Mexico is a country of booming modern cities, of international pleasure resorts, of vast stone pyramids where the Aztecs sacrificed thousands of human victims to their gods. But it has its less spectacular side, in the small country towns and villages where the Indians still buy and sell, and sit patiently, as they have for centuries.
Across the square of the little Mexican town comes carefree laughter: the firework man bears his wickerwork contraption to private celebration or public ceremony. Here is the towered castle, a fixed asset, the piece de resistance. Here too is the little bull, the torito, made like a cage to be held by the hands and fitted over the back of intrepid human operators, generally youths, who dash about among the shrieking crowd while its operators, generally youths, who dash about among the shrieking crowd while its fireworks blaze forth. With him goes his proud son, learning to be a firework king, bearing smaller constructions. Mexicans love fireworks as do the Chinese, and lose no chance of letting them off. Birthdays, weddings, even wakes, to say nothing of every religious and secular feast day or holiday, evoke firework; and as there are many such days, you get used to living in a spasmodic barrage. At night you see coloured stars and golden rain, or hear shriek of delight, and you wonder: Who on earth is celebrating what now?
On the other side of the little plaza is the bank. Shuffling his age-long trit-trot comes an old porter, a cargador, and strap across his forehead, carrying a big wooden box from a lorry. Around stand soldiers, fully armed. The public is not curious, but you will; so you will go in the bank, only to see that each heavy box contains new pesos by thousands. Up and down go other cargadores – who all seem of the older generation – bearing unlikely burdens: entire double beds, delightfully termed matrimonio; cooking ranges; cockerels in cages; internal combustion engine; other apparatus of all kinds; adult-size coffins; sacks of grain or crates of drinks. You may see a grand piano being thus transported in the centre of the city, while a youth alongside the elderly cargador delicately bore the ivory keyboard. You will often see an entire living-room suite borne along by two porters, one carrying a vast sofa and the other two ample easy-chairs; and you will only wondered that no children were sitting in them, for the children seem to leap on and into everything transportable and cheerfully to be granted a free ride.
By the lazy time-passing bars and cafes – preferably in plazas or under covered piazzas (portales) – come wandering minstrels: generally three or more playing guitars, cellos, rarely a wind instrument, but nearly always a contraption (on wheels or trestles), with one or more manuals and pedals, as if a Hungarian zither has been crossed with a London street-piano.
Are you interested to know more about the buzz in the bazar of Mexico?
Let us hear from you at +91 33 4046 4646
Itinerary
Days 1-2 Mexico City
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Mexico.
Your adventure begins with a Welcome Meeting at 6pm on Day 1.
Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.
Modern meets ancient in Mexico City - one of the world's largest urban centres. Although crowded and smoggy, D.F. (Distrito Federal) offers a great variety of impressive museums, galleries and architecture, along with exciting night life and delicious street food. Head to the Zocalo, the city's huge central square, to see Aztec ruins and colonial architecture or relax in one of the many parks, plazas and gardens.
The following morning your leader will take you on an orientation walk, followed by a free afternoon. Alternatively you can choose to take an optional day trip to Teotihuacan.
Located 50 kilometres northeast of Mexico City are the 'must-see' archaeological ruins of Teotihuacan - the site of the massive Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon which dominate the skyline. This was once the country's biggest ancient city and capital of the Aztec people, who ruled over the largest empire in the pre-Hispanic era. Guarded by mountains this magnificent city is thought to have been founded early in the 1st century AD and reached its peak around AD 500, when its influence extended down to Guatemala and as far north as present-day Texas. With the help of a local guide we have time to stroll down ‘The Avenue of the Dead’, uncover its many wonders and imagine what life must have been like nearly 2000 years ago. We will also visit Virgen de Guadalupe, the city’s major religious landmark.
Optional Activities
Mexico City - Teotihuacan archaeological site
Mexico City - National Palace and Diego Rivera murals
Mexico City - Metropolitan Cathedral
Mexico City - Templo Mayor (Archaeological Site and Museum)
Mexico City - Palace of Fine Arts (Bellas Artes)
Mexico City - Museum of Anthropology
Mexico City - Bosque de Chapultepec & Natural History Museum
Mexico City - Frida Kahlo Museum
Mexico City - Estadio Azteca football match
Mexico City - Mariachis in Garibaldi Square (entry is free, price to hire a band for 2-3 songs)
Mexico City - Floating Gardens of Xochimilco and boat tour
Mexico City - Torre Latino 360° lookout
Days 3-4 Puebla
This morning and most of the afternoon are free to continue exploring Mexico City. Later in the afternoon we take taxis to Mexico City's bus station and catch a local bus to Puebla (approx 2.5 hrs). Please make sure you bring bottled water and snacks for the journey.
Local buses in Mexico aren’t the colourful school buses you’ll see in other areas of Central America. Most of the buses we use in Mexico are comfortable coach-style vehicles with a bathroom and everyone will have a seat. Local buses tend to put the air conditioning very low so remember to pack a sweater or a jacket in case you get cold.
We have a free day to discover Puebla at your leisure.
