In-depth Mexico Tour

Welcome to Mexico City! Your tour guide will meet you at Mexico City International Airport (MEX) on time today. Then you will be transferred to the hotel by private car in 30 minutes. In the rest of the day you can move freely. Mexico City has a long history and is home to a large number of European-style palaces, churches, monasteries and other buildings built by Spanish colonists. And it is famous for its murals, which are so widespread, big, colorful, and so varied that you can walk through the city streets and appreciate them.

★ The Unique Location of Our Handpicked Hotel and Activity Suggestions
The hotel is located in the historic center, just 5 minutes’ walk to the Zocalo Square, and you can enjoy breakfast on the terrace of the hotel, which offers a stunning view of the Zocalo. There's no better way to spend your free time today than discovering the wonders of this captivating city.

San Juan Market (Mercado de San Juan) is the most famous food market, just 15 minutes’ walking distance from your hotel and is highly recommended for a visit. The market is known for its wide variety of high-quality food products, including exotic meats, seafood, spices, and other ingredients from around the world. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to sample the wide variety of foods and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Accommodation: Hotel Zocalo Central, Mexico City (4 stars) or similar

Start your tour at the Zocalo. The guide will lead you to see the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the largest and oldest cathedrals in the Americas, and the National Palace (Palacio Nacional). The palace is home to some of the most important murals by Diego Rivera, a famous Mexican artist. You can also visit the presidential chambers, which are still used for official government business. Continuing on, we will also take a look at the exterior of the Templo Mayor, which was built by the Aztecs in the 14th century and was one of the most important religious and political centers in the Aztec Empire. Have a self-paid lunch at noon.

Afterwards, we will depart for Coyoacan, a beautiful and historic neighborhood in Mexico City. You will firstly have a guided walking tour to the Frida Kahlo Museum (the Blue House). This was the home of the famous Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and her husband, Diego Rivera. The museum is a great way to learn about the life and work of Frida Kahlo, as well as to see some of her original paintings and personal belongings. Then, we will visit the Leon Trotsky’s House Museum, which is dedicated to the life and work of the Russian revolutionary who lived in Mexico City in the 1930s. We will drive back to your hotel at the end of the afternoon.

Recommended Entertainment Options for Tonight: (Contact us if the tickets are needed)
► Show of Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling): It’s a popular and entertaining spectacle that can be seen at the Arena Mexico. Matches are held only on Tuesdays at 19:00, Fridays at 20:00, and Sundays at 17:00.

► Folklore Ballet: The show offers a stunning display of traditional Mexican dance and music, and is performed at the Palace of Fine Arts. Shows are only available on Wednesdays and Sundays at 20:30.

► Latin American Tower (Torre Latinoamericana): It is a skyscraper in the historic center that offers spectacular views of Mexico City at night. Visitors can ride an elevator to the top observation deck and enjoy a panoramic view of the city while enjoying a drink or a meal at the on-site restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Zocalo Central, Mexico City (4 stars) or similar

In the morning we will drive about 1 hour to Teotihuacan, and visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe on the way. In 1531, an Indian farmer saw Virgin Mary at this place, so it has been considered a sacred site ever since. Upon reaching, let’s climb to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun, where you can see the whole of Teotihuacan. Walking north along the Avenue of the Dead from the Pyramid of the Sun, we can reach the Pyramid of the Moon at its northernmost point. Afterwards, we will visit a carved obsidian workshop where you could learn about the history and significance of obsidian, and observe the carving process, etc. After the visit, we will head for Puebla which takes about 2 hours.

