A Mexican Adventure - Solo Tour

A Mexican Adventure

Experience a real Mexican Adventure as you explore Mexico all the way from its cultured capital - Mexico City - to the beach at Cancun. You'll visit incredible archaeological sites, be immersed in rich indigenous traditions and cultural heritage, discover the country's stunning natural wonders and complete this incredible tour with time to kick back and relax on the beach.

What's Included

• Return flights from London
• 13 nights in 3 and 4 star hotels
• 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
• Just You Holiday Director
• Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage

Holiday Highlights:

• ​Teotihuacan archaeological complex
• National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City
• Monte Alban in Oaxaca
• Sumidero Canyon in Chiapas
• Capital of the Yucatan, Merida

Day 1: UK - Mexico City

Today you’ll arrive in Mexico where your local guide will meet you and we’ll transfer you to your hotel. As the bustling capital, "Ciudad de Mexico" is a vibrant mix of contrasts, offering an immersive experience that brings together the essence of Mexico. It's the ideal kick-off point for your Mexican adventure.

Day 2: Mexico City

Today we’ll embark on an exhilarating half-day exploration of Mexico City, the world's largest metropolis and the ancient Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan. Your day begins with a tour of the historic centre, taking in the lively central square, "Zocalo," along with the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace which is home to Diego Rivera's renowned murals. We’ll continue along the picturesque Paseo de la Reforma boulevard, leading to Chapultepec Park, home to the castle once inhabited by the ill-fated Emperor Maximilian. We’ll conclude our adventure with a visit to the globally-acclaimed National Anthropology Museum, recognised as one of the top ten museums of its kind worldwide. After our packed tour, filled with history and culture we’ll head back to the hotel.

Day 3: Teohihuacan

We’ll drive north today towards Teotihuacan to unlock the magic and mystery of this 2000-year-old city. Teotihuacan was considered the most important city of the Mexican table-land plateau from AD 200 to 500, when it was home to over 200,000 people. We’ll explore the pyramids of the Sun and the Moon and stroll down the Avenue of the Dead, passing by the unique stone sculptures of plumed serpents at the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Temple of the Butterflies. Immerse yourself in the pre-Hispanic structures and ruins that echo the city's rich history. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Teotihuacan and on the journey back, make a stop at the Shrine of Guadalupe, a monumental tribute to Mexico's deep faith in the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Day 4: Mexico City - Puebla - Oaxaca

Today, we leave Mexico City behind as we journey on to Puebla, Mexico’s fourth-largest city, passing the photogenic, snow-capped volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. We’ll make a stop at Santa Maria Tonantzintla to explore its stunning temple decorated by indigenous people. In Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage site which is also known as the “City of Angels”, we will visit the extraordinary Rosary Chapel, the Cathedral, the main square, and its beautiful historic centre. Our adventure continues to Oaxaca, renowned as one of Mexico’s most picturesque colonial towns of Mexico and another UNESCO World Heritage site. Oaxaca is celebrated for its rich indigenous traditions, reflected in its beautiful crafts and local cuisine.

Day 5: Oaxaca

We’ll start the day with a walking tour of Oaxaca detailing the most important landmarks, including the Santo Domingo Church which is one the best examples of the Baroque style in Mexico with its extraordinary interior decoration of golden and polychrome plasterwork. Oaxaca’s markets are famous for their various products and we’ll explore the Benito Juarez market, which is divided into sections where shoppers can purchase a variety of wares including clothing, flowers, fruits and vegetables, meat and fish, cheeses, fruit drinks, and even Oaxaca`s famous grasshoppers! In the afternoon, we will travel to the countryside surrounding the city to visit a project set up by local women who create alebrijes. These mythical figures are said to bring good luck to anyone who has them.

Day 6: Monte Alban - Salina Cruz

This morning we will visit Monte Alban. Founded around 500 AD by people from the nearby valley towns. It was the Zapotecs' capital and one of Mesoamerica's first cities. It boasted more than 25,000 inhabitants. Its main edifices are the Main Plaza, the Ball Court and various tombs. After the visit we will settle into our coach for the very scenic journey to Salina Cruz, close to the Pacific Coast.

