This luxury roundtrip takes you through the heart of Mexico. Start in Oaxaca, where ancient traditions and vibrant markets invite you to sample the local culture. Discover Mayan heritage at Uxmal and Chichén Itzá, swim in hidden cenotes and admire the colonial charm of Mérida. Finish by the sea, with your feet in the sand and the stories of your trip still fresh in your mind. An experience that will linger.
Important information:
- An international passport is required, valid during stay with at least 2 blank pages.
- A visa is not required.
- Vaccinations for Polio, Tetanus and Hepatitis A are recommended. The yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you have recently been in a region where yellow fever is prevalent. We recommend seeking advice from your family doctor or the Tropical Institute.
Day 1: Arrival in Oaxaca
After your landing in Oaxaca, you will be met by a local guide and driver. They will take you to an attractive four-star hotel in the heart of the city, where you will stay for three nights.
Day 2: Oaxaca de Juárez
You'll start the day with a walk through the charming center of Oaxaca, one of Mexico's most beautiful colonial cities. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the impressive Santo Domingo de Guzmán church and wander the lively markets. Then travel to Monte Albán, the fascinating ruins of the Zapotecs and Mixtecs, located on a hill with panoramic views. The day ends in the village of San Antonio Arrazola, known for the colorful and imaginative carvings of local artisans.
Day 3: Oaxaca de Juárez
You begin the day in Santa María del Tule, home to one of the oldest and most impressive trees in the world: the Ahuehuete, a giant swamp cypress with a circumference of 58 meters and a height of more than 40 meters. Then you will visit Mitla, an archaeological site full of refined architecture of the Zapotecs. Along the way, stop in Santiago Matatlán, known as the mezcal capital, to discover a traditional distillery. In the mountains near Mitla, hike from Xaaga through the Sierra Madre to Hierve el Agua, where hot springs have formed spectacular natural pools and sinter terraces. An ideal place to relax after the hike.
Day 4: Oaxaca de Juárez - Mexico City
After checking out, a private driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Mexico City. There you will stay three nights in a stylish boutique hotel, ideally located for exploring the city.
Day 5: Mexico City
Explore the vibrant core of Mexico City, a metropolis surrounded by volcanoes and full of history. On a guided tour, visit the Presidential Palace, stroll the impressive Zócalo and admire the Catedral Metropolitana, the oldest cathedral on the continent. In the Museo Nacional de Antropología you will learn more about the rich pre-Columbian history. You will end the day in Chapultepec Park, a green oasis with lakes, ancient trees and atmospheric market stalls.
Day 6: Coyoacán
The neighborhood of Coyoacán is a quiet neighborhood in bustling Mexico City. Stroll through cobblestone streets, atmospheric markets and small cafes and restaurants. Highlights include the Iglesia de Coyoacán, the serene garden of the Fonoteca Nacional and the fountain in Jardín Centenario. The famous Casa Azul, former home of Frida Kahlo, gives you a glimpse into her intense life and art.
Day 7: Teotihuacán - Mérida
In the morning visit Teotihuacán, the impressive archaeological site with its iconic sun and moon pyramids. Once the largest city in the Americas, the complex continues to fascinate with its size and mystique. After this visit, fly to Mérida, where a stylish five-star hotel in the heart of the city awaits you for two nights.
Day 8: Mérida
Founded in 1542, Mérida is the cultural capital of Yucatán. Stroll its narrow streets, past historic squares and romantic horse-drawn carriages. At the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, discover the rich history of the Yucatan people, from their origins to contemporary identity. The afternoon is free to explore the city at your own pace.
Day 9: Mérida - Uxmal
In the morning visit the 17th-century hacienda Yaxcopoil, a former estate that takes you back to the glory days of Yucatán. On a tour of the ruins, you'll discover how political and economic changes shaped the region. Then travel on to Uxmal, an impressive archaeological site from the late Classic Mayan period. With decorated facades, plazas and colossal structures, Uxmal offers an in-depth look at Mayan culture. You'll spend the night in a lodge surrounded by greenery, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Day 10: Izamal and Yokdzonot
On your way to Chichén Itzá, you'll visit Izamal, one of the oldest cities in Yucatán. Here you will climb the pyramid temple of Kinich Kakmó, dedicated to the sun god. At Yokdzonot, take a refreshing dip in a cenote surrounded by steep walls and hanging mangrove roots. For the more adventurous, there is also a zipline over the crystal clear waters. At the end of the day, you will spend the night in a cozy lodge.
Day 11: Chichén Itzá
In the morning you will visit Chichén Itzá, one of Mexico's most famous archaeological sites. The imposing El Castillo towers high above the jungle, while the unique El Caracol observatory shows how the Mayans studied the stars. After the tour, you travel on to the coast. You'll spend the night at a boutique hotel in El Cuyo, a quiet spot by the sea. Prefer a larger resort experience? Then you can choose to stay near Playa del Carmen.
Day 12: El Cuyo or Playa del Carmen
Enjoy a day of rest on the Gulf of Mexico at El Cuyo or on the Caribbean Sea at Playa del Carmen. Choose to relax on the beach or explore the area at your own pace.
Day 13: Return home
Conclude your trip with the return flight home, or stay a little longer to explore even more of Mexico.
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