Arrive to Mexico City, a transfer to the group hotel in the city centre is included.

Welcome to Mexico City! At 2200m and flanked by mountains on all sides this high altitude capital has been a melting pot of cultures from the early Aztecs, through the colonial Spanish times to the modern day metropolis it now is. With our local guide we undertake a city tour of the historic centre including the presidential palace, a stroll through the huge 'Zocalo' (Main Square) and the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral. We then go on to explore the castle and grounds of Chapultepec Park housing the museum of Natural History. We also take in the Museum of Anthropology, where we can discover the history of the civilisations of the Olmec, Toltec, Aztecs and Maya before our journey through their former lands. We finish our day in the city at the Cafe de Tacuba, which has been serving typical Mexican home cuisine for over 100 years. Why not try its famous desert, 'estilo Tacuba' (hot chocolate), as the perfect way to round off the day.

This morning we set out to explore one of Mexico's most important and impressive archaeological sites, the huge pyramid complex of Teotihuacan. Built between 250 BC and 700 AD, predating the Aztecs by 1000 years, its population in its heyday was over 125,000, making it one of the most populous metropolises in the ancient world and certainly the largest in the Americas. Highlights include the 1km long 'Avenue to the Dead' and the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the 3rd and 4th largest pyramids in the world. We spend the day exploring the site with an expert guide. On our return to Mexico City (approx. 1 hour drive each way) we visit the Basilicas Guadalupe before returning to our hotel for the evening.

After breakfast we leave Mexico City and head towards the mountains. We drive for around 2 hours to the 'Paso de Cortes'. At an altitude of 3,700m it is the starting point of our walk traversing the slopes of the Iztaccihuatl Volcano ('The Sleeping Women', 5200m). The trail leads to the 'La Joya' viewpoint at 3,960m. We take the ascent slowly enjoying several stops and incredible views of Popocatépetl (5,452m), the 'Smoking Mountain'.

Returning to our vehicle we descend to the picturesque city of Puebla, known for its colonial architecture, ornate churches, and world-famous cuisine, including the iconic dish of Mole Poblano. Tonight we have the chance to sample some of this local fare with a visit to a traditional Mexican Restaurant that specialises in local produce and recipes passed down by the original families of Puebla. A feast for the senses, the walls are adorned with stunning murals that depict Puebla's rich history and traditions. When admired alongside the local 'Mezcal' and 'Tequila' these murals are said to become 'very lively', either way it is sure to make for a memorable culinary experience.

This morning we explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Puebla, you'll quickly notice the city's striking colonial architecture adorned with vibrant and colourful 'Talavera' tiles. Each tile tells a story of Puebla's cultural heritage. The city's main sites are not far from the lively Zocalo and can be easily explored on foot. The magnificent cathedral and the enchanting Plaza de la Constitución - one of the most beautiful squares in Mexico - are among the must-visit highlights of Puebla. After our tour we will drive south east (approx. 5-6 hours) to another World Heritage City, Oaxaca de Juarez.

During a tour of the centre of Oaxaca, you will experience one of the most beautiful colonial towns of Mexico. Situated in the Valle Central, Oaxaca is part of the tropics, but owing to its altitude (1,500 m), the average temperature is a pleasant 21°C. Stroll the old cobbled streets, and do not neglect to visit - besides the magnificent church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the ever-bustling Zócalo - one of the many colourful markets.

Today we visit an intriguing and inspiring sustainable tourism project high in the mountains above Oaxaca, where we are treated to picturesque walking routes, delicious food and an insight into the Zapotec culture, all while directly supporting the local community.

The 'Pueblos Mancomunados' is a commonwealth of eight remote villages, set high in the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca. Historically this collective have pooled land and natural resources, sharing profits from forestry and farming activities. More recently they have set up a uniquely collective ecotourism project offering hiking routes, adventure activities and accommodation to travellers looking for something different. The enterprise employs over 100 local people and income from tourism is shared throughout the communities, making it an excellent example of community-led sustainable tourism.

Over 100km of hiking trails wind their way through pine forests to rocky viewpoints, hidden caves and stunning waterfalls. Set around 3,000m, we walk one of these trails linking the communities of Cuajimoloyas and Latuvi, leading over highland meadows and little brooks across the land of the cooperative. We have opportunity to sample one of the village restaurants before returning to our hotel in Oaxaca for the evening.

Today we have a long drive (approx. 6 hours) to the city of Tehuantepec. On the way we enjoy a stop at Monte Alban; this intriguing and magnificently situated set of ruins were home to the Zapotec and Mixtec people. The ruins sit atop an artificially flattened hilltop and are surrounded by a circle of terraces, houses, temples and tombs on the slopes of the hill. In Monte Albans heyday (500-800 AD) the centre is said to have in-habited close to 50,000 residents.

We then stop at the small village of Santiago Matatlan and visit a mezcal distillery - this famous Mexican spirit is made from the flesh of agave and always contains more than 40% alcohol - no mescal tasting is complete, of course, without the famous worm (gusano del maguey) - which strictly speaking, is a caterpillar!

Today is a second transfer day as we make our way east into the Chiapas region. As we travel from Oaxaca to Chiapas, we experience a remarkable change in landscape. Oaxaca's rugged terrain is characterised by mountains, canyons, and valleys, while Chiapas is home to dense rainforests, waterfalls, and lush green hills.

