Grand Tour of Mexico

Grand Tour of Mexico

Visits to breathtaking natural wonders and stays in authentic haciendas will not leave you hidden from any highlight of Mexico on this individual trip.

Tailor-made trip gives you a deep impression of Mexico and travel from the sunny coastal city of Puerto Vallarta down to the east coast to chic Cancun. Experience the charm of colonial cities like Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende and Campeche, the vibrant arts and culture scene of Mexico City and the ancient ruins of Palenque and Chichén Itzá. With stops in picturesque cultural heritage cities, visits to breathtaking natural wonders and stays in authentic haciendas, no highlight of Mexico will remain hidden from you on this individual tour.

➢Day 1 - 2

Puerto Vallarta

International arrival You will be met at the airport. Transfer to your hotel.
1 night

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Puerto Vallarta is a lively resort on the Mexican Pacific coast, located in front of the turquoise waters of the great Bahía de Banderas and the palm-covered mountains of the Sierra Madre Occidental.

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➢ Day 2 - 4

Guadalajara

2 nights
drive from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara (335 km, 5 hours)

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Guadalajara, a vibrant city in western Mexico, is an intoxicating mix of classic and modern. Guadalajara is proud of its cultural and historical heritage, its atmospheric mariachi music, the national sport of charrería and the traditional hat dance (Jarabe Tapatío). At the same time, Guadalajara is a popular meeting point for start-ups and coworking spaces.

Activities

Tequila tasting

Leave Guadalajara behind and enjoy the landscape of Jalisco with agave fields and volcanic peaks in the background. Reach the town of Tequila with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets and the beautiful Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol in the town square. Marvel at how the local Voladores perform ceremonial harvest dances several times a day on a mast at a breathtaking height. Then, visit a distillery in downtown Tequila to watch the entire production process of the Mexican national drink. Witness entire truckloads of blue agave being chopped up, learn about the handpicked ingredients for tequila, and learn about the aging process in the cavas, the Mexican wine cellars. In the fields of Jimadores, meet local farmers who harvest agaves and let their horses graze. Then, sit down with your host for an in-depth tequila tasting. Try the blanco, reposado and añejo tequila varieties.

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Hotel in Guadalajara

➢ Day 4 - 5

Guadalajara to Guanajuato

1 night
drive from Guadalajara to Guanajuato (270 km, 3 hours)

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• The cityscape of the legendary silver city of Guanajuato, located in a mountain valley, is characterized by brightly colored houses, narrow, winding streets and hilly up and downs.Jardín de la Unión, a square lined with Chinese figs with cafes and restaurants, is the most important meeting point this university town.

Activities

Insights into Guanajuato

Spend a day in the hilly city of Guanajuato learning the history of silver mining over a glass of pulque. Stroll the narrow cobblestone streets flanked by colorful buildings. Explore the historic center with colonial charm and neoclassical architecture. Travel through a network of underground tunnels, many of which run through the city's arid riverbeds. Bring old, romantic traditions back to life with your partner in the street of the kisses. Visit Alhóndiga de Granaditas, a granary converted into a museum that documents the history of the region. Pass the central courtyard with Tuscan-style columns and immerse yourself in José Chavez Morado's dramatic murals, which show the history of Guanajuato. Then marvel at the extravagant, oriental interiors of the Teatro Juarez. With their precious metal decorations and multi-faceted shaped and colored glass, they represent a breathtaking example of eclecticism. Then visit the striking Hidalgo market, a large metal complex with a central bell tower, in which Mexican food and various local products are offered.

➢ Day 5 - 7

Guanajuato to San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende
• 2 nights
drive from Guanajuato to San Miguel de Allende (80 km, 1.5 hours)

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San Miguel de Allende is a picturesque mountain village in the central highlands of Mexico. Feel the cosmopolitan flair and the up-and-coming art scene with its countless galleries, studios, street artists and, last but not least, the incredible culinary variety.

activities

Romantic winery tour

Discover the secret of the delicious wines from the Bajío region on this interesting winery tour. After breakfast at your hotel, you and your English-speaking guide will drive to the De Cote winery on the outskirts of San Miguel. You have the option of strolling the extensive property on foot, crossing it by bike or exploring the extraordinary surroundings in a train carriage. Stroll past Fermertier tanks and learn about cava, a Spanish sparkling wine. Enjoy a glass of white or rose-colored cava, served by the winery's in-house sommelier. Explore every nook and cranny of the beautiful complex by bike, then head to the wine cellar and tank room. Learn all about wine making and aging from an expert sommelier before tasting delicious red and white wines for your own picture. If you choose to take the train ride, the sommelier on board the carriage will teach you about the art and science of winemaking. Then take the train wagon to visit the wine cellar and tank room to taste the wonderful red and white wines of the De Cote winery. (Full day activity; Time of day: morning; Duration: 7 hours, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Private activity and private transfer; Wine tasting included.

