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Overview
Going from Mexico City to Riviera Maya is a trip like no other! Discover world-class museums and exquisite architecture in Mexico City. Explore archaeological sites and the warmth of colonial towns. Dive into a Biosphere Reserve’s natural wonders, journey to the cultural mecca of Oaxaca, and wander through ancient Zapotec heritage. Admire mystique landscapes, explore ancient traditions, and unwind on Puerto Arista’s serene beaches. Traverse the majestic Sumidero Canyon, relax in the beauty of Chiapas, and admire San Cristobal de las Casas. Chase waterfalls, savor the history of towns, and venture to mystical places. Campeche awaits you with its colonial charm, and Celestun Biosphere Reserve is enchanted with flamingos and cenotes. Marvel at Chichen Itza‘s magnificence, cool off in sacred cenote waters, and relax in the serenity of Valladolid. Tulum’s beachfront ruins captivate, while Playa del Carmen offers the perfect beach escape. Your adventure across Mexico’s diverse landscapes awaits!
Highlights
- Get to know Mexico City – the largest city in Latin America and a world-class cultural hub.
- Climb huge Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon in UNESCO-listed Teotihuacan.
- See dinosaur footprints and hundred-year-old cacti in the Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve.
- Have a swim and see the sunset in Hierve el Agua, a series of spectacularly sited mineral springs in Oaxaca.
- Take a boat trip in awe-inspiring Sumidero Canyon to enjoy the sight of impressive waterfalls, enter mystical caves, and see the cliff where Chiapanec Warriors committed suicide instead of being force
- Witness fascinating ancient rituals and beliefs blended with modern Christianity in San Juan de Chamula.
- Admire the elegance and craftsmanship of the buildings, as well as the lightness of the sculpted reliefs with their Mayan mythological themes in Palenque.
How is this tour different?
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Itinerary
Day 1: Mexico City
Get ready for Mexico City to Riviera Maya! Start in Mexico City, the largest city in Latin America, where ancient and modern coexist in harmony. The city is a world-class cultural hub that offers a huge variety of museums, galleries, and architectural gems, along with bustling nightlife and diverse gastronomic culture. Arrive on Saturday or some days before and take your time to explore this diverse city before meeting your group and Tour Leader on Saturday evening: informational meeting, welcome dinner, and optional get-together with the rest of the group.
- Transportation: walking
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mexico City
- Meals Included: dinner
- Activities Included: welcome meeting
Day 2: Mexico City
Join your Tour Leader and begin your journey from Mexico City to Riviera Maya with a walk around the UNESCO-listed historic center of the capital. Visit the National Museum of Anthropology to discover Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
Afterward, you’ll have some free time to explore the city on your own. Your Tour Leader will be happy to offer suggestions on where to go next.
In the evening, gather with the group for an optional dinner and get-together to discuss the day’s experiences and enjoy some local flavors.
- Transportation: walking, public transportation
- Accommodation: 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
Day 3: Mexico City – Teotihuacan – Puebla
In the morning, head to the UNESCO-listed Teotihuacan, a stunning archaeological zone located in a mountain-ringed area offshoot of the Valle de México. Explore the immense Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, once the heart of Mexico’s largest ancient city and the capital of its most significant pre-Hispanic empire.
After a guided walk through the site and a delicious lunch in Teotihuacan, continue your journey from Mexico City to Riviera Maya, stopping in Puebla. Known for its well-preserved colonial center, Puebla boasts beautiful churches, a grand cathedral, and a thriving art scene. Once a hub of tradition, the city now blends its rich history with contemporary culture.
In the evening, gather for an optional dinner and get-together with the group, sharing the day’s experiences in one of the local restaurants.
Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Puebla
- Meals Included: breakfast, lunch
- Activities Included: guided visit to Teotihuacan Archeological Zone, walking in Puebla
- Driving Distances: Mexico City – Teotihuacán (~50 km ~ 1.5 h). Teotihuacán – Cholula (~122 km ~ 2 h). Cholula – Puebla (~11 km ~ 20 min).
