Mexico: Cities, Cuisine & Ruins

From the hustle of modern Mexico City, which preserves its magic from centuries gone by, to the ruins at Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this adventure takes in all the cultural and historical highlights. It’s perfect for travellers on a tight budget looking to see as much as possible of this diverse region.

Day 1 Mexico City
Arrive at any time. Tonight, head out with your fellow travellers! Start the night with a taco crawl, maybe hit up a lucha libre match before ending the night at a local bar.

Day 2 Mexico City
Enjoy a free day to discover Mexico City. Explore one of the world's largest metropolitan areas. Opt to visit Frida Kahlo's house, see the iconic architecture of Museo Soumaya, or go on a party boat at the nearby floating gardens of Xochimilco. At night, opt to witness the high-flying practitioners of “lucha libre,” Mexico’s world-famous brand of wrestling.

Day 3 Mexico City
Take a day trip to the famous archaeological site of Teotihuacán to visit the massive pyramids. In the evening, set off in search of the perfect taco with a street food crawl. Indulge in one of Mexico's most iconic delicacies, as you take in the sights of this capital city.

Day 4 Mexico City/Puebla
Travel to the city of Puebla, a colonial-era city that has an incredibly well-preserved centre and today has a thriving art and nightlife scene. After arriving and checking in, go on an orientation walk with the CEO.

Day 5 Puebla
Enjoy a free day in Puebla. Opt to take a walking tour of Puebla's historical centre and marvel at the traditional architecture, or visit the Amparo Museum which holds a vast collection of art from different periods in Mexican history. While you're off exploring and hunger strikes, try some street food and opt for the chalupas (small corn tortillas garnished with shredded pork, red and green chili sauce and diced onions). Or just take part in a foodie tour today and munch away!

Day 6 Puebla/Oaxaca
Wave goodbye to Puebla from the bus window and travel to colonial Oaxaca. Upon arrival, head out for an orientation walk to the main square and nearby markets for your first taste of Oaxaca's vibrant culture.

Day 7 Oaxaca
Set off for a day trip to the stunning Hierve el Agua petrified waterfall, then stop for a mezcal tasting on the way back to Oaxaca.

Day 8 Oaxaca
Opt to travel to nearby artisan communities, take a mole cooking class, or check out the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán.

Day 9 Oaxaca/Mérida
Hop on a flight to Mérida. This beautiful city is the capital of the Yucatan, and is our jumping off point to exploring the region.

Day 10 Mérida
Set off into the countryside and visit a cenote (limestone sinkhole unique to the Yucatán to escape the heat with an underground swim. Enjoy an afternoon of freetime to explore more of Mérida. Opt to travel to the Mayan ruins of Uxmal for their nighttime sound and light show.

Day 11 Mérida/Río Lagartos
After a free morning in Merida, travel to the small seaside town of Rio Lagartos. The area is home to thousands of flamingos in April. Venture to nearby Las Coloradas, which has picture-perfect bright pink and coral hues during the afternoon sun. Seeing is believeing here!

Day 12 Río Lagartos/Tulum
Continue to the seaside town of Tulum, and visit the dramatic Mayan ruins of Tulum – situated on the edge of a cliff next to the crashing sea.

Day 13 Tulum
Enjoy a free day in Tulum. Opt to visit a nearby cenote to swim, take a day trip to see the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza or Coba, go scuba diving/snorkelling, or chill out on the beach. Cap off the day with a Big Night Out.

Day 14 Tulum/Playa del Carmen
Travel to Playa del Carmen. Enjoy dinner at a G Adventures-supported community restaurant with a youth-focused art program.

Day 15 Playa del Carmen
Depart at any time.