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Viva Mexico

Land Tour

Mexico hums with colour, flavour and celebration at every turn. Drift through the lively canals of Xochimilco, wander jungle-cloaked ruins, share meals with local communities and soak up the charm of colonial towns rich in music and tradition. From vibrant markets to turquoise shores, this soulful journey reveals Mexico at its most unforgettable.

From price

$12,595
Price per person, twin share
Tour Provider Bunnik Tours
Number Of Days
19
Start Location
Mexico City, Mexico
End Location
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Age Range
Avg. 50+
Group Size
6 to 20
Tour Style
Premium
Tour Themes
Small group
Physical Rating
Moderate
Includes Flights
Yes

Departure dates

Price per person, twin share
Start End Availability Price
20 Feb 2027 10 Mar 2027 Available $12,595
03 Apr 2027 21 Apr 2027 Available $12,995
15 May 2027 02 Jun 2027 Available $12,695
27 Nov 2027 15 Dec 2027 Available $12,695

Inclusions

  • Sightseeing

    Experience the Mexican zest for life
    • Tour bustling Mexico City
    • Experience an authentic trajinera ride through the waterways of Xochimilco
    • View the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City
    • Marvel at the archaeological site of Teotihuacán
    • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Puebla
    • Take a walking tour of the colonial town of Oaxaca
    • Admire the view of the Oaxaca Valley while exploring the pyramids and tombs at Monte Alban
    • Enjoy a weaving demonstration in Teotitlan de Valle
    • Learn about all things agave during a visit to a mezcal factory and sip Mexico's iconic spirit
    • Travel to Tehuantepec via the town of Mitla
    • Tour the spectacular Sumidero Canyon by boat
    • Enjoy the scenic drive into the Chiapas Mountains, home to numerous indigenous villages
    • Spend three nights in the colourful town of San Cristóbal de las Casas
    • Discover the delights of San Cristóbal on a walking tour
    • Experience a folkloric show while having dinner in San Cristóbal
    • Visit the indigenous Mayan communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán
    • Admire the turquoise colours of the Agua Azul waterfalls
    • Explore the ancient Mayan site of Palenque
    • Spend two nights in the colonial city of Campeche
    • Learn about Campeche's history on a walking tour
    • Visit Uxmal, one of the most important sites of the ancient Mayan civilisation
    • Tour the "White City" of Mérida
    • Take a guided boat tour in the Celestún Biosphere Reserve and Bird Sanctuary to see the variety of coastal birds
    • Visit the great pyramid of Kukulkan at Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
    • Relax on the beautiful beaches of Playa del Carmen

    Travel

    • Return economy-class flights from Australia to Mexico. Taxes included
    • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
    • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles

    Accommodation

    • 16 nights in 3-4 star hotels
    Properties include:
    • Hotel Galeria Plaza Reforma, Mexico City
    • Hotel Casa Conzatti, Oaxaca
    • Hotel Calli, Tehuantepec
    • Hotel Sombra del Agua, San Cristóbal
    • Chan Kah Resort Village, Palenque
    • Plaza Campeche, Campeche
    • Holiday Inn Express Mérida Centro, Mérida
    • The Reef 28, Playa del Carmen
    Hotels listed are an indication and are subject to change without notice.

    Meals

    • 16 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 3 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners

