16
Those on the group flights normally arrive in Mexico City in the evening. Land only passengers can arrive at any time. *Hotel Regente or similar*
Today we head out for a day of exploring the bohemian side of Mexico City. We start off by making our way to the south of the city and a particular house hidden behind cobalt blue walls known as Casa Azul. This is where the acclaimed artist Frida Kahlo was born, grew up and, eventually, lived with her muralist husband, Diego Rivera until she died in 1954 at the age of 47. Now a museum, the colonial house, set around a luxuriant garden, doesn’t only showcase the collections and personal effects of the two great artists but is a window into the life of affluent Mexican bohemians in the first half of the 20th Century. Next, we visit the quaint neighbourhood of Coyoacan (meaning place of coyotes) with its pebbled streets, colonial churches, bustling little markets and quiet squares. This area was inhabited before the arrival of the Spanish and it is said that the conquistador, Hernan Cortes, made this the first capital of New Spain. Finally, we enjoy a relaxing ride on a pre-Hispanic boat along the peaceful waters of the Xochimilco Canals. These scenic waterways would have been used by the Aztecs and today see us enjoying a relaxing journey past floating gardens and little floating kitchens selling local food. We finally return to our hotel in the late afternoon. *Hotel Regente or similar*
The ancient city of Teotihuacan reached its zenith around 1,000AD when it was the 6th biggest city in the world with a population of about 125,000. Amongst the avenues and structures are the pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, the 3rd and 4th largest in the world. We explore this impressive archaeological zone with an expert local guide to unearth some of the site’s secrets. Returning to Mexico City, we visit the historic centre on a walking tour based around the Zocalo (main square) and the Cathedral Metropolitana. Our exploration will start in the capital’s main square, known as the Zócalo, but officially named the Plaza de la Constitución. Considered one of the biggest squares in the world, and just as it was an important gathering place for the Aztecs, it remains so in modern day Mexico, often hosting book fairs and concerts. On the North side of the Zócalo is the Metropolitan Cathedral. The largest Cathedral in the Americas, it was constructed over the Aztec temple, the Templo Mayor, as a sign that the Spanish were now in power. We continue to The Palacio Nacional, which not only contains the offices of the President, the Federal Treasury and the National Archives but also murals depicting pre-Hispanic life and a large mural filling the central stairway depicting the entire history of Mexico from the conquest on. Our tour finishes outside of The "Palacio de Bellas Artes". Construction of this massive neoclassical building began in 1904, on the remains of the Santa Isabel convent, under the Italian architect Boari. It has an art nouveau style and its facade is made of marble from Carrara. *Hotel Regente or similar*
Before leaving Mexico City behind we visit the Museum of Anthropology and History with its impressive collection of artefacts from Mexico’s many civilisations. Starting our journey south we head towards the city of Puebla (about 2.5hrs). In the late afternoon we arrive in Puebla de los Angeles, the City of Angels – so called because of a legend that claims angels came down from heaven to place the cathedral’s bells in the towers when builders were unable to do so. The colonial city is known for its traditions, especially its handicrafts, including blue-and-white pottery, and its cuisine that is some of the best in Mexico. *Hotel Colonial Puebla or similar*
We spend this morning discovering the city of Puebla which has been given UNESCO World Heritage Site for its colonial architecture. We visit the Patio de los Azulejos and the ex-Convent of Santa Rosa, both of which provide classic examples of how ‘talavera’ tiles were incorporated into buildings, inside and out. Early settlers who came from Talavera de la Reina in Spain introduced these tiles and associated ceramics. Today the glazed pottery has become synonymous with Puebla. After our city tour we continue our journey and drive towards another Mexican World Heritage City, Oaxaca (about 4.5hrs). With a colonial centre of shaded pedestrian streets, bright, clear light, indigenous traditions and a creative atmosphere, Oaxaca has attracted and inspired many artists and artisans alike. The city boasts such sights as the beautiful zocalo (main square), the Cathedral and the vast Convento de Santo Domingo, along with museums, fascinating markets and charming inns. **Hotel Oaxaca Real* or similar*
