BIENVENIDOS A MEXICO !! According to your time of arrival, you are picked up from the airport in Mexico City and brought to your hotel.

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Plaza Revolución

Today, you will be picked up from your hotel in Mexico City and taken on a city tour. Explore the Centro Historico on foot and visit the huge Zocalo with its famous Cathedral and the Government Palace with its impressive murals by Diego Riviera, amongst others. Learn all about the fascinating history of the metropolitan capital. To make the city tour perfect, it finishes with an informative visit of the Anthropological Museum which is situated on the brink of Chapultepec Park. Learn all about the history and culture of Mexico´s many pre-hispanic civilizations. Afterward, you are brought back to your hotel in the late afternoon and you can enjoy some free time on your own.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Plaza Revolución

You will be picked up from your hotel in Mexico City and taken on a city tour. You will first explore the historical center on foot and visit the huge Zocalo with its famous Cathedral and the Government Palace with its impressive murals by Diego Riviera, amongst others. After that you are taken 50km northeast of the city to the spectacular site of Teotihuacan, also known as the City of the Gods. Spread over 22km², it is the largest city of ruins in Latin America and the majority of it has yet to be excavated. You definitely should not miss out on climbing up the Sun and Moon Pyramids, as they provide an imposing view of the extent of this archaeological site. Afterwards you will be taken to the colonial town of Queretaro where upon arrival you will enjoy a city tour.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Quinta Lucca

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Queretaro and taken to the small colonial town of Bernal where you will stop for breakfast (not included). Explore the quaint downtown and try one of the famous gorditas (corn patties with your choice of filling) before continuing on to Rio Escanela (approx. 3-hour-drive), where you can enjoy an approx. 2 1/2-hour-walk hike along and through the crystal clear turquoise river. It leads you the beautiful Puente de Dios (God´s Brigde), a naturally formed bridge across the river. Once you arrive, you can cool off in the natural pools (during the summer months). Afterward, you will continue to Jalpan where you will have lunch (optional) and some time to explore the city. Learn all about the pre-Hispanic culture of the Sierra Gorda as well as the Franciscan missions.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

After a traditional breakfast, you will spend an unforgettable day in Xilitla. Visit the eccentric Edward James Castle, which is a fascinating collection of surreal buildings and constructions hidden in the middle of the jungle. These architectural structures were inspired by artists such as Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso. After exploring the gardens and architecturally unique structures, you will have some free time to cool off or relax in the natural pools and waterfalls that are part of the castle (during the summer months). In the late afternoon, you will hike to the Sótano de las Huahuas, an impressive funnel-shaped gorge, home to the Huahua bird species which is similar to a sparrow. At sunset, the birds return in large numbers to the gorge to spend the night and the spectacle is a unique experience. Afterward, you will be taken to your small hotel in Xilitla where you spend the night.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you are taken to the two rivers of Santa Maria and Ayutla. This is the most adventurous part of your Sierra Gorda tour! Challenge your deepest fears and overcome the rapids and bumps of the river with a tube. You have time to relax and enjoy the extraordinary clear water. After relaxing in the beautiful surroundings, continue to the "Mirador de 4 Palos", located in one of the highest and most spectacular mountain ridges of the Sierra Gorda. At the top of Cerro de la Media Luna, oak forests meet semi-desert and you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. At the end of the day, you are returned to your hotel in Queretaro. Note: All activities can be adjusted to your wishes, needs and physical fitness. However, being in basic good physical shape is required.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: María y Bernardo Bed & Breakfast

Today you get a closer look at the famous volcanoes of Popocatepetl and Itzaccíhuatl. They are Mexico’s second and third highest mountain tops and are situated about 43km west of Puebla and 72km south of Mexico City. After a short break in the small village of Amecameca, where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the volcanoes and beautiful churches, continue to the Paso Cortez (3700m), which is situated in the National Park of Popocatepetl Itzaccíhuatl. From here you have an amazing view of the volcanoes. Explore the landscape and take a little hike on the many interesting trails, or just enjoy the unique atmosphere. On your way enjoy another short stop in the village of Tlamacas where you can enjoy your lunch (optional). Afterwards you will head to Puebla.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Colonial De Puebla