    Tour Guides

    • English-speaking locally based guides

    Some things to note

    • Mexico City is a fascinating place and many world class museums can be found here including the Anthropological Museum, Frida Kahlo Museum, Templo Mayor Museum, Bellas Artes Museum and Leon Trotsky’s house to name a few. Our sightseeing program in Mexico City is quite full so if you have an interest in visiting any of these museums, we recommend booking at least 2 nights pre tour accommodation to give you time to see those places that may be of particular interest to you.
    • This tour involves some long travel days by private vehicle. Due to the nature of the roads in some parts of Mexico, 200km can take 5 hours or more to travel. Be prepared for winding (but incredibly scenic) roads, numerous stops at checkpoints, many speedbumps and at times heavy traffic that will all affect travel times.
    • There is a time difference of one hour in between Chichen Itza and Playa del Carmen. Please remember to put your watches and clocks forward one hour when leaving Chichen Itza.
    • A number of our travel dates can be combined with our Guatemala Explorer or Wonders of Costa Rica tours. If you’d like to discover more of Mexico or Central America, please speak with your Travel Specialist for further details.
    Optional Excursions:All optional excursions are based on minimum participants and are subject to availability. The length of optional excursions advised is an approximate only. Optional excursions can be booked on tour directly with your Tour Director or guide. We recommend arranging the booking at the beginning of the tour to avoid disappointment. Please note some optional excursions may also be available on multiple or alternate days. Prices are a guide only and are subject to change without prior notice. Payment by cash is preferred as there are no guarantees that credit card facilities will be available. Please check with your Tour Director or guide locally for information relating to this. Credit card fees and exchange rates are at the discretion of your bank.

