Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Depart Australia - Arrive Playa del Carmen
Welcome to lively Mexico! Stretching across a vast and colourful landscape, Mexico is Latin America’s third largest country and proudly the world’s most populous Spanish-speaking nation. Mexico’s flag, an iconic combination of green, white and red, carries deep meaning for the nation and its people. Green symbolises hope and victory, white represents the purity of Mexican ideals and red honours the blood shed by the country’s heroes. At the centre sits the Mexican coat of arms, an eagle perched on a cactus, based on the ancient Aztec symbol of Tenochtitlan.
Our adventure begins in Playa del Carmen, one of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most popular coastal escapes, known for its turquoise waters, white sand and easy-going holiday atmosphere. The nearby reefs are excellent for diving and snorkelling, and is home to rays, moray eels, sea turtles and an impressive variety of corals. Quinta Avenida, or 5th Avenue, is the main pedestrian thoroughfare and is full of restaurants, bars, cafés and shops.
Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel and settle in for the beginning of our unforgettable Mexican adventure.
Special Note: This tour involves some long travel days by private vehicle. Due to the nature of the roads in some parts of Mexico, 200km can take 5 hours or more to travel. Be prepared for winding but incredibly scenic roads, numerous stops at checkpoints, many speedbumps and at times heavy traffic, all of which will affect travel times.
Day 2 - Playa del Carmen – Tulum – Playa del Carmen
Rise and shine for an unforgettable morning adventure to the remarkable ruins of Tulum, one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Mexico. Perched dramatically on limestone cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, Tulum was once an important walled city and trading port of the ancient Maya civilisation. Dating back to the 13th century, the site played a key role in regional trade, particularly for valuable goods such as jade, obsidian and cacao.
As we wander through the ancient ruins, we’ll discover temples, ceremonial structures and weathered stone walls that have stood proudly above the sea for centuries. One of them being El Castillo, the iconic clifftop structure that once guided trading canoes safely to shore. Between the fascinating history and breathtaking coastal scenery, Tulum feels both deeply significant and undeniably magical.
After our morning exploring the ruins, we’ll return to Playa del Carmen where the afternoon is free to enjoy at your own pace. You may wish to stroll along lively Quinta Avenida, browse colourful local shops, relax beside the sparkling Caribbean waters or simply settle into a café and soak up Playa’s atmosphere.
In the evening, we’ll meet for a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Day 3 - Playa del Carmen – Chichén Itzá – Mérida
This morning, we make our way to Chichén Itzá, one of the most famous Mayan archaeological sites in the world. Here stands the majestic Pyramid of Kukulkan, soaring 27 metres high and impressing visitors with its finely crafted stonework and striking symmetry. Built between the 8th and 12th centuries on the remains of older temples, the pyramid flaunts some remarkable secrets about Mayan life and lore. Look closely, and you’ll discover that each step, platform and carving is brimming with hidden meaning — like an ancient puzzle waiting to be uncovered.
One of its most mesmerising features involves the sun itself: during the spring and autumn equinoxes, sunlight creates a snake-like shadow that appears to slither down the pyramid’s steps, linking the heavens to a massive serpent head at the base. This spectacle was no accident. The pyramid encodes precise information about the Mayan calendar, reflecting the civilisation’s remarkable understanding of astronomy, timekeeping and cosmic events.
After this unforgettable encounter with history, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before making our way to Mérida, the cultural capital of the Yucatán State. Nicknamed the ‘White City’, Mérida blends a cosmopolitan with a gracious colonial atmosphere.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Prepare to be captivated by the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed sanctuary stretching along the north-western edge of the Yucatán Peninsula. Covering more than 500 square metres, this protected area is known for its rich birdlife and ever-changing coastal scenery we’ll get to experience this morning.
Here, coastal dunes, mangroves, lagoons, marshes and lowland forest come together to create an extraordinary habitat for a wide variety of species. We’ll set out on a guided boat tour through the reserve’s calm waters, keeping watch for the many birds that call this place home and perhaps even a shy crocodile tucked among the mangroves.
