Highlights of Mexico

Welcome/Bienvenido to Mexico. On arrival at the airport, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel in Mexico City, one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the world. This vibrant capital is home to more than 22 million people and blends Aztec roots, colonial landmarks and modern energy. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to stretch your legs with a stroll to the nearby Zócalo, the city’s main square and a gathering place for thousands of years. You could also explore a local taquería or simply relax ahead of your journey. Elevation at Mexico City: 2,250 m / 7,382 ft Overnight: Hotel Casa Blanca Mexico City or similar

Meals:  Nil

Discover Teotihuacán, ‘the place where gods were created’. Teotihuacan is one of the most impressive archaeological sites of the country. It is assumed that the city may have counted 200,000 inhabitants during its period of prosperity. In those years, Teotihuacán was the biggest city of the American continent and one of the biggest of the world. Until its inhabitants abandoned the city around the 8th century, Teotihuacan was probably the most significant and civilized cultural centre of ancient Mexico. During this guided excursion you will encounter the magic and mystery of Teotihuacan. Admire (and climb) the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Walk down the Avenue of the Dead, visit the Temple of Quetzalcoatl with its unique stone sculptures of plumed serpents, the Temple of the Butterflies, and the Fortresses. Before arriving back at your hotel, we make a stop at the Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe, a pilgrimage place for millions of Mexicans and people from all around the world. Overnight: Hotel Casa Blanca Mexico City or similar

Meals:  B,L

Get to know one of the world´s biggest and most exciting cities! Enjoy a guided visit in the historical centre, listed by UNESCO as World Heritage. This interesting tour will include “The Zocalo”, the heart of the city, where you will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the oldest and largest of the Americas, and (if open) the National Palace, home of the famous murals of Diego Rivera (visit is subject to opening hours and governmental activities; entrance can be prohibited for tourists on certain days). You will also see the ruins of the Templo Mayor (entrance to temple not included), one of the most important temples of the Aztecs in their ancient capital city of Tenochtitlan. Next, we drive down the beautiful Paseo de la Reforma Avenue to arrive at Chapultepec Park. In preHispanic times a summer residence for the noble class of the Aztecs, now it is Mexico City’s largest park and one of the largest city parks in the world. We will visit the Museum of Anthropology. This museum is considered to be among the world’s finest of its kind. Here you will admire the famous Aztec calendar stone, models of Tenochtitlán, a fascinating market place diorama, giant stone Olmec heads from the jungles of Tabasco and Veracruz, among many other interesting treasures. Overnight: Hotel Casa Blanca Mexico City or similar

Meals:  B

Leave the bustle of Mexico City behind as we journey southeast toward Puebla, travelling through the shadow of two dramatic snowcapped volcanoes — Popocatépetl (“Smoking Mountain”, 5464m / 17,927ft) and Iztaccíhuatl (“Sleeping Lady”, 5230m / 17,159ft). Along the way, we’ll stop at Santa Maria Tonantzintla, a small church known for its richly decorated interior created by Indigenous artisans. In Puebla — the "City of Angels" — we explore the colonial heart of the city, including the ornate Rosary Chapel, the grand Cathedral, and the vibrant central square, all part of its UNESCO World Heritage listing. From here, continue through rugged mountain scenery to Oaxaca, one of Mexico’s most culturally rich cities. Framed by the Sierra Madre, Oaxaca blends Indigenous heritage, Spanish architecture and exceptional markets into one colourful, welcoming destination. Overnight: Hotel Mision de los Angeles or similar Approx transport times: Mexico City to Puebla (2.5 hrs, 150km / 93mi), Puebla to Oaxaca (4.5 hrs, 350km / 217mi)

Meals:  B,L

Today is all about ancient civilisations and timeless craftsmanship. We begin with a visit to Monte Albán, perched on a flattened mountain ridge high above the Oaxaca Valley. Once the capital of the Zapotec people, this UNESCO-listed site features plazas, temples and tombs that date back over 2,000 years. Next, we travel to Mitla, an important ceremonial site known for its intricate geometric stonework and sacred significance in Zapotec culture. Along the way, we stop at the famous Tule Tree, one of the widest in the world, with a trunk measuring over 14 metres, or 46 feet, in diameter. In the afternoon we return to Oaxaca, where you’ll have free time to explore. You may wish to visit the city’s Cathedral, the ornate Santo Domingo Church, the Museum of Gold or browse the colorful “20 de Noviembre” market. Overnight: Hotel Mision de los Angeles or similar

Meals:  B

After breakfast we travel east from Oaxaca to Mitla, one of the most important ceremonial centres of the Zapotec civilisation. Unlike Monte Albán, Mitla remained active long into the post-classic period and is famed for its extraordinary geometric mosaic designs. These stone fretworks are unique in Mesoamerica, and remain remarkably well preserved. Beside the site stands the 16th century Church of San Pablo, built by Spanish settlers using stones from the ancient complex, a striking symbol of the cultural overlap that defines much of southern Mexico. There is also the opportunity to visit a Palenque de Mezcal, a local distillery where you’ll learn about the traditional production methods of this iconic spirit. Discover the difference between reposado, añejo, and young mezcal, with a tasting to finish. From here we continue through the cactus-lined valleys of the Sierra Madre to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Arrive in the evening at the town of Santo Domingo Tehuantepec, a quiet regional centre with strong Zapotec roots. Overnight: Calli Hotel Tehuantepec or similar Approx transport times: Oaxaca to Mitla (1 hour, 45 km / 28 mi), Mitla to Tehuantepec (4 hours, 215 km / 134 mi)

