Treasures of Central America: Heritage of the Aztec and Mayan Empires
19 days from £6,000
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.
Mexico City was built on the site of Tenochtitlán, the capital of the Aztec empire, and it lies at 2,250m above sea level. Vast, chaotic and vibrant, this sprawling megalopolis of more than 20 million people has a multitude of attractions. You’ll be spending 3 nights here.
The grand-looking yet unpretentious Hampton Inn – part of the Hilton chain – occupies a prime position within the capital’s bustling colonial centre. Housed within a historic building with a rather Gothic exterior, the property has some particularly nice features including an atmospherically lit roof terrace and an atrium with an impressive stained glass ceiling.
Rooms are clean, spacious and well-equipped, with dark oak furniture and Mexican artwork. There are two restaurants offering a choice between traditional regional cuisine and international seafood dishes, and a gym with city views. Particularly attentive staff lends this mid-range option a touch of class.
Guided tour of the city centre and Teotihuacan. The arrival of the Spanish conquistadores was seismic event in the story of the Aztec people. Their magnificent causewayed city was razed, and the invading Spaniards rebuilt it in their own style; the development fuelled by silver mining. This is all reflected in the cultural vestiges apparent all over the modern-day city which you’ll see during your guided tour. Visit the zócalo, or main square, monumental Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace with its murals by Diego Rivera.
Later, head into the countryside towards the megalithic archaeological site of Teotihuacan. Dating back over 2,000 years, it was once one of the largest cities in the world. It is hugely influential in the historical narrative of modern Mexico and, although 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 climb its vertiginous steps for a panorama of the ruins.
If you have time we suggest you visit the world-class Museum of Anthropology, exhibiting remarkable, well displayed Aztec artefacts alongside items from other ancient civilisations. There’s also a scale model of the lake-city Tenochtitlán. It’s a fantastic introduction to the superb and sometimes grisly artistic achievements of Mexico’s early inhabitants.
The grand-looking yet unpretentious Hampton Inn – part of the Hilton chain – occupies a prime position within the capital’s bustling colonial centre. Housed within a historic building with a rather Gothic exterior, the property has some particularly nice features including an atmospherically lit roof terrace and an atrium with an impressive stained glass ceiling.
Rooms are clean, spacious and well-equipped, with dark oak furniture and Mexican artwork. There are two restaurants offering a choice between traditional regional cuisine and international seafood dishes, and a gym with city views. Particularly attentive staff lends this mid-range option a touch of class.
You’re at leisure today, although we have a very wide choice of excursions to make the most of your time. Our Travel Experts will be happy to discuss these with you. If you’re considering this holiday, you’ll be specifically interested in Mexico’s ancient civilisations, so a day trip to Tula could well be of interest.
Tula, located 80km north of the capital was probably an ancient city of the Toltecs, at its peak between AD 900 and 1150. Its main attractions are its giant 4.5m-high stone warrior figures which cut a dramatic profile against a deep blue sky. A visit to Tula can be combined with the town of Tepotzotlán. It has a lovely main square and one of Mexico’s most ornate baroque churches – the Iglesia de San Francisco Javier, accessed via the adjacent huge monastery. The church and monastery combine to form the Museo Nacional del Virreinato – a collection of religious paintings, statues, chalices and furniture.
The grand-looking yet unpretentious Hampton Inn – part of the Hilton chain – occupies a prime position within the capital’s bustling colonial centre. Housed within a historic building with a rather Gothic exterior, the property has some particularly nice features including an atmospherically lit roof terrace and an atrium with an impressive stained glass ceiling.
Rooms are clean, spacious and well-equipped, with dark oak furniture and Mexican artwork. There are two restaurants offering a choice between traditional regional cuisine and international seafood dishes, and a gym with city views. Particularly attentive staff lends this mid-range option a touch of class.
It is a 2-3hr drive to Puebla, one of the cities which most evoke the country’s Spanish colonial past. Beyond the sprawling suburbs, the gorgeous historic centre is groaning with baroque churches (70 in the centre alone) and thousands of other graceful buildings embellished with the hand-painted ceramic maiólica tiles which it manufactures.
