Mexico Travel Cities: Ancient Ruins, Culture, and Natural Wonders (8 Days)

Day 1: Chiapa de Corzo

Get ready for the Mexico Travel Cities!  Arrive at any time and take a transfer to your accommodation in Chiapa de Corzo. The Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport is about 30 km away and easily accessible by taxi or local transport. Chiapa de Corzo, a colonial town filled with tradition and culture, is known for its warm, welcoming people and is one of the most beautiful cities in the state. Situated just 15 minutes from the capital, its historical significance lies in being the first city founded by the Spanish in the 16th century.

Take the day to relax and acclimate before meeting your group and Tour Leader the following morning. If you arrive early and have extra time, feel free to explore the town – we’ll be happy to provide suggestions for optional activities!

Alojamiento: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Chiapa de Corzo

Day 2: Chiapa de Corzo - Sumidero Canyon - Chiapa de Corzo

Day 3: Chiapa de Corzo - Puerto Arista

Day 4: Puerto Arista - Mitla

Enjoy a relaxing morning by the sea and sun before heading to Mitla. On the way, stop at one of the local artisanal mezcal factories to taste this iconic drink and learn about its fascinating history and production process. Afterward, continue to the charming “Magical Town” of Mitla. Upon arrival, take an orientation walk around the historic center, exploring the town’s unique architecture and cultural heritage. Check in to your accommodation, and in the evening, join an optional dinner and get-together with your group at one of the local restaurants to share stories and experiences from the day.

• Alojamiento: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mitla
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: orientation walk in Mitla; guided visit to an artisanal mezcal factory
• Distancias en coche: Puerto Arista – Mitla (~515 km ~ 9.5 h)

Day 5: Mitla - Hierve el Agua - Monte Alban - Oaxaca

In the morning, after breakfast, we’ll head to Hierve el Agua, famous for its stunning mineral springs that create dramatic natural formations. Known for its breathtaking views, it’s a perfect spot to soak in the scenery and capture some amazing photos for your social media. Afterward, we’ll visit the Monte Alban Archaeological Zone, once the capital of the Zapotec civilization. For over a thousand years, this site was one of the largest ceremonial centers in Mesoamerica, ranking second only to Teotihuacán.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue exploring Oaxaca, a city rich in history, culture, and indigenous traditions. Known for its majestic churches, vibrant plazas, and exceptional cuisine, Oaxaca holds a UNESCO World Heritage status for its well-preserved colonial architecture. After checking in to your accommodation, join a guided walk around the historic center to explore the city’s colorful and lively atmosphere. In the evening, opt for an optional dinner and get-together with your group at one of the local restaurants to unwind and enjoy more of Oaxaca’s delicious food.

• Alojamiento: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Oaxaca
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to Hierve el Agua, guided visit to Monte Alban ruins, guided walk in Oaxaca
• Distancias en coche: Mitla – Hierve el Agua (~23 km ~ 40 min). Hierve el Agua – Monte Albán (~79 km ~ 2 h). Monte Albán – Oaxaca (~9 km ~ 30 min).

Day 6: Oaxaca - Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve - Puebla

Day 7: Puebla - Cholula - Teotihuacán  - Mexico City

In the morning, we’ll continue our Mexico Travel Cities journey to the nearby “Magical Town” of Cholula, the oldest city in the Americas still continuously inhabited. Nestled beside the majestic, smoking Popocatépetl Volcano, Cholula offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Visit the former Franciscan convent of San Gabriel, one of the oldest in the Americas, and the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios, built on top of the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid in the world by volume.

Next, we’ll head to the UNESCO-listed Teotihuacan, an awe-inspiring archaeological zone that was once Mexico’s largest ancient city and the heart of the country’s largest pre-Hispanic empire. Explore the vast pyramids, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient civilization.

After enjoying lunch near Teotihuacan, we’ll make our way back to Mexico City. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and take some time to relax. In the evening, join the optional dinner and get-together with your group to reflect on the day’s adventures.

Day 8: Mexico City

Join your Tour Leader in the morning for a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Mexico City, where you’ll discover the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant architecture. Visit the National Museum of Anthropology, home to one of the most important collections of pre-Hispanic artifacts in the world, including the famous Aztec Sun Stone.

Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your own pace. Whether you choose to visit other museums, wander through bustling markets, or enjoy some leisure time in one of the city’s beautiful parks, your Tour Leader will be happy to provide suggestions for activities.

In the evening, you’re invited to join the optional dinner and get-together with your group, where you can share your experiences and enjoy some of Mexico City’s delicious cuisine.

• Transportation: walking, public transportation
• Alojamiento: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mexico City
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: walking in the Historic Center of Mexico City; guided visit to the National Museum of Anthropology