- Mexico Escorted Tours
- Grand Tour of Mexico
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Grand Tour of Mexico
16 Day Escorted Tour
Mexico, North America
16 Meals Included
23 Excursions
Active Pace
Mayan and Aztec ruins sit within view of snow-capped volcanoes, tropical rainforests and dramatic mountain canyons. Approach the coast and pretty colonial towns give way to desert coastlines and breath-taking beaches.
Highlights
- Tour Mexico City, with a visit to the Museum of National Anthropology
- Marvel at the Pyramid complex of Teotihuacan
- Visit the colossal ancient site of Chichen Itza
- Travel along the Grijavla River through the Sumidero Canyon
- Witness the cascading Roberto Barrios waterfalls
- Cruise from the Terminos Lagoon of the Isla Aguada
Map Key
Train
Coach
Boat
Airplane
Walking
1
Itinerary
Day 1
UK to Mexico City
Depart on your scheduled flight to Mexico. On arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2
Mexico City
Breakfast & Dinner
After breakfast, admire the world’s largest collection of Mexican art, and be led along a journey through the country’s ancient history at the Museum of National Anthropology, before continuing to the idyllic lakes and sculpture garden of Chapultepec Park - a green oasis amidst the bustling capital. Above this impressive park looms Chapultepec Castle, which today houses the National Museum of History. Enjoy tonight’s welcome dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 3
Mexico City
Breakfast
Flanked by the twin volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, embark on a city tour of Mexico City and pass the Presidential Palace, Central Plaza and Cathedral, before making a visit to the Teotihuacan Pyramids, crowned by the 3rd largest Pyramid in the world – the Pyramid of the Sun. Later discover the Roman Catholic pilgrimage site where both an old and new national shrine majestically stand side by side; catch a glimpse of the symbolic cloak enshrined within the modern Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, before taking a leisurely stroll through the World Peace Rose Gardens at the rear of the Basilicas.
Day 4
Mexico City to Puebla
Breakfast
Today embark on a guided tour of the colonial city of Puebla, passing by some of the seventy churches located in its historic centre, including the Cathedral and the Plaza de la Constitucion as well as a visit to La Talavera und Biblioteca Palafoxiana.
Day 5
Puebla to Oaxaca
Breakfast
Travel to Oaxaca, which, situated 1500 metres above sea-level and surrounded by green hills and mountains, is one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial towns. On the way, discover the Jardin Botanico in Zapotitlan Salinas, an unspoiled landscape dotted with tall cacti, palms and elephant foot trees. On arrival into Oaxaca, enjoy a walking tour of one of the most beautiful colonial towns of Mexico. Stroll through the old, cobbled streets of Oaxaca, visiting the grand Church of Sant Domingo de Guzman and the ever bustling Zocalo, one of many colourful markets.
Day 6
Oaxaca
Breakfast
Today, visit the remarkable archaeological site of Monte Albán, once one of the most important centres of the Zapotec and Mixtec civilisations. Perched dramatically atop an artificially flattened hill, the site is surrounded by terraces, temples, tombs and ancient dwellings that were once home to the city’s population. At its height between 500 and 800 AD, Monte Albán is believed to have been home to around 50,000 residents, making it one of the most significant settlements in ancient Mesoamerica.
Enjoy an authentic experience by joining this hands-on workshop, where you’ll discover the journey of corn from its most natural form to a freshly made tortilla. Learn about nixtamalization with lime, the ancestral process that gives life to the dough, and take part in the kneading and shaping of the tortillas. Then, you’ll place them on the comal, enjoying the moment they puff up and release their distinctive aroma. To conclude the experience, you’ll taste your tortillas accompanied by a traditional tomato sauce, or simply with a pinch of salt — just as it’s done in local kitchens. An activity that connects you with the roots of authentic Mexico, through its flavours and traditions.
Day 7
Oaxaca to Tehuantepec
Breakfast
This morning, the beautiful 16th century Museo Cultural de Oaxaca, located in a former Dominican monastery. Continue to the tranquil community of Santa Maria del Tule, where next to the small church, you will visit one of the largest and oldest trees in the world, which according to the legand was planted by an Aztec priest of the god Ehécatl. Reaching a girth of about 58 metres and a heish of more than 40 metres during its lifetime. Walk around the gnarled trunk, and spot bizarre branching resembling animal figures, such as a lion, elephant and fish. Next, stop in the small village of Santiago Matatlán and visit of a mezcal distillery. The famous Mexican liquor from the flesh of agaves always contains more than 40% alcohol. A mezcal tasting isn’t complete, of course, without the famous worm (gusano del maguey) – which, strictly speaking, is a caterpillar. Travel onwards to Tehuantepec for your overnight stay.
Day 8
Tehuantepec to San Cristobal de las Casas
Breakfast
Following breakfast, travel to Chiapa de Corzo for a cruise through the magnificent Sumidero Canyon, where waterfalls plunge from the imposing canyon walls. The Sumidero National Park features tropical vegetation and exotic animals such as little alligators, toucans, pelicans, and herons. Continue onto to San Cristobal de las Casas for your overnight stay.