One of the great highlights is the chance to see flamingos gathering here in brilliant pink flocks at certain times of year. Watching them wade through the shallows or sweep across the water in flight is a memorable sight. With an expert guide leading the way, we’ll also learn more about the fragile ecosystems that make this reserve so special.
After our morning on the water, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch together at a local restaurant. Once back in Mérida, we’ll take a city tour. We stop at the Zócalo, Mérida’s main square and see the external views of the Cathedral and the Town Hall. We’ll also walk through the Government Palace and the House of Montejo, before returning to our hotel.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Day 5 - Mérida - Uxmal - Campeche
This morning we’re in for a real treat as we explore Uxmal, one of the most important archaeological sites of Maya culture in Mexico. Built between 700 and 1,000AD, the complex represents the pinnacle of late Maya art and architecture. At its peak, Uxmal was home to around 25,000 people and played a major political and religious role in the region.
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is known for its intricate stonework, elegant proportions and the strong symbolism of the Puuc architectural style. On a guided tour, we’ll learn about the impressive Pirámide del Adivino, or The Pyramid of the Magician. Getting its name from an old folktale, this grand pyramid is 35 metres tall and was built over five different periods. We’ll also see the Quadrangle of the Birds, the Quadrangle of the Nuns, the Ball Game Court and more, each adding another layer to the story of this remarkable city.
After lunch at a traditional Mayan restaurant, we make our way to the beautiful Spanish colonial city of Campeche, our home for the next two nights. Founded in 1540, the city still preserves sections of the wall that once protected it from pirates and buccaneers. Inside, pastel buildings, cobbled streets and fortified ramparts give it plenty of old-world charm.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
A beautiful day awaits us as we set off on a city walking tour to discover the highlights of Campeche, a coastal city whose colourful streets and colonial heritage make it a pleasure to wander. Our first stop is Puerta de Tierra, the city’s largest colonial fort and a key element of Campeche’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed status. Built in 1732 under the direction of Don Antonio de Figueroa y Silva, it remains the most iconic reminder of the city’s fortified past.
From here, we’ll also wander down the vibrant Calle 59, perhaps Campeche’s most iconic street and marvel at the colourful buildings that line the footpath, many of which house quaint boutiques and delicious eateries. Calle 59 has a stunning blend of Spanish and indigenous influences and will be a pleasure to explore.
Next, we’ll head to Puerta del Mar, or Sea Gate. Facing the Gulf of Mexico, this gate was the main access point in and out of Campeche’s fortified walls. This 17th century gate led directly to the city’s docks and port area, making it a crucial point for trading. We’ll also visit the city’s main park, before making our way to marvel at the Baroque-style Campeche Cathedral that boasts elements of Neoclassical design.
The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax or discover more of the city at your own pace. You may wish to visit the Baluarte de la Soledad Museum or Centro Cultural Casa Número 6, a beautifully preserved mansion that offers a glimpse into upper-class life in centuries past.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Day 7 - Campeche – Palenque
This morning, we make our way to the town of Palenque. Nestled in the tropical lowlands of Chiapas, this charming spot is best known as the gateway to the remarkable archaeological site of the same name.
Upon arrival, we’ll spend the afternoon exploring one of Mexico’s most celebrated treasures, the ancient Mayan site of Palenque. Considered by many to be one of the finest expressions of Maya culture in the country, it sits within a lush jungle setting where howler monkeys and bright tropical birds add to the atmosphere.
The site dates to the Late Classic period, around 600 to 800 AD, when Palenque flourished as a major political and cultural centre. Although the ancient settlement once covered up to 15 square kilometres of dense jungle, only a fraction of its hundreds of structures have been excavated. Among its most famous monuments is the Temple of the Inscriptions, an impressive pyramid built across eight levels, with a staircase rising about 27 metres to a series of small chambers. The temple takes its name from the intricate inscriptions inside, which recount the site’s history and royal lineage. Other important structures feature richly carved bas-reliefs depicting mythological scenes and the reign of Palenque’s most famous ruler, Lord Pakal, and his descendants.