    • Itinerary details

    Day 1 - Depart Australia – Arrive Mexico City
    Welcome to lively Mexico! Stretching across a vast and colourful landscape, Mexico is Latin America’s third largest country and proudly the world’s most populous Spanish-speaking nation. Mexico’s flag, an iconic combination of green, white and red, carries deep meaning for the nation and its people. Green symbolises hope and victory, white represents the purity of Mexican ideals and red honours the blood shed by the country’s hers. At the centre sits the Mexican coat of arms, an eagle perched on a cactus, based on the ancient Aztec symbol of Tenochtitlan. Our adventure begins in Mexico City, the energetic economic and cultural centre of the country. Sprawling across a high valley and encircled by volcans and mountains, this enormous capital sits atop the ruins of an ancient Aztec civilisation. It is North America's highest city and one of the world's most densely populated. With a long and layered history that runs from ancient indigenous civilisations through to the invasion of the Conquistadors and subsequent colonial rule, Mexico City boasts an array of fascinating sights and attractions. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel and settle in for the beginning of our unforgettable Mexican adventure. Special Note: This tour involves some long travel days by private vehicle. Due to the nature of the roads in some parts of Mexico, 200km can take 5 hours or more to travel. Be prepared for winding but incredibly scenic roads, numerous stops at checkpoints, many speedbumps and at times heavy traffic, all of which will affect travel times.
    Day 2 - Mexico City
    Please meet your tour guide and fellow travellers in the hotel lobby at 8.15am. Our day is dedicated to exploring the delights of bustling Mexico City. We’ll see the main city square, Plaza de la Constitución, more commonly known as the ‘Zócalo’. Constructed from the stones of ancient palaces and temples, the plaza is said to be the second largest in the world after Moscow’s Red Square. The Zócalo is bordered by the Cathedral to the north and the National Palace to the east, making it one of those places where history feels close enough to touch. In the centre of the plaza stands an enormous Mexican flag, which is ceremoniously raised and lowered each day and carried into the National Palace. Spending time in this historically and culturally significant square is a real treat. Later, we’ll enjoy one of the city’s most joyful and colourful traditions. Special Experience Board an authentic Mexican trajinera for a lively lunch cruise through the vibrant canals of Xochimilco. This afternoon, we’ll visit Xochimilco, a vibrant borough known for its ancient canal system. You’ll hardly believe you’re still in Mexico City. These popular waterways are the last remnants of a vast water transport system built by the Aztecs. Here, we’ll admire the hundreds of colourful trajineras, gondola-like boats, cruising along the canals while enjoying delicious food, lively mariachi music and pretty scenery. Afterwards, we’ll explore a colourful arts and crafts market before returning to our hotel. It’s the perfect place to pick up an authentic souvenir. This evening, we’ll meet for a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
    Day 3 - Mexico City – Teotihuácan – Mexico City
    After breakfast, we’ll set off to the nearby site of Teotihuacán, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Mexico. The early history of this ancient Mesoamerican city remains a mystery, and the identity of its original founders is still unknown. Surprisingly, it wasn’t built by the Aztecs. Teotihuacán is believed to have been established around 100 BC, with the Aztecs arriving nearly 1,000 years later. It was they who named the city Teotihuacán, meaning ‘Birthplace of the Gods’. Remarkably advanced for its time, Teotihuacán was a multi-ethnic society whose people worshipped a variety of gods and, at its height, it was the largest city in the Americas, home to an estimated 125,000 residents. This morning, we’ll have the opportunity to discover some of the city’s most incredible religious and ceremonial structures. The Temple of the Sun, standing an impressive 66 metres tall, is one of the largest structures of its kind in the world. Across the complex, the Temple of the Moon rises 43 metres from the ground and is slightly smaller but equally striking. Connecting the two pyramids is the Avenue of the Dead, a 40-metre-wide thoroughfare lined with various smaller structures. After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, known locally as Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. This Roman Catholic Church and shrine is arguably the most important Christian site in Latin America, receiving some twenty million pilgrims annually. Built near the location where Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego, it also houses the original cloak bearing the icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which we’ll be able to see. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
    Day 4 - Mexico City – Puebla – Oaxaca
    This morning, we’ll wave goodbye to Mexico City and travel south-east with our eyes set on the beautiful city of Puebla, considered one of the main colonial cities of Mexico. Also known as 'City of Angels and City of Tiles’, Puebla is famous for its Baroque-style churches, local ceramics and delectable dishes, including the spicy Mole Poblano sauce, which is a total must-try when in Mexico. Its historic downtown area remains a Spanish colonial treasure, filled with 17th and 18th century European architecture and beautifully tiled churches and buildings. Here, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before we continue on to Oaxaca. Along the way, be sure to look out the window and take in some of the fascinating Mexican countryside. We’ll arrive at Oaxaca in the evening, a beautiful colonial city that is sure to be a highlight of our adventure across Mexico. Pronounced ‘wah-hah-kah’, this charming city draws in locals and tourists alike with its vibrant culture, colourful art scene and delicious cuisine. Set among mountainous terrain, Oaxaca’s relative isolation allowed its culture to flourish. Even today, the surrounding towns and villages are known for their own unique handicrafts. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
