Central Mexico: Oaxaca to Mexico City

In the heart of Mexico lies Oaxaca, a land rich with indigenous cultures and incredible food, often considered to be the gastronomical heartland of the country. As you make your way into the city from the airport, savour the sights, sounds and smells of this vibrant and ancient metropolis. We welcome you to Mexico, and invite you to indulge in the traditions and flavours that make the country so unique. Arrive to Oaxaca at any time and transfer to the hotel. Meet your fellow group members at the welcome meeting in the evening and get all the important information about the adventure ahead. Afterwards, head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious welcome dinner with new friends.

Oaxaca's rich history and architecture is on full display with picturesque plazas, churches and charming cafes and restaurants around every corner. The valley and environs of Oaxaca have been inhabited for tens of thousands of years and has a wealth of fascinating archaeological sites which all tell their own stories about the Oaxaca's past and about how it has evolved into what it is today. Take a morning historical tour of Oaxaca on foot and by vehicle with a local guide before visiting the Monte Alban archaeological site. Have a delicious lunch at a typical restaurant as an introduction to the regional cuisine before a free afternoon for individual exploration. Enjoy a free evening to choose from one of the many great restaurants or join the CEO at their local favourite.

Feel the breeze on your face as you pedal through farmland and agave plantations, a plant that has become a symbol of Mexico's famous spirits – tequila and mezcal. Indigenous communities have thrived in these parts and have held the agave plant sacred, as well as the imposing petrified waterfall of Hierve el Agua which is the crowning jewel of your ride. Head out on a biking excursion from Santa Maria del Tule to Hierve el Agua petrified waterfall with time for swimming and lunch, then stop at a local agave farm for mezcal tastings on the way back to Oaxaca. Free evening with dinner on your own or with the CEO.

Nestled amongst mountains and active volcanoes, Puebla is a feast for the senses. Marvel at 15th century architecture as you wander the cobblestone streets of the historical centre and get wafts of delicious aromas around every corner. Famous also for its beautiful and unique talavera pottery, Puebla is a treat to explore and to taste, with the delectable and essential mole poblano standing out as the region's flagship dish. Travel from Oaxaca to Puebla and take an orientation walk with the CEO of the historical centre, including a visit to a talavera pottery workshop before lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, enjoy a mole demonstration and dinner.

Gliding along the ancient canals of Xochimilco on a traditional 'trajinera' boat is a multi-sensory and quintessentially Mexican experience. The brightly-coloured boats pass by with everything from local families, to mariachi bands to vendors selling tacos or flowers. Many of these aspects of traditional popular culture also served as an influence in the artwork of Frida Kahlo, one of Mexico's most famous artists who grew up in the nearby neighbourhood of Coyoacan, in Mexico City's southern reaches. Drive to Mexico City and take a boat trip along the Xochimilco canals before visiting the Casa Azul, which was home to Frida Kahlo and now houses a museum of her work and story. Free evening with dinner on your own or with the CEO.

The history of the ancient Aztecs permeates all aspects of Mexico City in its architecture, traditions and food. Whatever your interest, you will have the opportunity to visit the massive pyramids of Teotihuacan or to stay in the city dig deeper into what makes the bustling metropolis one of the world's most interesting cities. Choose either a half-day visit to the Teotihuacan archaeological site or take a historical and food tour of Mexico City. Enjoy a free afternoon to continue exploring or to visit one of the many excellent museums before a farewell dinner in the evening.

Although the tour finishes today, Mexico will live on in your memory, beckoning you to return someday. Depart Mexico City at any time.