Mexico Grande
Mexico Grande
$4075
Mexico Grande
13 Days Starting in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and ending in Cancun, Mexico
Visiting: Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Merida, Cancun
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MEXG26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Beach Tours, Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Mexico Grande" tour, a vibrant journey through Mexico's most captivating destinations. Begin in the sun-kissed beaches of Puerto Vallarta, where relaxation meets adventure with options like surfing and zip-lining. Transition to Guadalajara, the birthplace of tequila and mariachi, before exploring the colonial charm of Guanajuato. Discover the bustling streets and rich history of Mexico City, with its Aztec temples and vibrant markets. Savor the culinary delights of Oaxaca, known as Mexico's gastronomical capital, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Merida. Marvel at the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza and cool off in a cenote before concluding your adventure in the lively resort city of Cancun. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical insights, and unforgettable experiences, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to discover the heart and soul of Mexico.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Puerto Vallarta
Location: Puerto Vallarta
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to one of the most popular beach towns in Mexico, also known as the 'Mexican Riviera'. Spa, pool, relax, repeat are all high on the agenda today – and that's before we top it all off with a beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene.
Day 2: Puerto Vallarta
Location: Puerto Vallarta
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you’re free to explore Puerto Vallarta however you like. You can surf, or zip line, take a day trip to remote beaches on a sailing trip. Then, in the evening, catch a Pirate show! Expect the unexpected in Puerto Vallarta.
Day 3: Puerto Vallarta To Guadalajara
Location: Guadalajara
Accommodation Name: Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bye bye beach hangs, but don't worry, this isn't your last taste of Mexican beach life - we'll see you soon, sea. Nothing screams ‘Mexico’ like tequila, so why not head to a genuine distillery where you can learn how this fiery spirit is made and taste some for yourself? Afterwards, take a stroll around the streets to get a feel for the old and new world architecture this place is known for – and then sample some seriously electric nightlife. It's time to learn about the city known as the 'Pearl of the West', Guadalajara, with its four main squares and glorious cathedral. Then you could go and find a spot to watch one of the city's famous live Mariachi bands do its thing.
Day 4: Guadalajara To Guanajuato
Location: Guanajuato
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gran Plaza Guanajuato (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We leave Guadalajara and hit the road. Here at the old colonial city of Guanajuato (now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage City), you’ll learn about the history of the famous silver mining town and how the economy has shaped much of its culture. Discover the famous 'Mummies', the lovers at the 'Alley of Kisses', and even the Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel himself.
Day 5: Guanajuato To Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Thanks to the bright facades of Guanajuato, your eyes should be wide open by now. Just in time too, because there is so much to see in Mexico City. Mexico City is the largest city in the country and impressively, the oldest capital in Central America. Known for its Aztec temple, its surprising altitude at 2200m, and mountainous landscape, this place is busy, bustling and oh-so-wonderful.
Day 6: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The theme 'getting out there' will take on a whole new meaning today. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are the focus for this leg of your journey in this bustling city. Get stuck into the local flavours by tasting some Mexican delicacies at a local market. Do some shopping in Coyoacan. Then, tonight, re-fuel with city eats, like enchiladas, tamales and tacos. Even head out and get a little loco, if the mood takes you...
Day 7: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation Name: Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s a busy one today, travellers. Archaeological city Teotihuacan, pyramids and Aztec temples are the focus for this leg of your journey. As you go, local guides will kindly impart their extensive knowledge on many interesting topics so you're in the know on anything and everything. And if you happen to be here at the right time, you might even get to experience Lucha Libre, Mexican wrestling!
Day 8: Mexico City To Oaxaca
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation Name: Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meeting your TM and fellow travellers this morning, you'll be setting off for Oaxaca (pronounced Wa-ha-ka)! Have you got it? Great - let's hit the road. Welcome to Oaxaca, with its bohemian bars, charming colonial buildings and ridiculously pretty churches. Commonly known as the gastronomical capital of Mexico, the food here is guaranteed to guac your world. The perfect drink to wash it all down? Mezcal, of course.
Day 9: Oaxaca
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation Name: Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, you're going to soak up some serious Oaxaca vibes with a guided city tour where you'll get to check out the local markets. The colourful city streets are going to be the perfect place for some Insta shots, and if you can be dragged away from the views for long enough, there's plenty of delicacies to try during your free night.