Day 9
San Cristobal de las Casas
Breakfast
Start your day walking through the historic centre of San Cristobal da las Casas to the Cathedral and the most beautiful building of San Cristobal, the church Iglesia del Convento Santo Domingo. Head to the Mayan Medicine Museum for a unique glimpse into Mayan spiritual healing rituals and herbal medicines which are still exchanged in indigenous villages today. End the day uncovering worship practices in Chamula’s local church. Following a visit to the colonial Church of San Lorenzo in neighbouring Zinacantan, prepare to be welcomed into the weaving mill of the three sisters to observe the process of this skilful art.
Day 10
San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque
Breakfast
After breakfast, travel towards the mystical town of Palenque. Concealed amidst a subtropical jungle, experience a cascade of turquoise water at the Roberto Barrios waterfalls and immerse yourself in the serenity of the natural spas.
Day 11
Palenque
Breakfast
Enveloped in an early morning mist, listen to an echoing chorus of tropical birds and uncover a treasure trove of architectural wonders at the mystical ruins of Palenque. Astonishingly dating from 226BC to 799AD, begin at the largest pyramid of the collection, admiring the hieroglyphic engravings on the Temple of Inscriptions’ richly adorned façade, before marvelling at a monumental staircase at the Grand Palace and exploring the 7th century Temple of the Sun. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Day 12
Palenque to Campeche
Breakfast
Travel to Isla Aguada and embark on a cruise from the fishing port of Terminos Lagoon, looking out for dolphins en route to the Isla de Pajaros. After gliding along the Estero Sabancuy, admire the towering twin steeples of the baroque Cathedral of La Conception during a guided tour of Campeche’s historic centre.
Day 13
Campeche to Merida
Breakfast & Dinner
After breakfast, start your journey to Merida, stopping at Uxmal on the way. Gaze-in-awe at the unravelled terraces, columns and archways at the bestpreserved archaeological collection in Puuc, before continuing to Merida. On arrival into Merida, enjoy a captivating tour of Yucatan’s cultural capital commencing at one of Latin America’s oldest Cathedrals, before catching a glimpse of the Palacio Municipal’s distinctive pink exterior and admiring the sculptured façade of the Casa de Montejo.
Please note the Casa de Montejo is closed on Mondays and can only be admired from the outside.
Day 14
Merida to Cancun
Breakfast
After two years of dedicated restoration work led by the women of Yokdzonot, the beautiful Cenote Yokdzonot reopened to visitors in 2007. This stunning natural cenote features crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic 18-metre-high limestone walls, many of which are draped with cascading mangrove roots, creating an almost magical atmosphere. Measuring over 100 metres in circumference, the cenote offers the perfect setting for a refreshing swim.
Later, experience a spectacle of architectural glory at Chichen Itza, declared one of the new seven wonders of the world. Spanning a staggering 6.5 kilometres, witness the impressive Mayan ruins including the ‘snail shell’ El Caracol observatory and most famously El Castillo. Dedicated to the feathered serpent God, this colossal 79-ft high pyramid welcomes its namesake during the spring and autumn equinoxes, where shadows create the illusion of a snake sliding down its megalithic steps. Continue to Cancun.
Day 15
Cancun to UK
Breakfast
Transfer for your overnight return flight back to the UK, or continue on to your chosen extension.
Day 16
Arrive in the UK
Your flight lands back in the UK today.
What's Included
Hand-picked Accommodation
16 Meals
23 Excursions
Expert Local Guides
All entrance fees
International Return Flights
Overseas Transfers and Transport (as per itinerary)
Hold Luggage for all flights
ABTA & ATOL Protection
Special Offers
Use discount code TOUR232 at the checkout to save £232 per person on selected tours departing in September 2026 and November 2026
Your tour of Mexico is just a phone call away
Call our Travel Specialists today on 1800 804 006
Opening Times
Mon - Fri: 9.00am - 8.00pm, Saturday: 9.00am - 7.30pm, Sunday: 9.00am - 7.30pm, Bank Holidays: 10.00am - 5.00pm
Your Next Adventure Awaits! We've been arranging award-winning, expertly crafted hoildays and tours since 1980. We're also ABTA protected and ATOL bonded for your total peace of mind. Call us today to book your next unforgettable holiday!
Accommodation
The hotels listed below are provided for guidance only and final confirmation of your accommodation will be sent to you approximately 21 days before you travel
Hampton Inn and Suites
3 nights
Mexico City, Mexico
Colonial de Puebla
1 nights
Puebla, Mexico
Tour Testimonials
So much packed into this holiday. We loved the pyramids in Palenque and Teotihuacan. Seeing dolphins off Isla Aguada was another highlight. Sergio was an excellent guide, full of information and very knowledgeable.
Jeremy Rudkins
31 JanuaryExtend Your Tour
Important Information
The order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions or for operational purposes. The schedules of the domestic airlines in country are subject to frequent changes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them. The driving times listed are point to point and do not include the duration of excursions or stops en route. Some road construction and/or weather conditions may lengthen the driving times. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however, order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions.