A conservative, strongly catholic and very traditional community, it took the ‘ wrong’ side in the War of Independence and has been involved in some bloody battles. Explore the city with a local guide and visit the hilltop pre-Columbian site of Cholula. This huge pyramid is larger than the Egyptian Pyramid of Cheops, but today is not much more than a grassy mound, topped by….a church! Overnight 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 by road and travel for 5-hours southeast across the Sierra Madre mountains to the joyful city of Oaxaca. 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.
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.
The agreeable little Casa Conzatti occupies a building inspired by the city’s prevailing colonial style of architecture. It is in a quiet corner of Oaxaca, next to a charming park and less than a kilometre from the main square.
There are three attractive villa-style blocks housing the restaurant and guest rooms, all sparkly clean with whitewashed walls, tiled flooring and an airy feel. Décor in the rooms themselves is simple with bright Mexican colours setting the tone. There are some nice extra facilities not always present in mid-range hotels, such as a tea and coffee maker in the rooms, free Wi-fi in the restaurant, safe, ironing kit and hair dryer.
As you enter the building there is a patio with table and chairs – a great suntrap on one of the city’s many clear and bright days. The roof terrace is also lovely, with views over the picturesque park.
Depart Oaxaca for the Zapotec ruins of Mitla, 46km away. The main attraction is its impressive inlaid stone mosaics that decorate its palaces. Best preserved of the ruins are its half-dozen 38m long columns in its centre.
On the return trip, stop at the huge 2-3,000-year-old ahuehuete tree, one of the oldest in the world, which dominates the parish church of Tule village. With a girth of 42m and a diameter of 14m, it also claims to be the widest tree in the Americas.
A final stop will be at a mezcal distillery to learn about the production process of this agave-based spirit, made only in Mexico and mostly in Oaxaca.
The agreeable little Casa Conzatti occupies a building inspired by the city’s prevailing colonial style of architecture. It is in a quiet corner of Oaxaca, next to a charming park and less than a kilometre from the main square.
There are three attractive villa-style blocks housing the restaurant and guest rooms, all sparkly clean with whitewashed walls, tiled flooring and an airy feel. Décor in the rooms themselves is simple with bright Mexican colours setting the tone. There are some nice extra facilities not always present in mid-range hotels, such as a tea and coffee maker in the rooms, free Wi-fi in the restaurant, safe, ironing kit and hair dryer.
As you enter the building there is a patio with table and chairs – a great suntrap on one of the city’s many clear and bright days. The roof terrace is also lovely, with views over the picturesque park.
Fly via Mexico City to Mérida in the Yucatán peninsula. The city was founded by the Maya and named Tiho. In 1542 it was conquered by the Spanish conquistadores who dismantled the Mayan pyramids and used the stones as foundations for the cathedral.
Mérida then became an immensely wealthy city, described as the ‘Paris of the New World’. Its money came mainly from the production of sisal, cactus fibres that are used to make rope, and it was culturally and geographically isolated from the rest of the country until transport infrastructure reached it in the 1950s.
Today Mérida retains a lovely colonial centre, with a mix of opulent and crumbly buildings but it is a modern, bustling, thriving city, with lots of local character, some excellent places to eat and good shops and markets. The inhabitants, descendants of the Maya and the colonists, love a good fiesta, and you may well find one going on, with live music and market stalls, while you are there.
Casa Lucia is close to the heart of Mérida, with Parque Santa Lucia square on its doorstep and the Plaza Principal within 4 blocks.
Casa Lucia makes a great base for a day or two at leisure in this joyful city. Today’s hotel comprises a combination of historic Mérida townhouses, with modern additions, and it has held on to its sense of place. Décor very much leans towards the traditional with period furnishings and chandeliers setting the scene, although modern comforts remain a priority. Guest rooms with air-con, a garden with fountains and an outdoor pool makes this a handy refuge from the heat of a typical Yucatecan afternoon.
From Mérida drive to Chichén Itzá (3 hrs), the best presented of all the Mayan sites, dominated by the huge, symmetrical, stepped El Castillo pyramid. The origins of the site are mysterious: it appears to have Toltec as well as Mayan influences.
The site hosts the largest and best-preserved ball court in the Americas, the venue for an ancient ritual game that was played throughout the continent, but which is still not fully understood. Archaeologists have not been able to determine whether it was the losers or winners who were decapitated, but judging from the gory carvings along the base of the court’s walls, someone certainly came to an unpleasant end. There is also a huge sacred well.
