Discover Mexico: Oaxaca’s culture and coastline
13 days from £3,500
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
You’ll be met at the airport by one of our local representatives and accompanied to your hotel. Mexico City has evolved over the centuries into a modern day metropolis from its founding as the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán in the 14th century. A history of agricultural cultivation, religious ritual, and warring tribes took a seismic turn with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadores and the development of the city was fuelled by silver mining.
Your hotel is right on the zócalo, Mexico City’s gigantic main square in the historic core of the city which is crammed with important colonial edifices. You might stroll along the pedestrianised streets in the evenings, when Mexicans take their traditional promenade, stopping off for a coffee or beer in one of the numerous bars, or window-shopping.
Nothing can detract from the Zócalo Central’s brilliant location on the Zócalo (main square) in the capital’s historic centre, not far from the airport. It is built on the site of – and maintains remaining sections of – Emperor Moctezuma’s palace, later the residence of conquistador Hernán Cortés and the first house of Government, endowing the hotel with an illustrious heritage.
Times may have changed and past glory faded, but the décor and furnishings of most of the en suite rooms defer subtly to the building’s colonial past. Not all rooms have views, but there is no denying the wonderful vantage point over the Zócalo available to guests from the rooftop terrace restaurant and bar. The central location also allows you the pick of a wide array of bars and restaurants in the neighbourhood.
Guided tour of Teotihuacán and the Guadalupe shrine. Passing through the northern suburbs of the capital, you head into the countryside towards the megalithic archaeological site of Teotihuacán. Teotihuacán dates from the time of Christ and was once one of the largest cities in the world. It is hugely influential in the historic narrative of modern Mexico and, although it had already been abandoned by the time of the Aztecs, even this great empire held it in awe.
Stroll along the imposing Avenue of the Dead, leading to the vast Pyramid of the Sun, and take the opportunity to climb its vertiginous, ancient steps for a panorama of the ruins and the lush surrounding countryside.
Visit also the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadelupe, the most venerated shrine and pilgrimage destination in Mexico. Here, the Virgin Mary, disguised as an indian princess, appeared to indigenous Mexican Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, leaving her image impressed on his cloak. It is not certain that he ever existed but he was canonised by the Roman Catholic church in 2002 as the continent’s first indigenous saint.
You can explore the historic centre on foot from your hotel. Don’t miss the cathedral and national palace. If you have time we suggest you visit the world-class Museum of Anthropology, a short taxi or public bus ride away. The museum exhibits remarkable, well displayed expositions of Aztec artefacts alongside items from other ancient civilisations. It’s a fantastic introduction to the superb and sometimes grisly artistic achievements of Mexico’s early inhabitants.
Nothing can detract from the Zócalo Central’s brilliant location on the Zócalo (main square) in the capital’s historic centre, not far from the airport. It is built on the site of – and maintains remaining sections of – Emperor Moctezuma’s palace, later the residence of conquistador Hernán Cortés and the first house of Government, endowing the hotel with an illustrious heritage.
Times may have changed and past glory faded, but the décor and furnishings of most of the en suite rooms defer subtly to the building’s colonial past. Not all rooms have views, but there is no denying the wonderful vantage point over the Zócalo available to guests from the rooftop terrace restaurant and bar. The central location also allows you the pick of a wide array of bars and restaurants in the neighbourhood.
Today you have a guided day trip out to the fringes of the city and its most prestigious artist quarter. Visit Coyoacán, which, before the city expanded to absorb it, was a colonial village. This neighbourhood still has its own identity, with narrow streets, plazas, cafés and a lively arty atmosphere.
Walk through the main plaza, churches and beautiful old buildings, including the house of conqueror Hernán Cortés. Visit Frida Kahlo’s home, where the great artist was born, lived much of her life, and eventually died. The house is a treasure trove, not only of her paintings, but also of innumerable artefacts associated with her and her husband, famous muralist Diego Rivera.
Continue to the floating gardens of Xochimilco, which were once connected to the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan (now Mexico City) by a causeway, and where the Aztecs grew much of their food. Navigate the tranquil tree-lined canals on board a traditional ‘trajinera’, a flower-decked wooden punt, and will discover a little of how Aztec life was before the conquest.