If booking more than 12 weeks before departure a deposit of €342.20pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 12 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 12 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.
A visa is not required for your trip to Mexico as long as you travelling from the UK or Europe.
If you are travelling via the USA to Mexico, You will need to obtain an ESTA visa. This must be applied for at least 7 days before you are due to land in the USA. An ESTA can be applied for directly on the website of the Department of Homeland Security. The Fee is payable via a Credit / Debit Card online. https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta
Visitax for the state of Quintana Roo
A tax of 293 Mexican Pesos per person (approximately £13) is required. Please pay online on https://www.visitax.gob.mx/sitio and proof of payment must be shown at the airport. Please download and take a screenshot of the QR confirmation to minimise delays when travelling home.
Please note your final documentation will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure. Check in baggage is included with your flight. Weight restrictions will be finalised on your final documentation. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Check-in should be at least 3 hours before departure. If you wish to arrange Airport car parking or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras on 0333 188 0407, quoting HX313.
IMPORTANT: A printed E-ticket is no longer required at check-in, all you need to do is present your passport to the staff at the desk and your boarding pass will be given to you. Please note that you should carry your invoice with flight details on it as you will need to show this at the airport.
We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras, including up to a 20% discount, which is given to all Mercury Holidays customers. To arrange your insurance with Holiday Extras, please visit https://www.mercuryholidays.co.uk/info/insurance for more details. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.
It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.
This tour is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves full days of sightseeing, often on foot, and includes getting on and off coaches and boats. There are several visits that include a significant number of steps and walking to get the best out of each town/city within Mexico. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso, known as MXN. We recommend that you exchange your currency before you depart. US Dollars are also widely accepted in Mexico should you wish to keep an alternative currency on you. Major Credit/Debit cards are also accepted.
As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels as well as American Express.
You will need to take money with you to cover any personal purchases such as souvenirs, laundry, any meals not included in the itinerary as well as drinks and any additional snacks; Approximately £350 - £400 per person will be sufficient for the duration of the tour. It is a good idea to try and maintain a supply of small notes and change in the local currency for tipping or small purchases.
It is at your discretion to tip both your driver and guide. We would recommend to tip approximately USD2 per person per day. This is a total of USD60 per person to budget for tips on your trip. As tipping is at your discretion, please tip as and when you feel appropriate too. Tips are accepted in the local currency.
The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 15, and the maximum will be 35. If in the unlikely event there are less than 15 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date, then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.
This is a fully escorted tour, meaning that you will be met on arrival in Mexico City by your national guide who will remain with you for the duration of your trip.
Private Tour: If you have booked a private tour then you will be accompanied by a Driver Guide or a Driver and Local Guides. These will be available to you during all scheduled sightseeing. Private Tours can depart on any day of the week depending on flight and train schedules and the opening days of the attractions. They will follow the itinerary as described in the brochure unless you have been advised otherwise and you will still have all of the same meals, sightseeing and local excursions included.
Your accommodation is selected for convenience, location, comfort or character, and can range from business hotels to leisure hotels. Hotel accommodation is generally rated as local three to four-star standard, but please note there is no international classification system for hotels, and differences in facilities and quality do exist compared to what you might expect in the UK. All group tours hotels have private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning, where needed. Rest assured that all accommodation used by Mercury Holidays is regularly inspected by our staff and partners to ensure that standards meet your needs.
Triple Rooms are available, but please note and the 3rd bed is a “rollaway” bed and may reduce the overall floorspace of the room. Where an international flight arrives during early morning, we will endeavour to provide an Early Check In to your hotel, this is subject to availability. The usual hotel check in time is from 2pm onwards.
Breakfast is served in the hotel each morning. Dinner (when included) will be taken in local restaurants or at the hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours.
Vegetarian and Vegan meals can be catered for. Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information.
It is not recommended to drink the tap water, even in developed counties water may contain unfamiliar elements that can cause upset stomachs. In less developed countries water is not filtered in the same way as the UK. Bottled Water will be available to purchase at shops, hotels & lodges.
On your arrival into Mexico City you will be met by a representative from our local agent, Native Trails, holding a sign displaying: “Mercury Holidays”. The Mercury Holidays/Native Trails representative will show you to your transfer vehicle. Your national guide will be on hand 24 hours a day should you have any queries.
If you need to contact your representative during your stay the details are:
Native Trails: Contact number: 0049 6041 969 00 112 E-mail: info@nativetrails.de
Emergency contact information: Please find below the emergency contact details for Native Trails in Mexico 24 hour telephone: 0052 442 2301068
- Sunglasses, Sunscreen and hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera and charger
- A plug adaptor - the voltage in Mexico is 127V
- Antibacterial hand gel
- Binoculars
- Personal first aid kit containing travel pills, rehydration powder, plasters, stomach settlers, antiseptic creams, aspirin etc
- Small day pack for excursions
- Waterproof, lightweight jacket
- Lightweight clothing
- Sweater and jacket for the cooler months