Casa Lucia is close to the heart of Mérida, with Parque Santa Lucia square on its doorstep and the Plaza Principal within 4 blocks.
Casa Lucia makes a great base for a day or two at leisure in this joyful city. Today’s hotel comprises a combination of historic Mérida townhouses, with modern additions, and it has held on to its sense of place. Décor very much leans towards the traditional with period furnishings and chandeliers setting the scene, although modern comforts remain a priority. Guest rooms with air-con, a garden with fountains and an outdoor pool makes this a handy refuge from the heat of a typical Yucatecan afternoon.
Guided excursion to the Mayan temple complex at Uxmal, 80km from Mérida. The site is dominated by the majestic Pyramid of the Magician, alongside which is an elegant ‘nunnery’ quadrangle with Puuc-style complex stonework pieced together like a jigsaw puzzle. Strolling through the ruins, cradled in dense vegetation shading the visitor from the scorching sun is an almost mystical experience.
Continue to Kabah, with its incredible Palace of Masks, with intricate mosaics representing the face of Chac the rain god 260 times.
Casa Lucia is close to the heart of Mérida, with Parque Santa Lucia square on its doorstep and the Plaza Principal within 4 blocks.
Casa Lucia makes a great base for a day or two at leisure in this joyful city. Today’s hotel comprises a combination of historic Mérida townhouses, with modern additions, and it has held on to its sense of place. Décor very much leans towards the traditional with period furnishings and chandeliers setting the scene, although modern comforts remain a priority. Guest rooms with air-con, a garden with fountains and an outdoor pool makes this a handy refuge from the heat of a typical Yucatecan afternoon.
Less than 3 hours south-west of Merida and facing the aquamarine Gulf of Mexico, the colonial centre of Campeche is an unsung delight – ever in the shadow of much more visited Merida. It makes for a very attractive stopover for the night. The 18-19th century walled central heart of Campeche is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site – deservedly so. Many of the stately buildings, residences, public offices and churches have been restored, their elegant façades washed with pastel colours reflecting the luminosity of the Caribbean. There’s also a lovely waterfront promenade, along which citizens stroll or cycle at sunset.
Handsome colonial-style hotel ideally situated for exploring the historic centre of Campeche.
Close to the heart of the sultry port city of Campeche, the ochre façade of this traditional, colonial-style hotel sits easily with the colourful architecture of this relatively little-visited provincial capital. You’re just a stone’s throw from the city’s tightly woven grid of historic streets and the lovely Plaza de Independencia, with its cathedral and stately colonnades. The hotel has somewhat faded charm but has all you need for a brief visit, including comfy guest rooms equipped with air-con to deal with the gulf coast heat, a restaurant/bar and a small pool. Most junior suites come with a balcony or terrace.
Today’s drive to Palenque takes 5-6 hours along the main highway.
Leaving Campeche and reaching the western edge of the Yucatan Peninsula, gulf coastal towns such as Champoton and Seybaplaya are popular resorts for locals escaping the heat. The approach road to the city of Campeche itself skirts the ocean, with some soothing views to prepare you for your arrival in the state capital. The last few hours to Palenque take you through the tropical lowland plains of Tabasco state, the original seat of the Olmec civilisation. Dotted with palms and farmsteads this is cattle country, although Tabasco is also a major oil producing state.
Palenque is the jumping off point to visit the splendid Mayan ruins set in emerald rainforest just east of town. Your hotel is in lush grounds a short drive from the relaxed, modern town of Palenque which has a few informal restaurants, shops and bars.
Enveloped within the tropical environs of Palenque, the cabins and relaxation areas that make up the Chan Kah are spread throughout lushly overgrown gardens and framed by towering trees and palms. A stream trickles through the grounds and the surrounding jungle resounds with the calls of birds and monkeys.
Wood and stone cottages house guest rooms with spacious private bathrooms and patios and are linked by paths winding through the lush foliage. There’s also a restaurant and bar area and a free-form swimming pool fed by the river. It’s possible to walk to the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, which lie 4km away, or take public transportation.
Guided tour of Palenque ruins. The Mayan site of Palenque is set on a hill amongst lush green rainforest abundant with monkeys and birdlife, and a majority of the buildings remains unexcavated. The temples that have been renovated are in remarkably good condition, the most impressive being the Templo de las Inscripciones . Also impressive is Temple 13 that houses a tomb and red-coloured skeleton believed to have been a queen.