Do you know the history and purpose of the Pyramids in Teotihuacan?
The Pyramids of the Sun and Moon in Teotihuacan are remarkable structures that have drawn significant interest for their exceptional architecture and astronomical importance. It is said that the Teotihuacan people constructed the pyramids to reflect their belief in a tale where the Sun and Moon deities pursued each other in the sky. A pyramid features four triangular sides, each comprising 91 steps, plus a shared step at the top, summing up to 365 steps to match the number of days in a year. Before the arrival of the Spanish in Mexico, the Teotihuacan people utilized the pyramids to observe celestial occurrences and develop agricultural and religious calendars. During the equinoxes of spring and autumn, the sun’s beams directly highlight a stone carving of the sun on the pyramid’s peak, generating a perfect circle of light. The Teotihuacan people celebrated this event with grand festivities, believing that it was a manifestation of the Sun God.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Casa Azulai Puebla Hotel Boutique (4 stars) or similar

You will visit the historic city center of Puebla with our expert guide in the morning. It's famous for its 60 churches and multi-colored earthenware tile industry, and the city is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and volcanos. You will be accompanied by your guide to walk and discover the Rosary Chapel (Capilla del Rosario), Church of Santo Domingo, the Zocalo, and the Alley of the Frogs (Barrio de los Sapos).

Then, we will head to Oaxaca to visit the Archaeological Site of Monte Alban. For more than a thousand years, Monte Alban has had a huge impact on the entire cultural area of Oaxaca. From there, we can overlook a breathtaking view of the valley, and see ball game venues, magnificent temples, tombs and reliefs with hieroglyphic inscriptions.

In the afternoon, we will explore some of the most famous spots in the Historic Center of Oaxaca: the Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución), Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca (Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca) inside the convent, as well as the House of Juarez Site Museum (Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez). Finally we will drive to the hotel and stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Parador San Miguel, Oaxaca (4 stars) or similar

In the morning, we will head to El Tule, 10 km (6 mi) south of Oaxaca. There is a huge cypress tree, 45 feet in diameter and 2,000 years old. It also holds the record for the widest trunk in the world.

Then, we’ll head to the village of Teotitlan del Valle to discover Oaxaca’s handicrafts, where we’ll meet a family of weavers and discover the techniques they use to naturally dye their textiles, as well as their skills in spinning and weaving.

Continue towards Mitla, which was first built around 100 AD and gradually developed into a sacrificial center in the 9th to 12th centuries. People held bloody sacrifices to the gods and other religious ceremonies there, thus it was known as "place of the dead". While walking on the town's stone roads, you can see various colonial-style churches and the surrounding ancient ruins.

After the visit, we’ll continue our road trip from the 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) height through the isthmus downwards to Tehuantepec.

★ Highlights of Today: A Cultural Journey through the Art of Textile Weaving
You will experience a rich culture of textile weaving and learn how to weave beautiful fabrics in a traditional way in Teotitlan del Valle. This will transport you back to the past, allowing you to learn more about the history and culture of textiles while also participating in the process of creating them, bringing joy and relaxation. Whether you love textiles or cultural history, this will be an unforgettable experience.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Calli, Tehuantepec (4 stars) or similar

Leaving Tehuantepec, we will drive 4.5 hours through Tuxtla and continue onto Chiapa de Corzo, one of the many magic towns in Chiapas. There, we will take a boat and travel through the Sumidero Canyon, which will be an unforgettable memory to travel among the steep cliffs up to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) high and you will see the “Christmas tree falls” during the trip. This is a 2 to 3 hours’ shared boat trip, and we recommend you wear a hat! After landing, we will drive about 2 hours to San Cristobal de las Casas in the afternoon.

★ Our Sumidero Canyon Boat Trip VS. Others:
► Other Trip Providers - Only 1-Hour Quick Tour
Sumidero Canyon is a vast and complex area, and a quick one-hour tour may not provide a deeper understanding of its history, culture, and geography. The terrain is steep and requires careful navigation, making safety a concern to some extent. Overall, a more in-depth tour of Sumidero Canyon may be necessary to truly appreciate its beauty and complexity.

► Agate Travel's Thoughtful Arrangements
Our 2-3 hours’ boat trip offers a more comprehensive and profound experience. The boat will take you through the canyon, allowing you to personally experience the mystique and beauty of this place. You will see so many sights: from towering peaks and steep cliffs to rolling white waves and crystal-clear river water, as well as the surrounding wildlife, making you feel like you've entered a magical world. This boat trip will take you through ancient indigenous villages, where you can observe mysterious rock paintings and ancient civilization ruins, gaining a deeper understanding of the local culture and way of life. Whether you want to relax in Sumidero Canyon or seek new adventures, this is an experience not to be missed.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Sombra del Agua, San Cristobal de las Casas (3 stars) or similar

Embark on a guided walking tour of San Cristobal de las Casas in the morning, and immerse yourself in the charm of this romantic town. Wander through the narrow, cobbled pedestrian street - Calle Real de Guadalupe and marvel at the brightly colored houses, and visit the Santo Domingo Church with its large open-air crafts market.

