Itinerary Highlights
  • Experience Mexico differently, from the capital city and waves of the Pacific Ocean to the colonial towns and archaeological sites

  • Enjoy local crafts in trendy Mexico City, peaceful Oaxaca and the ancient Zapotec metropolis of Monte Alban

  • Round off the holiday in a haven of tranquillity on the ocean, not far from Puerto Escondido

Contact one of our Mexico specialists + 44 (0) 20 3958 6120

There are four parts to this trip, that will each offer an alternative experience of Mexico. First stop, Mexico City. From Aztec ruins to futuristic skyscrapers in Paseo de la Reforma, the contrast of eras and styles are apparent at every turn in Mexico City. It's a city that marches entirely to the beat of its own drum. After a stop at the colourful colonial city of Puebla, you'll reach the beautiful valley of Oaxaca. Oaxaca is jam-packed with excellent examples of colonial architecture and its natural surroundings are a charming example of the real Mexico. Major archaeological sites, such as Monte Alban and Mitla, recall the golden age and innovation of Mexico's indigenous civilisations. Your final stop is Puerto Escondido, on the laidback Pacific Coast.

This hidden harbour is a famous surf spot, but also an excellent spot for birdwatching, the perfect place to round-off your Mexican adventure.

Route

Everything is 100% tailored to you
DAY 1

FLIGHT TO MEXICO

After an overnight flight, you will land in Mexico City this morning, before being privately transferred to your hotel in La Condesa district. This is one of the most appealing and safe districts in Mexico City, with wide tree-lined avenues, pavement cafes, art galleries and beautiful Art Deco architecture (the Basurto and San Martin buildings are real highlights).

DAY 2

MEXICO CITY

Today you can explore the trendy parks, avenues and terraces of the Roma and La Condesa districts on a half day cycling tour with a local guide. You’ll have the chance to discover these trendy bohemian neighbourhoods, from the Art Deco architecture to quiet side-streets, with stop-offs in galleries, bookstores and designer shops. Spend the rest of the day taking in the city's history and experiencing modern Mexico life, by exploring at your own pace. Alternatively, we could arrange a private tour of the city’s markets or arrange tickets to a Mexican wrestling match at Arena Mexico.

DAY 3

MEXICO CITY

Mexico isn't just a big city, it's a mega city. From Tenochtitlan to Chilango, history has left indelible contrasting marks in its wake. Spend today exploring the Historical Centre, where The Great Temple, dedicated to Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc (the Aztec gods of war and agriculture), adjoins the imposing Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary. In Saint Joseph's chapel, Christ with cocoa beans is a nod to the Aztec god Tlaloc. At the National Palace and the Palace of Fine Arts, the works of 20th-century mural painters (José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Diego Rivera) express the tensions and dynamics that still exist in Mexican society today. In Polanco, under its aluminium sheath, the Sumaya Museum presents the art collection of Carlos Slim, 'the richest man in the world'. Indulge in some shopping on President Masaryk Avenue, relax under the branches of the Bosque de Chapultepec or visit the National Museum of Anthropology.

DAY 4

MEXICO - PUEBLA

Today you will pick up your rental car ready for the drive to Puebla, whose historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We love the colonial architecture and the breath-taking view of the Popocatepetl, which rises to a height of more than 17,700ft. While here, sample the regional delicacy 'mole poblano', a spicy sauce with chilies, almonds and cocoa used to season meats.

DAY 5

PUEBLA

There’s plenty to see and do while staying in Puebla, from admiring the magnificent Talavera pottery, brightly coloured facades of the beautiful stately mansions and the opulent decor of the churches and cathedral (the Capilla del Rosario of Santo Domingo Church, also known as the eighth wonder of the new world and renowned for its 24-carat gold leaf), to strolling through the bohemian El Barrio del Artista (artists' district) or venturing down Callejon de los Sapos, a colourful street where antique shops spread their wares all across the pavements.



This afternoon, you can head 13 miles out of the city to Cholula, which is famed for its large pyramid with the Our Lady of Remedies Church perched at the top, framed by the snow-covered summit of Popocatepetl in the distance. This vast pyramid has been shaped and enhanced by several civilisations including the Olmecs, Toltecs, Zapotecs and Aztecs. The Spanish invaders discovered nearly 400 similar buildings when the city was captured in 1519, so Cortès vowed to build 365 churches in the city (only 37 materialised). Also worth a visit is the Franciscan convent of Archangel Gabriel - one of the oldest in Mexico. It is located on the ruins of a temple dedicated to Quetzalcoatl, and the Casa Del Caballero Aguila, built in the 16th century, which houses the city museum and some beautiful art galleries.

DAY 6

PUEBLA - OAXACA

Today you’re back on the road to head to Oaxaca, capital of the state of the same name, nestled on the side of the Sierra Madre del Sur, more than 5,000 feet above sea level. As you drive, the landscapes of the volcanic plain gradually give way to those of the mountains, and candelabra-shaped cacti will surround you in this desert universe. Once you arrive, settle into your hotel, where you’ll be staying for the next three nights.