Meals:  B,L,D

We depart early for the state of Chiapas, travelling through lush tropical scenery as we make our way toward Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Along the way, enjoy a dramatic change in climate and landscape as we move from the Isthmus lowlands into the highlands of southern Mexico. On arrival at Chiapa de Corzo, we board boats for a spectacular cruise through the Sumidero Canyon, where vertical walls rise up to 1,000 m (3,280 ft), above the Grijalva River. Keep your eyes open for crocodiles, monkeys and birdlife as we drift through this immense natural gorge. Following the boat trip, we continue by road up into the cool mountain town of San Cristóbal de las Casas, a cultural and historical gem set at 2,100 m (6,890 ft), above sea level. The evening is free to enjoy the town’s cobbled streets, local markets and welcoming atmosphere. Overnight: Diego de Mazariegos or similar Transport times: Tehuantepec to Chiapa de Corzo (5 hours, 275 km / 171 mi), Chiapa de Corzo to San Cristóbal (1.5 hours, 70 km / 43 mi)

Meals:  B

Today offers an insight into the deep cultural traditions of Chiapas. We begin with an excursion to the highlands surrounding San Cristóbal de las Casas, where we visit the villages of Tzotzil Maya and communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán. These Indigenous villages reflect the complex ethnic and spiritual identity of the region, where ancient beliefs blend with Christian traditions in powerful and often mystical ways. In San Juan Chamula, the church is the focal point of local religious life, combining pre-Hispanic rituals with Catholic symbolism. In nearby Zinacantán, you may observe traditional weaving techniques or sample handmade tortillas in a local family home. Return to San Cristóbal in the early afternoon. The rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. You may wish to visit the vibrant craft market, the city’s Cathedral, or the excellent Jade Museum, which offers fascinating insight into Maya artistry and symbolism. Overnight: Diego de Mazariegos or similar Approx transport times: Round trip to villages (2 hours, 20 km / 12 mi)

Meals:  B

This morning we depart the highlands and descend into the lush lowlands of Chiapas, travelling through tropical scenery toward some of Mexico’s most beautiful natural wonders. Our first stop is the stunning Agua Azul, where clear turquoise waters cascade through a series of limestone pools surrounded by thick jungle. Conditions permitting, you may enjoy a swim in one of the calmer sections or take a short walk to admire the scenery from various vantage points. We continue on to Misol-Ha, a dramatic single-drop waterfall plunging 35 m (115 ft) into a deep pool. The jungle setting makes it a favourite film backdrop, and there is a walkway that passes behind the curtain of water, offering a unique perspective. In the afternoon, we arrive at Palenque, one of Mexico’s most famous archaeological zones. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight: Ciudad Real or similar Approx Transport times: San Cristóbal to Agua Azul (4.5 hours, 200 km / 124 mi), Agua Azul to Palenque (1.5 hours, 70 km / 43 mi)

Meals:  B

This morning we explore the archaeological site of Palenque, one of the most significant Maya cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by dense jungle, the site is renowned for both its natural setting and exquisite architecture. It was here, inside the Pyramid of the Inscriptions, that archaeologists discovered the sarcophagus and carved gravestone of King Pakal, one of the great rulers of the Maya world. Take time to admire the grand structures, sculpted reliefs and the tranquil jungle atmosphere that still envelops the site. After our visit, we travel north to the coastal town of Campeche, once a thriving Spanish port. Campeche’s prosperity made it a repeated target for pirate raids. Following a major attack in 1663, defensive walls and watchtowers were built around the city. On arrival, enjoy a panoramic city tour to take in the colourful architecture, seafront setting and historical landmarks. Overnight: Plaza Campeche or similar Approx transport times: Palenque to Campeche (5.5 hours, 360 km / 224 mi)

Meals:  B

Today we travel inland toward Mérida, with a stop at the ancient Maya city of Uxmal, meaning "built three times". Located in the Puuc region, Uxmal is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Yucatán and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered the finest example of Puuc-style architecture, with its smooth stonework and intricate friezes. Explore the site’s most iconic structures, including the Pyramid of the Magician, the Quadrangle of the Nuns, the Governor’s Palace, and the ballgame court. Your guide will help uncover the history and symbolism behind this once-thriving ceremonial centre. After the visit, we continue to Mérida, the capital of Yucatán and often called La Ciudad Blanca, or “The White City”, for its elegant colonial buildings. On arrival, enjoy a panoramic city tour, taking in Montejo Avenue, the Monument to the Fatherland, the main square, and Mérida’s Cathedral and Government Palace. Overnight: Gamma Mérida El Castellano or similar Approx transport times: Campeche to Uxmal (2 hours, 170 km / 106 mi), Uxmal to Mérida (1.5 hours, 85 km / 53 mi)

Meals:  B,L

This morning we visit Chichén Itzá, one of the most important Maya cities of the Late Classic and Postclassic periods, and today the best-preserved archaeological site on the Yucatán Peninsula. In 2007, it was recognised as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The site showcases a range of architectural styles that reflect both Maya and Toltec influence. Highlights of your guided visit include the Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo), the Great Ballgame Court, the Platform of the Skulls, the Temple of the Jaguar, the Observatory, the Temple of the One Thousand Columns and the Sacred Cenote. After the visit, we continue to Ik Kil, one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico. This open-air sinkhole is framed by vines and natural rock, with a carved staircase leading down to a swimming platform. The water lies about 26 m (85 ft), below ground level, offering an atmospheric and refreshing place for a swim, conditions permitting. We then continue by road to Cancún, where you will be dropped off at your hotel. Approx transport times: Mérida to Chichén Itzá (2.5 hours, 120 km / 75 mi), Chichén Itzá to Cancún (3 hours, 200 km / 124 mi) NB: Due to late arrival in Cancun we recommend to book an extra night of accommodation, or continue your journey on the Riviera Maya Experience (MCE)

Meals:  B,L