• Each day is a culinary adventure, where every meal is a celebration of flavors! Enjoy many included lunches featuring local delicacies, from bustling market finds to hands-on cooking classes. Experience the rich tapestry of Oaxacan culture through its delicious cuisine.

• Immerse yourself in a vibrant art scene, where you can learn traditional weaving, pottery, and the craft of making alebrijes from skilled artisans. The streets come alive with colorful murals, showcasing the creativity and spirit of this enchanting city.

• Discover the joy of traveling to a destination that's just a stone's throw from home! With short and affordable flights, you can spend less time in transit and more time soaking up the local culture and sights. Say goodbye to the hassle of jet lag and hello to a refreshing getaway that feels effortless. Enjoy every moment of your vacation without the fatigue of long-haul travel.

• Enhance your adventure by combining this trip with the Day of the Dead festivities before or the relaxing Oaxaca Beach Escape after. Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of the Day of the Dead, where you can witness colorful altars, lively parades, and the rich cultural significance of this holiday. After your main trip, unwind on the stunning beaches of Oaxaca, where you can bask in the sun and explore the underwater world snorkeling. This flexible itinerary allows you to create a longer journey filled with unique experiences, making your trip even more memorable.

¡Bienvenidos! Welcome to Mexico City. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm tonight, where you'll meet your leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe go and see the Templo Mayor (a 13th-century Aztec temple) or the baroque Catedral Metropolitana de Mexico. If you’re a fan of art, you could go to the Frida Kahlo Museum or check out the Palacio Nacional, which houses murals by Diego Rivera.

After the meeting join the group for an optional dinner.

We recommend flying into Mexico City International Airport (MEX)

The ibis México Alameda is located in the heart of Mexico City's historic center, near the Polanco neighborhood (less than 7 km) and Avenida Juárez, considered the city's main thoroughfare. The hotel offers unique services, such as events and activities on the terrace, a menu of special events in its ibis Kitchen Lounge restaurant, as well as breakfast, a bar, and comfortable rooms.

The hotel is next to iconic attractions such as the Metropolitan Theater (130 m), Diego Rivera Mural Museum (280 m), Alameda Central Park (350 m), the Centro de la Imagen Museum (500 m), and the traditional San Juan Pugibet Market (700 m). It is also close to the Palacio de Bellas Artes (900 m), the National Museum of San Carlos (900 m), the Zócalo (1 km), and the Angel of Independence (2.4 km). The hotel also offers easy access to the Juárez Metro Station (10 m) and the International Airport (15 km).

• Teotihuacan - Archaeological Site

• Teotihuacan - Obsidian workshop

• Puebla - Leader-led Orientation Walk

Depart Mexico City and travel to Teotihuacan. Here, you'll discover the extraordinary ruins known as the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, which dominate the skyline. This was once the biggest city in the Americas and predates the Aztec Empire by many centuries. Join an expert local guide and stroll down The Avenue of the Dead to see fascinating clues as to what life here was like nearly 2000 years ago.

After lunch continue to Puebla. Stop off on the way to visit a local family who produce beautiful stonework carved from obsidian – a naturally occurring volcanic glasslike rock. Take some time to admire their striking pieces and speak to the family about their craft.

Arrive in Puebla and set out for a walk around town, visiting Calle de los Dulces (Candy Street) and the El Parian handicraft market. See the Rosary Chapel and Town Hall Palace, then as option join the group for dinner at an award-winning restaurant, where a local chef serves up local specialties in an elegant setting – the mole here comes highly recommended.

Explore one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the Americas—Teotihuacan, the “City of the Gods.” Located just outside Mexico City, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to around 100 BCE and was once one of the largest cities in the ancient world, with a population exceeding 100,000 at its peak.

Visiting Teotihuacan is a journey into the heart of ancient Mexico, where history and mystique intertwine. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts awe-inspiring pyramids, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, inviting you to explore their grandeur. Wander along the Avenue of the Dead, where the echoes of a once-thriving civilization resonate.

Marvel at intricate murals and the rich cultural heritage that make this site unique. The panoramic views from the pyramids are breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the past and a connection to the present. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this archaeological wonder that tells the story of a vibrant ancient city.

Experience the rich culture of Oaxaca by visiting a local family renowned for their exquisite obsidian craftsmanship. As you step into their workshop, you’ll witness the artistry and dedication that goes into creating stunning obsidian pieces. From intricate jewelry to beautiful decor, each item tells a story of tradition and skill.

Engage with the artisans and learn about their techniques. After the tour, browse their collection to find the perfect souvenir to take home—a unique treasure that reflects the spirit of Oaxaca.

