20 day itinerary
Mexico
Itinerary
Mexico is a treasure trove of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and mouthwatering cuisine. With 20 days to explore, we can create an itinerary that balances your love for hiking, nature, and urban experiences. Let’s focus on three main regions: the Yucatán Peninsula, Oaxaca, and the Sierra Norte mountains. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Day 1-5: Yucatán Peninsula (, Tulum, and Valladolid)
Day 1: Arrival in
- Arrive in and settle into your hotel.
- Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the local markets.
- Dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Day 2: and Beach
- Morning: Visit the , perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean.
- Afternoon: Enjoy some beach time at .
- Evening: Dinner in Tulum town, trying some authentic tacos al pastor.
Day 3:
- Full-day tour to Sian Ka'an, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Go hiking and birdwatching, and take a boat ride through the mangroves.
- Return to Tulum for dinner.
Day 4: Cenote Hopping
- Morning: Visit for swimming and snorkeling.
- Afternoon: Head to for more swimming and exploring.
- Evening: Drive to Valladolid and enjoy dinner at a local Yucatecan restaurant.
Day 5: Explore Valladolid
- Morning: Visit the stunning cenote Zaci in the town.
- Afternoon: Explore the colonial architecture and local markets.
- Evening: Try the famous cochinita pibil for dinner.
Day 6-10: Oaxaca
Day 6: Travel to Oaxaca
- Morning: Travel to (about 6 hours by bus).
- Afternoon: Settle into your accommodation and explore the .
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, trying mole and tlayudas.
Day 7:
- Morning: Visit the ancient ruins of , a major Zapotec site.
- Afternoon: Explore the local artisan markets.
- Evening: Enjoy a cooking class to learn about Oaxacan cuisine.
Day 8:
- Full-day trip to , famous for its mineral springs and stunning rock formations.
- Hike the trails around the area and take a dip in the natural pools.
- Return to Oaxaca for dinner.
Day 9: Sierra Norte Mountains
- Travel to the (about 2 hours).
- Spend the day hiking in the beautiful landscapes, perhaps in the .
- Overnight in a local cabin or eco-lodge.
Day 10: More Hiking in Sierra Norte
- Another day of hiking, exploring different trails and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
- Try some local dishes prepared by the community for lunch.
- Return to in the evening.
Day 11-15: Sierra Norte and
Day 11: Travel to
- Morning: Travel to (about 4 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Evening: Try the famous mole poblano for dinner.
Day 12: Hiking in the
- Full-day hiking trip in the national park, with stunning views of the volcanoes.
- Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature.
- Return to for dinner.
Day 13: Cholula and Relaxation
- Morning: Visit the , the largest pyramid by volume.
- Afternoon: Explore the charming town and its beautiful churches.
- Evening: Relax at a local café and enjoy some churros.
Day 14: Travel to
- Morning: Travel to (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the historic center, including the and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
- Evening: Dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city.
Day 15:
- Full-day trip to the .
- Hike up the Pyramid of the Sun for breathtaking views.
- Return to for dinner.
Day 16-20: and Surroundings
Day 16: and Museums
- Morning: Explore , one of the largest city parks in the world.
- Visit the .
- Afternoon: Stroll through the park and enjoy a picnic.
- Evening: Dinner in the trendy Roma or Condesa neighborhoods.
Day 17: and
- Morning: Take a colorful boat ride in .
- Afternoon: Visit , exploring the and local markets.
- Evening: Try some quesadillas from a street vendor.
Day 18: Hiking in
- Full-day hiking trip in , with trails offering stunning views of the city.
- Pack a lunch to enjoy in nature.
- Return to for dinner.
Day 19: Explore More of
- Visit the and the .
- Afternoon: Explore the local markets for souvenirs and snacks.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Mexican restaurant.
Day 20: Departure
- Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final stroll through the city.
- Head to the airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A delightful 20-day itinerary that combines your love for hiking, nature, and food while exploring some of Mexico's most beautiful regions. Enjoy your adventure! 🌮🏞️🌺
