Discover Mexico

Tailor made tours

SUMMARY

19 Days

Mexico

Discover Mexico Your Way: A 19-Day Customizable Journey

Embark on an extraordinary 19-day adventure designed especially for first-time travellers eager to explore Mexico’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the buzzing streets of Mexico City and the awe-inspiring pyramids of Teotihuacan, to the colonial elegance of Puebla, the cultural heart of Oaxaca, and the highland charm of San Cristóbal de las Casas, this journey showcases the incredible diversity of Mexico. Uncover the jungle-clad ruins of Palenque, wander through the vibrant avenues of Mérida, and marvel at the cenotes and archaeological wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula, before unwinding on the idyllic Caribbean coast. Discover Mexico Your Way offers a thoughtfully crafted itinerary that serves as your perfect starting point—fully flexible and ready to be tailored to match your personal travel style.

Unveiling the Metropolis and Ancient Wonders

Begin your adventure in Mexico City, a dynamic hub where ancient history and modern life intertwine. Immerse yourself in the energy of this sprawling metropolis and delve into the nation’s rich history at the fascinating National Museum of Anthropology. Afterwards, prepare to be awestruck as you venture to the magnificent pyramids of Teotihuacan. Elevate your experience, literally, with a mesmerizing hot-air balloon ride, soaring above these ancient ruins for a truly unforgettable perspective.

Overland Adventures and Cultural Immersion

Travel overland to the colonial city of Puebla, enjoying spectacular views of the Popocatépetl volcano en route. Then continue to Oaxaca, one of Mexico’s most culturally rich destinations. Here, dive into a world of colourful markets, traditional crafts, and tantalizing cuisine. Take part in a hands-on cooking class and explore the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, remnants of the once-mighty Olmec empire.

Discover Mexico’s Chiapas Highlands and Mayan Mysteries

Your Discover Mexico tour then takes you from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutierrez via a convenient flight. From there, a captivating overland exploration leads you to the charming village of San Cristobal de las Casas, nestled in the Chiapas highlands. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions, vibrant cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes that converge in this magical town. Explore the beautiful highlights of Chiapas before venturing deeper into the sultry lowlands to uncover the ancient marvels of Palenque, a significant Mayan site shrouded in jungle mystique.

The Magic of the Yucatán Peninsula

Next, head to Mérida, the vibrant heart of the Yucatán. Explore majestic cenotes, charming pueblos mágicos, and captivating archaeological sites like Uxmal and Chichén Itzá. The journey ends with a few relaxing days on the sun-drenched Caribbean coast—perfect for unwinding after your adventure.

Tailor Your Mexican Dream

Our Discover Mexico tour is designed especially for first-time visitors. Throughout this incredible tour, we can incorporate as much or as little as you prefer, in shared or private services, or even with the freedom of a car hire along the way. Let us design your perfect holiday to meet your individual needs and desires. While Contours Travel has meticulously crafted this inspiring framework, the possibilities are truly limitless. With Contours Travel, you don’t just visit Mexico—you experience it your way.

HIGHLIGHTS

Climb the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan before the city wakes.
Wander Mexico City’s vibrant historic centre and world-class museums.
See the imprint of the Olmec, Zapotec, Toltec, Maya, and Aztec civilisations on modern Mexico.
Soak up Puebla’s colonial charm and admire its famous Talavera tiles.
Taste your way through Oaxaca’s markets and master mole in a local cooking class.
Discover the artisanal heart of Oaxaca in the villages of San Bartolo Coyotepec, San Martín Tilcajete, and Santo Tomás Jalieza—renowned for black pottery, vibrant alebrijes, and intricate textiles.
Cruise through Sumidero Canyon with towering cliffs and jungle views.
Discover the living traditions of Indigenous villages in Chiapas.
Explore the majestic ruins of Palenque, Uxmal, and Chichén Itzá.
Unwind on the beaches of Playa del Carmen and explore the coast at leisure.
Experience Mexico’s rich culture, cuisine, and history on one unforgettable journey.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Mexico City

Arrive in Mexico City and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore at your own pace.