Nothing can detract from the Zócalo Central’s brilliant location on the Zócalo (main square) in the capital’s historic centre, not far from the airport. It is built on the site of – and maintains remaining sections of – Emperor Moctezuma’s palace, later the residence of conquistador Hernán Cortés and the first house of Government, endowing the hotel with an illustrious heritage.
Times may have changed and past glory faded, but the décor and furnishings of most of the en suite rooms defer subtly to the building’s colonial past. Not all rooms have views, but there is no denying the wonderful vantage point over the Zócalo available to guests from the rooftop terrace restaurant and bar. The central location also allows you the pick of a wide array of bars and restaurants in the neighbourhood.
En route to the World Heritage Site of Puebla, a 3hr drive from Mexico City, you’ll stop in Tonantzintla to visit the unique Santa María church renowned for its elaborate and unique stucco interior – a beautiful example of indigenous artisan work combining Mexican and European Christian elements.
Then you’ll continue on to Cholula to visit the remains of the Great Pyramid of Cholula, which measure 450m along each side of the base and is an impressive 65m high, making it larger in volume than Egypt’s Cheops pyramid.
You’ll arrive in Puebla in time for lunch at the traditional La Fonda de Santa Clara restaurant where you’ll be encouraged to taste mole poblano – Mexico’s national dish – that fuses a flavoursome array of chillies in a thick, rich, chocolate-tinged sauce. Finally, you’ll explore Puebla’s colonial centre that is lined with churches and provincial mansions, adorned with the delicately hand-painted talavera tiles – Puebla’s finest attraction.
The Quinta Real in Puebla, formerly a convent, took five years to rebuild from dereliction and today its frescoes and courtyards are exquisitely restored. The centrepiece is a huge courtyard, with a second smaller courtyard ringed by an unusual double layer of arches – particularly atmospheric by night.
The hotel and its rooms are decorated in beautifully rich Mexican reds and deep ochres. In reception there is a monolithic door carved from a single piece of volcanic rock, while chandeliers and heavy oak furniture blend perfectly with the historic ambience. There are three palatial suites, one of which is housed within the former chapel.
At leisure in Puebla.
The Quinta Real in Puebla, formerly a convent, took five years to rebuild from dereliction and today its frescoes and courtyards are exquisitely restored. The centrepiece is a huge courtyard, with a second smaller courtyard ringed by an unusual double layer of arches – particularly atmospheric by night.
The hotel and its rooms are decorated in beautifully rich Mexican reds and deep ochres. In reception there is a monolithic door carved from a single piece of volcanic rock, while chandeliers and heavy oak furniture blend perfectly with the historic ambience. There are three palatial suites, one of which is housed within the former chapel.
Leave Puebla and head by road to the city of Oaxaca, set among arid mountains. The capital of the region, it has airy patios and graceful arcades and is famed for its colourful market, serapes, crafts and dances. The city’s historical centre, was declared a UNESCO world historic site in 1987.
The population in this area is still dominated by Zapotec and Mixtec indians, but the town has many examples of well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, some fine museums and a thriving artistic community, as well as a wonderful climate. The peace and quiet of the cobbled streets is a welcome contrast to the busy capital.
You can easily explore the city on foot with the main square, the Zócalo, and the boulevard of Calle Alcalá being free of traffic. Visit the city’s government palace, cathedral and Santa Domingo church, as well as its colourful food market. Oaxaca is a centre for Mexican art, so there are also opportunities to purchase arts and crafts in its gift shops.
A cosy mid-range hotel right in the heart of Oaxaca’s historical centre.
Along a cobbled street this colonial-style building is just two blocks from the bustling main square making it a convenient base for exploring Oaxaca.
Spread over three floors, find spacious, colourful rooms decorated with local crafts and elegant wrought iron furniture. The leafy courtyard is particularly inviting with a selection of tables and chairs nestled amongst tropical plants, perfect for relaxing in a shady spot. Breakfast is served in the ground floor restaurant which is also a popular place for lunch and dinner.
Head out of town to nearby Monte Albán, the grand Zapotec ceremonial centre. Strategically located on an artificially levelled hill where three valleys meet, the site has superb views over the surrounding area. There is time to explore the pyramids, steep staircases, walls covered with strange carvings, burial chambers and temples. Although there is a theory that the main plaza was a religious ceremonial site, most of the imagery all over the place is decidedly militaristic, featuring tortured captives and devastated conquered settlements.