Although a rapidly growing city, Puebla has managed to combine modern development with its colonial past and there are plenty of well-maintained churches and colonial buildings to admire. Head to the markets to brush up on your bargaining skills and take some fantastic photos. This is a great place to pick up hand-painted tiles and other handicrafts. If you're looking for something more active, go for a hike near one of the area's looming volcanoes. After a day sightseeing and shopping, why not try some mouth-watering mole Poblano, a dish that is famous all over Mexico and that originated in Puebla, or try your hand at making it yourself at an optional cooking class.
Optional Activities
Puebla - Santo Domingo Church and Rosary Chapel
Puebla - Visit to Cholula
Puebla - Lucha Libre show (ticket price depends on seating area)
Puebla - Museum of Art
Days 5-7 Oaxaca/Overnight Bus
Today we travel by local bus to Oaxaca (approx. 5 hrs). We have two free days here and your group leader will assist you to make the most of your free time in this fascinating city.
A beautiful old colonial town, Oaxaca is full of graceful arcades and colourful markets largely populated by descendants of the Zapotec and Mixtec Indians, who come here to sell their colourful woven blankets and shawls. Oaxaca is also known for its well-respected arts scene, including folk art, fine art and dance. Explore the markets and narrow, cobbled streets or simply sit in the square drinking the local mescal and watch life go by.
Outside the city, the spectacular mountain top temples of Monte Alban are just a short distance away.
Monte Alban was inhabited over a period of 1,500 years by a succession of cultures (Olmecs, Zapotecs and Mixtecs) and it is an outstanding example of a pre-Columbian ceremonial centre. The terraces, dams, canals, pyramids and artificial mounds of Monte Alban were literally carved out of the mountain.
Our hotel is within walking distance of Oaxaca's nightlife hot spots, so that you can make the most of it.
On the evening of Day 7 we take a first-class bus to San Cristobal del las Casas (approx. 13 hrs). First-class buses in Mexico can be quite comfortable. They are equipped with toilets, seats that recline and have more leg room than regular buses. They are all air conditioned, so make sure you take a light jumper with you as it may get a bit cold on board.
Optional Activities
Oaxaca - Monte Alban Ruins
Oaxaca - Full-day tour inc. Mitla Ruins, Hierve el Agua and mezcal distillery
Oaxaca - Santo Domingo Cultural Centre
Oaxaca - Cooking class
Days 8-9 San Cristobal de las Casas
We arrive in San Cristobal early in the morning. Check in at the hotel is usually not until midday, so if we can't check in upon arrival, we will be able to leave our luggage and start exploring San Cristobal straight away. The remainder of today and tomorrow are at your leisure and, as always, your group leader will assist you arrange the many optional activities.
With winding cobblestone streets and colonial Spanish architecture, San Cristobal de las Casas maintains a lovely old-world feel mixed with strong indigenous roots. The surrounding villages are populated with Tzotzil and Tzeltal Indians who maintain their tribal origins through their varied traditional costumes and customs. There is time here to explore the villages, perhaps by mountain bike. If you take a day trip to San Juan Chamula, make sure to visit the church. The floor is covered with pine needles and the air is heavy with incense. Shamans come here to carry out cleansings with firewater, ancient prayer and sometimes chickens. There are also markets with colourful handicrafts for sale. Take the opportunity to go for an optional day trip to Sumidero Canyon. Back in town, go for a stroll and try to spot the cafe with the most locals in it for a taste of the traditional 'elote', a corn cob which makes a common snack in the highlands of Chiapas.
Optional Activities
San Cristobal de las Casas - Mayan villages tour inc. San Juan Chamula
San Cristobal de las Casas - Sumidero Canyon (inc. transport)
San Cristobal de las Casas - Mountain bike tour
San Cristobal de las Casas - Amber Museum
San Cristobal de las Casas - Jade Museum
San Cristobal de las Casas - Museum of Typical Costumes
Days 10-11 Palenque/Overnight Bus
Today we travel on a windy road by local bus to Palenque (approx. 6 hrs). The afternoon is at your leisure to relax and explore the town.
Due to increased activity by the Zapatista movement in the region around Palenque some changes to your itinerary may be necessary due to safety concerns. The Zapatistas have recently been targeting tourists in order to draw attention to their cause. As result some transport to and from Palenque may need to be rerouted which will mean longer travel times of up to 8-9 hours. Some activities, including the Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls, will be unavailable until this situation is resolved. At this time, there are no safety issues within the city of Palenque itself or at the nearby Mayan archaeological site. We’re constantly monitoring this situation to ensure the safety of our passengers and leaders.
The following day we visit the ruins of Palenque.
Palenque is situated on a hilltop in an area of hot jungle and is home to possibly the most impressive series of Mayan ruins, which date back at AD600. Whilst walking amongst the ruins it is often possible to hear the eerie calls of howler monkeys echoing from the jungle, giving an added dimension to this magnificent site. The temples are superb relics of Mayan culture and there are many ruins here still un-excavated and hidden in the surrounding forest.
On our last evening here we transfer to the bus station and board an overnight bus to Merida (approx 8-9 hrs).
