HIGHLIGHTS: TOUR INCLUDES: +44 (0)

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1 +44 (0) This introduction to the captivating culture of Mexico takes you from the vibrant streets of its cosmopolitan capital and into the jungles of the Chiapas Highlands, before ending amongst the fascinating ruins and golden beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. Along the way you will take in colonial grandeur and Aztec ruins, indigenous cultures and some of the most breathtaking scenery in Central America. Mexico is a land of remarkable contrasts, so what better place to begin than one of the largest cities on the planet. You ll visit Mexico City s remarkable Anthropology Museum and tour its historic World Heritage centre, before moving on to the Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan and the colonial elegance of San Cristobal. After enjoying the spectacular landscapes of the Sumidero Canyon, Palenque then provides some of the most important Mayan sites anywhere in the Americas. Flying on to the Yucatan Peninsula you ll then explore the beautiful Spanish architecture of Merida and the famous ruins of Chichen Itza, considered by many to be a masterpiece of Mesoamerican design, before ending your adventure on the idyllic beaches of Mexico s Caribbean coast. HIGHLIGHTS: Explore the rich heritage of Latin America s largest city Soak up the abundant colonial charms of San Cristobal Discover the spectacular jungle ruins of Palenque Unearth the breathtaking Mayan ruins of the Yucatan Peninsula Relax on the world class sands of the Mayan Riviera TOUR INCLUDES: 13 nights in mid-range accommodation Two domestic flights in economy class 13 breakfasts Accompanied by an experienced English speaking local guide on private or shared basis Sightseeing programme including some entrance fees Private guided transfers to and from all airports *Please note the prices shown are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin or double room

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3 ITINERARY DAY 1: MEXICO CITY Upon arrival in Mexico City you will be met at the airport and escorted to your hotel. One of the world's great metropolises, Mexico City is a fascinating blend of Aztec culture, colonial grandeur and modern excess, all packaged together amidst a chaotic cacophony of sights and sounds. Lying in the shadow of two towering volcanoes, the city is home to two World Heritage Sites and a National Museum of Anthropology that is considered one of the finest in the world. DAY 2: MEXICO CITY Today you will discover a little of the capital's rich culture heritage, as you explore the historic city centre and world renowned National Anthropology Museum on full day private tour. In the company of an expert guide, you will begin with a visit to the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, home to one of the largest Mesoamerican collections in the world. After paying special attention to the Aztec and Maya rooms, you'll then move on to the city's stunning Centro Historico, where the famous 'Zocalo' is flanked by the spectacular architecture of the Palacio Nacional and the Metropolitan Cathedral. (B) DAY 3: MEXICO CITY Departing the bustling capital this morning, you will head to the renowned Aztec ruins of Teotihuacan, the mysterious 'City of the Gods', whose famous Sun & Moon pyramids are the largest outside Egypt. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Teotihuacan was once one of the most powerful cultural centres in Mesoamerica and your guide will explain its origins and its place amongst Mexico's fascinating and multilayered pre-columbian past. (B) DAY 4: MEXICO CITY - SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS You will take a private transfer to the airport this morning for your flight on to Tuxtla Gutierrez, from where you will continue to the picturesque colonial town of San Cristobal de las Casas. Located in the Central highlands of Chiapas, the journey takes you by way of the ruins of Chiapa de Corzo and on to the spectacular landscapes of the Sumidero Canyon. There will be time to enjoy a boat ride on the lakes, with a chance to spot crocodiles, spider monkeys and herons, before completing the journey through the highlands to your hotel. (B)

4 DAY 5: SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS Founded by the Spanish in the 16th century, San Cristobal lies at the centre of a landscape steeped in Maya culture. Its white stucco walls and cobbled street hide a wealth of lovingly restored colonial grandeur and today you will embark on a guided journey through its historic heart. You will also pay a visit to the indigenous towns of San Juan Chamula and San Lorenzo Zincantan, famed for their unusual religious traditions, which include a penchant for drinking Coca Cola to ward off evil spirits. (B) DAY 6: SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS - PALENQUE Crossing the southern Sierra Madre range this morning, you will descend from the highland forests and journey into the steamy jungle lowlands of Palenque. This beautiful natural setting is teeming with wildlife and the limestone sedimentation causes the network of streams and waterfalls to turn a dazzling aquamarine blue during the dry season. A break in the journey offers a chance to hike up the river in search of a private swimming hole before continuing on to Palenque, arriving early this evening. (B) DAY 7: PALENQUE Located close to the Usumancinta River, Palenque is blessed with some of the finest Maya architecture in Mexico. An early start this morning takes you first to the hidden forest ruins of Bonampak, famous for the superb mural paintings that occupy its main temple. Continuing on to Yaxchitlan, you then explore one of the least visited and most impressive sites in the Mayan world. Renowned for its detailed facades and stone lintels, the ruins sit amongst lush jungle and the haunting cries of howler monkeys transport us back to the world of the Maya. Return to Palenque at the end of the visit. (B) DAY 8: PALENQUE - VILLAHERMOSA After breakfast this morning you will be treated to a private tour of the magnificent ruins of Palenque, one of the most famous archaeological sites anywhere in the Americas. Engulfed by rainforest and occupying a high escarpment, the city was an important administrative centre during the height of the Mayan Empire. Home to the high priest Pacal, whose spectacular jade death mask remains one of the most prized Mayan artefacts ever unearthed, the ruins and palaces span a period of some 900 years. Following the visit you will transfer the short distance to Villahermosa for the evening. (B)

