Complete Guide to Filming in Mexico: Locations, Permits, and Production Tips

Thinking about filming your next project in Mexico? Explore the best filming locations, key logistics, necessary permits, and tips for a successful production. Let us guide you through every step of the process, with over 14 years of experience backing us up.

By Kanan Films

If you’re reading this, there’s a high chance you’re considering bringing your next audiovisual project to Mexico— and we totally get it! With its rich diversity of landscapes, Mexico is the perfect place to bring your creative vision to life. From stunning white sand beaches with turquoise waters to picturesque valleys and towering mountains, and even dramatic deserts where the sunsets are nothing short of magical, Mexico offers endless filming opportunities. Additionally, the professionalism and dedication of local crews ensure that every production, big or small, runs smoothly.

However, to ensure the production process flows seamlessly, it’s crucial to consider various logistical factors such as the ideal filming dates, permits, safety, transportation, cultural nuances, and more. At Kanan Films, we boast over 10 years of experience producing top-tier films, videos, and photos in Mexico.

We’ve had the privilege of working with top-tier brands like Adidas, Tresemmé, Yeti, and Sepia Films, building a reputation as a reliable and trusted production partner. That’s why we’re thrilled to share our best tips for bringing your commercial, music video, film, or any other audiovisual project to life in this incredible country.

Let’s make it happen!

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First Steps: Understanding the Scope and Creative Vision

Before jumping into logistics, it’s vital to fully understand the scope of your project. Initial meetings between clients and production companies should involve a thorough briefing process to align goals, budget, timeline, deliverables, and any limitations. Establishing clear expectations on both sides is essential for ensuring a smooth production process. A mood board can help visualize the project’s needs and set the tone for the overall vision.

Once you have a clear vision, it’s time to list all your needs, including locations, talent, equipment, and production design. The more detailed you are from the start, the fewer surprises you’ll face down the road. After identifying all necessary elements, you can begin assembling the ideal crew for your project. At Kanan Films, we’ve successfully managed productions with over 300 people, overcoming all challenges that came our way quickly and efficiently. Mexico is one of the largest film production hubs in Latin America, and the talent of its local crew members is unmatched.

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Location Scouting: If You Can’t Find the Perfect Location, We'll Create It

When it comes to location scouting, Mexico truly offers something for every type of production. Fly into Cancun and you’re just 20 minutes away from pristine Caribbean beaches. Head west to the Yucatán Peninsula and you’ll find quaint towns, mystical cenotes, and ancient Mayan ruins. The northern regions feature vast deserts that will transport you to a whole different world. Then there’s Mexico City, with its bustling streets full of art galleries, parks, award-winning restaurants, and historical landmarks. Mexico City is also home to one of Latin America’s most iconic filming locations, Estudios Churubusco.

But what happens when you need a location that combines multiple elements, and you can’t find it all in one place?

This is where the creativity and expertise of a good production team come into play. If the ideal location doesn’t exist, we create it! At Kanan Films, we’ve taken on some of the most ambitious projects, like Ondamax’s french action film 3 JOURS MAX, Netflix’s Original Series The Cage, and Harry Styles’ Music Video for Lights UpYou can explore these projects and the people involved here.  

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Making It All Work: Detail-Oriented Logistics are the Golden Standard

Congratulations—you’ve found the perfect location! But now the real work begins. Thorough logistics planning is crucial to ensure everything runs without a hitch. This includes understanding the climate, finding the best routes for access, arranging transportation, ensuring safety measures are in place, securing permits, and organizing accommodations for your crew.

At Kanan Films, we take care of all logistical aspects so you can focus on the creative side of the project. We believe in leaving no stone unturned, and here’s a breakdown of the most important logistical elements you’ll need to consider:

The Climate

It’s essential to understand the weather patterns in the chosen location, especially in regions like the Yucatán Peninsula, where tropical storms can be unpredictable, or the deserts in the north, where extreme heat is a factor. This knowledge will guide your production schedule and ensure you are prepared for all weather conditions.

Access, Transportation, and Safety

We will ensure that the location is easily accessible for equipment trucks, transportation, and emergency services. It’s vital that your location is film-friendly and safe for both crew and talent. This includes understanding road conditions, the distance to essential services, and possible restrictions.

Permits

In Mexico, various locations require specific permits to shoot, particularly in protected natural areas or archaeological sites. For example, shooting in protected natural zones requires permission from CONANP (National Commission of Protected Natural Areas), with a response time of 2-3 weeks. For filming in archaeological sites or museums, you need approval from INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History). Note that these permits are often granted for educational, cultural, or promotional projects—though actors in these cases must be specialists certified by the institute.

Living and Travel

Once the location is selected, it’s time to design the travel and living logistics. We ensure that accommodations are comfortable for the crew, with convenient hotels that provide adequate rest and allow for the setup of a functional production office with reliable internet. The key is to ensure everyone gets sufficient rest while staying safe.

Gear Rental

In areas like the Riviera Maya, camera and lens rental options are limited. We work closely with partners to secure professional film equipment. If more specialized digital cinema cameras and lenses are required, we can arrange rentals from our trusted contacts in Mexico City.

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Conclusion

Filming in Mexico presents an exciting opportunity to explore its unique beauty, talent, and culture, while benefiting from a highly professional and reliable production environment. 

At Kanan Films, we’re here to guide you through every step of the production process, from scouting the perfect location to managing the logistics that make your project come to life. We believe in the art of making things happen —and we’re here to help make them a reality.

Ready to bring your next project to Mexico? Let’s talk!

THE ART OF MAKING THINGS HAPPEN

CANCUN HUB
Calle Robalo 24d-3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., México
makeithappen@kananfilms.com
(+52) 9981093378