Day 4: Puebla – Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve – Oaxaca
After breakfast and checkout, go to Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve. Located in a complex system of mountain ranges and valleys, this UNESCO-listed area generates great biodiversity and different ecosystems. The region has played an important role in the development of agriculture in Mesoamerica. Exploration by car and walking.
In the afternoon, move to Oaxaca City. A cultural colossus that fits to rival anywhere in Latin America for history, gastronomy, and colorful manifestations of indigenous culture. Oaxaca is a complex but intensely attractive city whose majestic churches and refined plazas have deservedly earned it a UNESCO World Heritage badge. To end the day there’s an optional dinner and get-together with the group in the evening.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Oaxaca
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: guided visit to Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve, walking in Oaxaca.
- Driving Distances: Puebla – Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve (~130 km ~ 2.5 h). Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve – Oaxaca (~217 km ~ 4 h).
Day 5: Oaxaca – Monte Alban – Hierve el Agua – Mitla
In the morning, begin your journey at Monte Alban, the once-thriving capital of the Zapotec empire and now a renowned archaeological site. As the second-largest ceremonial center in Mesoamerica after Teotihuacan, Monte Alban has held great cultural significance for over a thousand years. After exploring this magnificent ruin, continue to Hierve el Agua, famous for its stunning mineral springs. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and Instagram-worthy views, this location offers the perfect setting to take in nature’s beauty and enjoy a peaceful moment.
Next, head to the nearby “Magical Town” of Mitla. After checking in, take a walk through the charming historic center to discover the town’s rich culture and architecture. In the evening, you can opt for a delicious dinner and enjoy a get-together with your group in one of the local restaurants.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house near Hierve el Agua
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: guided visits to Monte Alban Archeological Zone and Hierve el Agua; orientation walk in Mitla
- Driving Distances: Oaxaca – Monte Albán (~9 km ~ 30 min). Monte Albán – Hierve el Agua (~69 km ~ 2 h). Hierve el Agua – Mitla (~23 km ~ 40 min).
Day 6: Mitla – Puerto Arista
In the morning, head to Puerto Arista, a peaceful coastal town renowned for its expansive golden-sand beaches. Once you arrive, embark on an exhilarating ATV ride, allowing you to explore the beautiful shoreline and enjoy the breathtaking views. As the day winds down, take in the stunning sunset on the beach, creating the perfect end to your adventure. In the evening, join your group for an optional dinner and get-together at one of the local restaurants to reflect on the day’s experiences.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Puerto Arista
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: ATV ride on the beach in Puerto Arista
- Driving Distances: Mitla – Puerto Arista (~515 km ~ 9.5 h).
Day 7: Puerto Arista - Canyon Sumidero - Chiapa de Corzo
Enjoy a relaxing morning by the sea and sun before embarking on an unforgettable boat trip through the awe-inspiring Sumidero Canyon. Marvel at the majestic waterfalls, explore mystical caves, and visit the cliff where Chiapanec warriors chose to commit suicide rather than surrender to the Spanish Conquistadores. Afterward, head to Chiapa de Corzo, one of the most beautiful towns in Chiapas, known for its warm people and vibrant Renaissance architecture. If you’re visiting in January, you’ll be able to experience the Fiesta Grande, a UNESCO Intangible Heritage event that showcases the town’s rich culture. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and join an orientation walk through the historic center. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner and get-together with your group to share the day’s adventures.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Chiapa de Corzo
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: boat tour in Sumidero Canyon; walking in Chiapa de Corzo
- Driving Distances: Puerto Arista – Cañón del Sumidero (~178 km ~ 3.5 h). Cañón del Sumidero – Chiapa de Corzo (~5 km ~ 10 min).