Enveloped within the tropical environs of Palenque, the cabins and relaxation areas that make up the Chan Kah are spread throughout lushly overgrown gardens and framed by towering trees and palms. A stream trickles through the grounds and the surrounding jungle resounds with the calls of birds and monkeys.
Wood and stone cottages house guest rooms with spacious private bathrooms and patios and are linked by paths winding through the lush foliage. There’s also a restaurant and bar area and a free-form swimming pool fed by the river. It’s possible to walk to the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque, which lie 4km away, or take public transportation.
Rise early for the drive to El Ceibo on the remote Mexico-Guatemala border, where upon completion of formalities, our Guatemalan driver will meet you for the onward leg to Tikal, in the steamy Peten region of northern Guatemala. There’s around 8 hours of driving today, long enough to get a sense of just how remote and extensive the Maya civilisation was.
Jungle Lodge is shrouded by the rainforest of Tikal’s archaeological park, next to the entrance to the ruins themselves. Its location is undoubtedly its main attraction – the lodge is the only quality hotel this close to Tikal ruins; otherwise the nearest option is a 45-minute drive away.
This is a long-standing property offering rustic rooms in whitewashed cottages dotted around a tropical garden. Each has wooden flooring, polished furniture, discreet Mayan artwork, ceiling fan and a porch with chairs where you can relax and observe monkeys, toucans and other exotic species which populate the grounds.
There is also a modest swimming pool fringed by tropical foliage, ideal for cooling off after a hot and tiring day touring the ruins. The restaurant serves a range of local and international dishes, and there is also a games room and cinema screening documentaries.
There will be a guided tour of the archaeological site at Tikal. Steep-stepped and vertiginous temples emerge high above the rainforest canopy; the views over the site from one of these ancient skyscrapers are unforgettable. Spend the day wandering through the palace complexes.
Tikal was one of the largest and most important Mayan city states, reaching its peak around AD800 prior to its mysterious demise. The pyramids and temples seem frozen in time, but you’re brought back to the present by the roar of curious Howler monkeys and lithe Spider monkeys as they swing through the trees; and by flashes of colour as toucans and parrots take flight.
Jungle Lodge is shrouded by the rainforest of Tikal’s archaeological park, next to the entrance to the ruins themselves. Its location is undoubtedly its main attraction – the lodge is the only quality hotel this close to Tikal ruins; otherwise the nearest option is a 45-minute drive away.
This is a long-standing property offering rustic rooms in whitewashed cottages dotted around a tropical garden. Each has wooden flooring, polished furniture, discreet Mayan artwork, ceiling fan and a porch with chairs where you can relax and observe monkeys, toucans and other exotic species which populate the grounds.
There is also a modest swimming pool fringed by tropical foliage, ideal for cooling off after a hot and tiring day touring the ruins. The restaurant serves a range of local and international dishes, and there is also a games room and cinema screening documentaries.
It is a 4.5-5hr drive to the Mayan site of Quiriguá. Here, some inscriptions relating to the measurement of time can be found. The principal features of these ruins are the enormous ‘stelae’ exquisitely carved with glyphs and ‘zoomorphs’ representing a dynastic history of its rulers. Continue to Copán, a further 2hrs and just across the border in Honduras.
This friendly, family-owned Marina Copan hotel is situated on the corner of the main square in the quaint little town of Copán Ruinas, less than 15 minutes’ walk from the impressive archaeological ruins. The grand old building, built in the 40s, has the feel of a historic townhouse in the same vein as the predominant local style, with rustic terracotta roofs and shady colonnaded walkways.
Guestrooms are adorned with paintings by local artists, and are neutrally decorated with ceiling beams and tiled floors. Suites are particularly roomy and include extras such as a Jacuzzi bath and kitchenette.
The hotel has a second floor restaurant with an outside terrace overlooking the attractive free-form swimming pool which flows invitingly through the central courtyard. There are numerous small alcoves where guests can relax amongst tropical plants and fountains. Live Marimba music is regularly performed at weekends.