Morning walk through San Miguel de Allende

Discover the links between European and Latin American heritage on this tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Miguel de Allende. San Miguel de Allende was founded as a fortress city by Spanish colonists in the 16th century and has been expanded to include countless magnificent colonial buildings over the centuries. Stroll through the picturesque, central El Jardín square, decorated with cobblestone pavement and surrounded by churches in Baroque and Neoclassical styles. Visit the popular landmark Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel with its signature pink-shaded towers. The city is also the birthplace of Ignacio Allende, the Mexican independence fighter. The house where he was born has been converted into the Museo Histórico de San Miguel de Allende and attracts visitors from all over Mexico.

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Hotel San Miguel de Allende

➢ Day 7 - 10

San Miguel de Allende to Mexico City

Mexico City
3 nights
drive from San Miguel de Allende to Mexico City (320 km, 4.5 hours)

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Mexico City is a colorful capital full of life and character. In this huge metropolis there are fascinating museums lined up with magnificent church buildings, and amusement parks also seem to go hand in hand with the most venerable academies in the country.

activities

Gastronomic journey through Colonia Roma

Roam the vibrant Colonia Roma neighborhood in search of exotic specialties to offer your palate a whole new experience. This traditional neighborhood is now the hub of the city's hipster subculture. Accompany your local expert through the tranquil streets of this historic district, home to modern restaurants. Stroll past the lovely squares and graceful fountains as your guide takes you to seven different restaurants to sample the best of Mexican cuisine. Visit quaint specialty shops and exotic restaurants as you gain unexpected glimpses of the region's rich culinary past. Hear interesting anecdotes from your guide about the impressive villas and their famous residents. (Half-day group activity; physical strain: light. Please wear comfortable shoes as this activity involves a lot of walking.)

Discovery tour through the fascinating Tlatelolco district, the world heritage site Teotihuacan and the Basilica of Guadalupe

Together with a local expert, set out from your hotel in the morning to see the landmarks of the Tlatelolco district. Start your excursion at Plaza de las Tres Culturas, the Square of the Three Cultures, where the remains of the Aztec temples can be found. Admire the ancient ruins, next to which the Catholic Church of Santiago de Tlatelolco and a modern residential complex rise harmoniously. Continue to Guadalupe Basilica to explore the old and new walls, and catch a glimpse of the original image of the Virgin of Guadalupe in the new church. In the afternoon, continue to the sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site of Teotihuacan on the outskirts. Stroll through this spectacular archaeological site and see the impressive Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, the Quetzalpapalot Palace with its murals and the "Street of the Dead". Explore these ancient ruins to your heart's content before returning to your hotel. (All-day activity; physical strain: easy. Please bring sunscreen and make sure you wear light clothing and comfortable shoes.)

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➢ Day 10-11

Mexico City to Puebla

Puebla
1 night
drive from Mexico City to Puebla (150 km, 3 hours)

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• With its imposing cathedral, the enchanting central square and the world's largest pyramid, Puebla is an extremely elegant city full of history, culture and religion.

• Activities

Explore Puebla on foot
On this walking tour, explore charming Puebla, known as the 'City of Angels' for its baroque architecture. Begin your exploration in the colonial town square also known as the 'Zócalo', a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accompanied by your English-speaking guide, visit the Santo Domingo Church, an imposing structure right on the Zócalo. Admire the baroque 'Capilla del Rosario', covered with massive gold decorations, the rosary chapel in the church. The cathedral of Puebla dates from the colonial times and dominates the town square with its towering bell towers. Find jewelry made from traditional, hand-painted Talavera clay tiles on most of the city's buildings. Stroll to the Los Sapos arts district to learn more about Puebla's artistic heritage. Take a short break at El Parian market to experience a bit of local color and observe everyday life in this beautiful historic city. (Half-day activity; Time of day: Morning; Private activity and private transfer; Exercise: Easy; Note: Please wear light clothing and comfortable shoes, and bring a sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.)

