Mexico City, Oaxaca & The Maya Route

Head out from your hotel in the morning, accompanied by your local expert, to visit the iconic landmarks of the city. Start at the Plaza de las Tres Culturas, the square of three cultures in Tlatelolco, which houses the remains of Aztec temples. Take in the sight of ancient ruins co-existing harmoniously adjacent to the Catholic church of Santiago de Tlatelolco and a modern housing complex. Drive on to the sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site of Teotihuacan on the outskirts of the city. Wander around this spectacular archeological site, stopping by the impressive Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, Quetzalpapalotl Palace with its murals, and the Avenue of the Dead as your guide points out their unique features. Explore these ancient ruins to your heart’s content before visiting the Basilica of Guadalupe to explore both the old and new basilicas, your next stop before starting back on the journey to your hotel. Get a glimpse of the original image of the Virgin of Guadalupe housed in the new basilica. (Duration: Approx. 7 hours; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy. Please bring sunscreen and be sure to dress in comfortable clothes and footwear in keeping with the season.)

Begin your day from the lively historical center, taking in the colorful sights and sounds at the main tree-lined Hidalgo Square. Steps away, soak in the exquisite interiors of the 18th century Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Oaxaca’s main cathedral, showcasing baroque architecture and gilded interiors. Within the adjoining monastery complex, visit the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca that showcases Mexico’s rich history and exotic artifacts including the Mixtec treasures. Later, stroll on the pedestrianized street of Alcalá, flanked by brightly colored buildings, and enlivened by local artisan shops, buskers, and contemporary street art. Nearby, visit the Macedonio Alcala Theater, exquisitely decorated in Imperial style with marble staircases, elegant arches, and Corinthian accents. Hopping between attractions, sample mezcal, Oaxacan coffee, and hot chocolate along with the local favorite – fried grasshoppers! (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Snacks and drinks not included; Fitness level: Easy; Notes: Bring sunscreen, wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Museum is closed on Mondays).

Head out to visit the Mesoamerican archaeological site of Mitla, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. The complex consists of five main groups of structures, each with several rectangular patios, bordered by long, narrow rooms. See door frames adorned with painted friezes or decorated with mosaics, and walls with intricate geometric patterns. Inside the main plaza, you will find cruciform lithic tombs and six stone columns that were used to support the roof of a temple. Next, proceed to Mitla’s open-air artisan market and browse through stalls selling traditional clothing, bracelets and carved stone figurines. Then, dine on Oaxacan specialties at a local restaurant in the area before driving to a family-owned artisanal mezcal distillery in the town of Matatlan. Arrive at a ‘Palenque,’ mezcal farm and take a guided tour. Learn to distinguish the different agave plants, used to produce the alcoholic beverage. Acquire knowledge about the production process and sample varieties of mezcal, before returning to Oaxaca. (Duration: full day; Time: 1030 hrs; Private activity & transfers; Travel time to activity: 1.5 hrs each way; All entry fees are included; Meals included: lunch & mezcal tastings; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy-moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Min age: 18 yrs for tasting mezcal)

Discover the highlights of the historical city of Merida on a complimentary walk. Accompanied by your guide, stroll through the city center with its narrow streets and expansive plazas. Take in the beautiful remains of Spanish and Mayan architecture and hear about Merida’s interesting history. You will also get the chance to walk through the Plaza Grande, filled with colorful shops and popular eateries. Along the way, your guide will share what you should see and do in Merida. The recommendations will help you make the most of the city, which boasts of a rich Mayan and colonial history. (Duration: 1-2 hrs; Time: flexible; Private activity; No transfers; Starting point: hotel or directly from airport; Entry fees and meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Please note that this activity can only be done on the day you arrive in the city; In case your arrive late in the evening, it can be done the next day in combination with another activity)

Discover the history of a Mexican hacienda and swim in cenotes on this half day tour in Mexico. Your private vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in Merida and drive you to Hacienda Mucuyche, which is located in the town of the same name. Enjoy a tour of the hacienda, which dates to the 17th century. Learn about its past as one of the most important henequen haciendas of its time. Then follow your guide to Cenote Carlota, named after the former Empress of Mexico, who is said to have been the first person to bathe in its waters. You will have time to swim or snorkel in the cenote before moving on to Cenote Azul Maya, which is located in a cave. Enjoy a dip in its waters and discover why the Mayans considered these pools to be sacred. You will also have access to the hacienda pool during your visit. (Duration: half day; Private activity & transfers; Travel time to activity: 1.5 hrs; Meals are not included; Fitness level: easy; Snorkeling equipment is provided; All entry fees are included)

At Holbox Island, slip into a kayak under the direction of an expert guide, and paddle from the clear shallow waters towards winding channels lined by mangroves. Witness spectacular scenery and various species of birds native to the swampy area, which is part of the Yum Balam nature reserve. Slow down to enjoy continuous birdsong and feel the wind in your hair as you listen to the guide’s commentary on the flora and fauna of this rich ecosystem. Pause to observe groups of graceful flamingos searching for shrimp in the water and crocodiles basking in the sun at the shore. Take short water and snack breaks if you need to, and head back to the pier for a drive back to your hotel. (Duration: 3 hrs; Start time: 07:00h; Shared Activity; Includes a guide, kayak, life jackets, and pick-up from the hotel; drop-off after activity in Holbox town, at walking distance from hotels)

Discover a host of tropical treasures on the paradisiacal island of Isla Holbox on your own. Nestled in one corner of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, this car-free island is a nature lover’s delight. Go bird-watching in the serene dawn or spot schools of whale sharks and sea turtles from the shore. After your explorations, you can head for the white sandy beaches to swim in turquoise blue waters or soak up all that delicious sun. The quaint beachside restaurants beckon with freshly caught and grilled seafood – the local lobster is a must-try. If you feel like a long walk, check out the Holbox village, dotted with candy-colored buildings and vibrant street art. As dusk spreads across the Yucatan sky, make your back to the beach to enjoy a sunset stroll and the feel of fine-grain sand caressing your bare feet. (Full Day; No guide; No transfers; Entrance fees and meals are not included).