★ Special Arrangement: Tzotzil Family Visit with Afternoon Tea
Afterwards, we will drive about 20 minutes to visit the communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. A friendly Tzotzil family in Zinacantan will welcome you into their home, so that you can learn about their traditional way of life, particularly the art of weaving. They will also invite you to enjoy a sip of pox, a locally-produced alcoholic beverage made from corn, and savor handmade tortillas. Drive back to San Cristobal de las Casas at the end of the day.

Interesting Experiences of Visiting a Tzotzil Family in Zinacantan:
► Weaving: Weaving is a highly valued skill in Tzotzil culture. Visitors may see women weaving traditional Tzotzil textiles such as blankets and carpets.

► Food Preparation: You can also have chance to learn about local food preparation techniques. The host would demonstrate how to make traditional Tzotzil foods such as corn tortillas, corn beer, bean milk, and chili sauce. The host may also show how to grind pumpkin seeds into a grey paste, which may not look very appetizing until mixed with salsa and lime juice to create a vibrant orange color and spread onto freshly baked corn tortillas, which taste delicious.

► Etiquette and Traditional Dress: Etiquette and traditional dress are highly valued in Tzotzil culture. Tourists may see people dressed in traditional clothing that features decorative patterns of florals, such as lace blouses, long skirts, and scarves.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Sombra del Agua, San Cristobal de las Casas (3 stars) or similar

After breakfast, we will leave the Chiapas Mountains area and travel through the green valley to the jungle of Palenque, with a total of 6-hour drive. We will stop by the beautiful Agua Azul Waterfalls (or Misol Ha Waterfalls) on the way for a break. This is the perfect place to try some grilled fish for lunch. You can bathe and swim in the water to relax yourself. Upon arrival in Palenque, check into the hotel and spend the rest of the afternoon in this jungle setting.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Boutique Quinta Cha Nab Nal, Palenque (4 stars) or similar

As a famous historical and cultural city in Mexico, Palenque is also a typical Mayan civilization site. In the morning, our guide will take you to visit the Palenque Ruins, a group of historic spots surrounded by tropical rain forests, including pyramids and temples, to understand the mysterious Mayan history. In the afternoon we will drive about 5 hours to Campeche. You can move freely in the rest of the day after checking into the hotel. There is an old district near the bay, which retains many colorful buildings of past time. It is suggested that you go there and have a look around if time permits.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Castelmar Hotel Campeche (4 stars) or similar

After breakfast, we will set off for Merida, the capital of Yucatan State, with a 3-hour drive. Merida is also known as the "White City" because most of its buildings are made of white bricks and stones. On the way we will pull over to see the impressive Uxmal Ruins, which represent the peak of Mayan artistic and architectural achievement. You can find a large number of stone carvings, sculptures, murals and more in the Mayan ruins. Then, we will spend some time to explore two cenotes and take a refreshing swim in the forest. Upon arrival in Merida, check into the hotel.

Discover the Nature's Hidden Gems of Cenotes in Yucatan:
As you dive into the emerald-green waters of a cenote, and you'll be transported to a world of unparalleled beauty. Marvel at the intricate limestone formations of these natural wonders, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your underwater adventures. Swim alongside colorful fish and appreciate the delicate stalactites that hang from the ceiling. However, cenotes are not just about their beauty, but also rich in cultural and historical significance, as the ancient Mayans considered them to be sacred portals to the underworld. You'll uncover a sense of wonder while exploring the hidden passageways underwater. This cenote tour is a truly enchanting experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Antelar Casa Destino, Merida (4 stars) or similar

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a journey to discover the fascinating life of a Mayan family in the charming village of Tekit. As soon as you arrive, you'll be warmly welcomed by a friendly family member who will guide you through an exciting day of exploration and cultural immersion.

