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Home > Destinations > Highlights of Mexico (2012)
Mexico is a land blessed with a cultural legacy and natural wonders. Discover the remains of the Aztec, Mayan and Spanish empires that give this country a fascinating complexity, explore tremendous pyramids and temples, colourful colonial cities and the natural beauty of valleys, canyons, waterfalls, rainforests and coastline. Above all enjoy the vitality of the Mexican people as you explore their diverse country.
Fly Continental Airlines from Heathrow via Houston. Transfer to the Holiday Inn Zocalo for 3 nights.
Early day 2 we have a morning tour of the megalopolis that is Mexico City, visiting Xochimilco, cruise the rivers and canals on a colourful trajinera (canal boat). Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe – the patron saint of Latin America. Also visit the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon at Teotihuacan, the Pyramid of the Sun is the 3rd largest in the world. (B)
Drive to Oaxaca, stopping en route at Puebla, an important colonial city. Arrive in Oaxaca, a land of high peaks and colonial buildings. Stay 3 nights at the Casa Conzatti. (B)
Visit the ancient Zapotec hilltop capital of Monte Albán (the White Mountain) with spectacular 360º views. Continue on a tour of Oaxaca including the Regional Museum and the spectacular Church of Santo Domingo. The next day visit Teotitán del Valle, the famous weavers that specialise in natural rugs and textiles. Optional afternoon authentic Oaxacan cooking class. (B)
Travel through the captivating scenery of the Sierra Madre del Sur to easy going Chiapa de Corzo. Optional visit to a Marimba workshop. Overnight at Hotel Calli in Tehuntapec. Please note: It is only fair to warn you that the Hotel Calli is of a lower standard than the other properties where you stay, however, an overnight stay is included here to break up the journey between Oaxaca and San Cristobal. (B)
A morning boat ride will take you through the incredible Sumidero Canyon. Continue to historic San Cristóbal town, set in a gorgeous pine clad valley, with its engaging mix of Spanish and Native influences. Overnight at the Mansion del Valle. (B)
En route to Palenque you will visit the town of San Juan Chamula located high in the Chiapas Highlands. Overnight stay at the Hotel Ciudad Real Palenque for 2 nights. (B)
Visit the enchanting ruined city of Palenque, considered to be the most beautifully conceived of the Mayan city-states. You then have the option to enjoy an extended jungle walk. Afternoon at leisure. (B)
Travel to the walled colonial city of Campeche which blends Mexico’s Spanish influences with the rich history of the Mayan people. Overnight at the Hotel Plaza Campeche. (B)
Visit Uxmal, one of the best known Mayan cities, climb to the summit of the breathtaking Pyramid of the Magician. On to Mérida and the perfect place to soak up the warm atmosphere of Mexico. Overnight at the Holiday Inn Mérida. (B)
Travel to Chichen Itza, one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ spanning nearly 1,000 years and once a centre for the great Mayan and Toltec cultures. Continue on to Cancun’s warm turquoise waters. Overnight at the Omni Cancun Hotel & Villas. (B)
Transfer to Cancun airport for your Continental Airlines flight via Newark to London Heathrow. Alternatively extend your stay on the beach in Cancun. (B)
Arrive at Heathrow this morning.
Please note: this itinerary involves several long road journeys (several 4 hours journeys and one 8 hour journey using a Mercedes Sprinter type vehicle (or similar). A coach will not be used unless the group size dictates this.
