from $1199.00
Tour Map

Tour style – Culture & History

15 days

From the hustle of modern Mexico City, which preserves its magic from centuries gone by, to the ruins at Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this adventure takes in the cultural and historical highlights. It’s perfect for travellers on a tight budget looking to see as much as possible of this diverse region.
  • Day 1 Mexico City

    Arrive at any time. Check into our hotel and enjoy the city. Please try to arrive before 6pm for an important group meeting where you can meet the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and the other group members.

    Included Activities:
    Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting

  • Day 2 Mexico City

    Explore one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas or take an optional day trip to the famous archaeological site of Teotihuacán.

    If you prefer to get outside the city, the pyramids of Teotihuacán and the canals and gardens of Xochimilco are two good places to start. At night, you’ll have the option to witness the high-flying practitioners of “lucha libre,” Mexico’s world-famous brand of wrestling.

  • Day 3 Mexico City/Puebla

    After a short drive on one of Mexico’s comfortable and often colourful buses, we arrive in Puebla, famous for its hand-painted tiles, unique handicrafts, mouth-watering Mole Poblano and rich colonial history. Orientation walk around town upon arrival to help you get your bearings.

    If you want to get out of town, head to nearby Cholula, home to a massive pyramid that hosts a church at the top and is now covered by the town, to catch an impressive sunset.

    Included Activities:
    Orientation Walk

    Transport:
    First-class bus (2.00 hour(s), 130km)

  • Day 4 Puebla/Oaxaca

    Upon arrival in Oaxaca, your CEO will take you an orientation walk around town to introduce you to this fascinating city.

    Included Activities:
    Orientation Walk

    Transport:
    First-class bus (6.00 hour(s), 320km)

  • Day 5 Oaxaca

    Opt to travel to nearby artisan communities or visit the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán.

  • Day 6 Oaxaca/San Cristóbal de Las Casas

    Opt to travel to nearby artisan communities or visit the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán. Overnight bus to San Cristóbal.

    Transport:
    First-class bus (11.00 hour(s), 625km)

  • Day 7 San Cristóbal de Las Casas

    Crossing into the highlands, we make our way to the colonial city of San Cristóbal de las Casas. An included orientation tour will introduce you to the city and help give you your bearings.

    Known for its ties to the Zapatista revolution, San Cristóbal is also an architectural and cultural wonder. We have the option to take a trip to some of the outlying villages and learn how locals combine traditional beliefs and modern religion with intriguing results. Tours go into local homes to learn about day-to-day village life—an experience which should not be missed. You can also take a horse ride in the mountains, a day trip to Sumidero Canyon or mountain bike in the local hills.

    Additional Notes:
    The people here are as curious about foreigners as foreigners are about them. Please respect their traditions. Dress conservatively when visiting the villages and refrain from photographing religious ceremonies, or individuals who do not wish to be photographed. Put yourself in their place before you act.

    Included Activities:
    Orientation Walk

  • Day 8 San Cristóbal de Las Casas

    Enjoy another free day to visit nearby villages, check out the natural beauty of Chiapas, and scour the markets. Don’t miss the night life.

  • Day 9 San Cristóbal de Las Casas/Palenque

    A travel day by van through the mountains takes us to the outskirts of Palenque.

    Transport:
    Private Vehicle (7.00 hour(s), 350km)

  • Day 10 Palenque/Mérida

    One of the most significant ruins in the entire Mundo Maya, Palenque is set within the lush Chiapas jungle. The colourful, riotous wildlife and profuse flora will impress you as much as the ancient structures.

    Transport:
    First-class bus (9.00 hour(s), 550km)

  • Day 11 Mérida

    Arrive in the morning after crossing the states of Chiapas, Tabasco, and Campeche to the Yucatán state and its capital, Mérida, where you will take an orientation walk.

    Mérida is a fascinating and beautiful city and easy to explore on foot. If cities aren’t your thing, escape to the beach town of Progreso and see the Dzibilchaltun ruins on the way. Mérida is also the gateway to the Mayan ruins of the Puuc Route, the most famous of which is Uxmal, which rivals Chichén Itzá in its scale and extent of excavation. Visit a nearby cenote (water-filled sink hole) near the town of Cuzama, not far outside Mérida. Transportation is an adventure as it involves taking small wooden horse-drawn carts that run along old rail tracks. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters.

    Included Activities:
    Orientation Walk

  • Day 12 Mérida

    Explore Mérida, and opt to visit a nearby cenote (underground pool) near the town of Cuzamá or the Mayan ruins of Uxmal.

  • Day 13 Mérida/Playa del Carmen

    Begin the day with an included guided tour of the beautifully restored ruins of Chichén Itzá.

    Our final stop is Playa del Carmen, located on the beach just a 45-minute drive south of Cancún. The town is your last chance to enjoy some nightlife, buy last-minute souvenirs and relax and swim in the Caribbean Sea. There is also snorkelling and diving available, and long stretches of sandy beaches which are perfect for walking and relaxing after a hectic day.

    Included Activities:
    Chichén Itzá Guided Tour

    Transport:
    First-class bus (3.00 hour(s))
    First-class bus (4.00 hour(s))

  • Day 14 Playa del Carmen

    Opt to explore the Mayan ruins of Tulúm or just play in the waves and enjoy the beach!

  • Day 15 Playa del Carmen

    Depart at any time.

    Additional Notes:
    Playa del Carmen is located just south of Cancún airport (45 minute drive) so you can easily head directly there without returning to Cancún.

    Included Activities:
    Departure Day

Similar Posts