After our visit, we’ll check into our hotel and settle in for the evening. With its laid-back atmosphere, welcoming locals and colourful local character, Palenque offers a wonderful glimpse into everyday life in this fascinating region of Mexico.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Day 8 - Palenque - San Cristóbal
We say adiós to Palenque today as we make our way to San Cristóbal! Our first stop of the day is at Agua Azul, which translates to ‘Blue Water’. Situated on the Xanil River, this series of cascading waterfalls tumbles into bright turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle. The contrast of colours is simply spectacular. While we’re here, we’ll stop for some lunch and have the opportunity to swim in the gorgeous waters, a totally idyllic scene where it’s almost impossible not to swim!
Our journey continues to the charming town of San Cristóbal de las Casas, our home for the next three nights. With its white stucco walls and red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, narrow sidewalks, elegant arcades and open plazas, this town is full of character. The surrounding region is home to many Mayan-speaking communities, making this area one of the most culturally rich and fascinating parts of Mexico.
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Today, we’ll enjoy an orientation walking tour of San Cristóbal, discovering the best of this beautiful town. Our guide will point out highlights and local favourites that you may wish to explore during free time over the coming two afternoons.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. We recommend visiting the lively museum and research centre, Na Bolom, meaning ‘Jaguar House’ in Tzotzil, a native Mayan language. It was the home of renowned Danish archaeologist Frans Blom, one of the first to excavate Palenque, and his wife Gertrude, a Swiss anthropologist who was a passionate advocate for the Lacandón people and the jungle environment of eastern Chiapas — quite the couple! Today, Na Bolom honours their legacy while continuing to support the study of Chiapas’ Indigenous cultures and natural world.
This evening offers a wonderful introduction to one of the region’s most joyful traditions. In Chiapas, folkloric performances are more than entertainment. They are a proud expression of local identity, history and community spirit. Through traditional dance, music and costume, these shows help preserve stories and customs that have been passed down through generations.
Special Experience
Dive into tradition as you taste authentic cuisine from the Chiapas region while enjoying a local folkloric performance.
As we feast on regional flavours at Las Pichanchas, we’ll enjoy the melodies of the marimba, a percussion instrument popular in Central America, while colourful dresses, lively rhythms and regional songs reflect the rich blend of Indigenous and Spanish influences that shape the culture of Chiapas today.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
The living Mayan culture of Chiapas is one of the most fascinating and enduring parts of this region. In the highlands surrounding San Cristóbal, many Indigenous communities continue to speak their own Mayan languages and maintain traditions that have been passed down through generations. From clothing and crafts to ceremonies and daily customs, these villages offer a rare and meaningful glimpse into a way of life that remains deeply connected to the past. Today, we’ll gain a closer glimpse into these cultures and their way of life.
Special Experience
Visit the villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, nestled in the mountains surrounding San Cristóbal, to experience living Mayan culture and traditions.
Our morning begins in the small town of San Juan Chamula, known for its unique Tzotzil community, an indigenous group of Maya descent whose traditions remain deeply rooted. Their strong culture, customs and traditional dress will leave us in awe and wonder. We’ll visit a remarkable 16th century church, where hundreds of candles burn inside, pine needles cover the floor, and Catholic practices blend with Indigenous beliefs unlike anywhere else. It’s an extraordinary place, and one to remember. Please note that photography is not permitted inside the church.
We’ll then make our way to Zinacantán, whose name translates to ‘Land of Bats’. Almost all of its residents are Tzotzil Maya, and here we’ll meet a local weaving family who will share their traditional techniques, a craft passed down through generations. We’ll also learn how to make fresh tortillas, which is always a crowd pleaser.
On arrival back in San Cristóbal, we’ll enjoy lunch together at a local restaurant. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax or explore more of this picturesque town.