    Day 5 - Oaxaca
    Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most captivating cities, loved for its rich traditions, colourful streets, beautiful colonial architecture and deeply rooted food culture. Today, we’ll have the chance to soak up some of its many charms on foot, beginning with a visit to the magnificent Church of Santo Domingo. Built between the 16th and 17th centuries, this striking church is one of the finest examples of New Spanish Baroque architecture in Mexico, with richly decorated interiors that reflect the grandeur of Oaxaca’s colonial past. We’ll then stroll along Andador Turístico, also known as Oaxaca’s ‘Pedestrian Street’, a traffic-free avenue lined with historic stone buildings now home to artisan shops, museums, cafés and bars. We’ll also view the mesmerising exteriors of the Teatro Macedonio Alcalá and the House of Cortés. The last leg of our city tour will include a visit to the Temple of San Juan de Dios, the first church built in Oaxaca around 1500. We’ll also see the stunning 19th century Government Palace complete with marble, arches and impressive murals, before heading to the bustling local markets and the iconic El Mayordomo chocolate store. We’ll stop in the main square for the opportunity to grab some lunch, before heading out of Oaxaca to the scenic region that surrounds the city to visit the famous pre-Columbian archaeological site of Monte Albán. Perched on a mountain 400 metres above the Oaxaca Valley, this remarkable pre-Columbian site was once the spiritual capital of the Zapotec people. Its mountain setting is spectacular, so do keep your camera close by. Today involves approximately 5 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.
    Day 6 - Oaxaca – Mitla – Tehuantepec
    Today, we’ll travel further south-east, with our eyes set on Mitla. Our first stop this morning is a visit to Árbol del Tule, an enormous tree with a circumference of more than 48 metres at its base. Believed to be between 1,500 and 3,000 years old, it’s often considered to be one of the oldest trees in the world. We’ll then make our way to Teotitlán de Valle, a famous weaving village with traditions dating back to pre-Hispanic times, before visiting a mezcal factory where we’ll learn about all things agave and have the chance to sip Mexico’s most iconic spirit. Steeped in centuries of history, Mitla welcomes us with colourful streets and a relaxed local feel. This is a great place to pick up a locally made souvenir. Before enjoying lunch together at a local restaurant, we’ll visit the Templo Católico de San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a quaint church set in the centre of Mitla’s main plaza. We’ll also explore the small archaeological site, known for its elaborate mosaic fretwork and geometric designs unlike any other in Mexico. After lunch, we’ll hit the road again and continue our journey to Tehuantepec, our destination for the night. Famous for its beautiful embroidered traditional dress, a style famously adopted by iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, Tehuantepec was once a thriving centre of the Zapotec culture. Located on the edge of the state of Oaxaca, the wider Tehuantepec region played a key role in the pre-Hispanic era as an important trade route connecting Central America with central Mexico. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
    Day 7 - Tehuantepec – San Cristóbal
    Exploring the scenic Sumidero Canyon, one of southern Mexico’s great natural wonders, is first up on our agenda today. Located just north of the small town of Chiapa de Corzo, this beautiful canyon is nestled in the heart of Sumidero Canyon National Park and is not far from the Guatemalan border. We’ll take a scenic drive to reach the canyon before boarding a boat to experience this extraordinary landscape from the water. While here, we’ll marvel at the sheer cliffs, soaring up to a kilometre high in places, which are believed to have begun forming 35 million years ago. After our exciting boat trip this morning, we’ll head into nearby Chiapa de Corzo for lunch. This town is known for its distinctive Mudéjar architectural style, a fusion of Islamic and Christian artistic tradition, and as the gateway to the famed national park. This afternoon, our journey continues to the charming town of San Cristóbal de las Casas, our home for the next three nights. With its white stucco walls and red tiled roofs, cobblestone streets, narrow sidewalks, elegant arcades and open plazas, this town is full of character. The surrounding region is home to many Mayan-speaking communities, making this area one of the most culturally rich and fascinating parts of Mexico. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
    Day 8 - San Cristóbal
    Today, we’ll enjoy an orientation walking tour of San Cristóbal, discovering the best of this beautiful town. Our guide will point out highlights and local favourites that you may wish to explore during your free time over the coming two afternoons. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. We recommend visiting the lively museum and research centre, Na Bolom, meaning ‘Jaguar House’ in Tzotzil, a native Mayan language. It was the home of renowned Danish archaeologist Frans Blom, one of the first to excavate Palenque, and his wife Gertrude, a Swiss anthropologist who was a passionate advocate for the Lacandón people and the jungle environment of eastern Chiapas — quite the couple! Today, Na Bolom honours their legacy while continuing to support the study of Chiapas’ Indigenous cultures and natural world. This evening offers a wonderful introduction to one of the region’s most joyful traditions. In Chiapas, folkloric performances are more than entertainment. They are a proud expression of local identity, history and community spirit. Through traditional dance, music and costume, these shows help preserve stories and customs that have been passed down through generations. Special Experience Dive into tradition as you taste authentic cuisine from the Chiapas region while enjoying a local folkloric performance. As we feast on regional flavours at Las Pichanchas, we’ll enjoy the melodies of the marimba, a percussion instrument popular in Central America, while colourful dresses, lively rhythms and regional songs reflect the rich blend of Indigenous and Spanish influences that shape the culture of Chiapas today. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
