Travelpack

San Juan Teotihuacán • Mexico • Oaxaca • Hierve el Agua • Monte Albán • Las Coloradas • Chichén-Itzá • Riviera Maya • Tulum

Overview
Embark on an extraordinary 13-day cultural journey through Mexico, blending ancient wonders, vibrant traditions, and natural beauty. From soaring above the pyramids of Teotihuacán in a hot air balloon and exploring the rich colonial and Aztec heritage of Mexico City, to marveling at Oaxaca’s petrified waterfalls, Zapotec ruins, and artisanal crafts, this itinerary offers a deeply immersive experience. Discover Yucatán's flavors on a guided gastronomic tour in Mérida, cruise through the surreal pink lagoons of Las Coloradas, and uncover the mystique of Chichén Itzá before unwinding in Tulum with its iconic Mayan ruins and tranquil cenotes. With carefully curated excursions, charming boutique hotels, seamless transfers, and flights all included, this small-group adventure is the ultimate way to experience Mexico's most captivating highlights — from ancient civilizations to modern-day marvels — in comfort and style.

Day 1: Outbound
Flights from London Heathrow Airport to Mexico City Benito Juarez International via Paris Charles De Gaulle
Stay at the Americana Reforma Hotel for 3 nights

Day 2: Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon Day Tour
We'll pick you up at your hotel in Mexico City early in the morning to take a 1-hour drive to Teotihuacan. The pick-up service starts at 5:00am and follows a route that covers most of the hotels in Mexico City. Once we arrive at the balloon port, you'll register at the front desk (you'll need to sign a waiver letter) and then enjoy a coffee break bar as you watch our crew begin to inflate the balloon. Once the balloon is ready, we will board and the pilot will give safety instructions. As soon as it leaves the ground it's an unforgettable experience! Feel the excitement of admiring the Saun and Moon Temples from 2,000 feet above the ground and admire the beautiful green valley, volcanoes and mountains during the flight. It is important to mention that hot air balloons cannot be directed - they follow the wind's direction and therefore the place of landing cannot be predicted. Our ground staff will monitor the balloon all time to assist us in landing. Once on land, the balloon will be stored and you will be transferred back to the balloon port. After an unforgettable experience, we will invite you to our garden to enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast. Around 13:30, we will pick you up from Teotihuacan to start our return trip to Mexico City. The return will take us longer than the arrival due to traffic (estimated 2 hours). You will be dropped-off at the same place we picked you up. Inclusions: Glass of sparkling wine, Breakfast,Roundtrip transfer from and to Mexico City to Teotihuacan, Archaeological Area 45-min ride in hot-air-balloon, Flight certificate, Coffee break.

Day 3: Hidden Downtown Day Tour
To start off well head to Templo Mayor Museum. Here you will hear some historical facts about the different culture the Spanish encountered when they arrived to the region. Next well jump through time to the colonial period and visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and the bell tower where we will learn about the introduction of a new religion to the region. Well learn how traditions changed replacing Aztec gods with a new religion. Then we'll return to modern-day Mexico City. Continue your journey as you commute like a local, riding the subway to a famous community market; Mercado San Juan. Along the way, your guide will share some facts with you about about public transportation in one of the biggest cities in he world. We will arrive to an exotic market and you will navigate and sample some exciting snacks on display. To wind down from the crowds we will head over to Torre Sears where you will enjoy the best views of Fine Arts Palace (Palacio de Bellas Artes) and sip on some included refreshments. Here, you will learn some fun facts about Palacio de Bellas Artes that has gone from being a colonial-era convent into a modern-day display of Mexican arts and culture. After our refreshments well dive into the arts with a visit to the Diego Rivera Mural Museum. We then return to the meeting point where, having covered some key cultural and historical spots in the city, your Mexico City exploration will come to an end.

Day 4: Mexixo City - Oaxaca
Flights from Mexico via Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport to Oaxaca Xoxocotlan International Airport
Check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport. Fly from Mexico City to Oaxaca. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel La Casa de Adobe for a three-night stay.

Day 5: Hierve el Agua, Mitla & Tule Day Trip
Embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Oaxaca, where each stop bursts with history, artistry, and wonder! Our journey begins with a visit to the legendary El Tule tree, a natural marvel that has stood for centuries. This awe-inspiring ahuehuete is one of the largest trees on Earth, tipping the scales at a staggering 509 tonnes! Stand in its colossal shade and marvel at its ancient, intricate trunk a true living monument to time. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Teotitln del Valle, the renowned Zapotec weavers town. Here, master artisans demonstrate centuries-old weaving and dyeing techniques, transforming wool into dazzling rugs. Marvel at their unique patterns some imagined by the weavers themselves, others inspired by world- famous artists like Toledo, Picasso, and Tamayo. Witness creativity come to life in every fiber! Our exploration continues with a visit to the archeological site of Mitla, the place of the dead. Marvel at the breathtaking architecture, intricate geometric decorations, and the mystical energy of one of Oaxacas magicaltowns. Well then head to a traditional Mezcal Factory, where youll witness the fascinating mezcal-making process from start to finishand, of course, enjoy a tasting session featuring a variety of unique and flavorful mezcals. Our adventure wouldnt be complete without a short stop at Hierve el Aguaa natural wonder famous for its petrified waterfalls. Take in the spectacular views and snap some unforgettable photos during this 60-minute visit. After a day filled with discovery and delight, well return you comfortably to your accommodation in Oaxaca City, where you can reminisce on a truly amazing Oaxacan experience!

