Highlights of Mexico

Enjoy included UK airport access before boarding your direct flight, landing in Mexico City later the same day. Arrive and transfer to your hotel for a three-night stay. Founded by the Aztecs, Mexico City is a mix of ancient ruins, colonial buildings and modern high-rises. A tour on day two takes in the Zocalo, the National Palace in Chapultepec Park and the Anthropological Museum, one of the finest on the continent.

Stay: Hotel Galeria Plaza, Mexico City

Today, travel beyond the capital to discover two of Mexico's most important religious and archaeological sites. First, visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Latin America. Continue to the ancient city of Teotihuacan, once among the largest urban centres in the world. Walk along the Avenue of the Dead and marvel at the imposing Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon as you uncover the mysteries surrounding this remarkable pre-Columbian civilisation.

Stay: Hotel Galeria Plaza, Mexico City

Fly south to Oaxaca, one of Mexico's most enchanting colonial cities, celebrated for its rich indigenous heritage, colourful architecture and outstanding cuisine. Surrounded by mountains and fertile valleys, Oaxaca blends centuries of history with vibrant contemporary culture, offering a wonderful introduction to one of the country's most fascinating regions.

During your stay, explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Monte Albán and Mitla. Once the capital of the Zapotec civilisation, Monte Albán occupies a spectacular mountaintop location overlooking the valley below, while Mitla is renowned for its intricate stone mosaics and unique decorative designs. Together, they provide fascinating insight into the civilisations that flourished here long before the arrival of the Spanish.

Stay: Hotel Parador San Miguel Oaxaca

Arrive in the beautiful highlands of Chiapas, travelling via Tuxtla Gutiérrez and the dramatic Sumidero Canyon. A cruise along the Grijalva River reveals soaring cliff faces, dense vegetation and abundant wildlife, offering a striking contrast to Mexico's archaeological treasures.

Nestled among pine-covered mountains, San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of Mexico's most attractive colonial towns. Explore its cobbled streets, bustling markets and colourful churches, before visiting the indigenous communities of Zinacantán and San Juan Chamula. These fascinating villages offer a unique glimpse into traditions and beliefs that blend ancient Maya customs with Catholic influences.

Stay: Hotel Casa Mexicana

Journey from the highlands into the tropical lowlands, stopping en route at the renowned La Venta Museum before arriving in Palenque. Surrounded by dense rainforest and rolling hills, this atmospheric Maya city is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. Its elegant temples, intricate carvings and jungle setting combine to create one of the country's most memorable historic landscapes.

Stay: Hotel Chan-Kah Resort Village

Begin the day with a guided exploration of Palenque's remarkable ruins, including the Temple of the Inscriptions, the final resting place of the great ruler King Pakal. Later, continue north along the Gulf Coast to Campeche, a UNESCO-listed colonial city famed for its elegant architecture, colourful facades and historic fortifications built to defend against pirate attacks.

Stay: Hotel Plaza Campeche

Explore the charming streets and historic landmarks of Campeche before continuing into the Yucatán Peninsula. Along the way, stop at the fascinating Maya site of Edzná, home to impressive ceremonial structures and grand pyramidal temples.

Later, arrive at Uxmal, widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Maya architecture. The site's graceful design, detailed stonework and peaceful setting offer a captivating introduction to the wonders still to come.

Stay: Hotel Hacienda Uxmal

Spend the day discovering the treasures of Uxmal and nearby Kabah. Admire the magnificent Pyramid of the Magician and the ornate Governor's Palace before continuing to Kabah's celebrated Palace of Masks, adorned with hundreds of intricately carved stone faces.

Your journey then continues to Mérida, the elegant capital of the Yucatán. Known as the White City, Mérida is famed for its colonial mansions, leafy plazas and rich cultural heritage, creating a charming blend of Spanish and Maya influences.

Stay: Hotel La Mision de Fray Diego

Today, visit one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world, Chichén Itzá. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this vast ancient city was once a major centre of Maya civilisation.

Accompanied by an expert guide, explore highlights including the Temple of Kukulcan, the Great Ball Court and the site's ancient observatories, while learning about the remarkable achievements of the Maya people. The opportunity to stay close to the ruins allows for a particularly memorable experience of this extraordinary site.

Stay: Hotel Villas Arqueologicas Chichen Itza

After a final breakfast, transfer to Cancún for your overnight flight home. As you leave Mexico behind, reflect on an unforgettable journey through ancient civilisations, vibrant colonial cities, dramatic natural landscapes and some of the country's most celebrated cultural treasures. Arrive back in the UK the following day.