Day 8: Chiapa de Corzo – San Juan de Chamula – San Cristobal de las Casas
In the morning, take an orientation walk through San Juan de Chamula, the center of the independent Tzotzil ethnic group, renowned for their unique and fascinating religious practices. Afterward, enjoy an optional lunch in this culturally rich town. In the evening, arrive at San Cristobal de las Casas, a stunning colonial city nestled in a highland valley and surrounded by pine forests. Known for its charm and vibrant atmosphere, San Cristobal has been a popular destination for travelers for many years. Check in to your accommodation, take part in an orientation walk through the city, and in the evening, join your group for an optional dinner and get-together to reflect on the day’s experiences.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in San Cristobal de las Casas
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: orientation walks in San Juan de Chamula and San Cristobal de las Casas
- Driving Distances: Chiapa de Corzo – San Juan de Chamula (~77 km ~ 2 h). San Juan de Chamula – San Cristóbal de las Casas (~10 km ~ 20 min).
Day 9: San Cristóbal de las Casas – Agua Azul and Misol-Ha Waterfalls – Palenque
In the morning, continue your journey from Mexico City to Riviera Maya with visits to two breathtaking waterfalls. First, marvel at the unique cascading falls of Agua Azul, then enjoy a refreshing swim in the mineral-rich pool beneath the 35-meter-tall Misol-Ha waterfall. Afterward, head to the “Magical Town” of Palenque, where you will check in and take an orientation walk through the historic center, immersing yourself in the charm of this beautiful town. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner and get-together with the group to share your experiences from the day.
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- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house near Palenque
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: guided visits to Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls; orientation walk of Palenque
- Driving Distances: San Cristóbal de las Casas – Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls (~154 km ~ 3.5 h). Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls – Palenque (~69 km ~ 1.5 h).
Day 10: Palenque – Miguel Colorado Cenotes – Campeche
In the morning, after breakfast and check-out, go to explore the UNESCO-listed Palenque Archeological Zone. A prime example of a Mayan sanctuary of the classical period, it flourished between AD 500 and 700, when its influence extended throughout the basin of the Usumacinta River. In the afternoon, continue to Miguel Colorado – two large scenic cenotes with a spiffy new eco-center and a private nature reserve. Optional lunch, kayaking, swimming, zip-lining over one of the cenotes. There, we’ll also hike along hilly, rocky trails keeping an eye out for spider and howler monkeys.
Evening arrival, optional dinner, and get-together in Campeche. A true historical fairyland, its UNESCO-listed colonial center represents a tight enclave of restored pastel buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, fortified ramparts, and well-preserved mansions. Check-in, an orientation walk in the historic center of the Campeche, and an optional dinner, and get-together with the group in the evening.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Campeche
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: guided visit to Palenque, Miguel Colorado Cenotes (kayaking, swimming, zip-lining, monkey watching), orientation walk in Campeche
- Driving Distances: Palenque – Miguel Colorado Cenotes (~370 km ~ 6 h). Miguel Colorado Cenotes – Campeche (~155 km ~ 2.5 h).
Day 11: Campeche – Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve – Celestun
In the afternoon, after exploring the 19th-century Fort of San Miguel in the suburbs of Campeche, continue your Mexico Tour to the Celestun Biosphere Reserve. This UNESCO-listed protected area is a natural wonder, home to vibrant pink flamingos and a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Enjoy a flamingo-watching boat tour, swim in a local cenote, and then transfer to the nearby beach town of Celestun. Upon arrival, check in and take an orientation walk through the town. In the evening, join the group for an optional dinner and get-together to share the day’s experiences.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Celestun
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: guided visit to Fort of San Miguel (Campeche); entrance and boat tour in Ria Celestun UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (flamingo watching + visit to cenote)
- Driving Distances: Campeche – Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve (~260 km ~ 4 h). Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve – Celestún (~5 km ~ 10 min).