We experience this new environment first-hand with a spectacular boat ride down the magnificent Sumidero Canyon. Set in a gorge with steep 1000m cliffs, the canyon only became navigable when the Rio Grijalva was damned in 1981. The now protected deep and serene waters are home to a plethora of wildlife including spider monkeys, toucans, pelicans and even an occasional crocodile basking on the rocky shores.

After our visit to the canyon we continue on to San Cristobal; set in the mountains at 2100m it offers another pleasant climate after our time in the heat at sea level. We check in to our hotel where we will spend the next two nights. Total driving time approx. 6 hours.

This hike takes us to the heart of Chiapas, to the Cascada El Chiflon, the largest and most beautiful waterfall in Chiapas. To see the highest waterfall we take a picturesque walk of 1.3km on small steps and pathways. El Chiflon is ideal to relax - walking alongside the enchanting turquoise blue water.

Today we continue our journey north out of the mountains. We make an interesting stop on our way at 'La Venta Park', home to 32 monumental sculptures left by the 'Olmec Civilization'. Weighing over 30 tonnes and 2 metres high, the colossal heads of basalt and granite are best known. We continue on (total drive time 6 hours) to the town of Palenque, where we check in to our hotel ready for tomorrow's day of exploration.

Today we delve deeper into Mayan history with a visit to one of Mexico's most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Palenque is an ancient Mayan city, which was inhabited from about 100 BC until its decline around 800 AD. The site features pyramids, temples, and palaces that are intricately decorated with carvings and reliefs, said to be some of the finest examples the Mayans produced.

The most famous structure in Palenque is the Temple of the Inscriptions, which is known for its elaborate hieroglyphic texts. With our expert guide we also visit the Grand Palace, Temple of the Sun and North Temple. We then take a short walk into the 'Jungle of Palenque' to discover the 'Templo Olvidado' (Lost/Forgotten Temple). As we explore the ruins, we'll also come across hidden waterfalls, exotic birds, and other varied wildlife.

After fully exploring Palenque we drive (1 hour) to the sweeping waterfalls of 'Roberto Barrios'. Hidden in the subtropical jungle of Chiapas we find various terraces of charming water cascades along several hundred metres of beautiful flora. The turquoise-blue water and untouched nature invite you to bathe in the small rock pools. We return to our hotel in Palenque for the evening.

Heading north (approx. 6 hour drive) we travel to the state of Campeche where we discover another important Mayan site, Edzna. The most notable structure at Edzna is the five-tiered Great Acropolis, which stands at an impressive 40 metres. Steep stone stairs lead to the top of the Great Acropolis with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and other ruins. Other notable structures at the site include the Temple of the Masks, which features intricate carvings and decorative stucco masks, and the Plaza of the Columns, a large open area that was once used for important ceremonies and events. After our visit, we continue on to the city of Campeche, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, awarded its status for its historic fortified old town. A fine example of a harbour town from the Spanish colonial period and a pleasant place to spend an evening and sample its plentiful culinary choices.

Today we drive for around 3 hours in total to the archaeological site of Uxmal, with some stops along the way: Kabah, one of the most spectacular sites of 'Puuc Style' Mayan architecture, and Santa Elena, a small Mayan village where it is possible to get an insight into everyday life of the Maya. In the evening, we experience the impressive Sound & Light Show in the ruins of Uxmal. Before the tremendous background of the Pyramid of the Magician, you set out on a virtual journey back into the Mayan world. Accompanied by sound and light effects, the history of a fascinating civilization is told. We spend the night at a hotel around 2km from Uxmal.

Today we head for the colonial capital of Yucutan, Merida (Total drive time 2 hours). On the way we stop at the Chocantes Caves, a fabulous karst landscape in Tekax. We will explore the caves with an experienced guide, admiring impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Continuing on to Merida we have a chance to experience this delightful city on a walking tour taking in the cathedral, Palacio Municipal and the Casa de Montejo. e. In the evening we include a meal in the historic centre of Merida, serving the best quality Yucatan Cuisine. Observe the cooks while they are preparing the colourful culinarian delicacies and don't miss the fresh tortillas - they are simply delicious. The spinach-like Chaya leaves, which the Mayas appreciated many centuries ago, are a special ingredient in some of the dishes and drinks.

Today we head East on the final leg of our journey across the Yucatan Peninsula and arrive at perhaps one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the world, ready for a day's visit tomorrow (total journey time 3.5 hours). On our way we stop at Izamal, the 'City of Hills', one of the oldest towns in Yucatan. We then continue on to 'Cenote Yokdzonot', a water-filled sinkhole characterised by 18m vertical walls that in many places are almost hidden by what seems to be curtains of thick mangrove roots. The site is run by a community cooperative who also run a small restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional lunch. We continue the short distance to our hotel in close proximity to the ruins of Chichen Itza.

Designated one of the 'New 7 Wonders of the World' we have saved the most iconic and perhaps most impressive Mayan site until last. Staying just 5 minute's walk from the rear entrance to the site, we have opportunity to explore the grounds before the majority of visitors arrive to make the most of this special experience. To date, only around 30 of the many buildings buried and overgrown by the jungle have been uncovered and restored. 'El Castillo' (The Castle) is the largest and most famous of these, dominating the centre of the site. Intricate sculptures of plumed serpents run down the sides of the temple, aligning on the autumn and spring equinoxes to create an illusion of a feathered serpent 'crawling' down the temple - a nod to the Mayan Deity Kukuclan who the temple is devoted to. We explore the grounds fully with our expert guide, making for a fitting end to our journey through these Mayan lands.


After lunch, we drive (3 hours) to Cancun airport where the holiday ends. Additional nights in Cancun are available on request.