A cosy mid-range hotel right in the heart of Oaxaca’s historical centre.
Along a cobbled street this colonial-style building is just two blocks from the bustling main square making it a convenient base for exploring Oaxaca.
Spread over three floors, find spacious, colourful rooms decorated with local crafts and elegant wrought iron furniture. The leafy courtyard is particularly inviting with a selection of tables and chairs nestled amongst tropical plants, perfect for relaxing in a shady spot. Breakfast is served in the ground floor restaurant which is also a popular place for lunch and dinner.
At leisure in Oaxaca.
A cosy mid-range hotel right in the heart of Oaxaca’s historical centre.
Along a cobbled street this colonial-style building is just two blocks from the bustling main square making it a convenient base for exploring Oaxaca.
Spread over three floors, find spacious, colourful rooms decorated with local crafts and elegant wrought iron furniture. The leafy courtyard is particularly inviting with a selection of tables and chairs nestled amongst tropical plants, perfect for relaxing in a shady spot. Breakfast is served in the ground floor restaurant which is also a popular place for lunch and dinner.
Since its completion in early 2024, the new federal highway between Oaxaca city and the Pacific coastline of Oaxaca state has cut journey times in half. The route twists and turns its way through the mountains towards the sparkling white sands at Huatulco in around 5 hours.
Huatulco was an unassuming crossroads town on the Pacific coast until the 1980s, when it was earmarked as the centre of an ambitious tourism project designed around its series of bays and served by an international airport. Originally intended to rival Cancún on the Riviera Maya, it remained markedly more low-key and laid-back than its Caribbean counterpart. It is especially popular with holidaymakers from Mexico and Canada. Huatulco’s location is certainly impressive, set around nine stunning bays and surrounded by lush tropical forest bubbling with wildlife. Your Mediterranean-style hotel is located on a pretty bay.
The low-rise beach resort Camino Real Zaashila sits on its own beach at Huatulco, where there are nine bays along a rugged Pacific coastline. With 151 rooms it is not overwhelmingly huge, and consists of a jumble of smart accommodation in a Moorish/Mediterranean style. The predominant colour and interior décor is light and airy, with simple but well made modern minimalist furnishings.
As befits a resort of its size and superior quality, there is a large menu of facilities. The property is dominated by a huge free-form swimming pool and there’s also a children’s pool, tennis court, Jacuzzi, gym and boutique. You have four restaurants to choose from with different specialities from local cuisine to Asian dishes (meals are not included so you pay only for what you order). A fully comprehensive spa is on site, offering a variety of massages and facial treatments.
Relax in the hotel’s tropical gardens or around the immense free-form pool. The beaches are exquisite and there are loads of water-sports, activities and excursions at the property or easily booked.
The low-rise beach resort Camino Real Zaashila sits on its own beach at Huatulco, where there are nine bays along a rugged Pacific coastline. With 151 rooms it is not overwhelmingly huge, and consists of a jumble of smart accommodation in a Moorish/Mediterranean style. The predominant colour and interior décor is light and airy, with simple but well made modern minimalist furnishings.
As befits a resort of its size and superior quality, there is a large menu of facilities. The property is dominated by a huge free-form swimming pool and there’s also a children’s pool, tennis court, Jacuzzi, gym and boutique. You have four restaurants to choose from with different specialities from local cuisine to Asian dishes (meals are not included so you pay only for what you order). A fully comprehensive spa is on site, offering a variety of massages and facial treatments.
Transfer to Huatulco international airport for your onward flight (not included).
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Mexico - Mexico City
Mexico City is one of the world’s great capital cities, where ancient civilisations, colonial heritage and contemporary culture converge. Built on the foundations of the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán, this vast metropolis offers everything from historic architecture and world-class museums to vibrant neighbourhoods and exceptional gastronomy.
Mexico - Colonial and silver towns
Centuries of silver wealth built some of Mexico’s most beautiful towns. Colonial & Silver Towns holidays take in the hills and fertile valleys north-west of Mexico City, where Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Morelia, Querétaro and Puebla showcase the country’s rich colonial heritage, vibrant cultural life and enduring architectural beauty.
