Mexico City to Mayan Ruins - 15 Days

Mexico City to Mayan Ruins - 15 Days

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15 Days From

$5935

Mexico City to Mayan Ruins - 15 Days

15 Days Starting in Mexico City, Mexico and ending in Chichen Itza, Mexico

Visiting: Mexico City, Oaxaca, San Cristóbal de las Casas, San Juan Chamula, Palenque, Campeche, Merida, Mérida, Chichén Itzá, Chichen Itza

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Tour code:

2713/MCMR

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 20

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $5935

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 15-day journey from Mexico City to the iconic Mayan ruins, exploring the rich tapestry of Mexico's history and culture. Begin in the bustling capital with visits to the Museum of Anthropology and the ancient site of Teotihuacán. Discover the colonial charm of Oaxaca and the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán and Mitla. Experience the natural beauty of Sumidero Canyon and the vibrant indigenous culture in San Cristóbal. Delve into the mystical Palenque ruins and the colonial elegance of Campeche. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Uxmal and the lively streets of Mérida. Conclude your adventure at the awe-inspiring Chichén Itzá, with its majestic El Castillo pyramid. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and guided tours, all while traveling in a small group with an English-speaking tour leader. This unforgettable expedition offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Mexico City - Visit the Museum of Anthropology and Teotihuacán archaeological site

  • Oaxaca - Explore Monte Albán and Mitla

  • Palenque - Discover the scenic Mayan ruins

  • Enjoy a boat trip through Sumidero Canyon

  • San Cristóbal - Visit the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán

  • Uxmal - Explore the Pyramid of the Magician and Puuc-style stonework

  • Chichén Itzá - Experience the grandeur of El Castillo and the sacred Cenote Sagrado

Itinerary

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Day 1: Mexico City

Location: Mexico City

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Mexico City

Upon arrival at Mexico City Airport, you'll be met and transferred to our centrally located hotel in the city. Home to more than 20 million people, Mexico City was built on the site of Tenochititlan, the capital of Aztec Empire, standing 2,250m above sea level.

Day 2: Mexico City

Location: Mexico City

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Mexico City

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we visit the renowned Museum of Anthropology, globally acclaimed for its exceptional array of Aztec and other ancient artefacts. This museum provides an excellent introduction to the remarkable and occasionally grim artistic accomplishments of Mexico's early inhabitants. Then, we head out into the rural landscape to the monumental archaeological site of Teotihuacán. Dating back to the era of Christ, Teotihuacán once stood among the world's largest cities.

Day 3: Mexico City

Location: Mexico City

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Mexico City

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our day begins in Mexico City's immense central square, known as the zócalo. We kick off our exploration with a visit to the cathedral and a chance to admire Diego Rivera's powerful murals depicting key moments in Mexico's history.





In the afternoon there are optional excursions available, including a visit to the artistic neighbourhood of Coyoacán, situated on the outskirts of Mexico City. This vibrant area is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, charming plazas, former mansions, and intriguing museums. Our visit to the former studio of the iconic artist Frida Kahlo offers a touching insight into her life, creative works, and complex relationships with Diego Rivera and the Russian/Ukrainian radical Trotsky. Why not join a guided tour that takes us 10 kilometres south to the enchanting floating gardens of Xochimilco. These gardens have been a vital source of fruits and vegetables for the city since the time of the Aztecs.

Day 4: Oaxaca

Location: Oaxaca

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Oaxaca

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we leave the capital city and head southeast by road toward the southern highlands, to the charming city of Oaxaca. On our way, we make a stop in Puebla, known as the most Spanish-influenced city in Mexico. Here, we see a hundred of churches and countless colonial buildings, many adorned with exquisite hand-painted tiles.





In the afternoon we venture into the remote and rugged sierras, reaching the captivating city of Oaxaca. This region is still predominantly inhabited by Zapotec and Mixtec indigenous communities. Oaxaca itself boasts well-preserved colonial architecture, a rich artistic community, splendid museums, and a delightful climate that all add to its allure.

Day 5: Oaxaca

Location: Oaxaca

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Oaxaca

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we leave the city to explore the nearby archaeological site at Monte Albán, an important Zapotec ceremonial centre. Positioned strategically on a carefully levelled hill where three valleys converge, the site offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. We have ample time to see the intriguing carvings, burial chambers, and temples that tell the story of this ancient civilization.





Our journey then takes us to Mitla, a name that translates to 'place of the dead.' Here, we have the opportunity to delve into the pre-Columbian ruins of four grand palaces, adorned with remarkable mosaics and bas-reliefs, many of which have remarkably stood the test of time.

