Tour Description

Travel from Mexico’s Pacific Coast into the cultural and natural heart of the country on a journey that connects vibrant cities with remote landscapes. Begin in Puerto Vallarta before heading inland to Guadalajara and the agave fields around Tequila. Then, continue through the colourful streets of Guanajuato and the artistic atmosphere of San Miguel de Allende. Along the way, take in historic centres, local markets, great food, regional music and Indigenous traditions. Finally, head into the Sierra Gorda, where you’ll spend several nights exploring cloud forests, mountain towns and natural areas on foot – and hopefully see a rare axolotl in the wild!

Priced From:

$ 5695.00pp ^*

Valid From: 01JAN2027

Valid To: 31DEC2027

Start Location: Puerto Vallarta

End Location: Mexico City

Countries: Mexico,

Tour Advisors

Beccy Hayes

Travel Specialist

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Caitlin Lennon

Travel Coordinator

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

Spend three nights in the incredibly biodiverse, yet seldom-visited Sierra Gorda, exploring cloud forests, rivers and canyons while searching for rare axolotls in one of the last places they live outside captivity.

Dig into the culture and food scene of Guadalajara, the music and storytelling that defines Guanajuato and the creative spirit of San Miguel de Allende.

Experience the diversity of central Mexico’s food culture, from the coastal flavours in Puerto Vallarta to the markets and street food inland. Try delicious regional specialties like carnitas, enchiladas mineras and guacamayas.

Discover the story behind Mexico’s most iconic spirit with a visit to the Pueblo Magico of Tequila. Tour a traditional hacienda distillery and explore the agave landscapes that define this UNESCO-listed region.

Visit 16th-century Otomi chapels with a local guide, gaining rare insight into living traditions and community life while discovering symbolic murals and artistry not easily experienced on your own.

Itinerary

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Mexico. Your adventure begins in the coastal city of Puerto Vallarta where you’ll meet your group and local leader for a welcome meeting at 6 pm to get an overview of the journey ahead. In the evening, you’re free to head out and explore the city’s dining scene at your own pace – why not head with your group and get to know each other over some delicious regional cuisine.

Start the morning with an orientation walk through downtown Puerto Vallarta. Wander along the Malecon and explore the cobblestone streets of the Zona Romantica while your leader shares local insights. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option for a boat tour to Los Arcos de Mismaloya. There, you can cruise around the dramatic rock formations and enjoy time swimming or snorkelling. Or spend the afternoon at the beach, sticking around long enough to catch the cinematic sunset over the ocean.

Today you’ll travel inland to Guadalajara, stopping along the way in the town of Tequila for a half-day visit. Learn from a local guide about the production of Mexico’s most famous spirit, give it a taste and explore the surrounding agave landscapes before continuing to Guadalajara. Once you arrive, check into your hotel, then step out for an orientation walk with your trip leader. Spend the evening as you wish, perhaps getting your first taste of savory birria (slow-cooked stew with goat meat, served in a taco or a bowl). End the night with a sweet treat of jericalla (a traditional custard dessert similar to flan).

Enjoy a free day to explore Guadalajara at your own pace. Maybe start at the Plaza de Armas to get your bearings and do a little people-watching in this buzzing part of the city. While you’re there, maybe visit the Cathedral de Guadalajara – practically as old as the city itself and recognisable by its neo-Gothic towers. If you’re an art lover, maybe head to the Instituto Cultural Cabanas – a UNESCO World Heritage site – to see Jose Clemente Orozco’s modernist murals. If you like, visit Tlaquepaque – one of Mexico’s Magic Towns – for its shops and galleries full of folkloric art, local treats and souvenirs. Or venture to Teuchitlan to explore the circular Guachimontones pyramids. Later, maybe grab your fellow travellers for dinner and mariachi music in Plaza de los Mariachis.

Today, you’ll continue to the vibrant city of Guanajuato – a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its colourful hillside homes and maze-like alleyways. When you arrive, join your local leader for an orientation walk through the historic centre before lunch at Mercado Hidalgo, where you’ll sample local specialties such as carnitas, enchiladas mineras (named for the hearty lunch dish wives used to make their silver-mining husbands) and guacamayas (a crusty roll filled with crunchy pork rinds). The rest of the day is yours to shape. Maybe visit the famous Callejon del Beso (Alley of the Kiss) and learn its romantic legend. Or stroll through Jardin de la Union and find a cute cafe, listening to street performers as you soak up local life. Maybe stop at Teatro Juarez, one of the country’s most beautiful historic theatres.