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Hotels- Puebla

➢ Day 11-13

Puebla to Oaxaca

➢ Day 11-13

Oaxaca
1 night Oaxaca - city / 1 night Salina Cruz
drive from Puebla to Oaxaca (440 km, 4.5 hours)

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The city of Oaxaca has a unique taste as different cultures grow together, which increase their prosperity and make it one of the most creative and colorful cities in Mexico do. Oaxaca City, a place of tradition In the beautiful capital of Oaxaca, ethnic groups and cultures mix, bringing traditions, crafts and unique flavors of the world to life. This city was founded in the 16th century. Hence, its buildings are great examples of the New Spanish Baroque. Churches and chapels appear everywhere, most of them in the green quarry. The Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is perhaps the best example of its architecture.
In addition, Oaxaca is also currently a cosmopolitan city. It has Mexican haute cuisine restaurants, mezcalerías, and exquisite boutiques for popular art (including alebrijes, embroidery, and black clay). In addition, mysterious archaeological sites and the natural wonders of Hierve el Agua are discovered in its surroundings.

Hotel in Oaxaca

➢ Day 13-15

Oaxaca / Salina Cruz to San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal de las Casas
2 nights
• Transfer from Oaxaca / Salina Cruz to San Cristóbal de las Casas

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With its well-preserved architecture from the Spanish colonial era and the cobblestone streets, San Cristóbal de las Casas transports you back to a bygone era. Enjoy cool days and even cooler nights in this city so impressively located in the central highlands of Chiapas.

Activities

Walk through San Cristóbal de las Casas

On this walking tour, discover the charming highland town of San Cristóbal de las Casas with its ornate colonial architecture and colorful cityscape. Learn from your English-speaking guide why the Maya city, nestled in the lap of Mexico's Sierra Madre Mountains, is the cultural capital of Chiapas. Stroll the cobblestone streets flanked by pretty houses with red-tile roofs and wrought-iron balconies full of flower pots. Visit the great Cathedral of San Cristóbal with its golden yellow facade in Parque Central. It is dedicated to Saint Christopher, the patron saint of the city. We continue to an equally ornate example of Baroque architecture, the Santo Domingo Church with a former monastery. Browse the church's large craft market with colorful stalls and local Mayan artifacts before returning to your hotel.

Discovery tour through the Montebello Lakes National Park

Visit the scenic Montebello Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve. The park is home to 59 lakes in various colors and is located in the middle of a pine forest. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the network of hiking trails that criss-cross the entire park. Hop aboard a massive rowboat to explore secluded lagoons far from popular tourist areas. Make yourself comfortable and sit back while the boat glides smoothly through the peaceful waters and your guide shares interesting information about the region. Marvel at the striking colors of the lakes, the origin of which can be explained by various factors. This is how the type of lake bed is characterized the amount of sunlight reflected by the water or the surrounding vegetation are responsible for this splendor of colors. Observe how the water changes color from light blue to purple and from purple to emerald green and turquoise depending on the influence of the sun's rays. Not after a boat trip? Then just go hiking on one of the numerous nature trails in Montebello Lakes National Park. (All-day activity; physical strain: light. Duration of the boat trip: 2 hours; Please note that a rowing boat can carry a maximum of 5 people.) Not after a boat trip? Then just go hiking on one of the numerous nature trails in Montebello Lakes National Park. (All-day activity; physical strain: light. Duration of the boat trip: 2 hours; Please note that a rowing boat can carry a maximum of 5 people.) Not after a boat trip? Then just go hiking on one of the numerous nature trails in Montebello Lakes National Park. (All-day activity; physical strain: light. Duration of the boat trip: 2 hours; Please note that a rowing boat can carry a maximum of 5 people.)

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Hotel in San Cristobal

➢ Day 15 - 17

San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque

Palenque
2 nights
drive from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque (220 km, 5 hours)

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Palenque is a former Mayan metropolis known for its spectacular and well-preserved temples. The ancient ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by a lowland jungle of mahogany, cedar, and sludge apple trees, are a breathtaking sight.