Day 6: Walking Tour Of Oaxaca

Location: Oaxaca

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Oaxaca

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we take a walking tour to explore in the historical charm of this town. Strolling along the tranquil cobbled streets offers a refreshing change of pace from the bustling capital. You'll also have some free time to explore at your own leisure. Feel free to relax in the zócalo while sipping on a margarita or perhaps if you're feeling adventurous try chapulin, the local delicacy of fried grasshoppers. Additionally, you can indulge in the town's other renowned cuisine, offering a diverse array of culinary delights to savour.

Day 7: San Cristobal

Location: San Cristóbal de las Casas

Accommodation Name: Hotel in San Cristobal

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we catch a flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez, with a brief stopover in Mexico City, before continuing our journey by road to the charming town of San Cristóbal de las Casas, which is about a 2-hour drive away. Along the way, we make a stop at the impressive Sumidero Canyon, a geological wonder where towering cliffs reach heights of over 900 meters. This canyon holds significant importance in the region and even appears on the coat of arms of the state of Chiapas. If time allows, we may embark on a boat trip through the vast gorge, giving us the chance to spot local wildlife as we navigate through the canyon.





Upon reaching San Cristóbal, we find ourselves amidst atmospheric streets, a bustling handicrafts market, bohemian cafés, and hilltop churches. The town offers a captivating blend of colonial, baroque, and neoclassical architecture, infused with indigenous culture and influences, creating a truly unique and vibrant atmosphere.











Day 8: Villages San Juan Chamula

Location: San Juan Chamula

Accommodation Name: Hotel in San Cristobal

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we take a short drive to reach San Juan Chamula, a quaint indigenous village boasting a remarkable adobe church. Stepping through its wooden doors feels like stepping into a completely different realm. Inside, local residents, donned in traditional blue tops, navigate through a labyrinth of candles and Coca Cola bottle lids that carpet the floor. They engage in enigmatic rituals within the thick fog of incense, accompanied by a constant murmuring, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.





If time permits, we may also have the opportunity to explore the neighbouring village of Zinacantán. Here, the local men sport vibrant red tasselled jackets, while the women wear distinctive blue shawls, showcasing the rich tapestry of indigenous culture in this region.

Day 9: Palenque

Location: Palenque

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Palenque

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, we take a journey north by bus, travelling through lush highland forests and picturesque coffee plantations. As we continue, the road descends, leading us on a winding path into the captivating Lácandon rainforest. With each passing mile, the air grows increasingly humid, and our route will include a delightful break for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools and waterfalls at Agua Azul and Misol Há.





Our day ends with our arrival in Palenque, scheduled for the evening. The entire journey, including stops, is expected to take approximately 5 hours, allowing us to fully appreciate the changing landscapes along the way.

Day 10: Guided Tour Of Palenque.

Location: Palenque

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Palenque

Meals Included: Breakfast

We kick off our day early to seize the opportunity to explore Palenque in the cool, tranquil morning hours, well before the crowds arrive. Perched on the foothills' edge and embraced by lush jungle foliage, Palenque is arguably one of the most scenic of the classical Mayan sites. The complex features a labyrinthine palace, and the impressive stepped Temple of the Inscriptions is a site to see. Deep within this temple lies a crypt housing the sarcophagus of Lord Pacal, the greatest ruler of Palenque.





This remarkable sarcophagus, discovered in 1952, dates back to AD 683. Unlike the usual Mayan practice of using pyramids as platforms for worshiping gods, this pharaoh-style burial is exceptional. As we explore the ruins emerging from the steamy rainforest, you'll sense the thrill of discovering them as if for the very first time. Take a few moments to wander off on your own; it can be a profoundly mystical experience.











Day 11: Campeche

Location: Campeche

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Campeche

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our journey today takes us northward, traveling by land to the Gulf of Mexico, where we arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Campeche (approximately 5 hours). The city takes great pride in its heritage and has undertaken extensive efforts to restore and reconstruct its colonial core. Among the city's streets, we encounter numerous Spanish-built mansions, and some sections of the original city walls still stand proudly. A picturesque boulevard graces the waterfront along the Gulf of Mexico, providing breathtaking vistas of the sunset as clouds drift in from the sea. Campeche's dedication to preserving its historical charm and its scenic coastal views make it a remarkable destination to explore.

Day 12: Merida

Location: Merida

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Merida

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we head northeast of Campeche, where we encounter the remarkable archaeological site of Uxmal. Dominating the landscape is the awe-inspiring Pyramid of the Magician, standing tall alongside an elegant nunnery quadrangle adorned with intricate Puuc-style stonework. As we stroll through the ancient ruins, enveloped by lush vegetation providing a welcome respite from the relentless sun, it truly becomes a magical experience.