Enjoy a free morning and afternoon to further explore Guanajuato as you wish. Maybe explore the Museo de las Momias to see more than 100 naturally mummified bodies and learn the legends of the practice. Or head to the Diego Riviera House Museum – the birthplace of the renowned artist where you can see some of his lesser-known works and how his family lived. In the evening, regroup for a callejoneada – a traditional festive walking street parade through the city’s narrow alleyways, boasting local music, storytelling and traditions.

Travel to San Miguel de Allende today – a beautifully preserved town known for its art scene and Baroque architecture. When you get there, take an orientation walk through the historic centre. Visit the main plaza and key landmarks like the iconic pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel, while learning about the city’s cultural and artistic heritage. You’ll also stop at a local artisan market, where you can browse crafts and get a glimpse into the region’s vibrant handmade traditions. Later, enjoy some free time, maybe to stroll in Jardin Allende or through Parque Benito Juarez to enjoy the local atmosphere and street life. Tonight, maybe pick a fun rooftop bar for a cocktail and sunset view with your travel pals.

Today, you’ll journey into the heart of the Sierra Gorda. Stop along the way in Toliman for a cultural visit to several Otomi family chapels, led by a local guide. These small oratories, built since the 16th century, play an important role in the spiritual life and traditions of the indigenous Otomi-Chichimeca communities. After, enjoy a traditional Otomi meal, where you’ll learn more about local ingredients and culinary traditions. Then, continue to Jalpan de Serra.

Start the day with a visit to El Cedral – an ecological park and natural sanctuary dedicated to protecting the endangered Sierra salamander (ajolote in Spanish, usually referred to as axolotl in English). Enjoy a guided hike along the forest trails, where you may have the opportunity to observe these unique amphibians in their natural habitat while learning about local conservation efforts in the Sierra Gorda. The park plays an important role in safeguarding its habitat and the fees from these hikes directly contribute to ongoing conservation efforts, supporting both the protection of the species and the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem. Then, head the Sierra Gorda town of Pinal de Amoles. Wander its quiet streets, perhaps visit the historic Mision de Santiago Apostol and take some time to soak up the relaxed atmosphere of this charming mountain town. On the way back to Jalpan, stop at Cascada Chuveje, one of the region's most scenic waterfalls. Follow a forest trail through a lush canyon to reach the waterfall, where clear water cascades into a pool surrounded by moss-covered rocks and dense vegetation.

Today is yours to do as you wish in Jalpan de Serra and nearby. Early risers might enjoy a guided hike to a sunrise viewpoint atop Mirador Cuatro Palos – when the conditions are right, you can see the ‘sea of clouds’ over the valley – followed by a visit to Puente de Dios, a natural river canyon. Or, maybe explore the ruins of an ancient Huastec city at the Tancama archaeological site, visit UNESCO-listed Franciscan mission churches or discover surreal sculptures by artist Edward James at Las Pozas.

Move on to Mexico City today. Today is a bit of a travel day, so have your favourite podcasts or books at the ready. In the evening, come together with your group for an optional farewell dinner to celebrate the journey and share some final memories.

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to spend some more time in Mexico City, speak to your booking agent about arranging additional accommodation ahead of time.

Dates & prices

Dates

Prices

Availability

Departure Date :

05OCT2027

Return Date :

16OCT2027

5695.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

09NOV2027

Return Date :

20NOV2027

5695.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

23NOV2027

Return Date :

04DEC2027

5695.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

07DEC2027

Return Date :

18DEC2027

5695.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

28DEC2027

Return Date :

08JAN2028

5695.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

11JAN2028

Return Date :

22JAN2028

5980.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

25JAN2028

Return Date :

05FEB2028

5980.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

08FEB2028

Return Date :

19FEB2028

5980.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

22FEB2028

Return Date :

04MAR2028

5980.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

07MAR2028

Return Date :

18MAR2028

5980.00NZD

available

Trip Notes

Trip title

Central Mexico and the Sierra Gorda

Trip code

QBSC

Validity

Validity: 01 Jan 2027 to 31 Dec 2027

Extended validity

26 Dec 2028

Introduction

Style

Original

Themes

Explorer

Transport

Private vehicle

Physical Rating

Physical preparation

None of the activities featured in this trip require special training or skills, just a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to participate. Cobblestones and uneven roads are common and you may be required to walk in hot and humid conditions. If you are in any doubt, please share these concerns or issues with your sales consultant so that your leader is aware prior and can pre-empt your needs.