Day 10: Oaxaca To Merida
Location: Merida
Accommodation Name: Hotel Caribe (or similar)
Adios Oaxaca, Merida is calling our names! And we won't waste any time, hopping on an included flight to whiz us there without delay. Here in mellow Merida, you’ll explore Mexico’s quiet side. Wander down cobbled streets and grand plazas on a unique walking tour, with some free time to explore the bustling markets. Later you can feast yourself on Yucatan specialities and head off for a blissful slumber.
Day 11: Merida To Cancun
Location: Cancun
Accommodation Name: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pack up your swag of Mexican trinkets and say goodbye to the calm oasis of Merida and hello yet another incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed site: Chichen Itza. Next stop, the most famous ancient ruins in Mayan history. With our Local Guide leading the charge, we’ll learn all about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country, and the worlds that came before us. Afterwards, we’ll take a dip in a cenote – which is the best way to beat the Mexican heat. In stark contrast, next up is Mexico’s super resort – Cancun. With high energy vibes this stop is a no brainer when it comes to getting your fiesta on. One suggestion for tonight's dinner at the Mercado 28, a busy market serving true Mexican delights.
Day 12: Cancun
Location: Cancun
Accommodation Name: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cancun is a hub of fiery entertainment… known for way more than party vibes. Powdery beaches, endlessly swimmable waters and laid-back taco joints (basically all you need, no matter your mood.) Your Trip Manager knows this place like the back of their hand too, so you're guaranteed to be in the know on all the best spots to head for the evening.
Day 13: End Cancun
Location: Cancun
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning global roamers, we came, we saw, we conquered all... We'll fuel up on one last breakfast together, then it's time to wipe away the tears and do those final friend requests because today you're homeward bound with firm plans in full steam for a Contiki 2.0 reunion in Asia no-doubt.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels throughout the tour, including Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta, Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara, Hotel Gran Plaza Guanajuato, Hotel Royal Reforma, Hotel Oaxaca Real, Hotel Caribe, and Ocean View Arenas Cancun or similar.
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Meals
The tour includes 11 breakfasts and 4 dinners.
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Included Experiences
Experiences include a beachfront dinner in Puerto Vallarta, a visit to a tequila distillery, exploring Guadalajara, a guided city tour in Oaxaca, a walking tour in Merida, and a guided tour of Chichen Itza.
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Internal Flight
An included flight from Oaxaca to Merida is part of the tour.
What's Not Included
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Visa Requirements
Visa requirements for entering Mexico are not included and depend on the length and purpose of your visit and your country of origin.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum in Mexico City are not included and may require additional tickets.
Mode of Transport
Travel across Mexico with ease, starting from Puerto Vallarta and ending in Cancun. Enjoy an included flight from Oaxaca to Merida, ensuring a seamless journey through the vibrant cities and stunning landscapes of Mexico.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at a variety of accommodations including the Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta, Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara, Hotel Gran Plaza Guanajuato, Hotel Royal Reforma in Mexico City, Hotel Oaxaca Real, Hotel Caribe in Merida, and Ocean View Arenas Cancun, or similar options.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 11 Breakfast (B)
FAQs
- Lima: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
- Mexico City: Do I need a visa to enter Mexico? The visa requirements for entering Mexico will change depending on: - The length of your visit - The purpose of your visit - Your country of origin Visit https://www.contiki.com
esources/visas-guide to find the visa requirements for your specific situation. - Mexico City: What’s the best time to travel to Mexico? Mexico is marvellous all year round. But if you’re looking for the sweet spot - visit Mexico between November and March, since the weather is perfect for exploration. And that’s what we like!
- Mexico City: What is the local currency of Mexico? The local currency of Mexico is the Peso ($). ATMs are the easiest and most efficient way to acquire money in these destinations. Credit cards aren’t always accepted in stores and restaurants, so remember to get some cash with you.
- Mexico City: What should I pack? Any special items I should bring? Your Mexico packing list will change depending on the type of extra activities you want to do while you’re there, but it’ll most likely include: A sun hat, sunglasses and summer clothes Sunblock and aftersun Insect repellent A cameraComfy shoes and socks Swimwear
- Mexico City: How much spending money do I need for this trip? This will depend on your choice of accommodation, activities and how much shopping you plan to do. Here’s a rough guide to the costs of some travel essentials:Subway ticket: Mex$10 ($1)Standard meal: Mex$300 ($17)Coffee: Mex$50 ($3)Bottle of water: Mex$14 ($1)
- Mexico City: What is the local food like in Mexico? As good as you’re expecting, if not better! Street food is very common in Mexico, so you can expect a steady supply of meats and veggies, served with tortillas and plenty of grated cheese.