Day 6: Monte Alban, Black Pottery and Alebrijes
Monte Albn is the biggest Zapotec urban centre, was built in Oaxaca and that's because these ruins are the most important in the entire It takes part of the World Heritage list UNESCO, this place is going to be our first stop. Arrazola is an artisan town. The shapes made of Copal are fantastically carved and painted, called Alebrijes. Finally, we going to visit San Bartolo Coyotepec, worldwide famous because of the beautiful black mud shapes.

Day 7: Oaxaca - Merida
Flights from Oaxaca Xoxocotlan International Airport to Merida Mexico via Mexico City Benito Juarez International Airport
Check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport. Fly Oaxaca to Merida. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel Casa Italia Yucatan for a three-night stay.

Day 8: Gastronomic tour of typical Yucatecan food
We will start the tour in the heart of the city, once our small group (3-6people) is together we will visit 2 of the most emblematic markets of Yucatan where we will taste multiple dishes of Yucatecan cuisine in the best stalls/stands of the market. Along with breakfast we will also enjoy a refreshing fruit water and to finish we will taste typical sweets of my beautiful Yucatan. During the tour I will tell you about the ingredients and the preparation of the different dishes we will taste as well as the influence of the Mayan culture in Yucatecan gastronomy and how their heritage is still alive in our palate. Inclusions: Guided tour of various market stalls with an expert tour guide. Food, Drink and Dessert

Day 9: Tour to Las Coloradas with Lunch & boat
First, we will go to the pink lagoons called Las Coladas, where you can admire the bright and unusual pink color! Take photos and enjoy the scenery. (You will learn about color, process, and much more) Then we will have time to rest and relax on a fantastic virgin beach called Cancunito. You can swim in the ocean if you want! The next stop will be the boat ride!! Have fun getting to know the ecosystem and looking for crocodiles and flamingos. Arrive back in Merida.

Day 10: Chichen Itza Day Trip (from Merida to Tulum)
You will be picked up from your accommodation to go to Chichen Itza. One of its most legendary structures is the Kukulkan pyramid, also known as El Castillo, which is a giant Maya calendar with exactly 365 steps divided among 4 staircases and the pyramids highest platform. During both equinoxes (around March 21st & September 21st) the suns shadow cast on this pyramid at a perfect angle creates the illusion of a serpent creeping its way along the structures northern staircase. Dont miss the Gran Juego de Pelota, in which ancient Maya warriors battled to the death in this ceremonial game. Check out the acoustics of the structure by holding a conversation with someone standing 135 meters away at the opposite end of the field and the stone carvings of players in action. Feel the spirit of the Maya world by standing here admiring this unique and majestic construction that was once of monumental importance to the former inhabitants here. Other impressive structures you cant miss are the Plataforma de los Craneos (Skull Platform) and the Cenote Sagrado (Sacred Cave). Check out the impressive stone carvings on other pyramids and temples of jaguars, flowers, birds, trees, eagles and among the more gruesome, human sacrifices and human hearts in the clutches of bird claws. The observatory, El Caracol, named The Snail for its spiral staircase, was once an important point from which priests determined important dates for ceremonies and rituals. City Center Drop-off At the end of the activity, we will take you to Tulum city center. Accommodation at Naala Tulum with breakfast for a three-night stay.

Day 11: Riviera Maya: Tulum Ruins and 2 Cenotes Half-Day Tour
Begin your journey with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, and head to the breathtaking Tulum Archaeological Zone. Set along the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, Tulum offers a stunning combination of natural beauty and ancient Mayan history. With your expert guide, explore iconic structures such as the Temple of the Frescoes, the Temple of the God of Wind, and the majestic El Castillo pyramid. Enjoy free time to wander the site and take in views of the pristine white-sand beaches below. Next, travel to the tranquil Cenote Mariposa, a icturesque spot surrounded by lush jungle. Take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters and marvel at the serene natural environment. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you relax in this underground oasis. Continue to Cenote Chen-Ha, another hidden gem in the Riviera Maya. Plunge into its cool, inviting waters and take in the peaceful surroundings before concluding your adventure. After exploring these remarkable locations, return to your hotel with memories of ancient ruins and stunning cenotes to last a lifetime.

Day 12: Tulum
Enjoy your day at leisure

Day 13: Tulum Cancun
Check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport.

What is included in the offer?
• International and domestic flights with 23 kg baggage allowance
• 3 nights at the Fiesta Americana Reforma with bed & breakfast
• 3 nights at the La Casa de Adobe with bed & breakfast
• 3 nights at the Casa Italia Yucatán with bed & breakfast
• 3 nights at the Naala Tulum with bed & breakfast
• Excursions and sightseeing as per the itinerary
• Shared transfers throughout the trip

Based on 2 adults sharing

Deposit £1000pp
• A14185 Heathrow from £2919pp
• A17318 Dublin from £3149pp
• A17291 Edinburgh from £3309pp
•A17286 Manchester from £3379pp
•A17296 Glasgow from £3099pp

Meal Plans