Our next exploration of Mexican history takes us to the Zapotecan site of Monte Alban. Whilst the name dates back to a Spanish landowner in the 16th-century, previous names come from the Mixtec word ‘Sahandevul’ meaning ‘At the foot of the Sky’ or the Zapotecan ‘Danibaan’ meaning ‘Sacred Mountain. In 500 BC the Zapotecans moved into the Oaxaca region and began the monumental task of levelling the top of a 1,600m high mountain that intersects and divides three valleys. Here they built the city of Monte Alban with a maze of subterranean passageways, rooms, drainage and water storage systems. We later return to Oaxaca and explore the cobbled streets and vibrant squares and churches of the historical town. We also visit the Museum of cultures Santo Domingo. **Hotel Oaxaca Real* or similar*
Oaxaca is possibly the most famed region in Mexico for its cuisine and we get more acquainted with it as we head for a cooking class, learning dishes that can easily be recreated at home. The exact menu can change but we generally learn how to make two types of tortilla, three different salsas, guacamole, mole, a starter, a soup, a desert and a drink. We visit a local market where different ingredients are showcased and explained before returning to the restaurant for our class and a succulent lunch. The afternoon is free to wander around Oaxaca on your own. **Hotel Oaxaca Real *or similar*
A short distance from Oaxaca is the village of Teotitlan del Valle known for its colourful, hand-woven rugs and our first stop today. From here we continue to the Don Agave distillery to taste some mescal. Distilled from agave plants, mescal is different to tequila and is most popular in the Oaxaca region. After this tasting we drive on to Tehuantepec where we spend the night (total drive time is about 7hrs plus stops) *Hotel Calli or similar*
Drive to San Cristobal (about 6hrs plus stops). One of Mexico's most popular cities with visitors, San Cristobal de las Casas is filled with cobbled stoned alleyways of whitewashed buildings with red-tiled roofs that give onto plazas and picturesque arcades. Arriving in San Cristobal in the afternoon, we have a short orientation tour of the historic city before checking into our hotel. *Hotel Casa Mexicana or similar*
Today is a free day to explore San Cristobal at your own pace. Wander the colonial streets, take in the lively cafés, or buy handicrafts produced by the local Tzotzil indigenous groups with their different colourful dress. It’s also possible to do an optional boat trip through the Sumidero Canyon and/or visit one of the traditional Mayan communities who live in the villages surrounding the city (see money section for prices). *Hotel Casa Mexicana or similar*
The Mexican Day of the Dead celebration is possibly the most vibrant and colourful tribute to human mortality there is. Mexican's pay tribute to the dead, especially close relatives, visiting graves and congregating around headstones to lay edible offerings alongside mounds of golden marigolds, the 'Flor de Muerto' (flower of the dead). Today will be full of new experiences that will take you closer to understand the myth and history of the Day of Dead and discover some of the festivities and traditions. As well as visiting some cemeteries around San Cristobal de las Casas to see the altars and tributes made to loved ones, we also plan to see some markets and bakeries with ornaments and essentials for the Day of the Dead festivities. This is a great chance to sample some specialities that are only on offer during this festival. Our day will also include some time at the Chamulan village Romerillo where we can join in with festivities happening locally. In this area, the ancient traditions of Day of the Dead haven't changed in many years. Traditionally the 31st of October is for cleaning graves - they are made to look fresh (recently dug with dirt piled up and fresh pine needles laid to represent eternal life), planks of wood to represent doors are then placed on top. On November the 1st the festivities begin. Offerings including the deceased favourite food and drink are placed on the graves to be shared with the departed. The 'doors' are opened so that friends and family can have conversations with their loved ones. There is mourning in evidence but also smiles and laughter, and the experience is overwhelmingly life affirming and uplifting. In Romerillo the cemetery is also covered with huge blue wooden crosses decorated in chrysanthemums, which makes for a very colourful view. By spending some time in Romerillo you will be exposed to a very authentic and traditional Day of the Dead celebration. **Hotel Casa Mexicana *or similar*
The road we take towards Palenque is very windy but picturesque. En route we visit the waterfalls of Agua Azul (after about 5hrs driving plus stops). Agua Azul is a group of beautiful waterfalls that create wonderful natural pools and has been a protected area since 1980. Following a stop at the falls it’s a further 2.5hrs to the town of Palenque, named after the nearby impressive ruins. *Hotel La Aldea del Halach Huinic or similar *
