Summary

Explore the highlights of this fascinating country on this sample itinerary to Mexico. See the imprint of the Olmec, Zapotec, Toltec, Maya and Aztec civilisations on modern Mexico. This is a tailored itinerary and is fully flexible to suit your tastes, timeframe and budget.

Highlights

• See the imprint of the Olmec, Zapotec, Toltec, Maya and Aztec civilisations on modern Mexico
• Visit the colonial gems of Puebla, Oaxaca and San Cristobal de las Casas
• Taste some of Mexico’s finest cuisine in the foodie capital of Oaxaca
• The nearby villages of San Bartolo Coyotepec, San Martin Tilcajete and Santo Tomas Jalieza in Oaxaca are famous for their unique handcrafts, considered some of the best in the country
• History buffs can’t miss Palenque and Chichen Itza – two of Mexico’s most impressive Maya ruins
• Relax on the stunning Yucatan Peninsula

ITINERARY

Day 1 Mexico City

Arrive Mexico City and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2 Mexico City

Early departure to Teotihuacan Ruins to see the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and enjoy the ruins in the cooler part of the day. Return to Mexico City to explore the highlights, including the Zocalo, Cathedral, National Palace and the world renowned Museum of Anthropology.

Day 3 Mexico City

Half-day tour of the bohemian district of Coyoacan, including the famous Frida Kahlo Museum.

Day 4 Mexico City/Puebla

Travel overland to Puebla, passing towering snow-capped volcanoes along the way. Famous for its hand painted ‘talavera’ tiles and ceramics, Puebla’s streets, churches and plazas are a constant reminder of this beautiful craft.

Day 5 Puebla

Day at leisure to relax and explore this UNESCO Heritage listed city.

Day 6 Puebla/Oaxaca

Overland bus ride to Oaxaca, encircled by the Sierra Mountains. Beautiful Oaxaca was once the centre of the Mixtec and Zapotec civilisations.

Day 7 Oaxaca

Half-day tour to the ruins of Monte Alban with its exquisite architecture, unique stone mosaics and stunning views over the Central Valleys.

Day 8 Oaxaca

Morning tour of the local markets, followed by a cooking class where you’ll learn some traditional Oaxacan recipes. Enjoy the fruits of your labours with a delicious lunch. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 9 Oaxaca/San Cristobal

Flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez. On arrival, you will be transferred to San Cristobal via the Sumidero Canyon. Enjoy a boat ride along the Grijalva River to view the impressive canyon walls, over a kilometre high.

Day 10 San Cristobal

Morning visit to the colourful market and the native villages of Chamula and Zinacantan. These living Tzotzil communities conserve important ancient traditions.

Day 11 San Cristobal/Palenque

Morning drive to Agua Azul waterfalls where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. In the afternoon continue to Palenque and stay overnight.

Day 12 Palenque/Campeche

Half-day tour of the Maya ruins of Palenque, built on the fringe of the Chiapas jungle. Transfer overland to Campeche this afternoon and stay overnight.

Day 13 Campeche/Merida

Depart for Merida this morning, with a visit to the ruins of Uxmal (‘three times built’) and Kabah en route. Uxmal is one of the best restored and maintained ruins in the Yucatan and certainly one of the most magnificent. After the tour continue to Merida.

Day 14 Merida

Morning tour of Merida, with the afternoon free to explore this lively and colourful city at your own pace.

Day 15 Merida

Day at leisure to relax and explore.

Day 16 Merida/Playa Del Carmen

Today, travel across the Yucatan Peninsula to the Riviera Maya, with a guided tour of the spectacular ruins of Chichen Itza on the way.

Day 17 Tulum/Playa Del Carmen

Half-day tour of Tulum; the only Maya site built along the coast and featuring stunning views of the azure waters of the Caribbean.

Day 18 Playa Del Carmen

Day at leisure to relax on the beach.

Day 19 Playa Del Carmen

Transfer to the airport in Cancun for your onward flight.

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