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
Day 11 - San Cristóbal – Tehuantepec
Exploring the scenic Sumidero Canyon, one of southern Mexico’s great natural wonders, is first up on our agenda today. Located just north of the small town of Chiapa de Corzo, this beautiful canyon is nestled in the heart of Sumidero Canyon National Park and is not far from the Guatemalan border. We’ll take a scenic drive to reach the canyon before boarding a boat to experience this extraordinary landscape from the water. While here, we’ll marvel at the sheer cliffs, soaring up to a kilometre high in places, which are believed to have begun forming 35 million years ago.
After our exciting boat trip this morning, we’ll head into nearby Chaipa de Corzo for lunch. This town is known for its distinctive Mudéjar architectural style, a fusion of Islamic and Christian artistic tradition, and as the gateway to the famed national park.
This afternoon, our journey continues to Tehuantepec, our destination for the night. Famous for its beautiful embroidered traditional dress, a style famously adopted by iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, Tehuantepec was once a thriving centre of the Zapotec culture. Located on the edge of the state of Oaxaca, the wider Tehuantepec region played a key role in the pre-Hispanic era as an important trade route connecting Central America with central Mexico.
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Day 12 - Tehuantepec - Mitla - Oaxaca
Steeped in centuries worth of history, today we head to Mitla and wander down its narrow and colourful streets. This is a great place to pick up a locally made souvenir! Before enjoying lunch together at a local restaurant, we’ll visit Templo Católico de San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a quaint church set in the centre of the Mitla’s main plaza. We will also explore the small archaeological site, known for its elaborate mosaic fretwork and geometric designs unlike any other in Mexico.
From there we head to a mezcal factory where we’ll learn about all things agave and have the chance to sip Mexico’s most iconic spirit. Next, we make our way to Teotitlán de Valle, a famous weaving village with a tradition that dates back to pre-Hispanic times.
Our next stop is the impressive Árbol del Tule, an enormous tree with a circumference more than 48 metres at its base. Believed to be between 1,500 and 3,000 years old, it’s often considered to be one of the oldest trees in the world.
We’ll arrive in Oaxaca this evening, just in time for one of the most meaningful moments of our journey. We’ll visit a nearby cemetery where local families gather to honour loved ones who have passed away, decorating graves with candles, marigolds, music, food and personal offerings. Rooted in a blend of Indigenous beliefs and Catholic traditions, Day of the Dead is not centred on mourning, but on remembrance, connection and celebration of life. The atmosphere is heartfelt, peaceful and unlike anything else in the world, offering a moving insight into one of Mexico’s most treasured cultural traditions.
Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most captivating cities, loved for its rich traditions, colourful streets, beautiful colonial architecture and deeply rooted food culture. Today, we’ll begin with a visit to Monte Albán, one of the most important pre-Columbian sites in Mexico. Set high above the valley, this ancient Zapotec city was once a major ceremonial and political centre. As we explore its temples, plazas and tombs, we’ll also enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding landscape.
Afterwards, we’ll have free time for lunch before setting out on a walking tour of Oaxaca’s historic centre. We’ll visit the magnificent Church of Santo Domingo, famous for its ornate gold-filled interior, then stroll along the lively pedestrian street lined with cafés, musicians, and artisan shops. Along the way, we’ll step inside the Cathedral, admire the elegant Macedonio Alcalá Theatre and pass by the House of Cortés, visit the Temple of San Juan de Dios and stop at the Government Palace to view its colourful murals. We’ll also browse the local markets and visit El Mayordomo, where the scent of chocolate is hard to resist.
This evening, we’ll experience a more festive side of Day of the Dead as Oaxaca’s streets burst into celebration. We’ll have free time to wander through the festivities and perhaps even join a lively comparsa, a traditional neighbourhood parade filled with music, dancing, giant puppets, lanterns and wonderfully elaborate costumes. Throughout the city, homes and public spaces are decorated with colourful altars honouring loved ones, while brass bands and local musicians fill the streets with energy late into the evening. It’s a joyful, deeply personal celebration and an unforgettable way to experience the warmth and spirit of Oaxaca during this special time of year.