Activities

Explore the ruins of Yaxchilan and Bonampak

Depart from your Palenque hotel at dawn and travel to the border town of Frontera Corozal on the Mexican-Guatemalan border. Board a 'Lancha' and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Usumacinta River. An hour later, go ashore at the Yaxchilan Dock, next to the remains of an ancient bridge. Make your way on foot to the ruins of an ancient Mayan city in the middle of the dense Lacandón jungle. During your hike, listen to the calls of the howler monkeys and keep an eye out for exotic birds. After you have gone through a labyrinth-like tunnel, you will reach the Großer Platz - a fascinating complex of stone structures and a ball playground. Marvel at the rock stelae, ornate roof ridges, and intricately carved reliefs as you explore the narrow staircases inside the temple. Further up on the mountain, see decorative sculptures and a sundial at the Central Acropolis, a monumental temple with fantastic views of the area. After a lunch break in Frontera Corozal, you will then make your way to the nearby ruins of Bonampak with their pyramid half overgrown by the jungle. Climb up to the three rooms of the 'Temple of Paintings' and be captivated by the well-preserved murals depicting battle scenes, festivals and rituals. In the late afternoon, make your way back to your hotel. (Private full-day activity & private transfers; Physical strain: Moderate; Note: boat transfers can be in a group. Bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. private transfers; Physical activity: moderate; Note: The boot transfer can take place in the group. Bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. private transfers; Physical activity: moderate; Note: The boot transfer can take place in the group. Bring mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

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Hotel in Palenquel

➢ Day 17-19

Campeche

Campeche
2 nights
drive from Palenque to Campeche including activities on the way (360 km, 5 hours)

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• Campeche is a quiet and colorful beach resort on the Gulf of Mexico. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is proud of its many ancient walls and fortresses that have survived entire centuries.

Activities

The ruins of Edzná on the way from Palenque to Campeche

After breakfast we go along the coast to Campeche. Along the way, visit the Laguna de Términos, a nature reserve with a tidal lagoon and views of the Gulf of Mexico. Hop on a boat in the small fishing village of Isla Aguada and explore this ecologically rich region. Ride through red, white, and black mangroves and keep an eye out for myriad exotic animals such as dolphins, turtles, manatees, and a variety of migratory birds. Take a break on a sandbar and enjoy the pristine nature of the coastal strip. Back on land, we continue to the archaeological site of Edzná, which is also known as the 'House of the Itzá' and has over 2,000 years of history. Explore the sprawling complex, which is known for its elaborate irrigation systems and its pyramids in different architectural styles of the Maya. Visit the main square with a playing field for ball sports. The square is surrounded by temples and the lush jungle. In the late afternoon you finally reach the port city of Campeche. (Half-Day Activity; Private Activity and Private Transfer; Exercise: Moderate; Note: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.)

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Hotel in Campeche

➢ Day 19-21

Campeche to Mérida

Mérida
2 nights
drive from Campeche to Mérida (190 km, 2.5 hours)

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Mérida, the capital of the Yucatán, is a fascinating melting pot of different cultures. The combination of narrow streets and impressive plazas conjure up images of a bygone era.

• Activities

Celestún: Flamingos up close

After breakfast you drive west from Mérida and get in the mood for a relaxing day in the beautiful natural landscape of the pretty little fishing village of Celestún. Explore the enchanting natural lagoon of Celestun, which lies along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Take a relaxing boat trip to the impressive Celestún Biosphere Reserve, which is home to the famous pink flamingo and other coastal birds such as storks, herons and pelicans. Watch flamingos when they can taste the shrimp, which, by the way, give the graceful birds their typical pink hue. Explore the lush mangrove forests and marvel at the dense plants in the crystal clear water. Before returning to your hotel, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

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Hotel in Merida

➢ Day 21 - 22

Campeche to Mérida

Chichén Itzá
1 night
• Drive from Mérida to Chichén Itzá including activities on the way (125 km, 1.5 hours)

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• Chichén Itzá, located on the Yucatán Peninsula, is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. These breathtaking ruins testify to the genius of the Mayan Toltecs and are enthroned over the surrounding jungle.

Activities

Day trip from Merida to the ruins of Chichen Itza and Izamal

Drive from your hotel in Merida to the ancient city of Chichén Itzá, one of the “seven new wonders of the world”. From the sixth to the twelfth centuries, today's archaeological area housed one of the largest Mayan cities. Marvel at the refined Mesoamerican architecture, visit the majestic El Castillo pyramid, the large ball game field, the La Iglesia temple and other temples. Continue to Hacienda Selva Maya, a restaurant on the site of an old cattle ranch in Valladolid. Stroll through the impressive colonial estate and stop at the massive freshwater cenote (water-filled, natural karst funnel) Saamal, which has an artificial waterfall. Descend a series of stairs and platforms for a magical swim in the cool, turquoise waters. Then indulge your palate with a delicious lunch with regional delicacies. After your meal, visit the enchanting colonial town of Izamal. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also known under the name "Yellow City". Izamal is one of the oldest cities on the Yucatán Peninsula and was founded in the fourth century by Itzamna, a Mayan religious leader. Later it was used as a religious base by the Spanish conquerors. Travel back in time and marvel at the colonial architecture, plazas and arcades, horse-drawn carriages, cobblestone streets and bright yellow buildings. Visit the archaeological site in the center of the city, the spectacular Franciscan Monastery of San Antonio de Padua and some of the pyramids set in the middle of houses. (Full day activity; Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a certified and English speaking tour guide, Entrance fees and lunch are included. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring swimwear, towels, a change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen and mosquito repellent.)

