+52-55-8526-6910 
+1-201-500-1310
+44-7440-963840 
EN 
ES 
FR 
PT 
DE 
IT 
Video Preview
Overview
Our Mexico Magic Towns Tour is where the past and present harmonize beautifully! Explore the historic center of Mexico City and visit the National Anthropology Museum. Then, discover Teotihuacan’s ancient splendor and Tepotzotlan’s UNESCO-listed Temple. Marvel at the Xalpa Aqueduct and Villa del Carbon’s colonial charm. Paddle through the submerged village of San Luis de las Paras at Taxhimay Dam, then visit charming Aculco and El Oro. Explore El Oro’s mining history and the Centro Ceremonial Mazahua. In Toluca, uncover alpine forests, ancient ruins, and the stunning Cosmovitral Botanical Garden. In Metepec, admire indigenous artisan creations. Hike el Nevado, and enjoy Valle de Bravo’s panoramic views. Go water skiing, visit the Cascada De Nanchititla, and explore the Grutas Estrella. In Ixtapan de la Sal, relax in the thermal springs. Visit Tenancingo’s Monumento a Cristo Rey and the charming town of Malinalco. Dive into the Mexican culture like never before -full of adventures and beautiful places!
Highlights
- Explore the State of Mexico, known for its stunning landscapes and rich diversity, offering natural beauty and cultural treasures.
- Wander through Mexico City’s UNESCO-listed colonial center, filled with historic landmarks and vibrant culture.
- Marvel at the towering 105-meter Cascada De Nanchititla, the 6th tallest waterfall in Mexico.
- Hike the majestic Toluca Volcano and witness the beauty of its crystal-clear twin crater lakes.
- Discover Teotihuacan, an ancient city and former capital of one of Mexico's greatest pre-Hispanic empires.
How is this tour different?
Read more
Itinerary
Day 1: Mexico City
Prepare for Mexico City Side Trips! Start at Mexico City, the largest city in Latin America, where ancient and modern coexist in harmony. Arrive at any time before meeting your group and Tour Leader in the evening: welcome meeting and optional get-together in one of the local restaurants/bars.
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mexico City
- Activities: welcome meeting
Day 2: Mexico City
Spend the first part of the day discovering Mexico City’s Historic Centre, where history and culture come to life. Your Tour Leader will guide you through iconic landmarks and take you to the National Anthropology Museum, home to some of the country’s most significant artifacts.
After the tour, enjoy some free time in the afternoon to explore at your own pace. You may choose to wander through the vibrant streets, visit local shops, or relax in one of the many cafes.
In the evening, join your group for an optional dinner and get-together. It’s a great chance to share stories from the day and bond with fellow travelers over delicious food and drinks at a local restaurant.
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mexico City
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: walk in the Historic Center of Mexico City; guided visit to the National Anthropology Museum
Day 3: Mexico City – Teotihuacan – Tepotzotlán – Arcos del Sitio – Villa del Carbon
Firstly, in the morning, head to UNESCO-listed Teotihuacan, one of the greatest pre-Hispanic cities in Mexico and the former capital of the ancient empire. Once there, take a leisurely walk around the archaeological zone, visiting its impressive palaces and climbing its imposing pyramids. Afterward, continue our trip to Mexico City Side Trips tour in Tepotzotlan – a beautiful colonial town that houses famous UNESCO-listed the Temple of San Francisco Javier.
After an optional lunch of local specialties and a guided walk around the center of the town, we’ll move to another nearby architectural gem, the Arcos del Sitio. Also known as the Xalpa Aqueduct, its construction is spectacular since it has 43 arches divided into four levels, reaching a height of 61 meters and a length of 438 meters. Finally, in the late afternoon, reach Villa del Carbon – a “Magical Town” that preserves intact the splendor of the colonial era, a time when the main economic activity was the exploitation of coal. Check-in, walk around the historic center, optional dinner, and get-together with the group in one of the local restaurants/bars.