Emerging from the jungles of the Chiapas’ low-lying hills is one of Mexico’s most impressive ruins: the Mayan site of Palenque. The temples, sanctuaries and pyramids, with their sculptured walls and ceilings are some of the best-preserved and finest examples of Mayan buildings despite the city-state having peaked over 1,300 years ago in the 7th century. We explore this magnificent site before continuing on the road towards the Yucatan Peninsula and the Caribbean town of Campeche (about 5hrs plus stops). Yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the colonial town’s best feature are its impressive city walls built to protect it from the constant attacks by English and Dutch buccaneers and pirates during the 16th and 17th centuries. *Hotel Lopez or similar*
About two hours drive from Campeche is our second Mayan site: Uxmal. Quite open, it is in contrast to the jungle-ruins of Palenque we visited yesterday. This site, which dates to the late classic era (500-800AD) and features the Pyramid of the Magician; the Nunnery Quadrangle with long, elaborately carved facades; and a ball court where a traditional ball game was played, sometimes ending in human sacrifice. Having worked up an appetite we have lunch at a local Mayan family restaurant. Here we get to eat Pollo Pibil and Cochinita Pibil – slowly cooked pork and chicken. The meat is roasted for about 5hrs along with achiote paste and wrapped in banana leaves. This is a typical Yucatan dish and representative of the local cuisine. After lunch it’s about 1.5hrs drive to Merida. A number of the city’s buildings, including the cathedral, were built using Mayan stones found on this site and, along traditional colonial architecture, features 19th century houses built in a French style. Arriving mid-afternoon we have a walking tour of Merida, returning later to enjoy the main square which is particularly delightful at night. *Hotel Caribe or similar*
Our first stop is at the traditional Mayan village of Tixkokob where local families practice the age-old craft of hammock weaving. After learning about how hammocks are made we continue to the ‘magic town’ of Izamal. Once a Mayan settlement, the name means ‘Place of the God of Medicine’. The town is covered in buildings painted yellow and white and is known for the 16th century Franciscan monastery built on top of the base of a huge Mayan pyramid (which was probably once larger than the Castillo in Chichen Itza). From here we transfer to Chichen Itza, possibly the best known and most impressive of all Mayan sites (total drive time of about 3.5hrs plus stops). **Hotel Chichen Itza* or similar*
Our final day starts with a visit the most famous Mayan temple city: Chichen Itza. Having spent the night near to the site means we can get in nice and early before the hordes of day-trippers coming from the beach resorts. Chichen Itza served as the political and economic centre of the Mayan civilisation and thrived from around 600 to 1200AD. The pyramid of Kukulkan, the Temple of Chac Mool, the Hall of the Thousand Pillars and the Playing Field of the Prisoners can still be seen today and demonstrate the extraordinary commitment to architecture, space and composition. The pyramid itself was the last, and possibly the greatest, of Mayan pyramids. This afternoon we drive about 2.5hrs to Cancun airport in time for the group flight. This is where the tour’s land only portion ends.
* 15 nights in a mixture of standard and comfortable hotels with en suite
facilities
* All breakfasts and 2 lunches
* Travel by private minibus and boat
* Some long drives
* Day of the Dead Festival special departure in Romerillo
All breakfasts and 2 lunches included.
Breakfast generally consist of fruits, cereals, beans and eggs.
Meals vary in price from around $15-20 USD for lunch and $15-30 USD dinner. A
beer costs on average $3-5 USD.
There is a lot more to Mexican cuisine than fajitas and tacos and we have the
opportunity to discover the wealth of dishes on offer. In Oaxaca we attend a
cooking class, the exact dishes we learn to cook can vary but generally
include tortillas, salsas, mole (chocolate based savoury dishes) and
guacamole. We also learn about Mexican drinks, in particular by visiting a
mezcal distillery.
* 15 nights in a mixture of standard and comfortable hotels with en suite
facilities
* All breakfasts and 2 lunches
* Travel by private minibus and boat
* Some long drives
* Day of the Dead Festival special departure in Romerillo
Covering a lot of ground from Mexico City to Cancun does mean there are some
long drives – some of which are on windy mountain roads. Some of the trip,
in the lowlands of Chiapas and the Yucatan in particular, is likely to be hot
and humid, especially in the summer months – drinking plenty of water and
dressing in loose cotton clothing will help. Whilst this is a leisurely trip,
walking city tours. as well as visits to various pre-Hispanic sites. does
mean a lot of time spent on our feet. Many of the areas visited on the trip
are at high altitude and some short walks (normally one to three hours) are
planned. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this trip.