5 DAY 9: VILLAHERMOSA - MERIDA An early afternoon flight takes you on to Merida, the cultural hub of the Yucatan Peninsula. Believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Americas, Merida is filled with a stunning collection of Spanish-Moorish architecture and has one of the largest historical centres in Central America. After a chance to freshen up, you'll take a brief private tour of its historic heart, taking in the main square, the cathedral and the impressive 'Monument to the Fatherland'. (B) DAY 10: MERIDA Some 78 kilometres to the south of Merida lie the spectacular ruins of Uxmal, home to some of the most stunning examples of Puuc-style architecture in the Americas. Today's tour takes in these beautifully preserved ruins, including the dominating presence of the Pyramid of the Magician, perhaps one of the finest pieces of Mayan architecture in the country. This afternoon you will then visit Kabah, famed for its 'Palace of the Chaac Masks', whose facade is decorated with hundreds of stone masks of the rain god, Chaac. (B) DAY 11: MERIDA - TULUM Your journey to the coast takes you via Chichen Itza, one of the most important archaeological sites in Central America. A masterpiece of Mesoamerican design, it lay at the heart of Mayan culture for nearly 1,000 years. Famed for its intricately designed Castillo Pyramid, this awe-inspiring setting played a significant role in pre-columbian history, bringing Mayan and Toltec cultures together in one astonishing collection of temples and palaces. Following a guided tour of the site you'll then stop for a swim at a cenote, before continuing on to the sleepy coastal town of Tulum. (B) DAY 12: TULUM Occupying a craggy cliff face along the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum was one of the last cities to be built by the Mayans. Certainly the most interesting archeological site on the Mayan Riviera, it survived well into the years that followed the Spanish invasion. One of the best preserved of the Maya coastal site, it is surrounded by five metre high walls that measure up to eight metres thick. It served as a major port for the city of Cobá, whose nearby ruins occupy a largely unexcavated site that you will also have an opportunity to visit today. (B) DAY 13: TULUM Today offers a chance to enjoy the white limestone beaches and warm azure waters around Tulum. (B)

6 DAY 14: TULUM - CANCUN Your Mexican adventure ends with a private transfer to Cancun airport. (B)

7 ACCOMMODATION MERIDA CASA DEL BALAM One of the oldest and most distinguished hotels in Merida, Casa del Balam is also one of the few original art deco houses in the colonial city. The historic mansion has been renovated and enjoys a great location two blocks from the main square, with cafes, shops and galleries all a short walk away. The rooms are spacious and comfortable while you may also choose to relax by the outdoor pool. Las Palomas bistro serves delicious meals in the garden courtyard. MEXICO CITY BEST WESTERN MAJESTIC The Best Western Majestic is a historical building superbly located in the central Zocalo plaza, which is the focal point of the city. The style is a mixture of baroque architecture with exposed stone work and locally made furniture adorns the communal areas. The 84 comfortable en-suite rooms are spread over seven floors and the best views of the square can be enjoyed from the rooftop La Terraza restaurant. PALENQUE CHAN-KAH RESORT VILLAGE Located in the jungle setting that Palenque is famous for, this resort village has lagoon style outdoor pools and is a great spot to relax after a day of exploring the ruins. The 80 air conditioned bungalows have private bathrooms and lovely views into the beautiful surrounding jungle, with magnificent fauna including tropical birdlife creating an exotic symphony. There are two restaurants and bars in the resort with a few shops selling local souvenirs. SAN CRISTOBAL CASA MORADA Situated in the historic centre of San Cristobal, only a couple of minutes walk from Santo Domingo Church, Casa Morada is a quaint homely hotel offering personalised service and lovely accommodation. There are just ten rustically decorated rooms with private en-suites, set on the upper level of the two storey villas, with the main living and dining area on the ground level. The property features a pretty jasmine garden and the La Cava restaurant serves up fine local cuisine. TULUM ANA Y JOSE Ana y Jose Charming Hotel & Spa is a lovely property right on Tulum beach, only a five minute drive from the nearby ruins. The 24 suites have stylish decor with a furnished terrace and seating area. The hotel is set in tropical gardens with an outdoor pool and direct beach access. The on site restaurant services local cuisine and freshly caught seafood and the terrace bar is a great spot to grab a cocktail.

8 Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0) Fax +44 (0) Website wildfrontierstravel.com