Optional Activities
Palenque - Guided tour of Palenque Ruins
Palenque - Jungle Trail tour
Days 12-13 Merida
Early this morning we arrive into La Ciudad Blanca (the White City) of Merida.
Founded in 1542, Merida still retains much of its old-world charm with a well-preserved Old Town, wonderful museums and city streets alive with art and culture. Hang out in the green and shady Plaza Grande, with the twin-towered 16th century Cathedral on one side and City Hall, State Government Palace and Casa Mantejo on the others. For a taste of Merida's 19th century glory go for a walk along the mansion lined Paseo de Montejo. Mornings are the best time to visit the outdoor markets and you can stock up on hammocks and Maya replicas. It's a great place to try out the local food specialities, like cochinita pibil or the head-blowingly spicy El Yucateco hot sauce.
Merida is also the gateway to the Maya ruins of Uxmal and there is an opportunity to visit these impressive ruins. Little is known about the site's origins but it is thought the city was founded around AD500. Much of the site is decorated with masks of the rain god Chac. This is no great surprise as the area has a lack of natural water supplies and the city relied on rain water.
The local people from Merida are very relaxed and they like dancing! Every Sunday some of the roads are turned into an open air dance floor with a variety of salsa and merengue bands.
Optional Activities
Merida - Uxmal Ruins tour (inc. transport and guide)
Merida - Cuzama cenotes tour (inc. transport and guide)
Merida - Celestún Bird Sanctuary (entrance and transport)
Merida - Guided city tour
Merida - Dzibilchaltun Ruins tour
Merida - Contemporary Art Museum
Days 14-15 Chichen Itza/Playa del Carmen
We travel to Playa del Carmen, stopping en route for an optional visit to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza (approx. 2.5 hrs), recently named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
One of the most impressive Mayan sites, Chichen Itza contains both Toltec and Mayan ruins lying alongside each other. The famous El Castillo pyramid dominates the ruins and the site also has the largest ball court where games used to be held. The games are depicted in carvings on the walls. Nearby, excavations of the Well of Sacrifice offered up treasures of jade, copper and gold as well as many human and animal bones.
We have about 2-3 hours to spend at Chichen Itza before we travel onwards to Playa (approx. 3.5 hrs).
With azure waters, powdery beaches and a European feel, Playa del Carmen is a resort city close to Cancun but without the party atmosphere. Spend your time snorkelling among the mangroves, diving in underground caverns or strolling along the white sands. In the evenings kick back and watch the waves with a margarita. For adventures further afield take a ferry across the turquoise seas to Cozumel, an island famous for its reef diving.
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time.
In order to make the most of what Playa has to offer, we strongly recommend that you extend your stay in Playa del Carmen for one or two extra days. Please contact us if you need us to assist you with additional accommodation. If you can afford a few extra days in Playa, you may want to spend time snorkeling among the mangroves or strolling along the white sands. For adventures further afield take a ferry across the turquoise seas to Cozumel, an island famous for its reef diving.
Optional Activities
Chichen Itza - Entrance
Chichen Itza - Guided tour
Playa del Carmen - Dos Ojos Cenote snorkelling tour
Playa del Carmen - Cenote Ikil
Playa del Carmen - Bike rental (per day)
Playa del Carmen - Ferry to Cozumel
For assisted tour booking and customization according to your requirement, please call: +91 33 4046 4646
Price on request
Highlights
Embrace a kaleidoscope of colour at a Mexican market
Toe-tap to a mariachi band in Mexico City
Escape the Mexican heat in San Cristobal de las Casas
Bask on Playa del Carmen's white sand beaches
Try Oaxaca's famous chocolate and cheese
See the impressive ruins of Chichen Itza
Hotels Used/Similar
Hotel Metropol or similar (2 nts)
Hotel San Angel or similar (2 nts)
Hotel Casa Arnel or similar (2 nts), Overnight bus (1 nt)
Hotel Casa Margarita or similar (2 nts)
Hotel Xibalba Anexo or similar (1 nt), Overnight bus (1 nt)
Hotel Maria Jose or similar (2 nts)
Hotel Playa Del Carmen or similar (1 nt)
Inclusions
Transport: Bus, Metro, Overnight bus
Accommodation: Hotel (12 nights), Overnight bus (2 nights)
Exclusions
Meals
Anything that is not mentioned in the above inclusions
As suggested and to be customized as per request
Terms & Conditions Applied
Important notes
Minimum Age
The minimum age for this trip is 15 at the time of travel. Any travellers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian, or in lieu of a legal guardian, by an escort over the age of 18, appointed by their legal guardian. The legal guardian or their designee will be responsible for the traveller under the age of 18 day today’s care. If a legal guardian elects to designate an escort in their lieu, they will be required to complete and sign a relevant document, to delegate their authority.
Hurricane Season
Please note hurricane season is June to November when landslides, mudslides, flooding and disruptions to essential services can occur. Intrepid monitors situations as they arise, and may need to change itineraries or activities in response to these natural weather occurrences.
For assisted tour booking and customization according to your requirement, please call: +91 33 4046 4646
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