From Uxmal, it's a mere 80km drive to reach the capital of the Yucatán state, Mérida. Today, Mérida maintains its enchanting colonial centre, a blend of grandeur and weathered architecture, but it also thrives as a modern and bustling city. Here, we encounter a vibrant local culture, an array of excellent dining options, and bustling shops and markets. The city's inhabitants, descendants of both Mayans and colonists, have a penchant for festivities, and it's quite likely that we may stumble upon one in full swing, complete with live music and bustling market stalls, during our visit.

Day 13: Explore Mérida Or Visit The Gulf Coast

Location: Mérida

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Merida

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is spent at leisure to explore the vibrant cobblestone streets of colonial Mérida or you can join an optional tour to Celestún. This town is nestled in the heart of a wildlife sanctuary and it's rich in both resident and migratory waterfowl, with flamingos taking the spotlight as the main attraction. Combine birdwatching with a casual walk along the extensive white-sand beach that extends northward for several kilometres.

Day 14: Merida

Location: Chichén Itzá

Accommodation Name: Hotel near Chichen Itza

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we journey from Mérida takes us on a 1.5-hour drive to Chichén Itzá, the most magnificent among all Mayan sites. It is dominated by the colossal, symmetrical, stepped pyramid known as El Castillo. The origin of this site remains in mystery, bearing both Toltec and Mayan influences. Within its expanse, we find the largest and remarkably well-preserved ball court in the Americas—a venue for an ancient ritual game that was played across the continent, although its precise rules and outcomes remain elusive.





Chichén Itzá boasts a massive sacred well, the Cenote Sagrado, used for ritual purposes, with offerings such as jade, gold, and even human remains retrieved from its depths. Our accommodations are conveniently located just a short stroll from the archaeological site, and in the evening, you have the option to return to the ruins for the mesmerizing Sound and Light Show.

Day 15: Chichen Itza

Location: Chichen Itza

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we end our incredible journey after breakfast. There's an included transfer to the airport at Cancun.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    3-4 star hotels

  • 14 nights 3-4 star hotels

    Accommodation for 14 nights in 3-4 star hotels is included.

  • Breakfast daily

    Daily breakfast is included throughout the tour.

  • Mexico City arrival transfer on day 1 and Cancun departure transfer on day 15

    Transfers from Mexico City airport on day 1 and to Cancun airport on day 15 are included.

  • Mexico City tour including the Museum of Anthropology and excursion to Teotihuacan archaeological site

    A guided tour of Mexico City, including the Museum of Anthropology and an excursion to Teotihuacan archaeological site, is included.

  • Oaxaca walking city tour and excursion to Monte Alban and Mitla

    A walking city tour of Oaxaca and excursions to Monte Alban and Mitla are included.

  • Sumidero Canyon boat trip

    A boat trip to explore Sumidero Canyon is included.

  • San Cristobal excursion to San Juan Chamula and Zincantan

    An excursion to San Juan Chamula and Zincantan from San Cristobal is included.

  • Palenque Mayan ruins excursion

    An excursion to the Palenque Mayan ruins is included.

  • Merida excursion to Uxmal ruins

    An excursion to the Uxmal ruins from Merida is included.

  • Chichen Itza guided tour of the Mayan ruins

    A guided tour of the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza is included.

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What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included.

  • Departure taxes or border taxes

    Departure taxes or border taxes are not included.

  • Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

    Tipping is not included and is considered a personal gesture.

Age Policy

Minimum age 12. If booking a family please contact GH to check room requirements.There is no maximum age. Those 70 or over will be required to fill out a tour suitability tour.  

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with private air-conditioned vehicles ensuring a comfortable journey throughout Mexico. Enjoy included arrival and departure transfers, as well as a domestic flight from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutierrez, making your travel seamless and stress-free.

Accommodation

Enjoy 14 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's adventures. Experience the charm of Mexico's diverse regions with accommodations that offer both comfort and convenience.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 14 nights in 3-4 star hotels.

  • Is breakfast included in the tour package?

    Yes, breakfast is provided daily during the tour.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes an arrival transfer from Mexico City airport on day 1 and a departure transfer to Cancun airport on day 15.

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking tour leader.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided in private air-conditioned vehicles.

  • Is there a flight included in the itinerary?

    Yes, there is a flight from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutierrez via Mexico City included in the tour.

  • Are there any special events included in the tour?

    The October departure will include excursions around the Day of the Dead celebrations.

  • What is the minimum age requirement for this tour?

    The minimum age for this tour is 12 years old.

  • Is there an age limit for participants on this tour?

    There is no maximum age limit, but those 70 or over will be required to fill out a tour suitability form.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Wednesday

Dec 18, 2024 - Jan 01, 2025
$6365

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Jan 15, 2025 - Jan 29, 2025
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Mar 19, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
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Jul 30, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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