Journey Through Mexico's Timeless Treasures
Kick off in Mexico City and finish in Tuxtla Gutiérrez on a 17–day journey that sweeps from Aztec pyramids to Pacific beaches and highland cities. In the capital you’ll visit Teotihuacan and the Basilica of Guadalupe, then wind through magical towns to Acapulco and laid–back Zihuatanejo – boat across to Playa Las Gatas for a swim. Trade surf for lakes and pink–stone plazas around Pátzcuaro and Morelia, then dive into Guadalajara’s historic centre with a tequila tasting in the town of Tequila. Expect UNESCO gems in Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende and Oaxaca – plus Monte Albán. Chiapas delivers Sumidero Canyon, Tzotzil villages and characterful San Cristóbal, with cave adventures and Maya healing traditions.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
17 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
Mexico CityEnds
Tuxtla GutiérrezMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Mexico that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Country
MexicoPassengers
$3,290.00
$400.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
Mexico City
Tepoztlan
Cuernavaca
Taxco
Chilpancingo
Acapulco
Zihuatanejo
Janitzio
Patzcuaro
Morelia
Cuitzeo del porvenir
Guadalajara
Guanajuato
Dolores Hidalgo
San Miguel de Allende
Queretaro
Tula
Puebla
Oaxaca
San Pablo Villa de Mitla
Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Sumidero Canyon
Chiapa de Corzo
Zinacantán
San Juan Chamula
San Cristóbal de las Casas
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Mexico City
On arrival in Mexico City, we’ll arrange your transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free – you can unwind after your journey or take a first look at the city at your own pace. Our guide will contact you late in the afternoon.
Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.
Day 2 - Mexico City
After breakfast we set out from Mexico City for the Plaza of the Three Cultures, where past and present meet. We then continue 40 km to the archaeological city of Teotihuacan – entrance included – to see the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the Temple of Quetzalpapalotl, the Citadel and the Avenue of the Dead, and we also visit a local artisan centre. On the return to the city, we stop at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of Latin America. Back at the hotel, you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore at your own pace.
Day 3 - Mexico City - Tepoztlan - Cuernavaca - Taxco
After breakfast we leave Mexico City for Tepoztlán in the state of Morelos – a Pueblo Mágico set against a green hillside crowned by a small pyramid. You’ll have free time to wander the streets or browse the artisan market. We then continue to Cuernavaca, the state capital known as the City of Eternal Spring, with pre–Hispanic origins and later a retreat for Aztec nobility and the colonial elite. We’ll see the Palace of Hernán Cortés, the cathedral and the city’s gardens and parks, with free time for lunch. In the afternoon we travel into the mountains to Taxco in Guerrero – a picturesque Pueblo Mágico famed for its colonial charm, cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses and silver craftsmanship. You’ll have time to explore before settling in for the night.
Day 4 - Taxco - Acapulco
After breakfast, we travel through the mountains towards the state capital of Guerrero and continue to the Pacific coast, arriving in Acapulco – renowned for its beaches and striking scenery. You’ll have free time to enjoy its popular beach, lined with restaurants where you can have lunch and swim. In the afternoon, we include entrance and a visit to the Fort of San Diego, a 17th century fortress built to defend the port from pirate attacks. After the visit, we transfer to the hotel and you’ll have time to relax.
Day 5 - Acapulco - Zihuatanejo
After breakfast, we continue along the Pacific coast for 230 km to reach Zihuatanejo – originally a fishing village and still known for its pristine beaches, relaxed atmosphere and cobbled streets. We include a short boat transfer of about 10 minutes to Playa Las Gatas – accessible only by sea – where you can swim, unwind and choose a beachfront restaurant for lunch. We then return by boat, settle into your accommodation and you have the rest of the day free. Please note that during peak season accommodation in Zihuatanejo may be limited – in this case we may depart in the late afternoon to stay in the city of Lázaro Cárdenas.
Day 6 - Zihuatanejo - Janitzio - Patzcuaro
Leaving Zihuatanejo, the scenery shifts as we trade the coast for the green mountains of Michoacán. We continue to Lake Pátzcuaro and board a boat for a 30 minute ride to Janitzio, an island home to the Purépecha community, known for its living traditions and distinctive butterfly net fishing. You’ll have time to pick a local restaurant for lunch, stroll the traditional streets and, if you wish, climb to the striking statue of José María Morelos. We then return by boat to Pátzcuaro, one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial towns, celebrated for its pre–Hispanic roots, elegant architecture and lively artisan markets.
Day 7 - Patzcuaro - Morelia - Tlaquepaque - Guadalajara
We depart Pátzcuaro for Morelia, the capital of Michoacán – a UNESCO World Heritage city celebrated for its pink stone architecture and beautiful historic centre. We’ll take in the cathedral, Plaza de Armas and the University of Morelia, founded in 1540. You’ll then have free time to wander and find lunch. En route to Guadalajara, we stop in Tlaquepaque, a Pueblo Mágico known for mariachi, live performances, artisan shops and local cuisine. We continue to Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco and birthplace of mariachi and tequila – arriving in the late afternoon.