Joining point

Hotel Casa Kavia Vallarta

Calle Zaragoza 176, Colonia Centro

Puerto Vallarta

48300

MEXICO

Joining point description

Hotel Casa Kavia Vallarta offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, Wi‑Fi, TVs and work desks. The property features a rooftop terrace, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a tour desk. Camarones Beach is less than 1 km away, and Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport is approximately 10 km from the hotel.

Joining point instructions

Intrepid offers a pre-arranged arrival transfer service from Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport [PVR] at an additional fee. If you have pre-booked this service, please ensure you provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel so the transfer can be organized. If you plan to arrive earlier, this transfer can only be offered in conjunction with pre-tour accommodation booked through Intrepid. If you have pre-booked this service, your driver will meet you outside the terminal. Look for the Intrepid sign with your name. If you have any problems and cannot locate your driver on arrival, please call our Intrepid Emergency number listed under the ‘Problems and emergency contact information’ section of your Essential Trip Information document. Otherwise, you can travel from Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport [PVR] to the hotel by taxi or rideshare service. Authorized airport taxis are available outside the arrivals area. The drive to Hotel Casa Kavia Vallarta is approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. If travelling by taxi, we recommend using the official airport taxi services and confirming the fare before departure.

Finish point

Ibis Styles Mexico Reforma (Formally Ibis Styles Mexico Zona Rosa)

#115 Liverpool Street,A col Juarez, Cuahutemoc Delegation

Zona Roma

Mexico City

06600

MEXICO

Phone: (+52) 5541252900

Finish point description

A 3-minute walk from a metro station in a slick modern building, this vibrant hotel is 2.4 km from hilltop Chapultepec Castle and 2.7 km from the exhibits at Museo Nacional de Antropología. Decorated with flashes of bold color, the bright rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and air-conditioning. They also have desks. Suites add separate living areas and extra beds.

Important information

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1. There are no activities planned for the final day so you may depart at any time. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Group leader

All group trips are accompanied by a group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where they may be new to a particular region or training other staff. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not always being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. We often support additional local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location we may be able to recommend a additional local guide service in the main destinations of your trip.

Safety

TRAVEL ADVISORIES & ALERTS We recommend that you check your government's foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. We also recommend saving the phone number for emergency consular assistance for your government’s consulate in the destination/s you’ll be travelling. Links to travel advisories and any current travel alerts for our trips can be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts PERSONAL SAFETY Ensure you have a secure method of carrying your passport, phone, credit cards and cash while travelling such as a money belt. Leave all other high-value items, including jewellery, at home.Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit streets wherever possible. Be vigilant on public transport and look out for your fellow travellers. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS Intrepid welcomes all LGBTQIA+ customers on our trips, however we operate in parts of the world that are less accepting. We support LGBTQIA+ customers to travel to these destinations and are committed to ensuring they face no discrimination on any part of the trip we control. We recommend you visit Equaldex (https://www.equaldex.com/) and your government's foreign travel advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers when choosing your trip.

https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

MONEY WITHDRAWAL: In order to avoid fraud and theft, it is advisable that you withdraw money from ATMs located inside banks or guarded shops during business hours only.

SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.

LOCAL LODGINGS: On this trip you will be staying in some restored houses and local lodges - these are one of the charms of this journey, but their staircases, balconies and passages etc may not always comply with western safety standards. Please do not expect elevators in these properties as they are preserved to their original state.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS Local laws governing tourism facilities in this region may differ from those in your home country and accommodation we use may not have a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

Communications

WhatsApp is a popular way to communicate in Latin America. We recommended downloading WhatsApp prior to departure to communicate by text with your group leader or local representative and group members during the tour. Once downloaded, please validate your phone number before leaving home as you will not be able to do this once you arrive unless you have international roaming enabled. Connections for making phone calls through WhatsApp are not reliable, so please do not use this app to make calls to our emergency phone line.

