
The best of South America & Antarctica
Every nation south of the United States belongs to the culturally rich region of Latin America. Mexico, with its deep-rooted history as the cradle of ancient civilizations, was once the thriving center of the Aztec and Mayan people. Our journey through Mexico and Cuba will take you to the most vibrant and culturally significant destinations in both countries. From the rich heritage of Mayan culture in Mexico to the timeless charm of Cuba, this trip will give you the authentic essence of Latin culture like never before.
February, November
15 Nights / 16 Days
Mexico To Cancun
Mexico 11 Nights
Mexico City (3N) | San Cristobal (2N) | Palenque (1N) | Campeche (1N) | Valladolid (1N) | Merida (2N) | Cancun (1N)
Cuba 4 Nights
Havana (4N)
Arrive in Mexico City and check into our hotel located in the vibrant Roma neighborhood. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.
We will explore Mexico City, known locally as Ciudad de Mexico (CDMX), the capital of Mexico. Begin with a visit to the historic center, including the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Zócalo, the city’s main square. We’ll explore key sites in the historic center, such as the Templo Mayor Museum, where the ancient Aztecs had their capital. The evening is free to stroll around the area.
We will take a day trip to the impressive Teotihuacan Pyramids outside Mexico City. Our guide will provide insights into the Aztec civilization as we explore the pyramids. Return to the city by late afternoon to visit the Casa Azul (Blue House), where the renowned Mexican painter Frida Kahlo lived. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant.
We fly domestically to Tuxtla Gutiérrez and head to the Sumidero Canyon, Mexico’s deepest canyon. Enjoy a memorable boat trip on the river and take photo stops at the top of the canyon for breathtaking views. Continue to San Cristóbal de las Casas, a unique mountain town in Chiapas.
We will visit the village of Chamula in the morning, it’s known for its unique church that combines Mayan and Catholic traditions. The church is illuminated by over a thousand candles placed on the floor, and seating is only on dry pine grass. In Chamula, Mayan traditions are deeply rooted, including the belief that taking a picture of a local captures their soul, so no photography is allowed in the church or town. Enjoy a walk in the evening through the vibrant old town of San Cristóbal.
After an early breakfast, depart from the mountain town and enjoy a scenic three-hour drive. Stop briefly at the stunning turquoise waters of Agua Azul before continuing to the Misol-Ha waterfall, where you can wander and explore behind the cascade. After a simple lunch, head to Palenque for an overnight stay deep in the forest.
Explore the Mayan ruins of Palenque, famous for their architecture and wild forest setting. As the morning fog lifts, you’ll be awakened by the calls of howler monkeys and exotic birds. After visiting the ruins, we will travel to Campeche, a town with well-preserved baroque colonial architecture and a walled historic quarter. In the evening, take a walk in the charming old town, including the seafront opening to the Caribbean Sea.
Enjoy a relaxed morning before driving to Merida, the capital of the Yucatan Peninsula. We will explore the city’s vibrant market and interesting town center. In the evening, we will visit the Mayan civilization museum. Dinner and overnight in Merida.
We will explore the town of Valladolid. Yet another charming town with a colonial vibe. Later we’ll head to the mighty Chichinitza pyramids. Our guide will explain the various facets of the Mayan culture, of the times when they ruled the land and built structures like these. In the evening enjoy a walk in its Latin quarter. Overnight in Merida.
We will further explore the beautiful landscape of Yucatan with our first stop being the 3 Cenotes at Cuzama. The ancient Mayan people used the fresh water from these cave ponds of Yucatan. Each Cenote has clear water and is perfect for a quick swim. Later, we will drive to the yellow city of Izamal, where most of the houses are as the name suggests, painted yellow. Lunch would be in a very local restaurant. We will then proceed to drive back to Merida.
In the morning proceed to board the flight to Havana, Cuba. On arrival proceed to the town center for check-in.
As we leave Havana and head toward Vinales, we will experience some of Cuba’s most beautiful countryside. Vinales, known for its Cuban cigars, is surrounded by lush green tobacco plantations and the unique Mogotes. We’ll stop at Los Jazmines lookout point to admire the breathtaking views of Vinales and the Pinar del Río province. In Vinales Township, we’ll have the opportunity to observe farmers using oxen in their traditional cultivation methods. After a quick lunch on the plantation, we’ll learn about the local tobacco-growing process and visit a tobacco plantation. Here, we’ll see a fully operational Pescadero (drying house) where tobacco leaves are cured from February to May. We’ll return to Havana in the evening.
In the morning after a leisurely breakfast, we’ll embark on the Old Havana Walking Tour. As we stroll, we’ll pass landmarks like El Capitolio, Museo de la Revolución, and Gran Teatro Habana. We’ll explore beautiful squares such as Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza San Francisco de Asis, and Plaza Vieja. We’ll also visit a Mercado Agropecuario, a local market filled with fresh fruits and vegetables. After the walking tour, take a break and hop into one of the classic cars that parade through the city for a Convertible Classic Car Tour. This ride will take you from Old Havana, offering a contrast with the newer parts of central Havana, Vedado, and the faded grandeur of Miramar. Next, visit an unassuming part of the city transformed by artist Jose Fuster, who has turned his home and much of the surrounding neighborhood into a mosaic art installation known as Fusterlandia. Later, visit the fort to witness a special Cannon Shooting Ceremony overlooking the Malecón.
In the morning visit the Partagas Cigar Factory, the mystery behind cigar making will be revealed, allowing you to gain a sense of the significance of the beauties. Visit the Gran Teatro de la Habana which is home to Cuba’s National Ballet Company and hosts many touring companies and festivals. Explore one of the most emblematic buildings in Havana – the El Capitolio Nacional. Visit the Havana Rum Museum, have the chance to learn about rum making, and even enjoy some tasting sessions.
After an easy morning, head to the airport and fly back to Cancun. After this short flight, we will check into our hotel by the sea. The evening would be spent on the beach.
Depart Cancun and fly back to your respective country.
Mexico VISA
For USA, CANADA, UK & Schengen passport Holders
For Indian Passport holders having a valid USA visa
For Indian Passport holders not having valid USA visas
ADVICE for parents with MINOR APPLICANTS – As per the visa process, all applicants including children, need to give biometrics (picture and fingerprints).
NOTE:
Mexico Tourist Card
The Mexico Tourist Card is a mandatory travel document for entering Mexico for tourism purposes.
The card is valid for 180 days after the arrival and grants the holder a maximum stay of 180 days.
The type of card you require depends on how you enter the country. If you are flying into Mexico, you will need a Mexico Tourist Card Air. However, if you are entering Mexico through one of its many land borders (Applicable only for US citizens) you must apply for a Mexico Tourist Card Land.
The tourist card –Air cost is approximately between USD 25-USD 30 Per Person.
For more information kindly visit on: www.mexicotouristcard.com
The best of South America & Antarctica