Mexico Unplugged

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.5

20 Reviews

View Map

Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Discover the heart of Mexico's Aztec, Zapotec, Maya and Spanish cultures on this 15-day adventure. Start by experiencing the mix of influences that make up Mexico City, then head out to taste pasita in Puebla, visit the markets of Oaxaca and learn about the textile traditions of Teotitlan del Valle.

Highlights

Explore the stunning Maya temples of Palenque and stroll through Chichen Itza, with local experts at both sites explaining their storied history.
Visit the community of San Pedro Tlahuac, home to Nahuatl descendants, and enjoy a lunch made with produce picked fresh from a chinampa farm.
Wander market stalls, relax in public parks and sample the enticing Mexican eats of Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca.
Escape the Mexican heat in the highlands of San Cristobal de las Casas and explore surrounding villages where traditional customs and roots are thriving.
Share Yucatecan specialties with locals then finish off your journey in the beachside hub of Playa del Carmen.
Visit the community of San Pedro Tlahuac, home to Nahuatl descendants, and enjoy a lunch made with produce picked fresh from a chinampa farm.
Wander market stalls, relax in public parks and sample the enticing Mexican eats of Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca.
Escape the Mexican heat in the highlands of San Cristobal de las Casas and explore surrounding villages where traditional customs and roots are thriving.
Share Yucatecan specialties with locals then finish off your journey in the beachside hub of Playa del Carmen.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Public bus,Local bus,Taxi

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Mexico City, Mexico

Finishes

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Mexico City

Bienvenidos a Mexico City! This is one of the world's largest urban centres, a bustling metropolis with so many influences, offering a huge variety of museums, galleries and architectural delights, along with pumping nightlife and unparalleled street food. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, but if you arrive early, perhaps head to the Zocalo – the massive central square – and check out the Aztec ruins and colonial architecture nearby. There are also plenty of parks, plazas and gardens to relax in and adjust to the Mexican way of life.

Optional Activities:

Mexico City - Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) (entrance fee) (Closed Mondays) (95 MXN)
Mexico City - National Museum of Anthropology (entrance fee) (Closed Mondays) (100 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Mexico City

Wake up and get ready for a leader-led walk to orientate yourself to the city. Pass by the Metropolitan Cathedral, Zocalo, National Palace, Bellas Artes, Paseo de la Reforma and more. For lunch, join your local leader on a ‘taco crawl’ around town to taste Mexico City’s delicious street-food staple, tacos al pastor, among plenty other delicious treats. After, the rest of the day is free for you to explore as you wish. Tonight you could visit the famous Plaza Garibaldi or sip cocktails with your fellow travellers in one of the many trendy bars in the city, whatever takes your fancy.

Included Activities:

Mexico City - Leader-led Taco Crawl
Mexico City - Leader-led orientation walk
Mexico City - Gastromotiva (The Intrepid Foundation partner) visit (weekdays only)

Optional Activities:

Mexico City - Frida Kahlo Museum (entrance fee) (320 MXN)
Mexico City - Metropolitan Cathedral (entrance fee) - Free
Mexico City - Torre Latino 360° Lookout (entrance fee) (200 MXN)
Mexico City - Diego Rivera Murals in the Mural Museum (Entrance Fee) (50 MXN)
Mexico City - Teotihuacan Pyramids Urban Adventure (125 USD)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Puebla

Start the day with a visit to the community of San Pedro Tlahuac where a local family will share their way of life through traditions, food and farming practices. Enjoy a trajinera ride, learn about chinampa agriculture directly from the community, and sit down to a delicious local meal prepared with ingredients from the chinampas. This authentic cultural exchange offers a unique opportunity to connect with Nahuatl descendants who are proudly keeping their heritage alive. After, your group will head to Puebla, where your leader will take you out for an orientation walk before visiting La Pasita bar for an opportunity to taste pasita – a sweet liqueur made of raisins in one of Puebla’s most famous bars.

Included Activities:

Puebla - Leader-led orientation walk
Puebla - Visit to La Pasita Bar
Tlahuac - Community Visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Puebla

Puebla is a rapidly growing city featuring many well-maintained churches and buildings from the colonial period. Today is free for you to discover the city at your leisure. Though there are enough churches to visit a different one every day for a year, two of the best examples are Santa Domingo Church and the Rosary Chapel, located in town. Further afield lies the Great Pyramid of Cholula, containing over eight kilometres (five miles) of tunnels, with the enormous Popocatepetl Volcano serving as a backdrop. In town, Puebla also has plenty of markets where you can pick up some local handicrafts.