ACTIVE TOUR: Today, you will be picked up from your hotel in Mexico City to begin your adventure to the top of the breathtaking volcano "La Malinche". This volcano has been inactive for around 3,100 years and was named for the Indigenous mistress and interpreter for the Spanish conqueror Herman Cortez. After a 4-6 hour climb, you finally reach the summit at 4500 m where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding volcanoes Popocatepetl, Iztaccihuatl, Pico de Orizaba, and the sprawling valley below. Relax and explore the unique landscape of the caldera. After the 3-4 hours of descent you will be returned to your hotel, the bus station or the airport in Mexico City. Difficulty: We recommend this tour only if you are in good physical condition and health. The ascent is classified as medium difficulty and can therefore be carried out with little hiking experience. Altitude: approx. 1450 m Duration: approx. 8-10 hours Recommended equipment: Hiking boots Functional and thermal undergarments depending on the season Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 Goretex or polar fleece sweater Hat or ear protection Gloves Waterproof and windproof jacket (ask for temperatures before) Sunglasses with high UV protection Small and comfortable backpack for the ascent itself, preferably with water tank Hiking/ski poles as needed Headlamp

Guide: Included for the day

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Colonial De Puebla

In the morning you get to know Puebla, which is the fourth largest city in Mexico and the capital of the State of Puebla. The charming colonial city is full of history and is well known for its location between four volcanoes. You will then visit Cholula, Mexicos largest pyramid by size before driving to Oaxaca.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Camba

Today you will visit the Yagul and Mitla Caves, which have a history of over 12,000 years. In these caves, you can admire cave paintings and karst formations on the floor and on the ceiling, which have been part of the world's cultural heritage since 2010. Then we will continue to Teotitlan del Valle, where authentic wool carpets are made, colored with natural pigments such as the cochineal. There you can also get to know the process of making traditional candles, where people use them for important social and religious events such as weddings or Mayordonias. Finally, you will make a stop at a mezcal distillery, where you will learn about the production of our traditional mezcal (alcoholic drink) and after the tour, you will also have the opportunity to taste different types. You will then be brought back to the hotel. Note: From Thursday to Sunday you will also visit the archaeological site of Mitla.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Camba

Today, you will be picked up from your hotel in Oaxaca and driven towards Monte Albán, the most significant archeological excavation of the region. Steep and narrow roads lead up the hill to the largest and most stunning Zapotec city in Oaxaca. You will be fascinated by the beauty and the majesty of this sight. While enjoying an impressive panoramic view over the city and its hinterlands, it’s easy to imagine how the Zapotec used to dominate the whole Southwest of Mexico. Discover more than 20 historical buildings and learn more about the culture of this archaeological site. Afterward, you will be returned to your hotel and can enjoy the rest of the day exploring Oaxaca on your own. In the evening, take a taxi on your own to the bus terminal in Oaxaca where you will catch your first-class bus with ADO OCC to San Cristobal de las Casas at 20:30 pm. Overnight trip (approx. 11 hours)

Guide: Included for the day

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: NIght on Bus

Between 7:00 - 08:00 am you will arrive at the bus station in San Cristóbal de las Casas where you can take a taxi on your own to your hotel. There you will have time to leave your luggage and have breakfast (not included) before starting another exciting day in Chiapas. Enjoy the day exploring the charming mountain town of San Cristobal de las Casas, or join an optional day trip to the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan.

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Casa Selah

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the imposing natural wonder of Canyon del Sumidero which at its highest point reaches approximately 1000 meters. During a two hour boat ride through the steep canyon you have the opportunity to observe unique rock formations and the exotic flora and fauna of the region such as cormorants, egrets and with a little bit of luck you might even spot a crocodile or monkey. After this unique experience the tour continues to Chiapa del Corzo, a charming colonial village where you have some free time. Enjoy the atmosphere of the historical center or one of Chiapas’ traditional dishes in a cozy restaurant (optional). In the afternoon you will be brought back to your hotel in San Cristobal.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Casa Selah