Day 7: Sumidero Canyon - San Cristobal

Our journey continues this morning to Tuxtla Gutierrez, the state capital of Chiapas. Today’s highlight will be a boat ride through the Sumidero Canyon, which measures 1,000 metres at its highest point. Admire the beautiful rock formations and enjoy the abundant wildlife including crocodiles, spider monkeys and many different bird species on the Grijalva River’s shores. Afterwards we’ll pass through the historically significant town Chiapa de Corzo on our way to San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 8: San Cristobal

Today is full of mysticism. We’ll visit the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan, located in the highlands of Chiapas. In both Tzotzil Maya communities, the complex ethnic composition of Chiapas is well-reflected. They still demonstrate various customs and beliefs expressed in pagan and Christian traditions. You’ll have free time in the afternoon – ideal for exploring more of the beautiful city of San Cristobal de las Casas with, among its many attractions, a colourful market, the cathedral, and the Jade Museum.

Day 9: San Cristobal - Palenque

We travel to Palenque today and we’ll visit the waterfalls of Agua Azul on our way. The turquoise colour, which makes these waterfalls unique, comes from the high water mineral content level. Enjoy the surrounding jungle environment and maybe even go for a swim. Afterwards, we will continue through the lush jungle on to Palenque.

Day 10: Palenque - Campecha

We’ll explore the archaeological zone of Palenque today, one of the most important sites of the Mayan World. Lakamha, as the city was known among the ancient Maya, flourished in the 7th century and rose to prominence under the reign of legendary King Pakal, whose tomb was found in Palenque ́s most iconic landmark, the Temple of the Inscriptions. This ruined city is home to some of the most beautiful architecture, exquisite sculptures, and carvings produced by the ancient Maya. Enjoy a guided visit and admire the impressive structures and breathtaking natural environment of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After, we head to Campeche, a charming town full of naval history, Spanish baroque architecture, and aging beauty. The city has spent the past few years restoring hundreds of historical buildings, making it one of the most photogenic colonial towns in all of Mexico and we’ll enjoy a panoramic tour of the city on arrival.

Day 11: Campecha - Merida

On our way to Merida today, we will visit Uxmal (meaning “built three times”). Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is considered one of the Maya cities most representative of the Puuc style, the region’s dominant architectural style. We’ll explore the Magician Pyramid, the Quadrangle of the Nuns, the Governor’s palace, and the ballgame court. After this visit, we’ll travel on to to Merida. The “White City” was founded in 1542 by the Spaniard Francisco de Montejo. Nowadays, Yucatan’s Mexican state is the capital city, with still a strong influence of Mayan cultural heritage, stunning architecture, lovely parks, and delicious gastronomy. Upon arrival in Merida, we will enjoy a panoramic tour, including the city’s highlights.

Day 12: Merida - Chitchen Itza - Cancun

Chichen Itza is a stopping point for us today as we travel to Cancun. The city was one of the largest and most prominent Maya cities and is now undoubtedly the best-preserved Maya site on the Yucatan peninsula - it was recently declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. There are many famous landmarks to see including the Temple of Kukulkan, the Platform of the Skulls and the Sacred Cenote. We’ll then continue on our way to Cancun.

Day 13: Cancun

It’s time to indulge in a day of pure relaxation today in Cancun, where turquoise waters and powdery white sands beckon. Wake up to a stunning sunrise over the Caribbean Sea and savour a leisurely breakfast. Lounge under swaying palm trees on the beach, feeling the gentle breeze caress your skin. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters and bask in the tropical sunshine. As the day turns to dusk, toast to the mesmerising sunset with a refreshing cocktail, cherishing the tranquil moments that make Cancun an oasis of bliss.

Day 14: Cancun - UK

Today we transfer from the hotel to the airport in Cancun, to fly to Mexico City on then onwards to London.