Highlights of Mexico

(13 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Oaxaca, Mexico City, Merida, Riviera Maya

This tour features the best of Mexico’s cities, rural countryside, important ruins, and beautiful beaches, with an emphasis on regional culture, history, arts and cuisine.

Begin in Oaxaca, one of Mexico’s best destinations for gastronomy and traditional arts. Explore the plazas, food markets and back streets of the colonial center and visit art galleries and folk art shops. Spend a day exploring the surrounding valleys with your private guide, including visits to local Indian markets and craft villages. Your guide will introduce you to the most noted local artisans specializing in black pottery, wood carvings, textiles and more. Also explore Zapotec and Mixtec ruins in the region. Spend a morning at a cooking class to learn Oaxacan specialties. Sample local specialties such as Oaxacan chocolate and cheese, visit a Mezcal distillery or learn how to make mole sauces. 

Next, continue to Mexico City, the sophisticated and vibrant capital of Mexico. Your expert guide and private driver will show you the very best of the city and provide a wonderful link to the local history and culture. Visit excellent museums, such as the Museum of Anthropology; explore a variety of neighborhoods, including those best known for their beautiful residences, colorful markets, art galleries and boutiques, and highly recommended restaurants. See murals, explore ruins such as Templo Mayor and the pyramids at Teotihuacan, and take a private canal cruise through the floating gardens at Xochimilco. Accommodation will be at the city’s leading luxury hotel.

Continue to Merida for several days spent exploring surrounding Mayan villages and ruins. Accommodation is at the best luxury hacienda property in the region. With your private guide and driver, browse colorful markets, take a cruise through the mangroves at a flamingo sanctuary, visit local Mayan homes and villages, and, if desired, take a cooking class at a renowned Yucatan cooking school.

Finally, enjoy several relaxing days at an exclusive luxury beach resort on the Riviera Maya.