Visas

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS You are responsible for obtaining relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip.  We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements, MEXICO If you exit Mexico overland or have stayed for 7 days or longer, you will need to pay the DNI (Derecho de no Inmigrante) fee of MXN 1060 (USD 60). State of Quintana Roo/Cancun Tourist Tax Travellers aged 15 and over entering the state of Quintana Roo are required to pay a tourist tax of MXN 224 (USD 12). You can pay it online at the Visitax website: https://www.visitax.gob.mx/sitio/. Or you can pay in cash at Cancun airport prior to your departure from Mexico. As soon as the payment is completed, you will be provided with a QR Code that you must present to airport security before boarding your departure flight.

Why we love it

Dig into the culture and food scene of Guadalajara, the music and storytelling that defines Guanajuato and the creative spirit of San Miguel de Allende.

Visit 16th-century Otomi chapels with a local guide, gaining rare insight into living traditions and community life while discovering symbolic murals and artistry not easily experienced on your own.

Is this trip right for you

Attempting to communicate in Spanish is an excellent way of showing respect and kindness when you’re mingling with the locals, so it’s a good idea to learn a few words and phrases before your trip., Several destinations on this trip sit at or near 2000 m (6500 ft) above sea level. This means you may notice cooler temperatures, particularly in the evenings, compared to the warmer coastal climate. Be prepared with layers, including a warm outer layer, and remember to stay hydrated as you adjust to the altitude., While no special physical preparation is required for this trip, you can expect to do a lot of walking – sometimes on uneven terrain., This trip visits places that are at high altitude, and as a result some people can suffer from altitude sickness, regardless of age or physical health. Please see the ‘Medical and health information’ section of the Essential trip information for more details.

Health

GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date travel health information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. , ZIKA VIRUS: There have been reports of transmission of the mosquito-borne Zika virus in this region and we advise all travellers to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Given possible transmission of the disease to unborn babies, and taking a very cautious approach, we recommend all women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant to consult with their doctors before booking their trip., MALARIA: There is no commercially available vaccination against malaria, which is transmitted by mosquito bites and is a risk in many less-developed tropical areas in Africa, Latin America and South East Asia. Protection against mosquito bites is essential and where the risk is considered high, anti-malarial medications are recommended. Anti-malarial medications should be discussed with experts as there are different medications available and not all medications suit all people or all destinations. Where malaria is considered prevalent in mountainous regions we prefer that trekkers to altitude try to avoid the use of mefloquine (Lariam) if possible., DENGUE FEVER: Dengue Fever is common in Latin America and can occur throughout the year. Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, and parts of Mexico are currently suffering from a serious outbreak. This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing, using repellent, and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn.

Food and dietary requirements

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in this region. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat dinner together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though. DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Please let us know your diet requirements before your trip starts. Generally speaking, in bigger cities/towns vegetarians can expect a reasonable range of vegetarian venues and/or vegetarian options within tourist restaurant menus. However, vegetarianism is not the norm in this part of the world so options can be limited when eating at homestays, small local restaurants, street stalls, markets, etc. More restrictive diet requirements (vegans, coeliac, gluten intolerance, fructose intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.) can also be accommodated along this trip but you should expect a lesser variety than what you can expect at home. We recommend that, if possible, to bring your own supply of snacks with you. For those on strict Kosher or Halal diets, we understand your dietary requirements are important, however, sometimes due to cultural and language differences these are not always easy to convey when you are travelling. Your guide will do their best to assist you in translating your needs when eating out, but please be aware that these diets are almost unheard of in much of the continent and the best they may be able to accommodate is no pork and shellfish. If this will be a concern for you you may need to consider opting for vegetarian or vegan meals for the included meals in your itinerary. We recommend researching kosher or halal options in your destination country prior to travel to see if you are able to buy snacks once there, otherwise consider bringing some from home.