Today involves approximately 5 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Day 14 - Oaxaca – Puebla – Mexico City
This morning, we wave goodbye to the enchanting streets of Oaxaca. Buckle up as we hit the road, heading north through breathtaking landscapes toward the charming colonial city of Puebla. Also known as 'City of Angels' and 'City of Tiles', Puebla is famous for its Baroque-style churches, local ceramics and delectable dishes, including the spicy Mole Poblano sauce, which is a total must-try when in Mexico. Its historic downtown area remains a Spanish colonial treasure, filled with 17th and 18th century European architecture and beautiful tiles churches and buildings.
Once we've soaked in the views, it’s time to treat our taste buds with a delicious lunch in a local restaurant before heading to the energetic and cultural centre of the country, Mexico City! Sprawling across a high valley and encircled by volcanoes and mountains, this enormous capital sits atop the ruins of an ancient Aztec civilisation. It is North America's highest city and one of the world's most densely populated.
With a long and layered history that runs from ancient indigenous civilisations through to the invasion of the Conquistadors and subsequent colonial rule, Mexico City boasts an array of fascinating sights and attractions.
Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel. The evening is yours to explore. You can choose to wander hip neighbourhoods, sip mezcal in a rooftop bar, or hunt down legendary street tacos. Go for it!
Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Our day is dedicated to exploring the delights of bustling Mexico City. We’ll see the main city square, Plaza de la Constitución, more commonly known as the ‘Zócalo’. Constructed from the stones of ancient palaces and temples, the plaza is said to be the second largest in the world after Moscow’s Red Square. The Zócalo is bordered by the Cathedral to the north and the National Palace to the east, making it one of those places where history feels close enough to touch. In the centre of the plaza is an enormous Mexican flag, which is ceremoniously raised and lowered each day and carried into the National Palace. Spending time in this historically and culturally significant square is a real treat.
Later, we’ll enjoy one of the city’s most joyful and colourful traditions.
Special Experience
Board an authentic Mexican trajinera for a lively lunch cruise through the vibrant canals of Xochimilco.
This afternoon, we’ll visit Xochimilco, a vibrant borough known for its ancient canal system. You’ll hardly believe you’re still in Mexico City. These popular waterways are the last remnants of a vast water transport system built by the Aztecs. Here, we’ll admire the hundreds of colourful trajineras, gondola-like boats, cruising along the canals while enjoying delicious food, lively mariachi music and pretty scenery.
Afterwards, we’ll explore a colourful arts and crafts market before we return to our hotel. It is the perfect place to grab an authentic souvenir!
Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Day 16 - Mexico City – Teotihuacán – Mexico City
After breakfast, we set off for the nearby site of Teotihuacán, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Mexico. The early history of this ancient Mesoamerican city remains a mystery, and the identity of its original founders is still unknown. Surprisingly, it wasn’t built by the Aztecs. Teotihuacán is believed to have been established around 100 BC, with the Aztecs arriving nearly 1,000 years later. It was they who named the city Teotihuacán, meaning ‘Birthplace of the Gods’. Remarkably advanced for its time, Teotihuacán was a multi-ethnic society whose people worshipped a variety of gods and, at its height, it was the largest city in the Americas, home to an estimated 125,000 residents.
This morning, we’ll have the opportunity to discover some of the city’s most incredible religious and ceremonial structures. The Temple of the Sun, standing an impressive 66 metres tall, is one of the largest structures of its kind in the world. Across the complex, the Temple of the Moon rises 43 metres from the ground and is slightly smaller but equally as striking. Connecting the two pyramids is the Avenue of the Dead, a 40-metre-wide thoroughfare lined with various smaller structures.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, known locally as Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. This Roman Catholic Church and shrine is arguably the most important Christian site in Latin America, receiving some twenty million pilgrims annually. Built near the location where Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego, it also houses the original cloak bearing the icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which we’ll be able to see.
This evening we’ll enjoy a group farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant.
Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 17 - Depart Mexico City
Our tour through mesmerising Mexico concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 19 - Arrive Australia
Day 19 - Arrive Australia
