Nature and culture in Central Mexico
Take a tour to the lesser-known spots of central Mexico, where nature, culture and colonial cities alternate. Your journey begins in Mexico City which is set among dramatic, snow-capped peaks of the Popcatepetl, among others. With a population of more than 22 million, the city is an intriguing "melting-pot" of history and culture, as evidenced by Zocalo, many top museums and excellent restaurants. You will visit the valley of Teotihuacan, the former religious and ceremonial center of the Aztecs. Then drive via El Rosario Sanctuary to the magical town of Pátzcuaro characterized by cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. From San Miguel de Allende, you can easily visit other colonial cities such as Guanajuato and/or Santiago de Queretaro.
BEACH EXIT PLAYA VIVA
Near Zihuatanejo is Playa Viva, a beautiful private beach on Mexico's pristine west coast between the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable nature experience, help out at the turtle sanctuary, enjoy a wonderful massage and unwind in your spacious and luxurious room or treehouse with spectacular ocean views.
Tips & Tops Mexico off the beaten track:
- In Mexico City, visit some of the top museums, such as the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Anthropology
- Take an e-bike tour of Mexico City's many highlights with a private guide
- At Teotihuacan, you can optionally watch the sunrise over the world-famous temple complex and surrounding valley from a private hot air balloon
- Visit the wintering site of the many Monarch butterflies at Zitacuaro; the insect migrates 3,000 kilometers each year, a unique natural phenomenon (from November through March)
- Take a boat ride around Lake Zirahuén, a place of colorful flowers such as pink and red geraniums, waxy white calla lilies, delicate begonias, roses and petunias
- Heading toward Santa Clara del Cobre, located on the south side of Lake Pátzcuaro, visit the workshops of local copper workers
- From San Miguel de Allende, you can easily visit atmospheric colonial cities such as Guanajuato and Santiago de Queretaro
- Did you know that Mexico's best wines come from the nearby Cuna de Tierra vineyard? Take advantage of a gourmet day
- Every year, thousands of Olive Ridley turtles and dozens of endangered green and leatherback turtles come to the coast of Playa Viva to lay their eggs; the peak period is between June and October
- All Saints and All Souls Day, Dia de Muertos (Nov. 1 and 2) is celebrated lavishly in the heart of Mexico in memory of the departed, especially in charming Pátzcuaro
- This trip can be booked in different accommodation categories; recommended accommodations: Hotel Downtown Zocalo (Habita) - Mexico, Hotel Casa Vieja - Mexico, Casas de Sierra Nevada (Oriente Express) - San Miguel de Allende, Villa Maria Cristina- Guanajuato, Casa de la real Aduana - Patzcuaro, The Viceroy in Zihuantanejo