Mexico - Oaxaca
Few places in Mexico bring indigenous tradition, colonial architecture, exceptional food and ancient civilisations together quite like Oaxaca. Tucked beyond the Sierra Madre mountains in southern Mexico, it’s known for its colourful markets, artisan workshops, lively fiestas and remarkable archaeological heritage, all packed into one of the country’s most culturally rich regions.
Mexico - Southern Pacific Coast
The Sierra Madre mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to sandy beaches, rolling surf and Mexico’s beautiful coastal scenery. Southern Pacific Coast holidays take in everything from the sheltered bays of Huatulco and the surf culture of Puerto Escondido to the resort areas around Zihuatanejo and Manzanillo, combining relaxation, adventure and natural beauty.
On this varied cultural holiday, based in elegant and evocative accommodation, you’ll visit the multi-layered capital, Mexico City, where the Aztec and Spanish heritage blends or co-exists; and the culturally magnificent gems Puebla and Oaxaca.
Then move on to stroll through the cobbled streets and soak up the colonial atmosphere in the Spanish planned city of Puebla; followed by the isolated, rugged southern highlands, dotted with small weaving and craft villages, which compose the region around Oaxaca, which has its own distinctive identity.
Known as Mexico’s artistic centre, Oaxaca has both indigenous and colonial features: the markets, artisan workshops, rituals and multiple fiestas reflecting the native culture while the baroque architecture, plazas and museums display the Spanish influence.
Mexico is one of Latin America’s most vibrant and entertaining destinations, with a huge diversity of historical, cultural and natural attractions. Having had your eyes opened to all that, round off your holiday lounging on the white sand beaches that fringe the bays, smothered in tropical foliage, on the Pacific beach at Huatulco.
Kathryn Rhodes
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Transport
All transport on this holiday is by road, allowing you to appreciate the diverse landscapes of south-west Mexico, from the Sierra Madre mountains to the tropical Pacific coast. The 3 principal road journeys are: Mexico City to Puebla (3 hours), Puebla to Oaxaca (5 hours) and Oaxaca to the Pacific coast at Huatulco (5 hours). If you prefer, there’s also the option to fly between Oaxaca City and Huatulco with a small local airline. Please ask for details.
- Accommodation
At all levels, we prefer smaller hotels with some local character; whether one of a local chain or independent. On the odd occasion where we use an international chain, we choose properties with some historic or unique features.
For this trip we have selected high class, historically evocative, romantic and nostalgic hotels, while on the beach the property has a Mediterranean style which nevertheless fits in well with the natural environment. Of course all have, well-equipped rooms, private bathroom and air-conditioning.
- Meals
Breakfast daily.
- Guides
We carefully select our local partners, some of whom we have worked with for over 25 years. Their English-speaking guides understand the expectations of our clients very well, and are consistently singled out for praise by the latter on their return.
- Summary Of Nights
13 days, 12 nights: Mexico City 3; Puebla 2, Oaxaca 3; Huatulco 4.
- Currency
The unit of currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in all major cities and towns, and so taking a debit or credit card with a PIN number is the most convenient way of withdrawing money while on your trip, and in most shops and restaurants you can also pay by card. However, since cards can get lost, damaged, withheld or blocked, you should not rely exclusively on a card to access funds.
We recommend that additionally you take a reasonable quantity of US dollars cash (no more than is covered by your insurance), which you can exchange into local currency, and possibly some travellers’ cheques (American Express are the most widely accepted), though these are gradually falling out of use. Dollar bills should be in good condition, soiled or torn bills may be refused. You can take sterling, but the exchange rate is not always competitive or even available, restricting the number of places where you can change money.
- Daily Spend
It is very difficult to give a guideline for essential expenses but a budget of around US$50 per person per day should cover the cost of meals not included in the holiday itinerary, drinks and the odd souvenir. Eat at the best restaurants and you will pay considerably more.
- Tipping
Tips are welcomed and local guides often rely on their tip as a significant proportion of their income.
Most service industry workers will expect a tip of some kind and so it is useful to have spare change for hotel porters, taxi drivers and the like. It is common to leave 10 – 12% in restaurants.
