a group, remain under staff supervision, and do not have unsupervised free time during the program. Daily activities are selected with clear attention to location, timing, transportation, group management, and the educational goals of the experience.
Global Treks also maintains close communication with trusted local partners, program contacts, transportation providers, and relevant safety and security resources. This allows our team to stay informed and make thoughtful decisions based on current conditions.
Evening schedules are intentionally designed with structure and consistency. Students return to the lodge in the evenings for dinner, reflection activities, group connection, and preparation for the following day. This rhythm helps create a supportive environment while also limiting unnecessary movement around the city at night.
Our goal is to create a program that feels engaging and expansive for students while remaining carefully structured, well-supervised, and responsive to changing conditions.
4. Where will students stay?
Students and staff will stay in carefully selected accommodations located in well-established neighborhoods that provide convenient access to our educational programming.
When choosing housing, we consider:
Safety and security
Clean, comfortable accommodations
Location and proximity to daily activities
Group suitability
Strong relationships with trusted local partners
Global Treks and the Headwaters Teacher Team intentionally maintain a strong and small staff-to-student ratio (3 - 5 students per adult) throughout the program, with adult staff present with students at all times. Our goal is to create an environment that feels both supportive and safe—giving students opportunities to build confidence and independence while always knowing a trusted adult is there.
5. What happens if my student becomes sick or injured?
The health and well-being of every participant are a critical part of our program planning. Before departure, families complete comprehensive medical forms that allow our staff to understand each student's medical history, allergies, medications, dietary needs, emergency contacts, and any accommodations that may be needed throughout the program. We view this process as a partnership with families. The more we know about your student before departure, the better prepared we are to provide individualized support, anticipate needs, and help create a positive experience for everyone involved.
For students with chronic medical conditions or ongoing health considerations, we communicate with families well before the departure date to better understand their needs and determine whether our program is well-equipped to provide appropriate support in an international travel setting. Our goal is to help every student have a successful experience while ensuring expectations are clear and the necessary resources are in place.
If a student becomes ill or is injured, Global Treks staff will assess the situation, provide appropriate support, and coordinate medical care when needed. A staff member will remain with the student throughout their care, and parents or guardians will be contacted as soon as practical.
Mexico City is home to numerous internationally recognized hospitals and highly trained medical professionals, providing access to excellent medical care should it ever be needed. As part of our planning process, we identify reputable hospitals and medical facilities located near our accommodations and planned activities and establish emergency response procedures before the program begins.
All Global Treks program leaders maintain current medical and emergency response training and are prepared to respond calmly, assess situations thoughtfully, and coordinate appropriate care while maintaining clear communication with families. Students should travel with an adequate supply of prescription medications in their original containers and inform program staff of any medication needs prior to departure.
In short - our goal is to respond promptly, communicate clearly, and ensure students receive appropriate care while keeping families informed every step of the way.
Communication and Family Support
6. How often can students communicate with home?
We recognize that staying connected with family is an important part of the international travel experience. To help students fully engage in the educational experience, phones will not be carried by students throughout the day. Program leaders will have access to communication devices at all times, and students will have designated opportunities each day to access their phones and connect with family and friends.
The accommodations will have reliable Wi-Fi, allowing students to call or message home using internet-based applications during these designated communication times to avoid any undesired international cell service charges. It’s worth noting that every student approaches travel differently. Some enjoy checking in with home each day, while others become fully immersed in the experience and prefer less frequent communication. We encourage families to discuss communication expectations before departure and to remember that quieter days often reflect full schedules, new experiences, and meaningful engagement with the program.
If a situation arises that significantly impacts your student's health, safety, or participation in the program, the Global Treks and Headwaters Field Team will contact parents or guardians promptly. Our commitment is to always communicate important information in a timely manner.
7. Will there be opportunities for families to ask questions before the program?
Absolutely! Preparing for an international educational experience is a journey for families as well as students. We believe that open communication, transparency, and strong relationships are essential to helping everyone feel confident before departure.
Beginning several months before the program, Global Treks will host optional Community Gatherings twice each month.
These informal virtual gatherings provide an opportunity to:
Ask questions about the program and itinerary
Receive important updates and reminders
Learn more about travel preparation and packing
Discuss health, safety, and logistics
Meet other participating families
Connect directly with Global Treks program leadership
There is no expectation to attend every gathering. Families are welcome to join as often as they would like, whether they have specific questions or simply enjoy staying connected throughout the planning process. Our hope is that every family begins the program feeling informed, prepared, connected, and excited for the experience ahead.
Program Design
8. Why doesn't the program include parent chaperones?
Our programs are intentionally designed as student-centered educational experiences. Students participate in small learning teams that encourage collaboration, leadership, communication, and personal responsibility. This approach helps create an environment where students can develop confidence, strengthen relationships with their peers, and fully engage in the educational experience while being supported by experienced Global Treks Leaders and Headwaters Teacher Team.
For families who would like to visit Mexico City during the program, we warmly welcome you to do so. Please see the question below for more information about traveling alongside the program.