Puebla, a charming city in Mexico, is renowned for its stunning colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, it boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the majestic Puebla Cathedral and the colorful Talavera pottery that the city is famous for. Stroll through the historic streets to discover delightful cafes, local markets, and traditional cuisine, including the famous mole poblano. The city's lively atmosphere makes Puebla a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

• Breakfast

Hotel San Pedro boasts a rich history dating back to 1542. It is in a privileged location, just two blocks from the beautiful Puebla Cathedral and next door to the iconic Art Nouveau-style "Jenkins Building." It is located between 2 Norte Street, formerly "Second Street of Mercaderes," and 2 Oriente Street, formerly "Costado de San Pedro." It is close to the city's most iconic attractions, where you can discover art, tradition, and culinary experiences.

You will stay here 2 nights.

Venture out on a culinary city tour with a stop in a famous local market for lunch. Puebla is renowned for dishes that combine Spanish and pre-hispanic influences, such as chiles en nogada (stuffed chillies covered in creamy walnut sauce). Start with some Pueblan street food like tacos Arabes (a style of taco created by Puebla’s Middle Eastern immigrants) or chalupas (fried tortillas with a spicy filling). Then, make a beeline for Calle de los Dulces (Sweet Street) to sample tortitas de Santa Clara (shortbread biscuits) and camotes (sweet potato lollies). Save space for a cinnamon-dusted churro or two! Once you’re full and satisfied, perhaps check out Talavera pottery or chill out in a cantina as the rest of the day is yours.

• Puebla: Food tour with lunch

• Breakfast

• Lunch

Hotel San Pedro

Travel by bus to Oaxaca – a beautiful city nicknamed the ‘land of the seven moles’, hinting at its varieties of the thick sauce. When you arrive, head straight for the bustling Mercado 20 de Noviembre for a late lunch. Among the many great choices, tlayudas (Oaxacan pizza) is a staple you shouldn’t miss.

Next, visit Mercado Benito Juarez – a bountiful market taking up a full city block and brimming with produce like mole spices, pastes and towers of Oaxacan cheese. Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, or Santa Domingo Church, which is one of Oaxaca’s most iconic landmarks. A short walk from Santa Domingo Church, you'll find La Pasita, a beloved bar in Oaxaca known for its namesake drink, Pasita. Here we will try this local specialty. Pasita is a sweet, local liqueur made from a base of pecan nuts and raisin, combined with a mix of traditional Oaxacan spirits.

• Oaxaca - Leader-led Orientation Walk

• Visit Santo Domingo Church and Rosary Chapel visit

• Visit to Mercado 20 de Noviembre

• Visit to Mercado Benito Juarez

• Visit to La Pasita bar for Pasita

Admire the stunning Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church, one of Oaxaca’s most treasured landmarks. This 16th-century Baroque masterpiece dazzles with its intricately carved façade and lavish gold interior, showcasing the richness of colonial architecture. Step inside to see soaring ceilings, ornate chapels, and a breathtaking altar that glows with centuries of history. Adjacent to the church, the former monastery now houses the Oaxaca Cultural Museum, offering a deeper dive into the region’s indigenous and colonial past.

La Pasita Bar is a vibrant and cozy spot that captures the essence of local culture. Known for its unique Pasita drink, made from a delightful blend of fruits and spirits, this bar offers a refreshing twist on traditional beverages. The warm ambiance, decorated with colorful artwork, invites you to unwind and soak in the lively atmosphere. Enjoy live music performances that enhance your experience, making it a perfect place to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

• Breakfast

• Lunch

Oaxaca Real Hotel has a 100% Oaxacan environment, where you will be able to appreciate the colonial architecture that dates back to 1909, making this property a city treasure. The location is perfect to visit the landmarks of this beautiful city, like the majestic Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman (Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman), the cathedral, the Zócalo (just two blocks from the hotel), as well as parks, museums, plazas, etc.

You will stay here 4 nights.

Today, visit a market with a local chef and learn about Oaxaca’s cuisine from an expert. Take the ingredients you’ve picked up and, during a special cooking class, learn how to transform them into traditional Oaxacan dishes such as mole, which you’ll then enjoy for lunch. And you can take these recipes home as a souvenir – the gift that keeps on giving!

After, explore Oaxaca’s artsy neighborhood, Jalatlaco, with your leader. Bright murals and coffee shops adorn its streets so sit down with a hot cup of caffeine from a cafe that’s been open for 140 years and take in your colorful surroundings.

• Cooking class

• Barrio de Jalatlaco Orientation Walk with coffee stop

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary traditions of Oaxaca with a hands-on cooking class focused on the art of making mole. Guided by a local chef, you will explore the rich history and diverse ingredients that create this beloved Mexican sauce.

