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Adventure Tours   >  

Mexico: Cities, Cuisine & Ruins Adventure Tour

Central America

  • Mexico

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.


Group Size Notes  

Max 18, avg 14.


Local Flights  

All domestic flights within the tour are included in the cost. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.

BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE FOR DOMESTIC FLIGHTS WITHIN MEXICO:
Maximum one piece of luggage per person weighing a maximum of 25 kilograms (55 pounds), with maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 centimetres).


Accommodation  

Simple hotels/hostels (14 nts, most multi-share).


Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.


Group Leader Description  

All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.


Transport  

Public air-conditioned bus, taxi, private vehicle.


Joining Hotel  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.


Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.


What to Take  

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying and handling your own luggage.


Departure Tax  

Depending on the exchange rate departure tax is approximately $48 USD per person. This tax is sometimes included in the price of your ticket, contact your airline to confirm.


Health  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: El Hongo Mexican Community Restaurant & Youth Art Program, Playa del Carmen
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Taco Street Food Crawl, Mexico City
Your Foodie Moment: Mezcal Tasting, Oaxaca
Your Discover Moment: Oaxaca
Your Big Night Out Moment: Tulum. Teotihuacán ruins visit. Taco street food crawl. Oaxaca market visit. Hierve el Agua petrified waterfall day trip. Mezcal tasting. Orientation walk of Puebla and Oaxaca. Cenote visit. Las Coloradas visit. Tulum ruins visit. Beach time in Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Free time in Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Mérida, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. Internal flight. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


Meals Included  

14 breakfasts, 2 dinners


Important Notes  

1. COMBO TRIP
Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.

2. BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE FOR DOMESTIC FLIGHTS WITHIN MEXICO:
Maximum one piece of luggage per person weighing a maximum of 25 kilograms (55 pounds), with maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches (158 centimetres).


Highlights  

Trek up the pyramids of Teotihuacán, See how mezcal is distilled in its birthplace, Go swimming in an underground cenote, Shop for artisan goods from local makers, Marvel at the pink lake at Playa de las Coloradas, Hunt for tacos in Mexico City


Meals  

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.


Packing List  

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.


Minimum Age  

Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.


Laundry  

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.


Tipping  

It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Tipping of your G Adventures Chief Experience Officer is very much appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $5- 7 USD per person, per day is our recommendation in the region. However, if you felt your CEO did an especially outstanding job, any additional amount will always be welcome.


Money Exchange  

The currency in Mexico is the Peso (MXN).

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank.

You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

We do not recommend you bring travellers cheques, as it is very difficult to exchange them in Mexico.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 50USD (20USD notes are ideal).

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com


Optional Activities  

Mexico City
- National Museum of Anthropology (95MXN per person)
- Museum of Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) (267.50-297.50MXN per person)
- Lucha Libre Match (350-500MXN per person)
- Xochimilco Tour (25-50USD per person)

Puebla
- Puebla Food Tour
- Mole-Making Class (1200MXN per person)

Monte Albán
- Monte Albán Tour (700MXN per person)

Oaxaca
- Mole Cooking Class (1200MXN per person)

San Pablo Villa de Mitla
- Valley of Mitla Ruins Visit (700MXN per person)

Mérida
- Anthropology Museum Visit (55MXN per person)
- Uxmal Light and Sound Show (525MXN per person)

Playa del Carmen
- Tequila Tasting (850-1100MXN per person)


Max Pax  

18


About Accommodation  

Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Some nights we use multi-share accommodation, on a single-sex basis (typically 4-6 people per room). We have specifically chosen unique accommodations to give local flavour to your trip.

Couples: Please note that due to the variety of accommodation used in Central America, couples will be split into separate rooms when we use multi-share hostels. Pending availability, couples may be able to pay extra while on tour to have their own room in some destinations.


Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.


Solo Travellers  

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.


Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.


Joining Instructions  

If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.

Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time.

A G Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.


Travel Insurance  

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

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.

Arrive at any time. Check into the hotel and enjoy the city. Please try to arrive before 6pm for an important group meeting where you can meet the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and the other group members.

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.

Mérida is a fascinating and beautiful city and easy to explore on foot. Mérida is also the gateway to the Mayan ruins of the Puuc Route, the most famous of which is Uxmal, which rivals Chichén Itzá in its scale and extent of excavation.

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.

With it's breathtaking coastline, white sand beaches, and Mayan ruins, Tulum is guaranteed to impress! In the afternoon, visit the Tulum ruins and take in the picturesque tropical backdrop while exploring the site.

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.

Our final stop is Playa del Carmen, located on the beach just a 45-minute drive south of Cancún. The town is your last chance to enjoy some nightlife, buy last-minute souvenirs and relax and swim in the Caribbean Sea. There is also snorkelling and diving available, and long stretches of sandy beaches which are perfect for walking and relaxing after a hectic day.

Day 15 Playa del Carmen

Depart at any time.

Details

Duration: 15 Days

Merchandising: Planeterra Project

Trip Type: Small Group

Physical Grading: 2 - Light

Service Level: Basic

Travel Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings

Merchandising: Top Seller



Call Us: 01 2311889



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