You're flying to Mexico City. Even on the approach to landing, you can already sense the scale and fascination of Mexico's capital. Your tour guide will greet you at the airport and accompany you to your hotel. Three nights in Mexico City. (Distance: approx. 15 km; Travel time: approx. 30 min)

The country's capital awaits you! Experience the city's multifaceted past on a walking tour, from its pre-Columbian origins and the splendor of the colonial era to its bold modernity. You'll explore Mexico City on foot. Your tour begins in the heart of the Historic Center at Plaza de la Constitución. From there, you'll continue to the imposing Presidential Palace and the Cathedral, a symbol of the city. Around midday, you'll have the opportunity to sample authentic street food during a stroll through the trendy Roma neighborhood. Look forward to a variety of local specialties and discover the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine in a truly unique way. Afterwards, you can visit the National Museum of Anthropology (optional, bookable on site, USD 16 per person) before returning to your accommodation in the late afternoon. There you can relax and recharge for the exciting days ahead. (B/L)

Your day begins with a visit to the archaeological site of Teotihuacan (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which was not only once the largest city in Mesoamerica but also one of the most important prehistoric cultural sites in the Mexican highlands. Only when you see the countless pyramids and palace ruins will you truly grasp the scale of this important complex. The main axis of the site, the so-called "Avenue of the Dead," is lined with countless stepped temples, the most impressive of which are undoubtedly the more than 2,000-year-old Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. Before returning to Mexico City, you have lunchtime free to relax or grab a bite to eat at a nearby bistro. Back in the capital, you'll visit the impressive Basilica of Guadalupe, one of Mexico's most important religious landmarks. It is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, the country's patron saint. Its modern, circular architecture is particularly striking, designed to give worshippers an unobstructed view of the famous image of the Virgin from almost every vantage point. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Stroll through the streets of Mexico City or sample the delicious street food once more. Your tour guide can recommend further highlights and worthwhile excursions and will be happy to assist you with the arrangements. (F) (Distance: approx. 100 km; Travel time: approx. 2 hours)

You leave the vibrant bustle of the capital behind and travel through rural Mexico, crossing a 3,000-meter mountain pass towards Puebla. Upon arrival in Puebla, you'll be captivated by the city's charm, particularly the colorful Talavera tiles. In the late afternoon, you'll reach the colorful colonial city of Oaxaca (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), where you'll spend the next two nights. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 460 km; travel time: approx. 6.5 hours)

This morning, you'll take a city tour of Oaxaca, discovering colorful colonial buildings, vibrant squares, and traditional markets brimming with regional specialties and handicrafts. The city's historic center is particularly impressive, especially with visits to the cathedral and the magnificent Santo Domingo Church. Afterward, you'll visit the lively Benito Juárez Market, where regional delicacies, handicrafts, and the authentic everyday life of Oaxaca converge. The highlight of the day, however, is undoubtedly the subsequent street food tour, where you'll sample typical Mexican snacks and various regional dishes. Immerse yourself in the diverse flavors of Mexico and discover the country's culinary variety in a truly authentic way, from hearty to spicy, and always freshly prepared. Buen provecho – Enjoy your meal! For those who want to delve even deeper into Mexican culinary culture, there's the option to participate in a traditional mezcal tasting immediately afterward (optional, bookable on-site, $18 per person). Experience one of Mexico's most characteristic drinks in an authentic atmosphere in the heart of Oaxaca and discover its diverse aromas and regional specialties. Alternatively, you can return to your hotel and spend the rest of the evening as you wish. (F/S)

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site awaits you! The most important site of the Zapotec culture and former Zapotec capital is located on a high plateau 400 meters above the valley floor. A circle of terraces, temples, and tombs crowns the "White Mountain," hinting at the importance of the Zapotecs in Mexico until 900 AD. Wander through the ruins and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views. Your journey continues through a diverse landscape of cactus forests and agave plantations. Afterwards, the journey continues through a diverse landscape of cactus forests and agave fields towards Tehuantepec. En route, you will visit a palenque, a traditional mezcal distillery. There, you will gain insights into the entire mezcal production process, from the maguey plantations and the processing of the agave hearts to the distillation. You can also sample a small amount of mezcal on site and, if you like it, purchase a bottle to take home (please bring cash). After that, you continue your journey and reach your destination for the day, Tehuantepec, where you arrive at your hotel and can relax for the rest of the day. You will spend one night here. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 250 km; travel time: approx. 6 hours)

Today you'll take a boat trip on the Río Grijalva through the impressive Sumidero Canyon, whose sheer rock walls rise up to 1,000 meters high. During the trip, you'll glide past spectacular waterfalls, striking rock formations, and densely vegetated riverbanks that characterize this breathtaking natural landscape. With a bit of luck, you might also spot native wildlife such as crocodiles basking on the riverbank, as well as various bird species in the treetops along the shore. Afterwards, you'll continue on to San Cristóbal. Once there, you'll have plenty of time to settle in and check in. Enjoy the city's atmosphere, explore on your own, or take advantage of your hotel's amenities. 2 nights in San Cristóbal (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 360 km; travel time: approx. 6.5 hours)

After a short drive, you'll reach the two indigenous mountain villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan, whose inhabitants belong to the independent and proud Tzotzil Maya. Stroll through these traditional villages and experience the daily life and traditions of the local community firsthand. The church in San Juan Chamula is particularly impressive. Bathed in candlelight and shrouded in a misty atmosphere, worshippers kneel on the floor instead of sitting on pews. Don't be surprised to see live chickens being sacrificed in the middle of the church. What seems quite strange here is one of the traditional healing rites of the Tzotzil. There are few places where the Mayan way of life can be so clearly observed today. (F) (Distance: approx. 30 km; Travel time: approx. 45 min)