Day 8 - Guadalajara
In the morning, we explore Guadalajara – a modern metropolis with a colonial historic centre. Our guided tour covers the cathedral, the market and Plaza Tapatía, and includes entry to the Hospicio Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After the visit, we continue to the town of Tequila, where we include entrance to the Mundo Cuervo distillery to see how this famous Mexican spirit is made – tasting included. You then have free time to stroll and have lunch in the picturesque town. We return to Guadalajara afterwards.
Day 9 - Guadalajara - Guanajuato
We leave Guadalajara for the state of Guanajuato, arriving around midday. In the afternoon we explore this UNESCO World Heritage university city on an included guided tour – taking in its steep slopes, narrow lanes and notable churches – and we ride the cable car up to El Pípila for sweeping views over the historic centre.
Day 10 - Guanajuato - Dolores Hidalgo - San Miguel de Allende - Queretaro
We leave Guanajuato and travel through the mountains to Dolores Hidalgo – the birthplace of Mexican independence. We then continue to the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, known as the Sanctuary of God and Country and recognised as a World Heritage Site – please note the interior may be closed during religious retreats. Afterwards, we explore San Miguel de Allende – a World Heritage city with elegant colonial architecture and cobbled streets – and you’ll have free time to wander. Later, we arrive in Querétaro, noted for its superb colonial centre, Plaza de Armas and lively restaurants along its pedestrian streets.
Day 11 - Queretaro - Tula - Puebla
We leave Querétaro for Tula, where we include entry to the archaeological site – the former Toltec capital. We will see the Atlantes, striking warrior statues standing around four metres tall, along with pyramids, palaces and carved columns that reflect this pre Hispanic civilisation. We then continue to Puebla for a panoramic tour of its historic centre, renowned for its cuisine, colonial architecture and Talavera pottery – highlights include the Renaissance style cathedral and the lively Zócalo. Overnight in Puebla.
Day 12 - Puebla - Oaxaca
We travel into the state of Oaxaca through mountainous scenery and arrive in Oaxaca by late morning for an included guided visit of its UNESCO World Heritage historic centre. In the afternoon we continue to Monte Albán – set atop a mountain about 400 metres above the Oaxaca Valley – for a guided tour with admission included of this magnificent Zapotec site. We then return to Oaxaca, where you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace.
Day 13 - Oaxaca - San Pablo Villa de Mitla - Tuxtla Gutiérrez
We depart early from Oaxaca, making a brief stop in San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a Pueblo Mágico where you’ll have time for a short stroll around the 16th century Church of San Pablo and along its rustic streets. We then continue through the mountains of Oaxaca towards the Isthmus – lunch is included en route – arriving in Tuxtla Gutiérrez by late afternoon, the capital of Chiapas.
Day 14 - Tuxtla Gutiérrez - Sumidero Canyon - Chiapa de Corzo - Zinacantán - San Juan Chamula - San Cristobal de las Casas
From Tuxtla Gutiérrez, we board a boat to cruise through the Sumidero Canyon – an impressive gorge almost 1 km deep and about 14 km long. We then take a stroll in Chiapa de Corzo, a colonial town known for its traditions and local culture. Next, we continue into Maya culture with visits to Tzotzil communities: in Zinacantán we observe the distinctive women’s dress and visit weaving workshops, and in San Juan Chamula we step inside the church, where Catholic practices sit alongside long-standing indigenous rites. We continue to San Cristóbal de las Casas, arriving with the afternoon free for you to explore this beautiful colonial city, founded in 1528, at your own pace.
Day 15 - San Cristobal de las Casas
From San Cristóbal de las Casas, we set out on a full-day excursion – around eight hours – with a local tour operator. Our first stop is Las Grutas del Mamut, a vast cave whose rock formations resemble a prehistoric mammoth. We then continue to El Arcotete Ecotourism Park, a scenic area with varied vegetation and abundant wildlife, where a striking natural stone arch carved by the Fogótico River links caves, caverns and stalactites. Our final visit is Rancho Nuevo Ecotourism Park, home to a cave system measuring 10.2 kilometres in length and reaching depths of up to 550 metres – an illuminated walkway leads 750 metres inside so we can admire the stalactites and stalagmites. Set within a conifer forest, the park also offers optional activities such as horseback riding, camping, hiking and spelunking. We return to San Cristóbal de las Casas, where you’ll have free time.
Day 16 - San Cristobal de las Casas
We include a five hour excursion with a local operator to Moxviquil – a learning community focused on sustainability. Here we explore native birdlife, observe pollinators and insects, visit the orchid garden and follow the signature interpretive trail that brings the surrounding nature into focus.Afterwards, we visit the Museum of Maya Medicine, dedicated to preserving Tsotsil–Tseltal healing practices in Chiapas. The displays show traditional methods and the therapeutic resources used by community healers – including the Jilol (pulse reader), Koponej witz (mountain prayer specialist), Tzakbak (bone setter), Jvetome (midwife) and Acvomol (herbalist).We then return to the hotel and the rest of the afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your own pace in San Cristobal de las Casas.
Day 17 - San Cristobal de las Casas - Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Depending on your flight time, we’ll arrange your transfer from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Tuxtla Gutiérrez Airport. Your onward flight is not included – you can fly to Mexico City or continue to another destination. Our services end on arrival at the airport.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Mexico City
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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