Mexico Clásico Mobile – Car Rental Tour

On this 14 day Mexico Car Rental Tour you explore the highlights of Central and Southern Mexico. Travel from the metropolitan capital of Mexico City to the Maya world in the Yucatan. During your trip discover the most amazing sights of Oaxaca, Chiapas and end by enjoying some unforgettable days on the beautiful beaches of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. The possibilities are endless with the flexibility and mobility travelling in your own rental car!

Day 1
Arrival in Mexico City

According to your time of arrival you are picked up from the airport in Mexico City and brought to your hotel. Overnight stay. (Meals: none)

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Day 2
Mexico City – Anthropological Museum

Today, you will be picked up from your hotel in Mexico City and taken on a city tour. Explore the centro histórico on foot and visit the huge Zócalo with its famous Cathedral “Metropolitina” and the Government Palace with its impressive murals by Diego Rivera, amongst others. Learn all about the fascinating histpry of the metropolitan capital. To make the city tour perfect, it finishes with an informative visit of the Anthropological Museum which is situated on the brink of the Chapultepec Park. Learn all about the history and culture of Mexico´s many pre-hispanic civilizations. Afterwards, you are brought back to your hotel in the late afternoon and you can enjoy some free time on your own. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Day 3
Mexico City – Teotihuacán – Basílica de Guadalupe

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken 50km northeast of the city to the spectacular site of Teotihuacán, also known as the “City of the Gods”. Spread over 22km², it is the largest city of ruins in Latin America and the majority of it has yet to be excavated. You definitely should not miss out on climbing up the Sun and Moon Pyramids, as they provide an imposing view of the extent of this archaeological excavation. After exploring these impressive ruins you will be taken to the Basilica de Guadalupe. This is Mexico’s most important pilgrimage site and is famous for its image of the Virgin de Guadalupe. Admire the intricate gold decorations inside the Basilica. Afterwards, you will be brought back to your hotel in Mexico City. Overnight stay.
(Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Day 4
Mexico City – Cholula – Puebla – Oaxaca

In the morning you will be picked up from your hotel and brought to the car rental office. There you will receive your rental car and be guided out of the city by your Buenos Días México representative. Now you are off on your Mexican adventure.

In the morning you head towards Puebla, which is the fourth largest city in Mexico and the capital of the State of Puebla. The charming colonial city is full of history and is well known for its location between four volcanoes. One of them is the famous Popocatépetl. On your way to the city you visit the temple Santa María Tonantzintla and get to know Cholula, the holy city to visit the largest pyramid in Mexico in terms of dimension. In Puebla you enjoy a city tour on your own through the historic centre, where you explore all the important sights like the Cathedral and the Santo Domingo Church. Afterwards you will head south to Oaxaca where you will arrive in your hotel in the late evening. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 480 km | Total driving time:  approx. 7 hours

Day 5
Oaxaca – Monte Albán

In the morning you start towards Monte Albán, the most significant archeological excavation of the region. Steep and narrow roads lead up the hill to the largest and most stunning Zapotec city in Oaxaca. You will be fascinated by the beauty and the majesty of this sight. While enjoying an impressive panoramic view over the city and its hinterlands, it’s easy to imagine how the Zapotec used to dominate the whole Southwest of Mexico. In addition, we invite you to discover some of more than 20 historical buildings and learn more about the culture of this archaeological site. Afterwards you go back to Oaxaca where you can start your city walk on your own through the colonial center of Oaxaca. During your tour you will visit all the “must” see sites of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Of course, a visit to the local market should not be missed. Here you can try all sorts of regional specialties and ingredients before you go back to the hotel. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 7,5 km | Total driving time: approx. 30 minutes 

Day 6
Oaxaca – Tule – Hierve el Agua – Santiago de Matatlán – Tehuantepec

Today your first stop is at the tree of Tule, which is considered the most voluminous living tree in Mexico and has unique formations on its trunk. Afterwards, continue to the limestone waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, where you can refresh yourself in the mineral springs with a refreshing swim while enjoying the breathtaking view over the surrounding countryside and waterfalls. Continue to the small town of Santiago de Matatlán which is famous for its mezcal. In recent years Mezcal has become very popular and there are a number of family owned distilleries to explore. Learn about the process, ingredients and flavours of tequila´s rebel cousin and enjoy a mezcal tasting. Afterwards, continue to Tehuantepec where you´ll spend the night. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 300 km | Total driving time:  approx. 6 hours

Day 7
Tehuantepec – Canyon del Sumidero – Chiapa del Corzo – San Cristóbal

Today you will begin early to visit the imposing natural wonder of Cañon del Sumidero which at its highest point reaches approximately 1000 meters. The Canyon was formed by cracks in the earth´s crust and erosion by the Grijalva river which still flows through it. During a two hour boat ride (optional) through the steep canyon you have the opportunity to observe unique rock formations and the exotic flora and fauna of the region such as cormorants, egrets and with a little bit of luck you might even spot a crocodile or monkey. After this outstanding experience, continue to Chiapa de Corzo, a charming colonial village where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the historical center or taste one of Chiapas’ traditional dishes in a cozy restaurant (optional). In the late afternoon, you will arrive in San Cristobal de las Casas. Overnight stay.
(Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 370 km | Total driving time: approx. 6 hours

Day 8
San Cristóbal / Indigenous villages

Enjoy the day exploring the charming mountain town of San Cristóbal de las Casas or join an optional day trip to the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan.

