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Itinerary: Mexico’s Colourful Traditions

Abercrombie & Kent | Mexico Tour

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Uncover one of North America’s most beguiling countries on this 14-day journey where you will be swept up in Mexico’s colourful traditions. Visit extraordinary pre-Columbian temples and pyramids swathed in jungle vines, and ornate colonial churches and convents.  Venture to local workshops and galleries and witness unique artistic innovation, vibrant handicrafts and age-old customs up-close in this uplifting and dynamic tour.

Day 1

Mexico City

Welcome to the Mexican capital and your hotel which is located next to the historic centre. After settling in, meet your Resident Tour Director for a journey briefing followed by a welcome dinner.

Day 2

Mexico City

Dive into the buzzing metropolis this morning with a look at the historic area around the Zócalo, including the Palacio Nacional which houses the offices of the President of Mexico, the Federal Treasury, and the National Archives. Learn about Mexico´s cacao and its legacy while savouring some truly delicious artisan chocolate. Later, uncover some of the fascinating exhibits at the remarkable National Museum of Anthropology and History.

Day 3

Mexico City

Journey north to Basilica Guadalupe, the most sacred sanctuary in Mexico, and on to Teotihuacan to explore this stunning pre-Aztec complex, and UNESCO World Heritage site, by foot. Climb the famous Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, the world’s third and fourth largest pyramidal structures, while your guide shares expert insight. Lunch is an opportunity to taste some delicious pre-Hispanic dishes as you gaze over the Pyramid of the Sun. Then return to Mexico City where early this evening, watch a raucous lucha libre spectacle.

Day 4

Mexico City – Puebla

Today you will have a captivating morning focusing on Mexico’s beloved artists and partners – Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, Casa Azul, where the celebrated magical realist artist was born, grew up and later lived with muralist husband Diego Rivera. Lunch is at a funky local eatery before heading to Puebla, the City of Angels. Tonight, dine on traditional and authentic Poblano cuisine.

Day 5

Puebla

Explore Mexico’s fourth largest city, and one of its oldest, on foot this morning. Known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, admire the Patio de los Azulejos and the former Convent of Santa Rosa, now the Museum of Folk Art, which boast classic examples of the fabulous glazed talavera tile work. Later, venture into the Museo Amparo which houses one of the finest collections of Mexican art in Latin America, and a rooftop terrace for enchanting city views.

Day 6

Puebla – Oaxaca

You’ll have a trip back in time today when you visit Cholula and the ruins of its famous pyramid on top of which a church was built in the 16th century. On a clear day, there are expansive views of the Popocatepetl Volcano. Continue to Oaxaca, another of Mexico’s UNESCO World Heritage cities, and one of its most cultural. You’ll be captivated by the beautiful colonial architecture, the shady tree-lined streets and plazas, its show-stopping cuisine and creative vibe. Retire to your boutique hotel before heading out to dine on contemporary Mexican cuisine.

Heading just a few kilometres west, explore Monte Alban and the ruins of its Zapotec city replete with the remains of pyramids, temples and plazas, and then the small village of Teotitlán del Valle known for its colourful, handwoven rugs. Recharge at a local mezcal distillery and savour a glass (or two). You will have a treat in store tonight when you dine at Casa Oaxaca which is listed among the Pellegrino Top 50 Restaurants of Latin America.

Today after breakfast, you will join a local chef on a tour of the market to handpick the finest ingredients for a Oaxacan cooking class.

You will board a flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez, then head to Sumidero Canyon and take a boat trip through this impressive natural wonder. Arrive into San Cristóbal de las Casas where your boutique hotel awaits.

Visit a rural Maya township this morning and be invited into a local home to learn the secrets of making tortillas by hand and taste the traditional elixir of the Chiapas region – pox – used by the local families in ceremonial rituals. You will then have time to explore the colonial streets and alleyways of San Cristóbal with its bohemian vibe, artisan workshops and ornate churches.

Travelling north towards Palenque, where you’ll stop en route at the famous Agua Azul Falls marvelling at the bright turquoise waters and rainforest surrounds. Your village style resort is located just outside of Palenque town in glorious grounds with bright traditional décor. The resort also includes a full service spa and a traditional Maya steam room.

Awake to a chorus of howler monkeys and parrots setting the scene for our exploration of UNESCO World Heritage listed Palenque, which is just minutes away from the resort. Jungle-clad and mystical, this Maya site is the largest and most famous of all and we’ll spend time wandering around the extraordinarily well preserved ruins which date from 226 BC to 799 AD.

Spend time at leisure before transferring to Villahermosa Airport for your return to Mexico City, and upon arrival transfer to your luxury accommodation. Then, gather tonight for a final farewell dinner at Hacienda de los Morales. Part of the property was originally used to sow the first mulberry trees for the breeding of silkworns in the 16th century (B,D).

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

  • Breakfast

Mexico's Colourful City Tour

Travel Dates 2018

  • Apr 25, 2019 – May 8, 2019
  • Nov 14, 2019 – Nov 27, 2019

Prices

  • AU$11,595 per person

For more information and to enquire about this tour visit: www.abercrombiekent.com.au

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