DAY 1: UK - Mexico City.
Fly to Mexico City where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for a two night stay.

DAY 2: Mexico City. Included sightseeing.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant metropolis of Mexico's largest city on a fascinating morning tour. Our first stop is Zocalo, the bustling heart of the city and former centre of the ancient Aztec city Tenochtitlan. It was razed and rebuilt by Hernan Cortes and the Spanish conquistadors. Cortes' legacy lives on in the many colonial-style buildings, which hem the main square including the National Palace and Latin America's largest church - the tilted Metropolitan Cathedral. Afterwards, visit the elegant area of Paseo de Reforma, an impressive tree-lined boulevard built in the style of European grand avenues, which leads to the charming Chapultepec Park. After a short trip to the affluent Chapultepec Heights Residential Zone, venture on to the city's newest development, Centro Santa Fe. This afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the Anthropology Museum. (B)

DAY 3: Mexico City - Teotihuacan - Puebla.
First stop today is the ancient city of Teotihuacan, one of the world's greatest archaeological sites. Developed over 2000 years ago, the abandoned city was rediscovered in ruins by the Aztecs who believed it to be a sacred place, thereby naming it 'the place where men become gods'. Visit the Causeway of the Dead - a 'road' leading through the city centre to the pyramids and the citadel - the city's main square which houses the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Also see the incredible Pyramid of the Sun, similar in size to Egypt's Great Pyramid, and the Pyramid of the Moon, a spectacular location for panoramic views over the city. Later this afternoon, journey to Puebla for an overnight stay. (B)

DAY 4: Puebla. Included sightseeing - Cholula - Oaxaca.
This morning explore Puebla, before driving to the ancient site of Cholula. This powerful city was destroyed by the conquistadors who replaced every temple and shrine with a church or chapel. The city is now famed for having a church for every day of the year. Set against the stunning backdrop of Popocatepetl Volcano stand the ruins of the largest pyramid in Mexico. Once you have explored the ruins and tunnels of this captivating archaeological site, visit the museum and continue on to Oaxaca City, located in the Oaxaca Valley, a place of outstanding natural beauty. (B)

DAY 5: Oaxaca - Monte Alban - Oaxaca. Guelagetza Folklore Show.
This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Oaxaca, a peaceful and relaxing city teeming with diverse tapestry, colourful traditions and folklore. Proud of its indigenous traditions, primarily Zapotec and Mixtec, the craftwork produced here is highly regarded and renowned worldwide. Stroll amongst the cobbled streets, enjoy time in the vibrant markets and observe the stylish Santo Domingo baroque church. This afternoon, drive to the ancient Zapotec fortress of Monte Albán. Set on a purposely-flattened mountaintop, this awe-inspiring site exhibits the remains of historic pyramids, palaces and temples and presents incredible views over the valley below. On your return to Oaxaca enjoy an included evening Guelagetza Folklore Show. (B)

DAY 6: Oaxaca - Mitla - Tehuantepec.
This morning journey to Mitla and visit the bustling market in Tlacolula village en route. At Mitla's archaeological site, explore the fascinating ruins of this 'Place of the Dead', graced with the architecture of the Zapotecs and Mixtecs, including broad stairways, magnificent columns, beautifully carved temples and elaborate mosaics in the Palaces Complex. Later today, continue to Tehuantepec, an area renowned for its matriarchal society and customs. (B)

DAY 7: Tehuantepec - Chiapa de Corzo - Sumidero Canyon by boat - San Cristobal.
Begin today with a visit to the pre-Classic site of Chiapa de Corzo. Set on the banks of the Grijalva River, this former farming settlement became a vital town on the ancient Mesoamerican trade route. Afterwards enjoy a leisurely meander along the river on an included boat ride. The trip will take you through the spectacular Sumidero Canyon, famed for its impressive scenery, beautiful waterfalls and variety of native wildlife including crocodiles, cormorants and pelicans. This afternoon, continue to San Cristobal de las Casas. (B)

DAY 8: San Cristobal - Chamula - Zinacantan - San Cristobal.
This morning, experience the traditions of local Tzotzil villages on a visit to San Juan Chamula and San Lorenzo Zinacantan. In Chamula, visit the inspirational church, lit by hundreds of candles and carpeted with pine needles. In Zinacantan, set in a valley amidst steep-forested hills, local traditions lie in flower farming and beautifully ornate weaving. Afterwards, enjoy a walking tour of atmospheric San Cristobal, a charming provincial town with many intricate colonial churches and a large, traditional market. (B)

DAY 9: San Cristobal - Ocosingo - Agua Azul Waterfalls - Palenque.
Winding through the lush, verdant mountain valley, enjoy a beautifully scenic trip to Ocosingo's traditional country, farming town. After time to absorb the town's charming atmosphere, continue to the cascading waterfalls of Agua Azul. There is time to explore the flourishing, tropical jungle and swim in the clear, crisp waters before heading to Palenque for an overnight stay. (B)

DAY 10: Palenque - Campeche. Included sightseeing.
This morning, experience the incredible archaeological site of Palenque. Set amidst thick, rich jungle, Palenque is renowned for its unique beauty. Visit the Museum of Anthropology before travelling to the Mayan ruins to witness the outstanding architecture of its temples and palaces. After lunch, continue to the beautiful colonial city of Campeche, lined with elegant 18th and 19th century pastel-shade houses. (B)

DAY 11: Campeche - Uxmal and Kabah - Merida.
Start your day with a journey into the pretty Puuc hills for a guided visit to some of the peninsula's most important Mayan archaeological sites. In Uxmal, explore the classical, oval-based step pyramids, sweeping stone staircases and stylised temples, each adorned with distinctive geometric-patterned stone mosaics. Following this, visit Kabah, meaning 'the mighty hand', to see Kabah's most striking edifice and one of the most incredible Mayan architectural achievements: the Palace of Masks, covered entirely with intricately carved masks of the Mayan rain god Chac. After exploring the palace and surroundings, resume your journey to Merida for a two night stay. (B)

DAY 12: Merida - Chichen Itza - Merida.
The day begins with a fascinating tour to the most famous of the Mayan sites - Chichen Itza. You have a full day to appreciate this remarkable archaeological site and since there is much more than meets the eye, take time to explore features such as El Castillo the site's great pyramid, whose simple nine-tiered stairway represents the Mayan calendar. Admire the columns and temples of the Toltec Plaza, the Ball Court and the tombs of El Osario. This evening is at leisure. (B)

DAY 13: Merida - Mexico City - UK.
Transfer to Merida Airport for your flight to Juan Santamaria International Airport in Mexico City, where you will board your overnight flight to the UK. (B)

DAY 14: Home landing in the UK.