Description

Discover the heart of Mexico's Aztec, Zapotec, Mayan and Spanish cultures on this two-week journey spanning ruins, pueblos and beaches. Arrive in Mexico and travel through the mad metropolis of Mexico City to the relaxed beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula, and unravel the magnificent mystery of the ancient Mexican civilisations along the way. With plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and hiking, this is the ideal introduction to one of Central America's most colourful and exciting nations.

Highlights

• Embrace a kaleidoscope of colour at a Mexican market.
• Toe-tap to a mariachi band in Mexico City.
• Take a ride on a bright and bouncy local bus.
• 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.

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Mexico City

Modern meets ancient in Mexico City. This former Aztec capital is full of incredible sights, rich in culture and home to a famed food scene which is definitely worth discovering.

Days 3-4 Puebla

With a compelling history still reflected in its wealth of colonial buildings and churches, Puebla is a delight - especially its cuisine, which gave the world mole poblano.

Days 5-7 Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a culturally diverse city with beautifully preserved colonial buildings, impressive archaeological sites, amazing markets and one of the most respected art scenes in Mexico.

Days 8-9 San Cristobal de las Casas

With winding cobblestone streets and colonial Spanish architecture, San Cristobal de las Casas maintains a lovely old-world feel mixed with strong indigenous roots.

Days 10-11 Palenque

Built around 100BC, the incredible ruins of Palenque were virtually swallowed by the jungle until their excavation, where some of the finest examples of Maya architecture were discovered.

Days 12-13 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.

Days 14-15 Chichen Itza/Playa del Carmen

Chichen Itza was once a city of the pre-Columbian Maya civilisation; its ruins are wonderfully preserved and this captivating site provides a wealth of things to see. With azure waters, powdery beaches and a European feel, Playa del Carmen is a resort city close to Cancun but without the party atmosphere.

Group Size

Maximum of 16 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hotel, Overnight bus

Transport

Bus, Metro, Overnight bus