Tipping guidelines can be found in our Briefing Dossier.
- Insurance
Travel insurance is essential.
Details of our recommended policy can be found on our Travel Insurance page.
- Visas
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- Airport Taxes
If you have purchased your flights through Journey Latin America, the international departure tax is usually included in the ticket.
- Trip Suitability
Generally this top-of-the-range holiday is suitable for most visitors, including families. Should you have a disability, please contact us.
- Climate
In Mexico City and the mountains towns the climate is temperate all year round and, because of the altitude it never gets too hot.
The wet/rainy season lasts through June to August, which usually means a couple of hours of rain in the afternoon. Don’t be discouraged from visiting the mountains during rainy season, when you’ll see lush, green landscape, as opposed to the dry season’s parched, brown landscape – and it often only rains in the late afternoons and evenings. During the rest of the year there is little or no rain.
Temperatures can drop to freezing in Mexico City and Oaxaca over the winter months.
On the Pacific coast, temperatures typically vary between 21°C and 33°C over the year, with a peak season of hot weather in April and May. The coolest weather occurs between December and February. There are 300 sunny days per year, with rain falling between June and September, the wettest month.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
For day-to-day wear in the highlands you should go prepared to encounter all seasons – a light fleece jacket and a Gore-Tex outer shell makes a good combination. Trousers, skirt or shorts made from light, quick-drying synthetic materials work well. If you plan to eat in smart restaurants, although clothing is not formal (no need for jacket and tie), something quite smart would be appropriate.
Strong, comfortable footwear is essential and you should bring insect repellent, sun block and sun glasses. You should take swimwear for the beach and pools.
Please get in touch with the office before departure if you have any doubts.
- Vaccinations
Preventative vaccinations are recommended against the following; typhoid; polio; tetanus; hepatitis A. For specific requirements you must consult your GP.
You can also find helpful information on the Masta Travel Health website.
- When is the best time to go to Mexico?
It’s a year-round destination. Over half the country enjoys temperate highland weather, while the coasts are mostly sunny, hot and relatively humid. The northwest has an arid desert climate. Elsewhere most rain falls from Jun to Sep though precipitation can be expected up to Nov. Hurricanes are possible around the Gulf of Mexico and Yucatán Peninsula Jul – Nov.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Mexico?
The official language of Mexico is Spanish and indigenous languages.
- What is Mexico's official currency?
The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso. Notes can be withdrawn from the many ATMs using a UK credit or debit card.
Credit card or debit cards are widely accepted, although cash is still useful in Mexico. You’ll need some Pesos (or US$) cash for smaller expenses such as tips or souvenirs. Pesos can be obtained locally at ATMs or a Casa de Cambio. - What is the time difference between Mexico and the UK?
The time difference between the UK and Mexico is GMT-6 hours; ;and -7 hours in Southern Baja California and the Copper Canyon.
- Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins.
If you are entering and/or leaving Mexico via a land border, you are required by the authorities to complete an electronic Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) form via the Gobierno do Mexico portal on https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/en/solicitud.html#
We recommend doing this several days before crossing the land border, as you need to upload a scan of your passport to complete the process and print the form once completed. If you arriving by air and leaving by land, you can ask our local partners to assist you with this process once you are in Mexico.
Anyone with a different nationality should ensuire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need for Mexico?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What other countries combine well with Mexico?
A visit to neighbouring Belize, where there are luxury eco-lodges, superb diving and snorkelling all embraced in British Caribbean cultural heritage.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events in Mexico?
Independence Day, 16 Sep Celebrations throughout the country.
Día de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, 1 – 2 Nov. Celebrated throughout the country.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Discover the private world of celebrated artist Frida Kahlo at her family home in leafy Coyoacán.
Explore the colonial baroque churches and lively food markets in Puebla.
Wander past historic buildings and leafy plazas on a guided walking tour before visiting an authentic food market.
Take a guided tour of the ancient Zapotec city of Monte Albán, an important archaeological site with sweeping views from its mountain-top location.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
A classy Mediterranean-style resort on its own beach on the Pacific Ocean at Huatulco.
Unpretentious hotel with an illustrious heritage, located right on the main square in the city’s atmospheric historic centre.
Papagaio
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