One kilometre from town, Copán is one of the most outstanding Mayan ruins in the region. It is not as immense as the sites of Tikal or Chichen Itzá, but the Maya craftsmanship has survived the sands of time – evident on the intricate carvings of 21 stone columns, or stelae.
The 3m-high columns stand among temples, ball courts and the renowned hieroglyphic stairway with 1,250 blocks carved with glyphs – the longest inscribed text in the New World. Copán is believed to have been in its ‘golden era’ between 553AD and 738AD, before falling into decline soon after.
This friendly, family-owned Marina Copan hotel is situated on the corner of the main square in the quaint little town of Copán Ruinas, less than 15 minutes’ walk from the impressive archaeological ruins. The grand old building, built in the 40s, has the feel of a historic townhouse in the same vein as the predominant local style, with rustic terracotta roofs and shady colonnaded walkways.
Guestrooms are adorned with paintings by local artists, and are neutrally decorated with ceiling beams and tiled floors. Suites are particularly roomy and include extras such as a Jacuzzi bath and kitchenette.
The hotel has a second floor restaurant with an outside terrace overlooking the attractive free-form swimming pool which flows invitingly through the central courtyard. There are numerous small alcoves where guests can relax amongst tropical plants and fountains. Live Marimba music is regularly performed at weekends.
Drive via Guatemala City to Antigua. This once-great city was sidelined by the Spanish Empire following earthquake damage. Today, with its sunny backdrop of orchards and volcanoes, it’s a colonial masterpiece, its shady plazas, baroque churches, boutiques and chic restaurants popular with visitors. It has, however, one of the most un-touristy fruit and vegetable markets in Latin America.
The elegant Villa Colonial is on a tree-lined street, 20 minutes’ walk from Antigua’s main square. True to its name, the building boasts a colonial façade and rooms around a large tropical courtyard garden. The buildings are attractively painted in soft pastel colours, and part of the hotel is designed to look like a colonial street with rooms on either side.
Set on two floors, there are simply decorated rooms with tile floors, private bathrooms, smart TVs, Wifi and either a shared balcony or patio.
The hotel has a restaurant and bar with views of the surrounding volcanoes, as well as an events rooms, and small, shallow pool in the garden.
The city is a work of art, with cobbled streets, overhanging tiled roofs and a beautiful, leafy central plaza. There’s an abundance of huge ruined churches, convents and monasteries, testimony to a time when Antigua was the country’s capital and its main religious centre. It seems that every doorway opens onto a fragrant tiled courtyard.
A dramatic backdrop of smouldering volcanoes and ruined churches and convents surrounded by parkland bear witness to the city’s destruction a volcanic eruption in 1773.
Antigua is a welcoming place to relax and unwind, do some shopping in tempting boutiques and art galleries, and enjoy the excellent food in a large range of restaurants and pavement cafés. Wander around the courtyards and enjoy the floral displays in beautifully tended gardens.
The elegant Villa Colonial is on a tree-lined street, 20 minutes’ walk from Antigua’s main square. True to its name, the building boasts a colonial façade and rooms around a large tropical courtyard garden. The buildings are attractively painted in soft pastel colours, and part of the hotel is designed to look like a colonial street with rooms on either side.
Set on two floors, there are simply decorated rooms with tile floors, private bathrooms, smart TVs, Wifi and either a shared balcony or patio.
The hotel has a restaurant and bar with views of the surrounding volcanoes, as well as an events rooms, and small, shallow pool in the garden.
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 - Chiapas, San Cristobal and Palenque
Chiapas is a stronghold of indigenous lifestyle, where jungle, rivers, canyons and lakes form the backdrop to traditional settlements and some of the finest pre-Columbian ruins in Mexico. From the highland streets of San Cristóbal de las Casas to the rainforest temples of Palenque, this is Chiapas Mexico at its most atmospheric.
Mexico - Mérida, Chichén Itzá and the Yucatan
Ancient Maya cities rise out of the jungle, colonial towns, and the Caribbean, this is the Yucatán Peninsula Mexico’s most varied region has to offer. Sites like Chichén Itzá, Uxmal and Tulum sit within easy reach of colonial Mérida and the Riviera Maya, making Yucatán Peninsula holidays one of the most rewarding trips.