Please note, this trip includes a water-based excursion on the Xochimilco
Canals where local safety standards may differ from those you are used
to. There are unlikely to be personal flotation devices (i.e. lifejackets or
buoyancy aids) available for you to use on the activity. If you cannot swim
you should not take part in this activity/excursion. If you are concerned
about taking part in this activity, please discuss with your leader at the
start of the tour so they can make alternative arrangements.
Hotels
We will stay in a variety of colonial and modern properties, all with
en-suite facilities.
Some of the accommodation highlights will include: a hotel classified as a
historic monument which was originally a Jesuit monastery in Puebla, a
Spanish colonial residence in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas and a
property 2km from Palenque surrounded by forest.
Some of the hotels have pools and most have WiFi/internet.
Single supplements are available upon request.
All breakfasts and 2 lunches included.
Breakfast generally consist of fruits, cereals, beans and eggs.
Meals vary in price from around $15-20 USD for lunch and $15-30 USD dinner. A
beer costs on average $3-5 USD.
There is a lot more to Mexican cuisine than fajitas and tacos and we have the
opportunity to discover the wealth of dishes on offer. In Oaxaca we attend a
cooking class, the exact dishes we learn to cook can vary but generally
include tortillas, salsas, mole (chocolate based savoury dishes) and
guacamole. We also learn about Mexican drinks, in particular by visiting a
mezcal distillery.
Transport during this trip is by private minibuses (usually with air
conditioning) and boat.
*Travelling flight inclusive from London: 17 Days*
The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the
itinerary.
*Flights from London*
We normally use the scheduled services of British Airways or United Airways
(depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules change
regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your
agent to confirm up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at a
later date and cannot be confirmed
until approximately two weeks before departure.
***Travelling land only: 16 days starting in Mexico City and ending in Cancun
*
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Mexico City in the evening
of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are
provided in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent
approximately two weeks before departure.
Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. Please note
that transfers are not included for clients arriving on any other flight,
even if Exodus has booked it.
If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able
to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the
arrival time of the group flight - please check the group flight details 2
weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you
must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense
On the coast and in the lowland areas there is little variation in
temperatures between the seasons. These are likely to be 28ºC to 33ºC
average daytime maximum and 18ºC to 23ºC night time minimum. On the coast
the heat and humidity are moderated by sea breezes, but inland it is likely
to be quite humid.
In the hills the temperatures are moderated by the altitude, and there is
more seasonal variation. Between November and February the daytime maximum is
around 20ºC, rising to 27ºC in summer. Nights are much cooler, around 6ºC
in winter and 12ºC in summer. Note that it can be surprisingly cold in the
highlands on winter nights.
The wet season is from June to October, when it normally rains on average one
day in three. The rains tend to be short and heavy, alternating with pleasant
clear spells. During the other months rain is much less likely, but there is
the chance of an occasional storm at almost any time.
Sunglasses
Sunhat
Sunscreen
Rain poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket
Warm sweater
Swimming gear
Shorts
Sturdy walking shoes for ruins
Long trousers
Long‐sleeved lightweight shirts
Insect repellent.
Refillable water bottle
Dress is fairly conservative. Women do not normally wear shorts in the towns
and men should always wear a shirt or t‐shirt.
At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on the
recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We recommend packing
only one piece of checked baggage.
As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold luggage is subject
to change, we suggest you check the airline's website for the latest
information prior to your departure.
Umbrella
Binoculars
Headtorch
Small daypack for walks/ruins visits
Universal sink plug
It is possible to pay for some items in USD including some souvenirs though
in normal shops you will need to use Mexican Pesos.
**
*Optional Excursions*
Visit to local Mayan community (available during free day in San Cristobal
de las Casas) ‐ US$35 per person
Boat trip on the Sumidero Canyon (available during free day in San Cristobal
de las Casas) ‐ US$55 per person
Misol Ha Waterfall ‐ US$5 per person
Local Mayan Community & Boat Trip to the Sumidero Canyon ‐US$80 per person
Although entirely optional, we suggest that you budget between US$85-90 in
total on this itinerary to be broken down as follows:
Approximately US$3 per day for your tour leader.
Approximately US$2 per day for your driver.
Approximately US$2 for each local guide used
* Travel insurance
* Single accommodation (available on request)
* Visas or vaccinations
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.