    Day 9 - San Cristóbal
    The living Mayan culture of Chiapas is one of the most fascinating and enduring parts of this region. In the highlands surrounding San Cristóbal, many Indigenous communities continue to speak their own Mayan languages and maintain traditions that have been passed down through generations. From clothing and crafts to ceremonies and daily customs, these villages offer a rare and meaningful glimpse into a way of life that remains deeply connected to the past. Today, we’ll gain a closer glimpse into these cultures and their way of life. Special Experience Visit the villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, nestled in the mountains surrounding San Cristóbal, to experience living Mayan culture and traditions. Our morning begins in the small town of San Juan Chamula, known for its unique Tzotzil community, an indigenous group of Maya descent whose traditions remain deeply rooted. Their strong culture, customs and traditional dress will leave us in awe and wonder. We’ll visit a remarkable 16th century church, where hundreds of candles burn inside, pine needles cover the floor, and Catholic practices blend with Indigenous beliefs unlike anywhere else. It’s an extraordinary place, and one to remember. Please note that photography is not permitted inside the church. We’ll then make our way to Zinacantán, whose name translates to ‘Land of Bats’. Almost all of its residents are Tzotzil Maya, and here we’ll meet a local weaving family who will share their traditional techniques, a craft passed down through generations. We’ll also learn how to make fresh tortillas, which is always a crowd pleaser. On arrival back in San Cristóbal, we’ll enjoy lunch together at a local restaurant. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax or explore more of this picturesque town. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
    Day 10 - San Cristóbal – Palenque
    We’ll say adiós to San Cristóbal this morning, after our lovely time among its highland culture, colonial charm and deeply rooted traditions. As we leave the Chiapas highlands behind, a stunning drive down the mountains leads us through green valleys and into the rainforest below. Our first stop of the day is at Agua Azul, which translates to ‘Blue Water’. Situated on the Xanil River, this series of cascading waterfalls tumbles into bright turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle. The contrast of colours is simply spectacular. While we’re here, we’ll stop for some lunch and have the opportunity to swim in the gorgeous waters, a totally idyllic scene where it’s almost impossible not to swim! Later we’ll continue our journey to the quaint city of Palenque, arriving in the late afternoon. Nestled in the tropical lowlands of Chiapas, this charming town is best known as the gateway to the iconic ancient ruins of the same name. With its laid-back vibe, welcoming locals, mouthwatering eateries and quirky boutique shops, it offers a wonderful glimpse into authentic Mexican life. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
    Day 11 - Palenque – Campeche
    Our day begins by exploring one of Mexico’s most iconic sites, the ancient Mayan city of Palenque. Considered by many to be one of the finest examples of Maya culture in the country, Palenque is set within a lush jungle landscape, where howler monkeys and bright tropical birds add to the ruin’s allure. Palenque’s ruins date back to the Late Classic period, around 600 to 800AD, when the city thrived as a major political and cultural powerhouse. Although the ancient city once spanned up to 15 square kilometres of dense jungle, only a fraction of its hundreds of structures have been excavated. Among its most famous monuments is the Temple of the Inscriptions, an impressive pyramid built over eight levels, with a staircase rising about 27 metres to a series of small chambers. The temple is named for its intricate internal inscriptions that recount the city's history and its royal lineage. Other important buildings feature richly detailed carved bas-reliefs that depict mythological scenes and the reign of Palenque’s most famous ruler, Lord Pakal, and his descendants. After our exploration this morning, we’ll continue on to the beautiful Spanish colonial city of Campeche, our home for the next two nights. Founded in 1540, the city still preserves sections of the walls that once protected it from pirates and buccaneers. Inside, pastel buildings, cobbled streets and fortified ramparts give it plenty of old-world charm. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
    Day 12 - Campeche
    A beautiful day awaits us as we set off on a walking tour to discover the highlights of Campeche, a coastal city whose colourful streets and colonial heritage make it a pleasure to wander. Our first stop is Puerta de Tierra, the city’s largest colonial fort and a key element of Campeche’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed status. Built in 1732 under the direction of Don Antonio de Figueroa y Silva, it remains the most iconic reminder of the city’s fortified past. From here, we’ll also wander down the vibrant Calle 59, perhaps Campeche’s most iconic street and marvel at the colourful buildings that line the footpath, many of which house quaint boutiques and delicious eateries. Calle 59 has a stunning blend of Spanish and indigenous influences and will be a pleasure to explore. Next, we’ll head to Puerta del Mar or Sea Gate. Facing the Gulf of Mexico, this gate was the main access point in and out of Campeche’s fortified walls. This 17th century gate led directly to the city’s docks and port area, making it a crucial point for trading. We’ll also visit the city’s main park, before making our way to marvel at the Baroque-style Campeche Cathedral that boasts elements of Neoclassical design. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax or discover more of the city at your own pace. You may wish to visit the Baluarte de la Soledad Museum or Centro Cultural Casa Número 6, a beautifully preserved mansion that offers a glimpse into upper-class life in centuries past. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
    Day 13 - Campeche – Uxmal – Mérida