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B house in Villa del Carbon
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: guided visits to Teotihuacan Archeological Zone and Arcos del Sitio; walk in Tepotzotlan and Villa del Carbon
- Driving Distances: Mexico City – Teotihuacan (~50 km ~ 1.5 h). Teotihuacan – Tepotzotlán (~66 km ~ 1.5 h). Tepotzotlán – Arcos del Sitio (~12 km ~ 20 min). Arcos del Sitio – Villa del Carbón (~20 km ~ 30 min).
Day 4: Villa del Carbon – Taxhimay Dam – Aculco – El Oro
In the morning, we’ll head to Taxhimay Dam, where we’ll take kayaks to explore the submerged village of San Luis de las Paras. This village was intentionally flooded in 1934 to create the water reservoir, leaving behind remnants of the past for us to discover.
Afterward, we’ll continue our journey to the “Magical Town” of Aculco. Here, we’ll stroll through its charming historic center, sampling the many local cheese varieties. We’ll also visit the nearby natural wonders, including the stunning Cascadas de Tixhiñú and Cascada de la Concepción.
Finally, we’ll arrive in El Oro, another captivating “Magical Town.” Once a major gold mining hub, El Oro is filled with history. After checking in, we’ll take a walk around its historic center. In the evening, you’ll have the option to enjoy dinner and socialize with the group at a local restaurant or bar.
- Meals: breakfast
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in El Oro
- Activities: kayak/boat trip in Taxhimay Dam; visits to Cascadas de Tixhiñú and Cascada de la Concepción; cheese tasting in Aculco, walk in Aculco and El Oro
- Driving Distances: Villa del Carbón – Taxhimay Dam (~18 km ~ 30 min). Taxhimay Dam – Aculco (~47 km ~ 1 h). Aculco – El Oro (~61 km ~ 1.5 h).
Day 5: El Oro – Centro Ceremonial Mazahua – Calixtlahuaca Archaeological Zone – Toluca – Metepec
Start your morning exploring the mining glory of El Oro by visiting its Mining Museum and Socavon De San Juan. Afterward, go to visit Centro Ceremonial Mazahua and Calixtlahuaca Archaeological Zone before reaching Toluca – a state capital surrounded by peaceful mountains, alpine forests, and ancient ruins. Once there, walk around Toluca’s compact historic center and visit the Cosmovitral – an impressive botanical garden with over 400 species of plants, trees, shrubs, and outstanding stained glasses. Afterward, move to a nearby “Magical Town” of Metepec that stands out for its landscapes and even more so for the indigenous artisan creations that are true works of art. Check-in, walk around the historic center with local liquor tasting, optional dinner, and get-together with the group in one of local restaurants/bars.
- Meals: breakfast; local liquor tasting in Metepec
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Metepec
- Activities: guided visits to Mining Museum and Socavon De San Juan (El Oro), Centro Ceremonial Mazahua, Calixtlahuaca Archaeological Zone and Cosmovitral (Toluca); walking in Toluca and Metepec
- Driving Distances: El Oro – Centro Ceremonial Mazahua (~28 km ~ 40 min). Centro Ceremonial Mazahua – Calixtlahuaca Archaeological Zone (~78 km ~ 1.5 h). Calixtlahuaca Archaeological Zone – Toluca (~9 km ~ 20 min). Toluca – Metepec (~6 km ~ 15 min).
Day 6: Metepec – Nevado de Toluca – Valle de Bravo
Start your day with a visit to Toluca’s Nevado, a national park surrounding the towering Nevado de Toluca volcano, the fourth-highest peak in Mexico. We’ll hike towards its crater, taking in the views of the twin lakes – Laguna del Sol and Laguna de la Luna, set in the heart of this majestic landscape.
Next, we’ll head to Valle de Bravo, a charming colonial town known for its natural beauty. On our way, we’ll stop by two stunning waterfalls, adding to the scenic beauty of our journey.