- Mexico City: Is tap water safe to drink in Mexico? Will water be provided? We recommend you don't drink tap water (even in hotels) because of the high mineral density. Don’t worry, though. We ain’t leaving you thirsty. Your Trip Manager will advise on where to fill your water bottle with safe drinking water.
- Mexico City: How hot can it get in Mexico? Mexico can get HOT. We’re talking up to 40°C (104°F) in the summer. So, use sun protection, wear breathable layers and of course, drink a LOT of water.
- Mexico City: Are there any Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) activities if I’m travelling during the festival? You bet! You’ll have the chance to make an altar of the dead in Oaxaca on our trips to Mexico. Think shopping at local markets for food and decorative items, and setting up the altar in your hotel. You know we’re not leaving without a good celebration!
Included Experience
- Puerto Vallarta: Grab your new buddies and a Paloma cocktail. It’s time to feast on Mexican food and watch the sunset over the sea.
- Tequila: Discover how Mexico’s famous liquor is made. And knock back a cheeky shot or two.
- Guadalajara: This work of architectural art was originally built as a place to care for disadvantaged people. Nowadays, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Guadalajara: Stroll around the official birthplace of tequila and mariachi music.
- Guanajuato: Narrow cobbled streets. Colourful colonial architecture. Manicured gardens. You’ll see why this place is labelled ‘most beautiful city in Mexico’.
- Mexico City: The candy-coloured buildings and antiquated streets make this one of Mexico’s most photogenic cities. And the perfect backdrop for an Insta shoot.
- Mexico City: Craving some authentic tacos, pambazo or barbacoa? It’s time to galvanise your tastebuds.
- Mexico City: Heads up culture vultures! Visit Coyoacan to walk in the footsteps of the famous artist. And check out the museum in her honour. Plus, you can go inside the museum at your own cost if you purchase a ticket in advance.
- Mexico City: Admire the ‘City of Gods’: one of the first great cities of the Western Hemisphere. Although no one really knows who built it.
- Oaxaca: Stroll the cobbled streets of one of Mexico’s most authentic cities. Sample the epic street food and revel in the laid-back pace.
- Oaxaca: Test your courage with a ‘straight up’ of this potent national drink.
- Oaxaca: Explore one of the earliest cities of MesoAmerica. Then hit up the market for some local keepsakes.
- Oaxaca: Swoop into the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan region. Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
- Merida: A photogenic fiesta of colour and culture. This is the perfect place to get a real taste of life in Yucatan.
- Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.
- Chichen Itza: It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!
- Cancun: Get the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are available in Puerto Vallarta during the tour?
In Puerto Vallarta, you have the freedom to explore as you like. You can surf, zip line, or take a day trip to remote beaches on a sailing trip. In the evening, you can catch a Pirate show.
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What can I expect to experience in Guadalajara?
In Guadalajara, you can visit a genuine tequila distillery to learn how tequila is made and taste some for yourself. You can also explore the city's old and new world architecture, enjoy the electric nightlife, and watch a live Mariachi band.
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What historical sites will we visit in Guanajuato?
In Guanajuato, you will learn about the history of the famous silver mining town, visit the 'Mummies', the 'Alley of Kisses', and the Hidalgo Market, which was designed by Gustave Eiffel.
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What cultural experiences are included in Mexico City?
In Mexico City, you will focus on the works of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, taste local Mexican delicacies at a market, and have the opportunity to explore archaeological sites like Teotihuacan with local guides.
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What unique experiences are offered in Oaxaca?
In Oaxaca, you will have a guided city tour to explore local markets and enjoy the vibrant city streets. Oaxaca is known as the gastronomical capital of Mexico, so you can expect to try some amazing food and mezcal.
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What will we do in Merida?
In Merida, you will explore the city's quiet side with a walking tour of cobbled streets and grand plazas. You will also have free time to explore bustling markets and enjoy Yucatan specialities.
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What is planned for the visit to Chichen Itza?
At Chichen Itza, you will take a guided tour to learn about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, and the connections of the ruins. You will also have the chance to swim in a cenote.
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What can I do in Cancun during the tour?
In Cancun, you can enjoy the powdery beaches, swimmable waters, and laid-back taco joints. Your Trip Manager will guide you to the best spots for evening entertainment.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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