Money matters

SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling., MEXICO The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Mexico. Cash is dispensed in MXN. Credit/debit cards aren’t accepted for small payments in Mexico, so please ensure you have cash to cover daily expenses. There is no need to bring lots of cash with you unless you prefer not to use ATMs. USD is the easiest currency to exchange., TIPPING Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be., We recommend budgeting approximately USD 40 per person to tip drivers and service providers for activities included in this trip. This doesn’t include a tip for your leader., YOUR GROUP LEADER OR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE Tipping your group leader or local representative is highly appreciated if you feel they’ve provided outstanding services throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, the recommended amount is 4-7 USD or EUR per traveller per day (in a currency relevant to your destination). Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader or local representative on your trip., CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred because of changes to itineraries, including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra USD 500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of all travellers; however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs. Please confirm with your leader on Day 1 if you need to carry this in cash, or whether access via card or electronically is sufficient.

What to take

Most travellers prefer to take a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which is a great size for the packing capacity in our private vehicles. You will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You'll need to bring a day pack/bag for activities and day trips. In terms of weight, airlines generally allow a maximum of 15-20kg for check in luggage and a maximum of 5kg for carry on. Check with your airline for baggage allowances. Other than the items and clothing you always need on a trip, below we have listed packing suggestions specific for this trip: ESSENTIAL: - Sun protection – sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen (reef-safe sunscreen for swimming). The UV index can be very high in this region, therefore it is essential you protect yourself adequately from the sun. - Clothing for hot and humid weather: Lightweight, breathable quick-drying clothing. - Clothing for cool nights/high altitudes, rainy days, and to protect against bugs: A lightweight waterproof jacket, pants, clothing you can easily layer. - Closed-in walking/hiking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from mud, cuts and scratches and bug bites. - Personal travel documents which may include a passport, visa, driver's license, travel insurance, flight tickets and your Essential Trip Information. Photocopies of these documents stored separately from the originals will be handy. While not valid, a photocopy of your identification makes it much easier to obtain replacements if necessary. RECOMMENDED: - Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity. Clean, filtered water is available for free in many hotel lobbies. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments -Electrical adapter plug (Central American countries use plug types A & B which are standard throughout North America) -Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolyte powders and Band-Aids. -Watch/Alarm clock or phone that can be used for both -Swimwear -Travel beach towel -Water-proof bag for your phone -Tissues &/or toilet paper &/or wet wipes -Insect repellent -Camera with a spare memory card, charger &/or batteries OPTIONAL: -Earplugs to guard against a potential snoring room-mate -Phrasebook VALUABLES: Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your safe if available. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden. LAUNDRY: Laundry is available at many hotels and towns during this trip, although you might need to wait for a two-night stop in order to make sure you get it back in time. While laundry at hotels is usually charged by the item, laundromats usually charge by the kilo, which is generally inexpensive (about USD 2 per kilo).

Climate and seasonal

MEXICO Mexico’s climate varies widely by region so please check your itinerary and the time of year you plan to travel, so that you can pack accordingly. Central highland cities like Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca stay mild year-round at about 20–26°C (68–79°F), with cooler nights of 8–12°C (46–54°F) from November to February. Most rain falls between May and October. Southern highland spots like San Cristóbal de las Casas stay cool in the evenings year-round, while lowland areas such as Palenque are hotter and more humid, with daytime highs around 30–33°C (86–91°F). Rain is heaviest from May to October. The Yucatán Peninsula – including Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Mérida – is warm and humid year-round. The hottest period is May to August, with highs of 32–35°C (90–95°F) and warm nights around 24–27°C (75–80°F). Showers increase from May to October, and hurricanes are most likely from August to October. Mexico’s Pacific Coast, including Puerto Vallarta, is driest from November to May, with heavier showers from June to October and warm highs around 30–33°C (86–91°F). Baja California Sur is mostly sunny and dry year-round, with hotter months reaching 28–34°C (82–93°F), cooler nights of 15–17°C (59–63°F) in winter, and occasional storms from August to October.

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leaders or local representatives are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

Feedback

Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time., In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, please contact our local office: , Intrepid local operator: Available for phone call on +52 55 9990 6006

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our group leaders and local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel

The Intrepid Foundation

Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/

Accommodation notes

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance, your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number, rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and each country you visit may have its own specific entry requirements. For example, some mandate travel health insurance for all foreign travellers, regardless of their nationality. Travellers from the European Union, Switzerland or the USA who decline travel insurance when travelling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: , https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure., SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and may be on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nights)

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