Day 2 Mexico City

Teotihuacan & Mexico City Highlights
Start early with a visit to the Teotihuacan Pyramids, beating the crowds and heat at the awe-inspiring Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. Return to the city for a guided tour of its historic heart—Zócalo, the Cathedral, National Palace, and the world-famous Museum of Anthropology.

Day 3 Mexico City

Coyoacán & Frida Kahlo Museum
Explore the artistic and bohemian neighborhood of Coyoacán on a half-day tour, including a visit to the evocative Frida Kahlo Museum, set in her vibrant blue house.

Day 4 Mexico City/Puebla

Travel overland to Puebla, passing dramatic views of snow-capped volcanoes. Discover Puebla’s colonial charm and admire its iconic Talavera tilework, seen across its churches, plazas, and colorful streets.

Day 5 Puebla

Puebla at Leisure
Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax or further explore this UNESCO-listed city, known for its rich history, gastronomy, and beautiful architecture.

Day 6 Puebla/Oaxaca

Travel by bus to the vibrant city of Oaxaca, nestled in the Sierra Mountains. Once a major center of Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations, today it’s known for its lively markets, colonial buildings, and cultural traditions.

Day 7 Oaxaca

Monte Albán
Visit the hilltop ruins of Monte Albán, a majestic ancient city with panoramic views and remarkable stone carvings, pyramids, and ceremonial platforms.

Day 8 Oaxaca

Markets & Oaxacan Cuisine
Start your day at one of Oaxaca’s bustling markets, followed by a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn traditional local recipes and enjoy a delicious lunch. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 9 Oaxaca/San Cristobal

Fly to Tuxtla Gutiérrez and transfer to San Cristóbal, stopping en route for a scenic boat ride through the Sumidero Canyon, where cliffs rise over a kilometre above the Grijalva River.

Day 10 San Cristobal

Indigenous Villages
Explore San Cristóbal’s vibrant local market, then visit the nearby Tzotzil villages of Chamula and Zinacantán. These living communities preserve centuries-old traditions and spiritual beliefs.

Day 11 San Cristobal/Palenque

San Cristóbal to Palenque (via Agua Azul)
Drive through lush jungle landscapes to the turquoise Agua Azul waterfalls—take a swim if you like! Continue on to Palenque for an overnight stay.

Day 12 Palenque/Campeche

Tour the mystical Maya ruins of Palenque, set against the backdrop of dense jungle. In the afternoon, continue overland to the colonial city of Campeche, located on the Gulf coast.

Day 13 Campeche/Merida

Campeche to Mérida (via Uxmal & Kabah)
Travel to Mérida, stopping en route to explore the archaeological sites of Uxmal (‘three times built’) and Kabah. Uxmal is one of the best restored and maintained ruins in the Yucatan and certainly one of the most magnificent. After the tour, continue to Merida.

Day 14 Merida

Discover the colonial elegance of Mérida on a morning tour, including visits to its leafy plazas, grand mansions, and bustling markets. Afternoon at leisure to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere.

Day 15 Merida

Mérida at Leisure
Enjoy a free day to relax, shop for local crafts, or take an optional excursion—perhaps to nearby cenotes or the Celestún Biosphere Reserve.

Day 16 Merida/Playa Del Carmen

Mérida to Playa del Carmen (via Chichén Itzá)
Cross the Yucatán Peninsula to the Riviera Maya, stopping to explore the legendary ruins of Chichén Itzá, including the iconic Pyramid of Kukulkan. Arrive in Playa del Carmen in the afternoon.

Day 17 Tulum/Playa Del Carmen

Tulum
Visit the spectacular coastal ruins of Tulum, the only Maya site overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Take in breathtaking ocean views and explore this once-thriving trading port.

Day 18 Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen at Leisure
A full day to relax on Playa del Carmen’s beautiful beaches, go shopping, or enjoy optional excursions to cenotes or the nearby island of Cozumel.