    This morning we’re in for a real treat as we explore Uxmal, one of the most important archaeological sites of Maya culture in Mexico. Built between 700 and 1,000AD, the complex represents the pinnacle of late Maya art and architecture. At its peak, Uxmal was home to around 25,000 people and played a major political and religious role in the region. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is known for its intricate stonework, elegant proportions and the strong symbolism of the Puuc architectural style. On a guided tour, we’ll learn about the impressive Pirámide del Adivino, or The Pyramid of the Magician. Getting its name from an old folktale, this grand pyramid is 35 metres tall and was built over five different periods. We’ll also see the Quadrangle of the Birds, the Quadrangle of the Nuns, the Ball Game Court and more, each adding another layer to the story of this remarkable city. After lunch at a traditional Mayan restaurant, we’ll continue to Mérida, the cultural capital of the Yucatán State. Nicknamed the ‘White City’, Mérida blends a cosmopolitan with a gracious colonial atmosphere. We’ll stop at the Zócalo, Mérida’s main square and see the external views of the Cathedral and the Town Hall. We’ll also walk through of the Government Palace and the House of Montejo, before checking in to our hotel. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
    Day 14 - Mérida
    Prepare to be captivated by the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed sanctuary stretching along the north-western edge of the Yucatán Peninsula. Covering more than 500 square metres, this protected area is known for its rich birdlife and ever-changing coastal scenery we’ll get to experience this morning. Here, coastal dunes, mangroves, lagoons, marshes and lowland forest come together to create an extraordinary habitat for a wide variety of species. We’ll set out on a guided boat tour through the reserve’s calm waters, keeping watch for the many birds that call this place home and perhaps even a shy crocodile tucked among the mangroves. One of the great highlights is the chance to see flamingos gathering here in brilliant pink flocks at certain times of year. Watching them wade through the shallows or sweep across the water in flight is a memorable sight. With an expert guide leading the way, we’ll also learn more about the fragile ecosystems that make this reserve so special. After our morning on the water, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch together at a local restaurant. Once back in Mérida, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, exploring the city’s colourful streets, charming plazas and vibrant cultural scene. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
    Day 15 - Mérida – Chichén Itzá – Playa del Carmen
    This morning, we’ll make our way to Chichén Itzá, one of the most famous Mayan archaeological sites in the world. Here stands the majestic Pyramid of Kukulkan, soaring 27 metres high and impressing visitors with its finely crafted stonework and striking symmetry. Built between the 8th and 12th centuries on the remains of older temples, the pyramid flaunts some remarkable secrets about Mayan life and lore. Look closely, and you’ll discover that each step, platform and carving is brimming with hidden meaning — like an ancient puzzle waiting to be uncovered. One of its most mesmerising features involves the sun itself: during the spring and autumn equinoxes, sunlight creates a snake-like shadow that appears to slither down the pyramid’s steps, linking the heavens to a massive serpent head at the base. This spectacle was no accident. The pyramid encodes precise information about the Mayan calendar, reflecting the civilisation’s remarkable understanding of astronomy, timekeeping and cosmic events. As we wander through the site, we’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and spiritual life of this ancient civilisation. After this unforgettable encounter with history, we’ll travel to the resort town of Playa del Carmen in the afternoon to check into our hotel. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
    Day 16 - Playa del Carmen
    Playa del Carmen is one of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most popular coastal escapes, known for its turquoise waters, white sand and easy-going holiday atmosphere. The nearby reefs are excellent for diving and snorkelling, and is home to rays, moray eels, sea turtles and an impressive variety of corals. Quinta Avenida, or 5th Avenue, is the main pedestrian thoroughfare and is full of restaurants, bars, cafés and shops. Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. You might like to spend the day unwinding by the beach, heading out to explore the town or simply settling into holiday mode and letting the sea air do the rest. This evening we’ll enjoy a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Optional Excursion Tulum Express - Experience the wonders of the ancient city of Tulum with our knowledgeable guides who, through colourful stories, will help you feel as if you are standing in Tulum in the 13th century. Our small group format and attention to detail will make your day memorable and educational as you walk through the Mayan’s most well-preserved and majestic ruins. During this half-day tour, you will have time to learn about the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilization yet still have time to return to your resort and enjoy the rest of your day by the pool or on the beach. Includes round trip A/C transportation, a certified guide, bottled water, a light snack and guided entrance to Tulum site. 4 hours – from $85pp US Optional Excursion Rio Secreto - A Magical River found deep below Quintana Roo - Take our unbelievable underground river tour. In this surreal locale near Playa del Carmen you can observe natural history dating back millions of years, as you hike and swim through a route of about 1 km full of beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. Go deep inside an underground cave, where you'll experience true silence among some of the most dramatic mineral formations in the world. Includes access to the Nature Reserve, specialised guides, lockers, wetsuit, life jacket, helmet with lamp, towels, regional buffet, non-alcoholic drinks and transportation. 4 hours – from $140pp US
    Day 17 - Depart Playa del Carmen
    Our tour through mesmerising Mexico concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
    Day 18 - In Transit
    Day 18 - In Transit
    Day 19 - Arrive Australia
    Day 19 - Arrive Australia