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➢ Day 22 - 25

Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox
3 nights
drive from Chichén Itzá to Cancun (210 km, 2.5 hours)
Private drive from Cancun to the quay, then ferry to Isla Holbox

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Enjoy the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Isla Holbox. Here you will find the best conditions for heavenly relaxation and fascinating tropical experiences. This beautiful, car-free island is a little off the beaten track in the Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve at the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Activities

Fishing and snorkeling at Cabo Catoche

Experience in Quintana Roo a fascinating tour to Cabo Catoche, the northernmost point of the Yucatán Peninsula, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico. Take a boat from Holbox Island to the cape and watch wild dolphins leap from the depths of the sea. Stop in a remote area and try to catch some fresh fish from the bottom of the sea. Your catch will later become a very special ingredient for the ceviche of the day. Fish to your heart's content before heading towards the shore for among soft corals andto snorkel schools of shimmering fish. Swim relaxed through the cool water and watch the harmless nurse sharks, octopus, lobsters, manta rays, sea turtles and starfish. Continue to a pristine beach and anchor for a delicious ceviche lunch. Laze on the white sand for a while before cruising back to the coast through picturesque mangroves. (Water, soft drinks, fresh ceviche, fishing lines and snorkeling gear included.)

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Welcome to Habibi Tour

Travel information about the tour

Included services

Mexico City to Cancun Grand Tour of Mexico Tour Duration: 25 days Price: $18,889.00 US Dollar per person Services included:

➥ 24 nights in a double room
➥ All meals as stated
➥ The following internal flights in economy class, unless otherwise stated:
o Oaxaca - San Cristobal de las Casas
➥ All activities as described in the itinerary including entrance fee:
o Guadalajara: Tequila Tasting
o Guanajuato: Insights into Guanajuato
o San Miguel de Allende: Romantic Winery Tour
o San Miguel de Allende: Morning stroll through San Miguel de Allende
o Mexico City: Colonia Roma Gastronomic Tour
o Mexico City: Discovery Tour of the Fascinating Tlatelolco District, the
World Heritage Site of Teotihuacan, and the Basilica of Guadalupe
o Puebla: Explore Puebla on Foot
o San Cristóbal de las Casas: walking tour of San Cristóbal de las Casas
o San Cristóbal de las Casas: Discovery Tour of the Montebello Lakes National Park
o Palenque: Explore the ruins of Yaxchilan and Bonampak
o Campeche: The ruins of Edzná on the way from Palenque to Campeche
o Mérida: Flamingos up close
o Chichén Itzá: Day trip from Mérida to the ruins of Chichén Itzá and Izamal
o Isla Holbox: fishing and snorkeling at Cabo Catoche
➥ All airport and hotel transfers as stated above
➥ A high quality air-conditioned vehicle with a private chauffeur during the activities described in the itinerary
➥ English speaking local tour guides for the mentioned activities
➥ Personal travel advisor (available 24 hours a day)
➥ Welcome package with all the important information and documents for your trip
➥ Bankruptcy insurance
➥ The tour price is based on the rates for hotels and other travel components during
the low season and may change depending on the availability of the hotels,
currency fluctuations and the number of travelers. Please contact us for the
prices for the high season and give us your exact travel dates.

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Individual travel

offer - in contrast to package tours - more freedom and flexibility. The term “individual travel” can stand for very different forms of travel:

• Self-organized travel, ie travel that is planned and carried out entirely on your own, in which you book all flights, accommodation and activities individually.
• Catalog trips that are carried out individually (ie not as group trips) but follow a predefined program that cannot be adapted.
• Modular trips that you can put together or expand from predefined components (travel modules).
Individual trips with Habibi World travel & Tour offer you the freedom and flexibility of travel when planning your trip. You decide for yourself what you want to see and experience and do not have to make any compromises.

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