Optional day trip to the indigenous villages:
You will be picked up from your hotel and you go to San Juan Charmula and Zinacantan, two autonomous indigenous villages of the Totzil and the Tseltal. During the tour you will get an impression of the rituals and customs of the tribes and can watch the women while they weave colorful and unique handicraft. Before the tour takes you back to San Cristobal, you will enjoy Pox, a typical snack from the region. Afterwards you will be brought back to your hotel. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Day 9
San Cristóbal – Parque-Museo de la Venta – Agua Blanca Waterfalls – Palenque

Get up early in the morning and take the highway via Villahermosa to Palenque. On the way you will have the opportunity to visit the Museo Parque La Venta, one of the most important archaeological museums in Mexico. Here you can admire the famous Olmec colossal heads and many other sculptures while learning a lot of interesting facts about the culture of the Olmecs, which inhabited the southern Gulf of Mexico from approximately 1500 to 400 BC. Afterwards continue to Palenque, where you can relax in the afternoon in your hotel, or stop in Agua Blanca National Park, where you can refresh yourself in one of the crystal-clear pools or hike to the Murrallón cave. These are just as nice as the Agua Azul waterfalls and are a real insider tip. Overnight stay.
(Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 470 km | Total driving time: approx. 7 hours

Day 10
Palenque – Misol Há – Waterfalls Roberto Barrios

After breakfast, drive to the waterfalls of Misol Há, which are approximately 40 m high with a tranquil pool at the bottom for swimming. Hike along a small path leading directly behind the waterfalls for a refreshing spray of cool mountain water and a spectacular view of the jungle canopy. Afterwards, continue to the waterfalls of Roberto Barrios. This are a real insider tip and still spared from tourist crowds that visit Agua Azul. They are characterized by their crystal clear, turquoise water, which forms natural swimming pools. Enjoy the impressive vegetation around the falls and a refreshing dip in the water before returning back to Palenque where you can relax in the afternoon in your hotel. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 90 km | Total driving time: approx. 2 1/2 hours

Day 11
Palenque – Campeche City

Your first stop of the day is the archaeological site of Palenque. It is not the biggest site in Mexico, but it is one of the most impressive as it is buried deep in dense jungle vegetation. The temples and pyramids are covered with vines and create a unique atmosphere. Climb the Templo de las Inscripciones for a spectacular view of the jungle canopy. Archaeologists estimate that there are still 1200 temples yet uncovered. Afterwards you will continue to Campeche where you will still enjoy a city tour on your own. Campeche is a small fishing town famous for its colorful houses and restored testimonies of its colonial past. The historical city center was included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage list in 1999. Learn about the San Miguel Fort which protected the city against pirates, the Cathedral, the Zocalo, the boardwalk and the San Román Church. Do not miss the famous Campeche sunset over the Gulf of Mexico which is considered one of the most beautiful in the country. Overnight stay.
(Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 360 km | Total driving time: approx. 5 1/2 hours

Day 12
Campeche City – Uxmal – San Antonio Mulix – Hacienda Yaxcopoil – Mérida

Today you will visit the archaeological site of Uxmal, which is the Yucatan‘s most important archeological excavation, apart from Chichén Itzá. The architecture of Uxmal is an example of that present in the Puuc region. The temples have smooth low walls which represent traditional Maya huts and many figures of the rain god Chaac. Now you have earned some time to relax and cool off. Make a quick stop at San Antonio Mulix, where you will find two undiscovered, quiet and idyllic cenotes which can only be reached via a bumpy and overgrown path of jungle vegetation. A must see off the beaten path secret! Continue to the ancient Hacienda Yaxcopoil, considered one of the most important sisal Haciendas of Yucatan in the 17th century. Feel transported back into colonial Mexico while admiring the original furnishings of the former residency and Hacienda. Afterwards, continue to Mérida, better known as the “white city” where you can explore this beautiful colonial city full of life and history. Mérida is also famous for its regional cuisine which mixes Maya ingredients and techniques with European and Mexican dishes. Try the sopa de lima or if you like spicy food, cochinita pibil. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 260 km | Total driving time: approx. 4 hours