As the day winds down, we’ll enjoy the sunset and take in breathtaking panoramic views from a local viewpoint. Afterward, we’ll explore Valle de Bravo’s historic center. In the evening, you’ll have the option to enjoy a delicious dinner and gather with the group at one of the local restaurants or bars.
- Meals: breakfast
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Valle de Bravo
- Activities: hiking to Nevado de Toluca; visits to Velo de Novia Real and El Molino Waterfalls; walking in Valle de Bravo
- Driving Distances: Metepec – Nevado de Toluca (~32 km ~ 1 h). Nevado de Toluca – Valle de Bravo (~61 km ~ 1.5 h).
Day 7: Valle de Bravo – Sierra de Nanchititla State Park
Start your day with an exciting water ski session at the beautiful Centro de Espiritualidad Carmel Maranatha, where you’ll receive instructions if needed. After the thrilling activity, continue your Mexico City Side Trips to visit the stunning Cascada De Nanchititla, a magnificent waterfall towering at 105 meters high.
Take in the breathtaking views of this natural wonder before heading to Sierra de Nanchititla State Park, where you can relax and unwind amidst the serene surroundings.
In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner and a get-together with the group, making the most of your time in this tranquil park.
- Meals: breakfast
- Accommodation: eco-cabins in Sierra de Nanchititla State Park
- Activities: waterskiing in Valle de Bravo; entrance and hiking to the waterfalls in Sierra de Nanchititla State Park
- Driving Distances: Valle de Bravo – Sierra de Nanchititla State Park (~111 km ~ 2.5 h).
Day 8: Sierra de Nanchititla State Park – Grutas Estrella – Tecomatepec – Ixtapan de la Sal
Start your day going to Grutas Estrella – a natural wonder inside which you can admire the various natural forms of stalactites and stalagmites. After a guided walk of the caves, go to Tecomatepec – a charming village that is famous for its clay crafts and the hospitality of its inhabitants. There, we’ll visit a local 16th-century church, walk around its small center, and visit one of its clay workshops. Afterward, move to the resort town of Ixtapan de la Sal which offers all-year-round sunny weather, curing thermal waters, and lush vegetation. Check-in, walk around the historic center of the town, followed by an optional dinner and evening visit to local thermal springs.
- Meals: breakfast
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Ixtapan de la Sal
- Activities: guided visit to Grutas Estrella; walking in Tecomatepec and Ixtapan de la Sal; visit of the thermal springs in Ixtapan de la Sal
- Driving Distances: Sierra de Nanchititla State Park – Grutas Estrella (~83 km ~ 2 h). Grutas Estrella – Tecomatepec (~18 km ~ 30 min). Tecomatepec – Ixtapan de la Sal (~25 km ~ 40 min).
Day 9: Ixtapan de la Sal – Tenancingo – Malinalco
Start your day with a visit to the nearby town of Tenancingo, where you’ll see the impressive 30-meter-high Monumento a Cristo Rey, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the vibrant historic flower market, known for its variety and colorful displays.
Next, continue your journey to the “Magical Town” of Malinalco, where you’ll visit the Cuauhtinchan Archaeological Zone, home to fascinating ruins. Stroll through the charming colonial center, admire the ancient Augustinian Ex-convent, and explore local handicraft workshops that showcase traditional artisan skills. Don’t miss the chance to try some of the best local food specialties.
In the evening, after checking in and enjoying some free time, join the group for an optional dinner and a get-together at one of the local restaurants or bars, making the most of the evening in this picturesque town.
- Meals: breakfast
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Malinalco
- Activities: guided visits to Monumento a Cristo Rey, Tenancingo Flowers market, Museo de Malinalco, Cuauhtinchan Archeological Zone; walk in Malinalco
- Driving Distances: Ixtapan de la Sal – Tenancingo (~21 km ~ 30 min). Tenancingo – Malinalco (~16 km ~ 30 min).