    Frequently Asked Questions

    You should choose this tour if you are looking for a soulful and premium journey through Mexico that balances guided exploration with the freedom to discover. This experience takes you from the energetic streets of Mexico City to the turquoise shores of Playa del Carmen, offering a rich blend of ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins, colonial charm, and meaningful connections with local communities.
    This tour is specifically designed for curious travellers aged 55 and over who appreciate a premium travel style. It is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and nature, and who value the camaraderie of a small group environment (maximum 20 people) while exploring hidden gems and iconic landmarks.
    The pros include a comprehensive itinerary featuring UNESCO World Heritage sites, authentic cultural experiences like trajinera cruises and folkloric performances, and a small group size for a more personal experience. A potential con is the requirement for long travel days by private vehicle, where winding roads and traffic can make 200km take 5 hours or more.
    While the tour is open to various travellers, it is particularly well-suited for like-minded adults and those in the 55+ age group who enjoy social, small-group touring. Whether you are a solo traveller looking for companionship or a couple seeking a meaningful cultural adventure, the group format is designed to create lasting memories together.
    This tour is an excellent option for both. First-time visitors will benefit from the comprehensive coverage of key highlights like Chichén Itzá and Mexico City, while experienced travellers will appreciate the inclusion of more niche experiences, such as visiting the weaving villages of Zinacantán and the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve.
    The tour is rated as having 'Moderate' physicality. Many days involve significant walking, ranging from 2 to 5 hours, including explorations of ancient ruins and colonial cities. Some sites may involve uneven terrain or hot and humid conditions, so travellers should consider their mobility levels accordingly.
    This tour offers a balanced blend of all three. It focuses heavily on sightseeing at world-famous archaeological sites, immerses you in culture through visits to Indigenous Mayan communities and colonial towns, and adds elements of adventure with boat trips through Sumidero Canyon and the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve.
    The pace is carefully balanced to suit the 55+ age group, combining active exploration with moments of leisure. While there are several long travel days between cities, the itinerary also includes free afternoons in towns like San Cristóbal and a relaxing finale in Playa del Carmen.
    The itinerary is designed to be rewarding without being overly rushed, striking a balance between guided activities and personal freedom. However, guests should be aware that the transit days can be lengthy due to the nature of Mexican roads, which may feel more demanding than the sightseeing days.
    Yes, the tour includes many of Mexico's most iconic landmarks, such as the Zócalo in Mexico City, the pyramids of Teotihuacán, Monte Albán, the ruins of Palenque, Uxmal, and the world-famous Chichén Itzá.
    Yes, the tour includes professional guides who lead the excursions and provide knowledgeable insights into the history and culture of the sites visited, ensuring that travellers can fully experience the destination without worrying about language barriers.
    Disclaimer:
    These FAQs have been generated with the assistance of AI to provide a general overview. They are intended as a starting point only and should be reviewed based on your knowledge, current supplier information and client requirements.
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