Great Mexico: Mexico City, Oaxaca, Palenque & More

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

Being located on a plateau at 2240 metres/7350 feet in height above sea level makes Mexico City an all-year-around comfortable destination to visit. However, that’s just a start as to why one would enjoy a stay here. It is a thriving, cosmopolitan capital city (the oldest in the Americas) offering excellent cultural pursuits with its many museums and art galleries (how about 160 museums and 100 art galleries to choose from), history dating back to before the arrival of the Conquistadores, culinary delights and choices, colourful neighbourhoods and bustling street markets. 

Accommodation: Barceló México Reforma

Enjoy an American breakfast at the hotel followed by a comprehensive city tour. Explore the Plaza de la Constitución, also known as Zócalo, surrounded by splendid baroque buildings, including the impressive Cathedral built atop the former Aztec temple. Admire the Palacio Nacional, housing the Presidency of Mexico. A top of particular interest is the Templo Mayor, a renowned Aztec temple. You’ll then make a brief stop at the Guadalupe Shrine before departing for Teotihuacán, dubbed "the place where the Gods are born" by the Aztecs. Marvel at the Pyramid of the Sun, Pyramid of the Moon, and the Citadel, all situated along the "Calzada de los Muertos" (the Road of the Dead). Enjoy lunch at a restaurant, then return to your accommodation in Mexico City.

Depart by bus to the charming colonial city of Puebla. Explore the Santo Domingo church, with the opportunity to visit the impressive Rosario Chapel, a prominent example of Mexican Baroque art. Later in the afternoon, continue the journey to Oaxaca by bus. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and enjoy the balance of the day at leisure. Approximate distance: 474 km (295 miles)

Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express hotel (or similar)

A day dedicated to exploring Oaxaca and Monte Albán. Begin in the morning with a visit to the renowned archaeological site of Monte Albán, an elevated ceremonial center featuring pyramids, tombs, and intricate sunken reliefs. In the afternoon, return to Oaxaca to discover the city known as the "Cradle of Patriots." Explore the Zócalo, home to the Cathedral and Santo Domingo Church. Continue with visits to the historic Santa Catalina from Siena friary and the vibrant local market, highlighting the region's distinct culture. Afterward, return to your accommodation.

Depart for Santiago Matatlán, a 1-hour drive from Oaxaca, renowned as the "Mezcal capital." Explore  Palenque, and participate in a Mezcal workshop where you will witness the traditional production process of this increasingly popular beverage. Next, travel to Tehuantepec (4 hours) for lunch. In the afternoon, continue the journey to Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the capital of Chiapas (5 hours). Upon arrival, settle into your hotel. Approximate distance: 567 km (352 miles)

Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Tuxtla Gutiérrez (or similar)

Transfer to Cahuaré wharf for a scenic boat trip through the stunning Cañón del Sumidero (Sumidero Canyon), where the altitude and natural beauty create an unforgettable experience. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant and then proceed to San Cristóbal de las Casas and check-in to your hotel. The afternoon is free for leisure activities. Approximate distance: 68 km (42 miles)

Accommodation: Hotel Sombra del Agua (or similar)

Begin the day with a visit to a vibrant local market, where Indigenous artisans showcase their handmade crafts. Continue to the Baroque Santo Domingo Church founded in 1547. Next, explore the Indigenous communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán. San Juan Chamula's connection to the church is fascinating due to its blend of paganism and Catholicism in ceremonies. In contrast, Zinacantán's Indigenous population is devoted to the Catholic faith. Experience making your own tortilla and savor a shot of "Pox," an ancient Mayan elixir. Return to your accommodation in San Cristóbal.

Enjoy a coffee at the hotel before embarking on an early departure to Palenque. Along the way, make a stop in Ocosingo for breakfast at a local restaurant and admire the stunning Agua Azul (Blue Water) waterfalls. The journey, spanning around 5 hours on a scenic mountain road, offers a glimpse of the lush vegetation characteristic of the Chiapas region. Upon arriving in Palenque, check-in at the hotel. Approximate distance: 191 km (119 miles)

Embark on a visit to the Palenque archaeological site, a captivating area displaying exquisite Mayan stone and stucco work. Nestled within the Chiapanecan jungle, this location is often hailed as one of Mexico's most picturesque spots, with its ruins harmonizing with the lush surroundings. The notable Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of the Inscriptions) is a highlight, famed for housing Pakal's tomb and his iconic jade mask. Afterwards, proceed to Campeche, the capital of the Campeche State. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant en route. Upon reaching Campeche, take a brief tour of the historic town, enclosed by fortified walls and towers designed to shield the city from pirates. Campeche exudes a colonial charm, boasting elegant houses and modest churches. Following the city exploration, check-in at your hotel. Approximate distance: 362 km (225 miles)

Accommodation: Hotel Gamma Campeche Malecón (or similar)

Embark on a journey to Mérida, with a notable visit to the Uxmal archaeological site along the way. Uxmal, meaning "built in three stages," stands as a prime representation of the classic and post-classic Mayan periods. Its key structures include 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). Enjoy a satisfying lunch at a restaurant before proceeding to Mérida, often referred to as the "White City." Here, a blend of Colonial and century-old houses in Arabic, French, and Italian styles reflects the city's past wealth generated from sisal cultivation. Pause at Mérida's Zócalo, where prominent monuments such as the Cathedral, Government's Palace, Municipal Palace, and Francisco Montejo's House grace the landscape. Upon reaching Mérida, check-in at your hotel. Approximate distance: 169 km (105 miles)

Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Mérida (or similar)

Set forth on a journey to explore the renowned Chichén Itzá archaeological site, once the thriving Mayan capital of Yucatán, flourishing from the 5th to 10th centuries AD. Marvel at the grandeur of the northern and central archaeological structures, including the Kukulcán Temple, Ball Game, Observatory, Warrior's Temple, Convent of the Nuns, and Sacred Cenote. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant within Chichén Itzá's premises. Later in the day, continue your adventure to Riviera Maya, making a stop at Cenote Saamal for a revitalizing swim. Arrive and check-in at your hotel. Approximate distance: 309 km (192 miles)

Accommodation: Barcelo Maya Beach (or similar)

Check out and transfer to Cancun International airport for your onward flight.