Day 10: Malinalco – Chalma – Lagunas de Zempoala National Park – Mexico City
Start your day with a visit to the nearby community of Chalma, the second-most-important pilgrimage site in Mexico, where you’ll have the chance to explore its religious significance and captivating atmosphere. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing hike in Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, known for its beautiful landscapes and serene lakes.
In the early afternoon, return to Mexico City, bringing an end to our Mexico City Side Trips.
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: orientation walk of Chalma; hiking in Lagunas de Zempoala National Park.
- Driving Distances: Malinalco – Chalma (~6 km ~ 15 min). Chalma – Lagunas de Zempoala National Park (~62 km ~ 1.5 h). Lagunas de Zempoala National Park – Mexico City (~64 km ~ 1.5 h).
Prices
- This tour is private: only your group will participate.
- The price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group (please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar ➡️ to see the final price).
Inclusions
Included ✅
Local Expert Guides
English/Spanish Tour Leader service.
Accommodation
8x nights in conveniently located, locally-owned hotels/B&Bs; 1x night in eco-cabins.
Transportation
Private vehicle throughout the trip.
Meals
9x breakfasts.
Activities
Walking tours, guided visits and activities as per itinerary.
Excluded ❌
Personal expenses
Flights
Flights are not included: check our partner deals.
Insurance
Travel insurance is not included: find insurance tailored for you.
Tips
Details
| Minimum number of participants |
Manual confirmation (if a minimum number of participants is not met, we may cancel and fully refund your booking). |
| Meeting Point | The tour starts with a welcome meeting in the lobby of your hotel (exact name and location to be provided in trip notes before the tour). |
| Departure Time | Exact time to be confirmed |
| Languages |
|
| Suitability |
|
| What to take with you? |
|
| Accesibility | 🛑 Not wheelchair accessible. |
| Pets | 🛑 Not permitted. |
| Things to know before booking |
|
Cancellations
Cancellation fees depend on the number of days before the Tour start date (also applies to all extra services booked, such as airport transfers, pre-/post-tour accommodations, additional activities, etc.):
- 60+ days before: 0% of the remaining payment
- 30–59 days before: 25%
- 15–29 days before: 50%
- Less than 15 days before, or no-show: 100%
No cancellation fee applies if a substitute participant is arranged.
Please see our Cancellation Policy for more info.
Frequently asked questions:
How do I book a multi-day tour?
Booking is simple: choose whether you want to join a group tour or book a private tour, select your desired tour and dates on our website, complete the booking form, and securely pay online. You’ll then receive a confirmation email with all the details.
What is included in the tour price?
- Accommodation in centrally located, tourist-class hotels or guesthouses with private facilities
- Transportation between destinations (car, 7-seater, or van, depending on group size)
- Activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Breakfasts
- Services of a local bilingual tour leader
How many participants are needed to confirm a group tour?
What happens if there aren't enough participants?
If, at the time of booking, your selected tour and departure date don’t have enough participants to confirm, we typically offer the following options:
- Wait for more bookings: We can temporarily confirm your spot, but please note that we reserve the right to cancel the booking and issue a full refund if the group doesn’t meet the minimum number of participants at least 1 month before departure.
- Book a private departure: Click “Check availability” to see pricing options. With a private departure, the tour is exclusively for your group, and you can modify the itinerary (subject to confirmation) and choose any departure date for more flexibility with flights.
- Invite more companions to join your group tour: By bringing in more people to meet the minimum number of participants, we can immediately confirm the departure.
- Join a confirmed group departure: If your schedule is flexible, you can join one of our other confirmed group departures at a discounted rate.
Can I book a private tour instead of a group one?
Yes. Private tours are customizable and can depart any day. Additional activities or stops can be added at your request (subject to price modifications).
Why does the price per person change when booking private tours?
As a significant part of the tour costs are fixed, the price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group. The more people you book for, the lower the price per person becomes. Please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar to see the final price.