Honduras - Copan
Copán holidays centre on one of the Americas’ most remarkable Maya sites, where intricately carved stelae, towering temples and the New World’s longest hieroglyphic inscription reveal the story of a once-powerful civilisation. Set among jungle-clad hills, it remains Honduras’ greatest cultural treasure.
Guatemala - Antigua and the highlands
Once one of Spanish America’s greatest cities, Antigua is now a beautifully preserved colonial gem of cobbled streets, shady plazas and pastel-coloured façades. Surrounded by three volcanoes and within easy reach of the Highlands’ vibrant markets and traditional villages, Antigua Guatemala holidays offer one of Central America’s most captivating introductions to the country.
Travel from the pre-Aztec ruins of cities and temples around multi-layered Mexico City – where you will appreciate the Spanish colonial legacy in all its glory – to ancient Aztec pyramids, as well as Mayan temples and fortresses in the mountains around Oaxaca. Go on to explore the evocative ancient monuments, testimony to bygone Mayan empires, which lay hidden and silent for centuries amid the deep valleys and jungles of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Mexico is one of Latin America’s most vibrant and culturally rich destinations, with a huge diversity of historical, cultural and natural attractions. Its archaeological richness is second to none. Most of the sites, including Aztec pyramids and Mayan Aztec temples are easily accessible, but many still have a feeling of remoteness; evoking the atmosphere of bygone times.
Cross the border into the jungles of northern Guatemala to explore Tikal which was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979: this vast Mayan site is one of the most impressive of its type on the continent, with iconic ruins of temples and pyramids; and on to Copán in Honduras, an ancient Mayan city, with its superlative intricate stonework.
Heloise Buxton
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
Most of the travel on this holiday – which begins in Mexico City and travels all the way to Honduras – is overland, just one of the aspects which makes the route uniquely interesting. Although there are several long days of travelling (journey times are given in the day to day description), you’ll get to enjoy the scenery and glimpse local life in towns and villages along the way. The journey between Oaxaca and Merida is done by air.
- Accommodation
This trip combines mid-range small, friendly hotels, colonial or modern in style with well-equipped rooms, private bathroom and heating/air-conditioning and superior accommodation with plenty of local colour and special features.
- 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 clients on their return.
- Summary Of Nights
19 days, 18 nights: Mexico City 3; Puebla 1; Oaxaca 2; Mérida 3; Campeche 1; Palenque 2; Tikal 2; Copán Ruinas 2; Antigua 2.
- Optional Excursions
There are a number of half-day, full-day or longer excursions or activities you may wish to consider in order to customise your holiday to cater for your interests. Please contact us to discuss these further or to add them to your itinerary before you depart.
- Currency
The unit of currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso; in Guatemala the quetzal, in Honduras the lempira.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in all major cities and towns in Mexico, 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, if necessary, in Honduras and Guatemala. 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 expected 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
From 15 August 2024, UK passport holders require a visa for Honduras. Full UK passport holders do not need a visa for the other countries visited on this holiday (see below if travelling via the USA). 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 for a US Visa waiver..
- 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 fast-paced and excursion-packed holiday is suitable for most visitors, including families with older children. If 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 rarely gets too hot.
The wet/rainy season lasts through June to August, which usually means a couple of hours of rain in the afternoon. During the rainy season the mountains harbour a 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.
In the Yucatán peninsula, Tikal and Copán, expect a sub tropical climate. Mar-Apr are the hottest but also the driest months, while in Dec-Feb it can be chilly at the beginning and end of the day. Most rain falls between May-Oct when there are plenty of mosquitoes and other insects.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
For day-to-day wear you should go prepared to encounter all seasons – a light fleece jacket and a waterproof/breathable 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 repellant, sun block and sun glasses. You should take swimwear for the beach.
Please get in touch with the office before departure if you have any doubts. Good equipment is very important and hard to come by in Mexico.
- 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.
- When is the best time to visit Guatemala?
The best weather conditions in the upland areas are during the dry season Dec – May. It can be cold in the highlands in winter, while the jungle areas are hot and humid all year round. Culture lovers may opt to spend Easter in Antigua.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Guatemala?
The official language spoken in Guatemala is Spanish and indigenous indian languages mainly derived from Maya.
- What is the official currency of Guatemala?
The official currency in Guatemala is Quetzal. Notes can be withdrawn using a UK credit or debit card from the many ATMs. There’s at least one in most main towns. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK and each transaction is limited to about £100.