Today you're traveling to Palenque, and the journey takes you through the diverse and lush green landscape of the state of Chiapas. The route leads you through dense vegetation, rolling hills, and offers breathtaking views of the region's tropical nature. Your first stop awaits you at the Misol-Ha waterfall, which plunges approximately 35 meters into a natural pool surrounded by dense jungle vegetation. Here you'll have time to soak up the special atmosphere of this hidden natural spot and experience the power of the cascading water up close. The path then leads you to the Agua Azul waterfalls. The name Agua Azul means "blue water." The waterfalls consist of over 500 individual cascades, ranging in height from two to 30 meters. The high mineral content of the water gives the waterfalls an intense luminosity, and the color changes from pool to pool, from an azure blue to a dark emerald green. Then you'll travel to your destination for the day, Palenque, which you'll reach in the evening. Overnight in Palenque. (F) (Distance: approx. 230 km; Travel time: approx. 7.5 hours)

In the morning, the majestic, well-preserved ruins of Palenque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rise before you. The eight-tiered "Palace" is a marvel of unique architecture, and it is from its tower that the Mayans are said to have observed the sun. Afterwards, the journey continues along the Yucatán Peninsula to Campeche. In the old town (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you can admire elaborately restored, colorful colonial buildings and villas from the time of the Spanish conquistadors. The afternoon is free for a short city tour. You will spend the night here. (B) (Distance traveled: approx. 360 km; travel time: approx. 6 hours)

You travel from Campeche towards Uxmal and visit one of the most important and impressive archaeological sites of the Mayan culture. The site captivates visitors with its well-preserved pyramids, palaces, and intricately decorated facades, providing a fascinating insight into the history and architecture of the Mayan civilization. Afterwards, you'll continue your journey to the Mayan community of Mun Ha, where you'll receive a warm welcome. There, you'll visit a natural cenote, hidden amidst the vegetation, whose clear, turquoise waters invite you to swim and relax. Following this, a traditional Mayan lunch, prepared by the local community, awaits you. You'll learn about typical ingredients and preparation methods of the regional cuisine and gain an authentic insight into the daily life and culture of the Maya. Then the journey continues to the white city of Mérida. Overnight stay there. (B/L) (Distance: approx. 235 km; Travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)

Breakfast will be served this morning at the popular "Tinoc" restaurant in the heart of Mérida. Just a short walk from the hotel, you'll find a charming and stylish café with excellent food. Choose a drink and a freshly prepared breakfast dish from a selection of hot and sweet options. Enjoy a relaxed and delicious start to your day in the vibrant center of Mérida. Next on the agenda is a visit to the white city of Mérida. There you will see, among other things, the most beautiful buildings such as the enormous cathedral, the bishop's palace, and the Palacio Municipal. The Casa de Monetjo, the residence of the city's founder with its ornately decorated portal, is also on the itinerary. Afterwards, a visit to the colorful market is a must. Next, we travel to Izamal, the city of three cultures. Here, a city tour will take you to the sprawling Franciscan monastery and the Mundo Maya Foundation's arts and crafts gallery. Afterwards, you'll climb the Firebird Pyramid. Enjoy breathtaking views over the city of Izamal and the surrounding lowlands. Afterwards, you will participate in a cacao ceremony and immerse yourself in a spiritual ritual originating in the Mayan tradition. Following a short meditation, you will learn more about the cultural and spiritual significance of cacao and its role as a sacred plant and important symbol of this ancient civilization. A musical circle with traditional songs and live music will then create space for reflection and shared experience. Of course, the ceremony will also include a tasting of a cacao drink prepared in the traditional way using regional ingredients. The ceremony invites you to find peace and establish a conscious connection with yourself and the surrounding nature. On your way to your destination for the day, Chichén Itzá, you'll enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Yokdzonot cenote. Overnight in Chichén Itzá. (B) (Distance: approx. 145 km; Travel time: approx. 2.5 hours)

Before your tour draws to a close, the highlight of any Mexico trip awaits: Chichén Itzá (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). An early start is worthwhile today to be among the first to discover the vast Mayan site and its most famous pyramid, "El Castillo," before the majority of tourists arrive. After the guided tour, you'll have time to explore the site on your own. Afterwards, you will travel to Yaxunah, where a traditional Mayan lunch awaits you. In a family-like setting, you will experience typical dishes of the regional cuisine, freshly prepared according to time-honored recipes and with local ingredients – an authentic glimpse into the everyday culinary culture of the Maya. Next, we'll travel to Valladolid, a colorful colonial city with a vibrant center and historic charm. On a city tour, you'll discover the most important squares, stroll through the colorful streets, and learn more about the city's history and present-day life. Your last stop on your Mexico trip is Puerto Morelos. Once there, the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Soak up the sun on the Caribbean Sea, stroll along the beach, and reflect on the past two weeks. At a farewell dinner, you'll meet up with your fellow travelers and tour guide to reminisce about your trip. What was your absolute highlight? What was the best meal? Which place surprised you the most? Enjoy sharing your experiences and watching the sunset over the Caribbean coast. Overnight in Puerto Morelos. (B/L/D) (Distance: approx. 210 km; Travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)

In Puerto Morelos, breakfast isn't served at the hotel today, but at the nearby restaurant "María Bonita," just a one-minute walk away, which offers traditional flavors for a perfect start to the day. You first choose a drink and then add a freshly prepared breakfast dish, such as classic chilaquiles or Mexican-style eggs. If your flight is very early in the morning and you don't have time for breakfast in the restaurant, a breakfast box to take away is available as an alternative. After breakfast, you will begin your journey home. From Cancún, you will fly back to Germany. (F)

You land back in Europe.