9. Can I travel to Mexico City while my student is participating in the program?
Absolutely! Families are welcome to visit Mexico City during the program if they wish. To preserve the student-centered nature of the experience, parents and family members arrange their own accommodations and participate in separate activities throughout the program. Students remain fully engaged in the Global Treks itinerary and learning community while families enjoy the opportunity to explore Mexico City independently.
We're happy to help families create a customized experience by offering recommendations for accommodations, cultural attractions, museums, restaurants, guided tours, transportation, and other activities that align with their interests. Whether you're planning a few days of sightseeing, a relaxing vacation, or your own educational adventure, we're happy to share resources and local recommendations.
Many families enjoy traveling to Mexico City alongside the program while allowing their student the opportunity to build confidence, develop independence, and fully engage in this unique educational experience.
Preparing for the Expedition
10. What can students expect when it comes to food?
Food is an important part of every Global Treks program and offers students a unique opportunity to experience local culture through shared meals and regional cuisine.
Throughout the program, students will enjoy meals at carefully selected restaurants and cafés that have been chosen for their quality, cleanliness, and ability to accommodate student groups. We also encourage students to step outside of their comfort zones and try new foods while always ensuring familiar options are available.
Families will have the opportunity to share any food allergies, dietary restrictions, or other nutritional considerations before departure. We work closely with our local partners to accommodate dietary needs whenever possible and communicate those needs in advance.
Students will also have opportunities to purchase additional snacks during designated breaks if they’d like, and we encourage everyone to carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Safe drinking water will be readily available throughout the program.
Sharing meals is often one of the highlights of an international experience, offering opportunities to connect with classmates, local partners, and the culture of the places we visit.
11. Will students need spending money?
While most program expenses are included, students may wish to bring spending money for snacks, souvenirs, gifts, or other personal purchases during designated free time. We recommend that students bring a combination of a debit or credit card and a modest amount of Mexican pesos for smaller purchases from local vendors or markets (currency exchange can be utilized before leaving the airport to avoid ATM use on trip as it’s not always convenient)
Specific spending recommendations will be shared prior to departure, as the amount each student chooses to bring is a personal decision and may vary based on shopping preferences. As with all valuables, students are encouraged to keep cash, cards, and other important items secure throughout the program. Students will receive extra information on money and spending during on-site orientation as well as during pre-trip meetings.
12. How will students travel throughout Mexico City?
Transportation is thoughtfully coordinated throughout the program and is selected based on safety, efficiency, and the educational goals of each day. Depending on the itinerary, students may travel by private charter vehicle, licensed transportation providers, or on foot through established pedestrian areas and neighborhoods. Walking is an important part of experiencing Mexico City, allowing students to engage more fully with the culture, architecture, public spaces, and local communities.
Transportation partners are carefully selected and Global Treks staff accompany students at all times throughout the program. Students and teachers all travel together as a group and students will be supervised and guided in small teams every step of the way.
13. Will students have free time?
Students will have opportunities throughout the program to relax, connect with classmates, visit local cafés, shop for souvenirs, journal, or simply enjoy the places we visit. These periods are intentionally built into the itinerary and always take place as part of the group experience. Students remain under the supervision of Global Treks staff, stay within clearly established boundaries, and receive clear expectations before each activity.
Students do not have unsupervised free time during the program. Our approach is designed to provide opportunities for students to enjoy the experience while ensuring they remain supported, connected, and appropriately supervised throughout the journey.
14. How physically active is the program?
Students should expect to be active throughout the program. Exploring Mexico City is best experienced on foot, and our days often include walking through historic neighborhoods, museums, parks, archaeological sites, and community spaces. Most days include several miles of walking, occasional stairs, and extended periods of standing. While participants do not need to be highly athletic, they should be comfortable spending full days exploring the city and engaging in a variety of educational and cultural experiences.
Students from Bozeman are generally well accustomed to an active lifestyle and higher elevations. Even so, we encourage everyone to wear comfortable shoes, stay well hydrated, and come prepared for full days of exploration and fun.
15. What is the weather like in May?
May is one of the most enjoyable times of year to visit Mexico City. Students can generally expect daytime temperatures between 70–80°F, while mornings and evenings are often cooler, ranging from 50–60°F . Afternoon rain showers are possible as the rainy season begins, so dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable throughout the day. We also recommend bringing a lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella for occasional showers.
A detailed packing guide will be provided well in advance of departure to help students prepare for the conditions they can expect during the program.
16. What should my student pack?
Global Treks will provide a detailed packing guide well in advance of departure to help students prepare for the program. The guide includes recommended clothing, footwear, travel essentials, required documents, and helpful packing tips designed specifically for the itinerary and season. Our goal is to help students arrive well prepared while avoiding the stress of overpacking.
We encourage students to take an active role in packing for the program, as it is one of the first opportunities to practice independence and prepare for the responsibilities of international travel. If you have questions after reviewing the packing guide or would like guidance based on your student's individual needs, we're always happy to help.