Start by visiting a local market to select fresh produce and spices, then return to the kitchen to begin your culinary adventure. You’ll learn to blend ingredients such as chilies, nuts, and chocolate, crafting a mole that’s bursting with flavor.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor your homemade mole, paired with traditional sides. This unforgettable experience not only teaches you a new skill but also connects you to the heart of Oaxacan culture.

The Barrio de Jalatlaco is a charming and vibrant neighborhood in Oaxaca City, renowned for its colorful streets and rich cultural heritage. As you wander through its cobblestone lanes, you'll encounter an array of vivid murals and street art that reflect the area's deep-rooted traditions and artistic flair. The neighborhood's architecture showcases traditional adobe homes adorned with red-tiled roofs and ornate ironwork, offering a glimpse into its colonial past. Along the way, you'll find cozy cafés, artisanal shops, and local galleries, making Jalatlaco a delightful blend of history, art, and contemporary culture.

• Breakfast

• Lunch

Oaxaca Real Hotel

Today, venture out of the city and take a tour of the Oaxaca region. Visit the Mitla Ruins archaeological site – once the religious center for Zapotec communities – and the Tule Tree, considered the world’s widest tree at over 11 m in diameter. The Montezuma cypress’ gnarled trunk is over 1500 years old, roughly the same as the ruins.

Stop off to try some Mexican ice cream – an important part of Mexico’s culinary history, this hand-churned ice cream is considered one of the tastiest in the world. Maybe try some traditional Beso Oaxaqueno – a fresh fruit sorbet – or a scoop seasoned with chili. Continue to a beeswax candle-making workshop, learning age-old processes passed down for generations and the intricate designs that are created.

Later, take part in a Zapotec weaving demonstration, which uses only traditional techniques, tools, patterns and organic dyes. Watch as local families craft folk clothing and rugs, some taking months to complete. Here, you’ll have a mostly plant-based lunch of regional specialties. On your way back to Oaxaca, stop by an agave mezcal factory for a tasting before returning to the city in the late afternoon.

• Oaxaca - Mitla Ruins archeological site

• Oaxaca - Tule Tree

• Oaxaca - Candle Making

• Oaxaca - Weaving demonstration

• Oaxaca - Mezcaleria visit

Step into the heart of Zapotec spiritual life at Mitla, a sacred site that once served as a ceremonial and burial center for high priests and nobles. Unlike other ruins, Mitla invites you to get up close to its intricately carved stone mosaics, each geometric pattern rich with symbolic meaning. As you explore its quiet courtyards and tombs, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the Zapotec worldview—one that saw life, death, and the cosmos as deeply interconnected. Visiting Mitla isn’t just about seeing ruins—it’s about walking through a place where traditions, beliefs, and artistry still echo through time.

The tule tree, known as Taxodium mucronatum, is a magnificent sight in Oaxaca, Mexico. This ancient tree is famous for its impressive size, with some specimens reaching a circumference of over 40 meters! Its thick trunk and expansive canopy provide a stunning backdrop for visitors. The tree is not only a natural wonder but also holds cultural significance, often symbolizing strength and longevity in local traditions.

As you stand beneath its sprawling branches, you can feel the rich history and beauty of the area surrounding you. The tule tree is a must-see for nature lovers and anyone interested in the unique biodiversity of Oaxaca.

Gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Zapotec people through an educational weaving demonstration in one of Oaxaca’s traditional villages. You'll observe firsthand how artisans use backstrap and pedal looms, applying techniques that date back thousands of years. Learn how natural dyes are made from local sources—like cochineal insects for red, indigo for blue, and plants and minerals for other vibrant hues. As the weavers explain the symbolism and meaning behind their intricate patterns, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how textile art preserves Zapotec identity, history, and storytelling across generations.

Mezcal is more than just a drink in Oaxaca; it is a cultural emblem steeped in tradition and history. This artisanal spirit, made from agave, reflects the region's rich agricultural heritage and the craftsmanship of local producers. Each sip of mezcal tells a story of the land, the climate, and the people who cultivate the agave.

Visiting Oaxaca offers you a unique chance to taste authentic mezcal, often enjoyed with a slice of orange and a sprinkle of sal de gusano. The smoky flavors and diverse profiles vary from distillery to distillery, making each tasting an adventure. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this integral part of Oaxacan identity!

• Breakfast

• Lunch

Oaxaca Real Hotel

Today you will discover the Zoológico Mágico Alebrijes (Magical Alebrijes Zoo), which is a unique and enchanting attraction in Oaxaca, where the vibrant world of alebrijes (colorful, fantastical creatures in Mexican folk art) come together.