DAYS 7 & 8

OAXACA

Oaxaca is undoubtedly Mexico's creative hub, with many of the country's most recognisable arts and crafts - the brightly coloured carved wooden animals, famous black pottery and vivid textiles, to name a few - hailing from these artisan villages. You can find them dotted around the region and they are easy to visit in a day, with trips starting from Oaxaca. The city itself is as impressive as its surroundings, with the huge tree-shaded Zocalo square, the imposing Santo Domingo Church and the numerous indigenous markets. All of which are within walking distance from each other, making this a great place to explore on foot. What's more, the city is home to some of the best restaurants and street stalls in the country and there is no better way to soak up Oaxaca's vibrant café culture than over a delicious hot tamale or, for the brave, some grasshoppers. The region's dramatic mountain landscape also makes this an adventurer's dream, with everything from hiking and biking to climbing and riding available.


For something a little more cultural, the impressive Zapotec site of Monte Alban just outside the city shouldn't be missed. Monte Alban is the great city of Zapotec culture - abandoned in the seventh century, it was later occupied by the Mixtecs. Temples, pyramids, tombs and recreational parks are located around a huge plaza built on a levelled peak.


Today we could also arrange a private cooking class, or a high-altitude hike in the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca.

DAY 9

OAXACA - PUERTO ESCONDIDO

Early this morning, head to the airport for a short flight to Mexico City before journeying onwards with another short flight to Puerto Escondido. It’ll be worth the journey, as you’ll now spend three nights staying in a peaceful haven right on the ocean. This stretch of pristine coastline has been transformed into a private paradise for beach lovers. Spend your days relaxing on the beach or by the pool, or doing activities like surfing and kayaking. You can also venture out to explore the port town’s eateries for lunch or dinner.

DAYS 10 & 11

PUERTO ESCONDIDO

This small port, surrounded by palm trees, is renowned for its hippie atmosphere and huge waves. There's a beach to suit every mood; those more experienced surfers should head to Zicatela, while novices to La Punta. The Playa Principal has more of a family vibe while Manzanillo and Angelito are great for swimming and snorkelling. Those in search of romantic walks should head to Bacocho. And then there is the hinterland, behind the high mountains that rise above the bay, where you'll find small villages, markets and fiestas. You can also spend your days doing watersports, going horse-riding or enjoying some bird watching, all finished off with a cocktail while you watch the glorious Pacific sunset.

DAYS 12 & 13

PUERTO ESCONDIDO - RETURN FLIGHT

Today you’ll be privately transferred to the airport for your flight to Mexico City, from where you will catch your international flight home. It is an overnight flight, so you’ll arrive the next day.

A la carte

MEXICO - THE JAMAICA AND SONORA MARKETS

famous in Mexico, the Jamaica market is open every day of the year; its stalls display fruit, vegetables, flowers, meats, kitchen utensils, etc. Here, it is customary to taste everything from one stand to another, especially fruit! Next stop - the mysterious Sonora market. This market, unique in Mexico and probably throughout Latin America, is dedicated to herbalism and witchcraft. Metis healers, indigenous to Mexico, witches and shamans gather here to replenish their supplies.

Optional



OAXACA - PRIVATE COOKING CLASS

Oaxacan cuisine is renowned for its subtlety and variety. This class allows you to discover various regional flavours. Shopping begins at a local market then, led by the chef, four traditional dishes are prepared, followed by a tasting.

Optional

A Rough Idea of Price

Dependent on season, accommodation and activities
The estimated cost for this trip starts from £3,750 to £4,645 per person. The final cost of the trip depends on the way we tailor it especially for you. The final cost varies according to several factors, which include the level of service, length of trip and advance booking time. The exact price will be provided on your personalised quote. The average starting price for this trip is £4,195 per person.
  • Return flights to Mexico City with a scheduled airline

  • The Huatulco-Mexico flight

  • Airline taxes and fuel surcharge

  • Airport/hotel private transfer on arrival

  • Eight-day car hire

  • Three-night stay in Mexico City in a double room with breakfast included

  • Two-night stay in Puebla in a double suite with breakfast included

  • Three-night stay in Oaxaca in a double suite with breakfast included

  • Three-night stay in Puerto Escondido in a double room with half board included

  • The half-day tour of Mexico City by bicycle, with private expert guide

  • Half-day with private local guide in Mexico City

  • Day trip to Oaxaca and the Monte Alban site with a private expert guide

  • Day trip to the craft villages surrounding Oaxaca, with private expert guide

  • Our local Concierge service


  • Access to our local Concierge and all of our usual additional services
  • A few of the benefits of travelling with us
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    Contact one of our Mexico specialists