Optional Activities:

Puebla - Santo Domingo Church and Rosary Chapel (No entrance during mass) - Free
Puebla - San Pedro Art Museum (entrance fee) (50 MXN)
Puebla - Cholula archaeological site (Entrance fee) (100 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Oaxaca

Today we journey by local bus to Oaxaca. Oaxaca (pronounced ‘wuh-haa-ka’) is a beautiful, old colonial town full of graceful arcades and colourful markets. You'll find Zapotec and Mixtec influences around the city as ancestors have populated this region for thousands of years. Your leader will take you on an orientation walk through Oaxaca and to Mercado 20 de Noviembre – an iconic fresh food market. Here, you’ll be able to shop for fresh ingredients to put together your own meal. Grab some guacamole, salsa and some fresh tortillas on the way and then find a spot at one of the long tables where you can down for a classic Oaxacan lunch. Later, you’re free to walk the narrow, cobblestone streets, or maybe sit back in one of the squares, sipping mezcal and watching the world go by. The city is known for its arts scene, particularly its folk and fine art, but you'll also discover a grungier side to Oaxaca and some incredible examples of street art.

Included Activities:

Oaxaca - Leader-led walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Oaxaca

There's an opportunity today to visit the spectacular temples of Monte Alban just outside of Oaxaca. Monte Alban was inhabited for 1500 years by the Olmec, Zapotec and Mixtec peoples, and this World Heritage site is an outstanding example of a pre-Columbian ceremonial centre, with terraces, dams, canals and pyramids carved out of the mountain. Alternatively, why not have a go at plating up some delicious local fare during a cooking class, visit a traditional weaving arts town, and stop by a local mezcal distillery. In the evening, if you've any energy left, you could head out for dinner with your fellow travellers and enjoy the town's lively atmosphere.

Optional Activities:

Oaxaca - Monte Alban archaeological site (entrance fee) (100 MXN)
Oaxaca - Santo Domingo Cultural Centre (entrance fee) (100 MXN)
Oaxaca - Cooking class (1500 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Tehuantepec

Bid farewell to Oaxaca this morning, and board a private transfer to Tehuantepec. On your way out of town you’ll stop in at the Arbol del Tule, or the Tree of Tule, which holds the record for having the stoutest tree trunk in the world. Further along the road, visit the town of Teotitlan del Valle. Famous for its weaving and textile traditions, you can wander past artisans showing off their incredible handcrafted wares. You’ll also visit a mezcal distillery, getting to sample the smoky liquor to see if it’s to your taste! Later, arrive in Tehuantepec and settle in for the evening.

Included Activities:

Oaxaca - Tule Tree, Hierve el Agua visit, mescal distillery

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: San Cristobal de las Casas

Head back out on the road this morning to San Cristobal de las Casas. Once you arrive in the early afternoon Leave your luggage at the hotel and begin exploring this highland town, hidden in green Chiapas valley surrounded by pine trees. Your leader will take you on a tour around town and point out all the important places. The evening is then free – you might like to ask your leader for a dinner recommendation!

Included Activities:

San Cristobal de Las Casas - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:

San Cristobal de Las Casas - Amber Museum (entrance fee) (55 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: San Cristobal de las Casas

This morning you'll visit the village of San Juan Chamula, home to the fascinating Iglesia de San Juan. This church, with its pine-covered floor and air thick with incense, is often frequented by shamans who come to carry out cleansings using firewater and ancient prayer. Please note that there is a strict ban on cameras inside the church. Outside, the village is alive with colourful markets that sell local handicrafts. The rest of the day is free for your own adventure. You might like to get active and ask your leader to help organise an optional boating trip in the Sumidero Canyon, which is as old and impressive as the Grand Canyon (at your own expense).