Day 13
Mérida – Celestún – Mérida

Today you start from your hotel in Mérida. This will be a day of pure nature and relaxation. In the morning, head to Celestún Beach where you can observe one of the most extensive flamingo colonies during a boat trip (optional) through the unique mangrove swamps. Enjoy your free afternoon to take a stroll and experience the amazing flora and fauna, relax on the beautiful beach or let one of the famous restaurants spoil you with delicious seafood (optional). In the early afternoon you will be go back to your hotel in Mérida. Overnight stay. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 175 km | Total driving time: approx. 2 1/2 hours

Day 14
Mérida – Izamal – Chichén Itzá – Cenote Yokdzonot – Cancún

This morning you start in Mérida and make your first stop in Izamal. Visit in the small colonial town, which consists mainly of yellow painted colonial buildings and the old beautiful Franciscan monastery. Afterwards you go to the world famous archaeological site of Chichén Itzá. In 1988, the ancient Mayan city was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and in 2007 declared one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Let yourself be fascinated by the imposing, architecturally impressive buildings of the Mayas and admire, among other things, the famous pyramid of Kukulcán, which as a whole is a calendar turned to stone, and the huge ball court. Afterwards, your next stop is cenote Dzitnup, where you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear turquoise water. Cenotes are natural phenomenon unique to the region and held importance for maya culture. Enjoy a swim while admiring the limestone stalactites overhead. Continue to your connecting hotel in Cancún/Playa del Carmen/Tulum. (Meals: breakfast at the hotel)

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Distance: approx. 215 km | Total driving time: approx. 2 1/2hours

 

Itinerary


Price details

This Buenos Días Mexico rental car tour includes:
  • 13 nights accommodation in the aforementioned or equivalent hotels
  • Accommodation in double rooms with a private bathroom
  • Meals according to the itinerary above
  • All tours and transfers in air conditioned country specific vehicles
  • Transfer from the airport on day 1
  • Tours in small groups including bilingual guide (English / Spanish)
  • 11 days rental car, category IDAR

– Pick up: Airport Mexico City
– Drop off: Airport Cancún
– Unlimited kilometers
– Taxes
– Full insurance
– A/C
– Car rental drop off fee Cancún – Mexico City

  • Entrance fees for organized tours on days 2 and 3
  • Local taxes

 

This Buenos Días Mexico car rental tour does NOT include:
  • Entrance fees
  • Voluntary tips for guides and drivers
  • Optional small group tour to indigenous villages on day 9
  • Fuel costs and highway tolls
  • Personal expenses & extras in the hotels
  • Additional meals & drinks
  • Travel and medical insurance (Book here with Travel Secure)
  • Evacuation costs

Important information

Important information:
  • We reserve the right to make any amendments to the itinerary as long as the amendments are not essential to the rest of the tour.
  • Please note that the Rental Car agreement is a contract between the renter and the rental car company. Buenos Días Mexico acts solely as a Travel Agent and cannot guarantee short term changes on the part of the service provider nor do they assume responsibility for damages. Please check the emergency numbers which are on your contract signed with the rental car company in case of accidents.
  • Since The rental car company charges a security deposit for each car rental which increases depending on category (600-2500 USD approx), usually 10% of the car value. A credit card is needed with a validity of at least one year and a sufficient limit to cover this deposit.
  • The rental car needs to be returned to the rental car offices as specified in the itinerary. It is not possible to leave the rental car at the hotel. Upon request the rental car company may offer a transfer to the hotel once the rental car is returned. This transfer cannot be guaranteed as it depends on the availability of the company shuttle.
  • All distance is approximated and Buenos Dias Mexico assumes no liability.
  • GPS systems and baby seats cannot be confirmed in advance and are subject to availability when the vehicle is picked up.
  • Hotel selection is subject to availability. If the aforementioned accommodations are fully booked or over booked, Buenos Dias Mexico reserves the right to replace them with equivalent hotels.
  • All of the hotels will be booked in a country specific category which does not always correspond to the international standard. Please note that there is no official hotel certification system in Mexico.
  • Please note that the price of the hotel category corresponds to a 3 star hotel (standard). On request we can also book a 4 bw hotel for you. 5 star category.
  • Small group travel: Please keep in mind that day trips with small groups often requires patience and understanding, because every group has a certain dynamic. Sometimes the group stops at souvenir shops and markets.
  • High Season Travelling (Christmas / New Year’s and Easter holidays): Travelling in Mexico during high seasons presents some exceptional conditions. This means that there may be delays, overbookings and longer waiting times at museums or archaeological sites. We try our best to assure that all services are carried out as confirmed but especially in the states of Chiapas and Yucatan small groups can sometimes convert to larger groups. We kindly ask you for your understanding.
  • All our travel itineraries can be used as inspiration and customized upon request.
  • If you prefer to have a customized Mexico clasico trip, book here the Mexico Clásico-customized tour.
  • If you prefer to make this Mexico clasico trip with a private guide, book here the Mexico Clásico-private tour.
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