First things first, you'll venture out to a plot of land where you'll handpick fresh and juicy fruits and veggies needed to prepare your meal. Next, hit the vibrant local market to shop for the remaining ingredients needed for your cooking class, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere and chatting with the friendly vendors.

Back at the Mayan home, it's time to roll up your sleeves and dive into the art of traditional Mayan cooking. From mixing the perfect blend of spices to molding and cooking the authentic tortillas, you'll learn the secrets of Mayan cuisine and create a culinary masterpiece. While waiting for your delicious meal to cook, you'll have the chance to explore the family's backyard, where they grow an array of herbs and fruits.

Time for tasting. After indulging in your meal, take some time to relax and soak up the rich culture and hospitality of your Mayan hosts. If time permits, you can also stroll through the village, or even learn about traditional Mayan clothing at a local workshop. Return to Merida in the late afternoon.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Antelar Casa Destino, Merida (4 stars) or similar

Good day! Are you ready for an adventure-filled day? We'll be exploring some amazing places today. Our first stop will be the famous Chichen Itza, where our excellent guide will work to his best advantage. As you step into the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, you would be instantly transported back in time to a world of mystery and wonder. Your knowledgeable guide will accompany you to unlock the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Your first stop is the iconic Temple of Kukulcan (El Castillo), where you will be mesmerized by the intricate carvings and the perfect symmetry of the pyramid. The guide will tell the stories of Mayan mythology, explaining how this temple was not only an architectural masterwork, but also a celestial observatory.

Next, make your way to the Great Ball Court, where the Mayans once played a high-stakes game known as Pok-ta-Pok. You can almost hear the echoes of cheering crowds as your guide describes a vivid picture of the intense athletic competition and religious significance of this ancient sport. Next, visit the Sacred Cenote, a natural sinkhole that was once a site of human sacrifice. Your guide will share the legends and rituals associated with this sacred place, making you shudder. The Temple of the Warriors will leave you in awe with its intricate details and imposing stone columns. The guide will explain how it was once a place of worship and also served as a military garrison. Your final stop would be the Nunnery (Las Monjas), which is believed to be a residence for high-ranking Mayan women, giving you a glimpse into the gender roles and daily life of the Mayan society.

★ Follow Our Guide to Test Magical Acoustic Phenomenon in Chichen Itza
Pyramid of Kukulcan shows interesting acoustic characteristic. Imagine standing at the base of the pyramid and clapping your hands, only to hear a distinct echo that sounds like a chirping bird. This incredible sound is said to symbolize the quetzal bird and reflects the masterly acoustic design of this Maya wonder. With our expert guide, you could be able to pinpoint the perfect spot to experience this incredible sensation. Don't miss out on the chance to discover this ancient marvel.

After the visit, we will drive for 2.5 hours to the hotel in Playa del Carmen, and then you can have a good rest.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel HM Playa del Carmen (4 stars) or similar

Finish your vacation with some rest and relaxation on this leisure day. Take a whole day to do whatever you want. You can spend the day exploring the ancient ruins of Tulum, which sits on the edge of the sea. Or, you could go scuba diving and explore the vibrant fish and coral life in the waters surrounding Cozumel. If you prefer a more peaceful day, you could just relax on the beach. And of course, make sure to save some energy for a fun night.

Recommend Night Show in Playa del Carmen: Coco Bongo Disco and Show
Coco Bongo is a popular disco and show, located at the heart of Playa del Carmen's entertainment district, on the famous 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida). The shows typically start around 11 pm and continue until the early hours of the morning. Guests can enjoy a variety of performances, including music from different eras and genres, dance routines, and acrobatics. Some of the most popular shows include Michael Jackson, Madonna, The Beatles, Lady Gaga and Moulin Rouge. Coco Bongo can get very crowded, particularly during peak tourist season. The approximate reference price is $90 per person.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel HM Playa del Carmen (4 stars) or similar

As your 2-week best Mexico tours comes to an end, we will pick you up from the hotel according to your flight schedule and send you to Cancun Airport! May you have had a great time!

Meals: Breakfast