Included Activities:

San Juan Chamula - Maya Church (entrance fee)

Optional Activities:

Sumidero Canyon - Boat Excursion (entrance and transport) (900 MXN)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Palenque

Say goodbye to San Cristobal de Las Casas as you head for Palenque. Once you arrive, the afternoon is free for you to relax or explore. Situated in a steamy jungle, Palenque is a central town close to the nearby Maya ruins of the same name, which you'll have a chance to check out tomorrow.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Palenque

This morning, you’ll head to the archaeological zone and take a guided walk among the ruins of Palenque. Sitting on a hilltop, the ruins date back to AD 600 and are some of the most impressive Maya relics in Mexico. There are many ruins that are still un-excavated and remain concealed in the forest. This afternoon, visit an ecological project in Chiapas – Misol-Ha waterfall. Learn how the interaction with nature is helping to preserve the area’s flora and fauna as you explore this jungle site with Chiapas pines reaching up to 30 metres (98 ft) tall. This is a great representation of eco-tourism.

Included Activities:

Palenque - Archaeological site (Guide, Transport & Entrance fee)
Misol-Ha - Waterfall Visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Merida

This morning, travel by private vehicle to the historic town of Merida, the capital of the Yucatan region. On route you’ll stop at Campeche, a harbour town that retains a few remnants of its colonial past. Take a leader-led walk through its fortified centre then sit down for an included lunch. Afterward, continue to Merida. Founded in 1542 on the site of Tho (an ancient Maya city), Merida retains much of its old-world charm thanks primarily to its people and architecture. Take an orientation walk with your leader on arrival, then enjoy free time to get settled in for the rest of the day.

Included Activities:

Merida - Leader-led orientation walk
Campeche - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Merida

Today you can choose to visit the Maya ruins of Uxmal, a 1-hour drive from Merida, on an optional tour which includes transport and a local guide. It's thought that the city was constructed around AD700, was home to around 25,000 people and once dominated the region along with Chichen Itza. Much of the site is decorated with masks of Chac, the rain god, and important buildings include the Pyramid of the Soothsayer, the Quadrangle of the Nuns, the Governor's Palace, the House of the Tortoises and the Ball Court. Alternatively, you could choose to take an optional guided tour to Las Coloradas – the incredible pink lagoon that’s home to flocks of flamingos.

Optional Activities:

Merida - Uxmal Ruins tour (inc. shared transport and guide) (2200 MXN)
Merida - Las Coloradas Flamingo Tour (inc. shared transport and guide) (1700 MXN)
Merida - Fernando Garcia Ponce-Macay Contemporary Art Museum (entrance fee) - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Chichen Itza / Playa del Carmen

Travel to Playa del Carmen by private vehicle, stopping en route for an included visit to the Maya ruins of Chichen Itza. Containing both Toltec and Maya ruins lying alongside each other, the site is dominated by the famous El Castillo pyramid there’s also a large ball court where games used to be held. Nearby, excavations of the Well of Sacrifice revealed treasures of jade, copper and gold as well as many human and animal bones. You’ll get to see all of this on a guided tour of the ruins, and then you’ll have the chance to hear about modern life during a lunch stop at the nearby community of Piste. Sample some Yucatecan specialties, chat with the locals, then continue on to Playa del Carmen. After a quick orientation walk around Playa del Carmen, pick a place to kick back with a margarita and watch the sun go down. You might like to get the group together for one last dinner before saying your farewells tomorrow!

Included Activities:

Playa del Carmen - Leader-led Orientation Walk
Chichen Itza - Archaeological site with local guide
Piste - Traditional Maya Family Lunch

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Playa del Carmen

There are no activities planned for the final day of this tour. If you have time in Playa del Carmen before moving on to your next destination, you may choose to embark on optional tour to Dos Ojos Cenote, and take a dip at the incredible turquoise freshwater swimming hole, or jump on a local ferry to explore the nearby island of Cozumel. If you wish to spend more time in Playa del Carmen, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Optional Activities:

Dos Ojos Cenote - Fresh Water Rock Pool (entrance fee with snorkelling gear & life jacket included) (650 MXN)
Playa del Carmen - Ferry to Cozumel (Round-trip Ticket) (600 MXN)

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $3,795

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 02 Jan 2027

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Jaya

Traveled, April 2024

04/26/2024

Mexico Unplugged was really a fantastic way to see Mexico. For a solo female traveller, it was amazing to explore different places and activities. Some highlights include seeing lucha libre wrestling and seeing the Palenque ruins

4.5

Sarah

Traveled, April 2024

04/23/2024

Absolutely loved our Mexico Unplugged experience with our incredible guide JJ. JJ made us feel well looked after from the very start while still being up for social events with the gang. The trip was absolutely amazing and cannot be put into words the scenery, beautiful kind people, delicious food and gorgeous cities you will encounter. Book it!!

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now