Day 12: Celestun – Chichen Itza – Cenote Ik Kil – Valladolid
In the morning, after breakfast and checkout, head for UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza. The most famous and best restored of the Yucatan Maya sites, it is considered one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Many mysteries of the Maya astronomical calendar are made clear when one understands the design of the ‘time temples’ here.
In the afternoon, continue to Ik Kil – arguably one of the most beautiful cenotes in Mexico that was considered sacred by the Mayans who performed human sacrifices to their rain god. In fact, in order to reach the water, you have to climb down 26 meters. The water is 40 meters deep while its diameter is 60 meters. Evening arrival, accommodation, optional dinner, and get-together with the group in Valladolid. Once known as the Sultana of the East, Yucatán’s third-largest city is known for its quiet streets and sun-splashed pastel walls.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Valladolid
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: guided visit to Chichen Itza; entrance to Cenote Ik Kil
- Driving Distances: Celestún – Chichén Itzá (~302 km ~ 4.5 h). Chichén Itzá – Cenote Ik Kil (~3 km ~ 10 min). Cenote Ik Kil – Valladolid (~45 km ~ 1 h).
Day 13: Valladolid – Tulum – Playa del Carmen
In the morning, after an orientation walk of Valladolid, go to explore Tulum – the only Mayan ruins located directly on the beach. Once there, you’ll learn the history behind this location as you walk through different areas of the site. You can also walk down to the amazing beach and enjoy the white sand and turquoise water, and see wild iguanas and beautiful tropical foliage.
In the afternoon, arrive in Playa del Carmen, an idyllic place located in the heart of the Riviera Maya with fine white sand and turqoise waters, where you’ll always find a hammock and an umbrella to sunbathe and rest, especially on the edge of town that offers the quietest beach areas. If you prefer action, in Playa del Carmen you’ll find water activities such as windsurfing, jet skis, kayaking, or diving in the impressive Mayan coral reef. Accommodation, orientation walk, optional dinner, and get-together with the group.
- Transportation: private vehicle
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Playa del Carmen
- Meals Included: breakfast
- Activities Included: guided visit to Tulum Archeological Zone; orientation walk in Playa del Carmen
- Driving Distances: Valladolid – Tulum (~100 km ~ 1.5 h). Tulum – Playa del Carmen (~65 km ~ 1 h).
Day 14: Playa del Carmen
Free program: relax on the beach sipping a cocktail, try numerous outdoor activities (scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, parasailing, ATV riding, etc.), or take a day trip to some of the nearby natural attractions or Mayan ruins. Optional farewell dinner and get-together with the group in the evening.
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Playa del Carmen
- Meals Included: breakfast
Day 15: Playa del Carmen
Last day of our Mexico Tour. Choose by yourself when to leave – Cancun Airport is just 50 km away and is well served by taxis and buses.
- Meals Included: breakfast
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
14x nights in conveniently located hotels/B&Bs
Transportation
Transportation in a private vehicle throughout the tour
Meals
14x breakfasts, 1x lunch, 1x dinner
Activities
Walking Tours and Orientation Walks: Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Mitla, Chiapa de Corzo, San Juan de Chamula, San Cristobal de las Casas, Campeche, Valladolid, Playa del Carmen, History and Culture Experiences: guided visits to the National Anthropology Museum (Mexico City); Fort of San Miguel (Campeche); 5x archeological zones – Teotihuacan, Monte Alban, Palenque, Chichen Itza, Tulum.Nature Experiences: Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve (hiking); ATV ride in Puerto Arista; Canyon Sumidero (boat tour); Miguel Colorado Cenotes (kayaking, ziplining, swimming); 3x waterfalls – Hierve el Agua, Agua Azul and Misol-Ha (swimming); Cenote Ik Kil (swimming); Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve (flamingo-watching boat tour, visit of a cenote).
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 |
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| Suitability |
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| What to take with you? |
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| Accesibility | 🛑 Not wheelchair accessible. |
| Pets | 🛑 Not permitted. |
| Things to know before booking |
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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
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