Experience the Highlights of Mexico
This 14 day Highlights of Mexico holiday offers a well balanced introduction to a country shaped by ancient civilisations, colonial history and rich regional traditions. Travelling through some of Mexico’s most important cultural centres, the itinerary reveals how layers of history continue to influence daily life, architecture and customs across the country.
Your journey includes visits to some of Mexico’s most significant archaeological sites, from the vast Aztec city of Teotihuacán to the jungle surrounded ruins of Palenque and the iconic Maya city of Chichén Itzá. Alongside these ancient centres, explore Spanish colonial towns and traditional indigenous communities in Oaxaca, San Cristóbal de las Casas and Mérida, each offering its own character, pace and cultural identity.
Natural scenery plays an important role in the journey, with a boat trip through the dramatic Sumidero Canyon providing a change of perspective. As you travel between towering canyon walls, keep an eye out for birdlife including cormorants and vultures. Together, these experiences create a rewarding introduction to Mexico’s history, landscapes and living traditions.
Visit several regions in Mexico
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
See details in itinerary below
12 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner included
What you'll experience
- Explore the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, Teotihuacán, Palenque and Chichén Itzá: Discover some of Mexico’s most significant archaeological sites, each offering insight into the beliefs, power and architectural skill of ancient civilisations.
- Take a boat ride through the Sumidero Canyon: Glide between towering cliff walls along the Grijalva River, spotting wildlife and dramatic rock formations along the way.
- Visit Tzotzil communities in the Chiapas Highlands from San Cristóbal de las Casas: Spend time in traditional villages to learn about local customs, textiles and daily life shaped by centuries old Maya heritage.
What's Included
International flights
12 nights’ accommodation
14 meals; 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
Guided tours and excursions as described
All car and boat transfers and domestic flights as per itinerary.
Prices from £5,199 pp
Excludes:
- Excursions not included in Mérida – speak to your travel specialist to arrange these prior to travel.
- Meals not indicated in your itinerary.
- Local departure taxes payable locally.
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc.
- Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary).
- Camera or video fees at any sites.
Quick Itinerary
Mexico's Highlights 14-day Itinerary
Days 1-3 UK - Mexico City
Arrive in Mexico City on your flight from the UK.
Over the next two days, you’ll explore Mexico City on a guided tour, discovering the bustling zocalo (main square) and learning something of the country’s fascinating history at the National Museum of Anthropology.
On day 3 take a short journey outside of the city to the Shrine of Guadalupe and then on to the immense Aztec ruins of Teotihuacán. Walk along the Avenue of the Dead, and see the Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon while exploring this impressive sprawling site.
Days 4-5 Oaxaca
A short flight will take you to Oaxaca, known for its colourful buildings, fantastic cuisine and vibrant Mexican culture. You'll have some free time to discover the city's colonial architecture and busy central squares.
The following day visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Monte Albán which was the capital of the Zapotec culture who ruled Oaxaca's central valley until around 700AD. Located on a hill 400m above Oaxaca city, Monte Albán dates back to 500 BC and is an incredible feat of engineering. Explore the grand plaza, the ball court, the observatory and the palace, and take in wonderful views over the city and valley below.
Days 6-7 San Cristóbal de las Casas
Fly from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutierrez and then drive to Sumidero Canyon. Here you’ll board a boat to navigate through the vast rock faces that rise over 1000m, keep a lookout for cormorants, vultures, crocodiles and monkeys along the way. You have a quick stop at Chiapa de Corzo, the first Spanish settlement with fine examples of 16th-century architecture, before arriving in San Cristóbal de las Casas.
The following day you’ll have a guided city tour, exploring the cathedral, temples, Tzotzil Indian villages and handicraft markets.
Day 8 Palenque
Journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Palenque. These archaeological ruins are surrounded by jungle, where the call of birds and howler monkeys adds to the atmosphere and mystery of the site. There are over 500 buildings, some are still yet to be excavated, and you'll have a guided tour to see the Temple of the Inscriptions, the tallest and most imposing building, the Temple of the Sun, crowned with a prominent roof, and the Palace with its labyrinth of corridors and rooms, amongst others.
Days 9-11 Mérida
Fly to Mérida for the next three nights. Your time here has been left free for you to explore at your leisure. You could wander around Mérida town and watch the world go by from one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Alternatively, speak to your Travel Specialist for more information on excursions available. Perhaps take a trip to Celestun to see the flamingos, visit one of the 100s of cenotes (sinkholes) dotted around the Yucatán Peninsula, or take a trip to nearby towns of Izamal or Sisal.
Day 12 Chichén Itzá
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Chichén Itzá. One of the New 7 Wonders of the World, it is one of the best examples of Mayan architecture. Set in dense jungle surroundings you will explore these magnificent ruins on a guided tour. Chichén Itzá means 'mouth of the well of the Itzáes' in Mayan, and it is believed that people were thrown into nearby cenotes as a sacrifice to the gods; you'll also visit the Sacred Cenote on your explorations. Continue to the Riviera Maya for the night.
Days 13-14 Cancun - UK
You will head to Cancun Airport for your onward flight, alternatively, speak to your Travel Specialist about extending you time on the beach for well-deserved R&R.
Speak to a dedicated Mexico Holiday Specialist
All our Mexico itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Mexico's Highlights holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
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