Zoológico Mágico is San Martín Tilcajete’s first female-led cooperative. The women oversee every stage of the process including carving, a dangerous task traditionally only completed by men. Alebrijes has become a significant source of income for San Martín Tilcajete, a small Zapotec pueblo located 30 miles from Oaxaca city. Here you will learn about the process and create one with a vibrant workshop.

For a memorable farewell to your Oaxaca journey, the Farewell Dinner at Las Quince Letras offers a delicious and authentic dining experience. This renowned restaurant, known for its Oaxacan cuisine, is located in the heart of the city and is famous for offering traditional dishes with a modern twist. The name "Las Quince Letras" refers to the fifteen letters of the Oaxacan alphabet, symbolizing the region’s deep-rooted culture and history.

Oaxaca - Zoological Magic Alebrijes workshop

Oaxaca - Farewell dinner: Las Quince Letras

Alebrijes are vibrant, hand-crafted sculptures that originated in Oaxaca, depicting fantastical creatures formed from a mix of real and imagined animal parts. These colorful figures are carved from wood, often painted in bright, intricate patterns that reflect the rich cultural traditions of the region. Traditionally, alebrijes were thought to be spirit guides or protectors, and their creation is an art form passed down through generations. Today, they are a symbol of Oaxaca’s thriving folk art scene, captivating visitors with their surreal beauty and the skillful craftsmanship behind each piece.

Mole is everywhere at Chef Celia Florián’s restaurant, which opened in 1992. You can find it served with plantains, inside large empanadas, and on top of enchiladas. But from amarillo to coloradito to verde, the one that shines brightest is her mole negro. Black as night, smoky, and tantalizingly charred, it needs nothing more except for a tortilla or a bit of rice. This recipe and many others have deep roots: Florián grew up on a farm in La Ciénega and learned to cook from her mother and grandmother. Another highlight is the wonderful garnachas istmenas, crispy masa cakes topped with tender shredded beef buried under a pile of pickled cabbage. Still to this day, Florián enjoys global recognition for her contributions to Oaxacan cuisine.

• Breakfast

• Dinner

Oaxaca Real Hotel

Your adventure ends after breakfast. However, your trip can continue. Join us for six blissful days along the stunning Oaxaca coast, where relaxation and snorkeling await. Imagine staying in a charming beach house, steps away from the sparkling ocean, where most of your meals are lovingly prepared for you. Experience the thrill of a boat trip, exploring the breathtaking bays teeming with vibrant marine life. Dive into this serene paradise and create memories that will last a lifetime. Exciting details coming soon!

We recommend flying out of Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), located about 7.2 km (4.5 miles) from the city center. 

Greetings & Introductions:

• Hola: Hello

• Buenos días: Good morning

• Buenas tardes: Good afternoon

• Buenas noches: Good evening/night

• Adiós: Goodbye

• ¿Cómo estás? (informal) / ¿Cómo está? (formal): How are you?

• Bien, gracias: Fine, thank you

• ¿Y tú? / ¿Y usted?: And you?

• Mucho gusto: Nice to meet you

• Me llamo...: My name is...

• ¿Cómo te llamas? (informal) / ¿Cómo se llama? (formal): What's your name? 

Basic Requests & Polite Phrases:

• Por favor: Please

• Gracias: Thank you

• De nada: You're welcome

• Disculpa (informal) / Disculpe (formal): Excuse me

• Lo siento: I'm sorry

• Perdón: Excuse me (also used for "sorry") 

Basic Questions:

• ¿Dónde está...? Where is...?

• ¿Cuánto cuesta? How much does it cost?

• ¿Qué hora es? What time is it?

• ¿Habla inglés? Do you speak English?

• ¿Me puede ayudar, por favor? Can you help me, please? (formal)

• ¿Cómo se dice... ? How do you say...?

• No entiendo: I don't understand 

PASSPORT
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiration date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

VISA

In Mexico you need an FMM which is included in your flight so you don't need to worry about any extra forms or fees if flying into Mexico.

Most travelers prefer to take a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which is a great size for the packing capacity in our private vehicles. Whatever you take, be mindful that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You'll also need a day pack/bag for activities and day trips.

RECOMMENDED:
*Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 liter capacity. Clean, filtered water is available for free in many hotel lobbies. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 liter plastic bottle takes 2 liters of water and 200mL of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments.

*Closed-in walking/hiking shoes. We highly recommend that you take a pair of comfortable, closed-in/closed-toe walking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings.

*Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, and Band-Aids.

*Tissues &/or toilet paper &/or wet wipes

Tips for a Successful Group Trip