Classic Mexico: Mexico City, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Campeche & More

Arrive at Mexico City International Airport and transfer to your hotel.

Accommodation: Barceló México Reforma (or similar)

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, embark on a tour of Mexico City. Starting at the Constitution Plaza, commonly known as Zócalo, where beautiful Baroque buildings adorn the surroundings. Among them stands the awe-inspiring Cathedral, the country's largest religious monument constructed atop the great Aztec temple. Marvel at the blend of history and architecture. Next, explore the Palacio Nacional, the Presidential headquarters, an external view of its grandeur awaits you. Don't miss the Templo Mayor, a recent discovery and the ancient Aztec capital's great temple. This archaeological gem offers a glimpse into Aztec civilization's religious practices. Make a brief stop at the Guadalupe Shrine to appreciate its cultural significance. Continuing your tour, you'll journey to Teotihuacán, known as "the place where the Gods are born." Here, three monumental structures await: the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, and the Citadel, all connected by the legendary "Calzada de los Muertos" (Road of the Dead). End your afternoon with lunch, and your adventure concludes as you return to your accommodation in Mexico City.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the capital of Chiapas. Once you arrive, you will be make your way to the Cahuaré wharf. Hop aboard a launch boat and embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Cañón del Sumidero (Sumidero Canyon). As you traverse the canyon's dramatic landscape, the elevation and sheer beauty of the surroundings will leave you in awe. Following this unforgettable experience, your tour continues to the enchanting San Cristóbal de las Casas. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Upon your arrival in San Cristóbal de las Casas, you will check-in at your hotel, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the charm of this picturesque town, known for its colonial architecture and cultural richness. Approximate distance: 68 km (42 miles)

Accommodation: Sombra del Agua (or similar)

Start your day with a visit to one of the region's most vibrant local markets, where hundreds of Indigenous artisans gather daily to showcase their handcrafted wares. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of colors and traditions that define this bustling marketplace. Following this, the tour leads you to the magnificent Baroque Santo Domingo Church, established in 1547. This architectural gem offers a glimpse into the colonial history of the region and its spiritual heritage. Moving on to the Indigenous communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán. San Juan Chamula has a unique connection to its church, where ceremonies once blended indigenous paganism with Catholicism, creating a distinctive syncretic faith. In contrast, the Zinacantán community remains deeply loyal to the Catholic faith, reflecting the diverse religious traditions within Chiapas. While in these communities, you'll have the opportunity to try your hand at making delicious tortillas and savor a shot of "Pox," an ancient Mayan elixir that provides a taste of local culture and traditions. As the day concludes, you'll return to San Cristóbal.

Kickstart your day at the hotel's coffee station. Afterward, it's an early departure for Palenque, with a few notable stops along the way. First, stop in Ocosingo to enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. Continuing on your journey, you'll encounter the breathtaking Agua Azul (Blue Water) waterfalls, a true natural wonder. The approximately 5-hour drive along winding mountain roads offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lush vegetation of Chiapas, providing a glimpse of the region's abundant natural beauty. Upon reaching Palenque, you'll check-in at your accommodation. Approximate distance: 191 km (119 miles)

Accommodation: Villa Mercedes Palenque (or similar)

Begin your day with a visit to the Palenque archaeological site, a true masterpiece of Mayan craftsmanship nestled within the enchanting Chiapanecan jungle. The site's captivating stone and stucco work have earned it a reputation as one of Mexico's most beautiful places. At its heart lies the Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of the Inscriptions), where the discovery of Pakal's tomb, adorned with his iconic jade green mask, continues to amaze visitors. Next, your journey takes you to Campeche, the capital of Campeche State. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant en route. Upon arrival in Campeche, embark on a brief exploration of the historic town, encircled by protective fort walls and watchtowers erected to defend against pirates. Campeche exudes a colonial ambiance with its charming houses and austere churches. After your city tour, check-in at your hotel. Approximate distance: 362 km (225 miles)

Accommodation: Gamma Campeche Malecón (or similar)

Set out on a journey to Mérida with a stop at the Uxmal archaeological site along the way. Uxmal, meaning "built in three stages," stands as a quintessential example of the classic and post-classic Mayan period. Its prominent structures, such as the Pirámide del Adivino (The Fortuneteller’s Pyramid), Palacio de los Gobernadores (Governor’s Palace), and the Cuadrángulo de las Monjas (Quadrangle of the Nuns), showcase the architectural brilliance of the Mayan civilization. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continuing towards Mérida, the "White City," you'll encounter a charming blend of colonial houses and properties dating back to the early 20th century, reflecting Arabic, French, and Italian architectural influences. These houses bear witness to the wealth generated during the sisal culture era. During a stop at Mérida’s Zócalo, admire the city's prominent monuments, including the Cathedral, the Government’s Palace, the Municipal Palace, and the Francisco Montejo’s House, each revealing the city's rich heritage. Conclude your day by checking in at your hotel. Approximate distance: 169 km (105 miles)

Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Mérida (or similar)

Set off to explore the Chichén Itzá archaeological site, the ancient Mayan capital of Yucatán, which thrived from the 5th to the 10th centuries AD. Here, you'll marvel at the grandeur of iconic structures within the northern and central archaeological zones, including the Kukulcán Temple, the Ball Game court, the Observatory, the Warrior's Temple, the Convent of the Nuns, and the Sacred Cenote. Lunch is included at a restaurant. In the afternoon, your journey continues towards the Riviera Maya, with a stop at Cenote Saamal. Take a refreshing swim in its crystalline waters. Finally, arrive at your destination. Approximate distance: 309 km (192 miles)

Accommodation: Barcelo Maya Beach (or similar)

Transfer to the Cancun International airport for your onward flight.