- What is the time difference between the UK and Guatemala?
The time difference between the UK and Guatemala is GMT-6 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Guatemala?
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. - What vaccinations do I need for Guatemala?
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.
- Which other countries combine well with Guatemala?
A visit to neighbouring Belize, where there are luxury eco-lodges, superb diving and snorkelling all embraced in British Caribbean cultural heritage; Copán, the ruined Mayan City of northern Honduras with its intricate carvings, accessible from Guatemala by road.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events in Guatemala?
Semana Santa, Easter. Celebrations throughout the country; especially impressive in Antigua.
Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, 1-2 Nov. Celebrated throughout the country.
Traditional fiestas: There are many festivals in Guatemala from giant kite flying near Antigua to wild horse racing in remote Todo Los Santos.
- When is the best time to visit Honduras?
Honduras holidays are possible at any time of the year. The coastal lowlands have a hot tropical climate all year round with temperatures approaching 30oC. The mountainous interior has a milder climate and in Dec – Jan temperatures hover around 18oC and it is cool at night. The rainy season runs May – Nov with afternoon showers – although precipitation is more persistent on the north coast. Sep – Nov is the season when rainfall may be heavy and hurricanes are possible.
- What's the official language of Honduras?
Spanish is the official language of Honduras.
- What is the official currency in Honduras?
The currency of Honduras is Lempira. You can change US dollar cash or travellers cheques locally in banks and may be able to obtain cash advances via the few ATMs in larger towns and cities. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK, and withdrawals may be limited. However these ATMs do not always accept foreign cards, which are also not usable in many smaller hotels and commerce. You can obtain cash advances in most banks throughout the country. NB: a charge of $US40 is made at the airport upon leaving the country (you can pay with a credit card).
- What is the time difference between Honduras and UK?
The time difference between Honduras and the UK is GMT-6 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Honduras?
As of 15 August 2024, UK passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Honduras. 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.
- What vaccinations do I need for Honduras?
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 places combine well with Honduras?
A visit to neighbouring Central America countries, such as tiny, friendly El Salvador; wildlife-rich, slickly organised Costa Rica and the Mayan cities of Guatemala, all easily accessed by land or air.
- How do you get to Honduras from the UK?
There are flights via US and European hubs, the journey from London takes around 15 hours.
- What are the festivals and cultural events in Honduras?
Semana Santa, Easter, throughout Honduras. Celebrated from Thursday through to Easter Sunday.
Festival Lluvia de Peces (Rain of Fish), Yoro, start of rainy season in Jun. Parades and carnival. It’s a puzzle for scientists, but the dark clouds are accompanied by very heavy rain which will last upwards of 3hrs. Once the rain has stopped, the city streets are littered with living fish. Commemoration of the arrival of the Garifuna communities, 12 Apr. Presentations by music and dance groups including the Ballet Folklórico Garifuna.
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.
Take a stroll through the historic plazas and boulevards of Mexico’s cosmopolitan capital, discovering the city’s Aztec foundations.
Take a tour of the archaeological site of Tula with its huge warrior statues before exploring the pretty main square of Tepotzotlán for a glimpse of small-town Mexican life.
Explore the colonial baroque churches and lively food markets in Puebla.
Take a guided tour of the ancient Zapotec city of Monte Albán, an important archaeological site with sweeping views from its mountain-top location.
Take a guided tour of one of the most impressive and atmospheric of all Mayan sites, reclaimed from the grip of the jungle.
Explore the most impressive of all Mayan sites with a knowledgeable guide to bring the ruins to life.
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
Well-located hotel within a historic building, with a lovely roof terrace, stained glass ceilinged atrium and particularly helpful staff.
Papagaio
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
Featured Articles
To round the corner of a mountain and see the lost citadel of Machu Picchu unfold beneath you remains one of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Latin America, one of those dreamlike experiences that makes travelling here truly extraordinary.
The Pantanal wetlands cover an area almost the size of the British Isles and offers better wildlife opportunities than the Amazon. Writer and photographer Alex Bellos discovers them.
Small, breathtakingly beautiful Costa Rica is a treasure trove for the nature lover. Trees laden with orchids are home to quetzals and hummingbirds, while the Caribbean shore hosts volcanic beaches and palm-sheltered coves.