Are flights included?
No, flights from your place of residence and the starting location of the tour are not included. However, we are always happy to help you find the best deals (contact us if you need assistance). You can also check flight options on the website we personally use and recommend to our customers.
What hotels will I stay in?
An exact list of accommodations will be sent together with trip notes 2 weeks before the departure date. All accommodations are centrally located, tourist-class (3* or similar), locally-owned properties with private facilities in each room. We can arrange pre- and post-tour accommodations but not earlier than 1 month before departure when the sales for the tour are closed, and we know the final number of participants. If you're interested in exact locations, contact us, and we will send you a list of accommodations we used on previous departures (subject to change based on availability).
What types of rooms are available?
- Single Room: 1 person, 1 bed
- Double Room: 2 people, 1 double bed
- Twin Room: 2 people, 2 single beds
- Triple Room: 3 people, 1 double + 1 single bed
- Quad Room: 4 people, 2 double beds
Is there a single supplement fee?
Yes. Solo travelers should book a single room, which will have a slightly higher price compared to sharing with another traveler. If preferred, we can also pair you with another traveler of the same gender (subject to availability) to avoid the supplement. If you are interested, please book a single room and mention it in the “Special requirements” section. If we find another person on the same departure who wants to share a twin room, we will refund the proportional difference. Otherwise, your booking as a single room will remain.
Is there any age limit for participants?
Our multi-day tours with group departures are designed for travelers aged 12–69 with moderate physical fitness. Participants outside this range may still join if they are in good condition and can keep up with the group’s pace. If you are confident you can maintain the pace with the activities of the tour or a group departure, feel free to book the tour or contact us in advance if you have any doubts. Private departures generally do not have age limitations due to customization of pace and itinerary.
Is the tour accessible for travelers with reduced mobility?
Unless you have a companion who can assist you with a wheelchair, small-group tour departures are generally not wheelchair accessible, and pets are not permitted. Given the possible customization of the pace and itinerary, private tours are generally more likely to accommodate travelers with reduced mobility (subject to confirmation; contact us for more info).
What should I pack for the tour?
- Comfortable weather-appropriate clothes and walking shoes
- Swimming suit and slippers
- Small backpack for daily excursions
- Hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Personal ID, some cash in local currency, and travel insurance
- Good mood and curiosity!
Are meals included?
Most of our multi-day tours include daily breakfasts. Lunches and dinners are usually not included, so you can explore local cuisine. Your guide will recommend and take you to good-value, local restaurants. Included gastronomic experiences can usually accommodate common dietary restrictions, but special diets may not always be fully guaranteed.
Can children, seniors, or solo travelers join?
Yes. The tour is suitable for couples, families, seniors, solo travelers, youth, women-only groups, and LGBT+ travelers. Please consider the physical activity level before booking.
How many people are usually in a group?
Our small-group tours usually have 6–12 participants, creating a friendly and personalized experience.
What is the average daily travel distance?
It depends on the tour and the day of the tour—some days we stay in one location, while others involve moving between locations. On average, you can expect about 200 km per day (1.5–3 hours of driving) with regular sightseeing, meal, and rest stops.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost belongings.
Can I extend my stay or add extra activities?
Yes. We can arrange pre- or post-tour accommodations and add extra activities upon request.
What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
Each tour has its own cancellation policy. Please check the booking terms for more info.
Are tips included?
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel/restaurant staff are not included. While absolutely optional, tips are an important part of the local culture and a significant source of income for the people involved and their families.
How do I stay connected during the tour?
Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations, but data coverage can be limited in remote areas. We recommend informing friends or family of your itinerary before departure. All accommodations on this tour, as well as many restaurants/cafés in Mexico, have Wi-Fi. If needed, you can also get a prepaid local SIM card with data (available in most convenience stores), ideally Telcel’s “Paquete Amigo Sin Límite,” which offers the best coverage in the country and free calls to the USA and Canada.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
8 days
Reviews