In the early morning, head to the San Vincente river where you can visit the tallest waterfall in Chiapas, El Chiflon. This impressive natural spectacle is around 80 meters high. Enjoy some free time to discover the surroundings and to enjoy the tranquility and the beauty of the natural environment. The water of the natural pool is crystal clear and you should not miss out on an invigorating dip. Afterward, stop at the Montebello National Park which is famous for its numerous turquoise blue lakes. You will visit some of the most magnificent ones such as the Tziscao, Pojoj, Ensueño, la Encantada and the Emerald Lake. End the day at your eco-hotel hidden deep in the Selva Lacandona and let the sounds of the jungle serenade you to sleep.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Centro Ecoturístico Las Nubes

Enjoy a quiet breakfast surrounded by nature before you head out into the jungle. Hike through the dense vegetation, along hidden jungle paths and observe the flora and fauna of the region. Much of it is endemic to Mexico. Get your adrenaline pumping while walking on suspension bridges high above the Santo Domingo River and the many waterfalls and streams filled with crystal clear turquoise water. Take in the spectacular view from the lookout point and don´t miss out on a swim before heading to your jungle cabin in Frontera Corozal on the banks of the Usumacinta River.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Escudo Jaguar

Early in the morning you will be picked up from your hotel and are taken deep into the jungle to the ruins of Yaxchilan and Bonampak. Both of these sites were important centers of power for the Maya and are hidden gems rarely visited by tourists. The ruins of Yaxchilan are situated on the Usumacinta River bordering Guatemala and can be reached by boat only. Quite often, visitors come across monkeys that vociferously protect their territory by throwing sticks and screeching loudly. It is important to wear sturdy shoes because the terrain is sometimes unstable. After exploring these ruins you will stop for lunch (not included) before continuing on to Bonampak. Here you will have time to marvel at the amazing mural paintings in the temple de Las Pinturas. This site was discovered in 1946 but most parts of the former temples are still hidden under the overgrown vegetation of the rain forest. You will leave the ruins in the late afternoon and arrive in Palenque after 7 pm.

Guide: Included for the day

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Restaurante del Hotel Nututun

In the morning, take a taxi on your own to the bus station in Palenque where you will take a first-class bus with ADO to Campeche. Duration (approx. 6 hours) Once in Campeche take a taxi on your own to your hotel in the charming Centro Historico.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Castelmar

Today, you will be picked up from your hotel to visit the archaeological site of Uxmal, which is the Yucatan's most important archeological excavation, apart from Chichen Itza. The architecture of Uxmal is an example of that present in the Puuc region. The temples have smooth low walls which represent traditional Maya huts and many figures of the rain god Chaac. Afterwards, continue to Mérida, better known as the "white city", afterwards explore this beautiful colonial city full of life and history on your own. Merida is also famous for its regional cuisine which mixes Maya ingredients and techniques with European and Mexican dishes. Try the sopa de lima or if you like spicy food cochinita pibil.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Del Gobernador

Today, you will be picked up from your hotel to begin a day of pure nature! you will be taken deep into the Celestun Biosphere Reserve which is a national park on the coast of the Yucatan. Your tour takes you to Celestún Beach where you can observe one of the most extensive flamingo colonies during a boat trip through the unique mangrove swamps. Observe the coastal birds and if you are lucky you may even see crocodiles and turtles. After lunch, you have a free afternoon to take a stroll the pristine beach and experience the amazing flora and fauna, relax on the white sand or let one of the famous restaurants spoil you with delicious seafood (included). In the early afternoon, you will be brought back to your hotel in Merida.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Del Gobernador

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to Chichen Itza, the most famous and well-preserved archaeological site in Mexico. Let yourself be fascinated by the imposing, architecturally impressive monuments of the Mayas and admire among others the famous pyramid of Kukulcán, which has a stone calendar, as well as the huge ball court. Particularly noteworthy are the rich decorations that represent the life of ancient pre-hispanic cultures who once inhabited this site. Afterward you will have lunch (included) while your suitcases are loaded into another vehicle which will transfer you to Cancun. The driver will leave you at a drop-off point in Cancun. From there you can take a taxi on your own to your hotel/airport. ADIOS Y HASTA PRONTO EN MEXICO !! It is time to say “Adiós” to this beautiful, colourful and friendly country with its welcoming people. We hope you had a wonderful trip and we look forward to welcoming you back!

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast