Mexico Trek 2026 itinerary (previous edition)

The 2027 itinerary has not been published yet. This is the itinerary of Mexico Trek 2026, the most recent edition with a published plan, shown for reference: it is not the 2027 programme.

9 days in Mexico City, Mérida and Riviera Maya.

Day 0 · 14 March 2026 · Mexico City — Cultural and traditional CDMX

• Frida Kahlo's Casa Azul: La Casa Azul, the vibrant home of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, offers a deeply personal glimpse into her world. Located in Coyoacán, Mexico City, this house-turned-museum is a vivid reflection of Frida's life, creativity, and passion.
• Downtown Coyoacán: After exploring La Casa Azul, the adventure continues with a leisurely paseo through the charming streets of Coyoacán’s downtown. This lively area, known for its colonial architecture, colorful streets, and artistic vibe, offers a perfect complement to our experience.
• Cantina lunch: The evening brings a true taste of Mexico at Cantina La Cervecería del Barrio. Known for its lively atmosphere and authentic Mexican cuisine, this cantina offers a feast of traditional dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and Mexican seafood.
• Lucha libre!!: To cap off the night, we’ll head to the arena for Lucha Libre, Mexico's colorful and dramatic wrestling matches, where masked luchadores battle in a show of athleticism and theatrics. It's a night that combines food, music, and high-energy entertainment, offering an unforgettable Mexican experience.

Day 1 · 15 March 2026 · Mexico City — History of Mexico

• El Zócalo and downtown CDMX: The day starts with a stroll through the Zócalo, the historic heart of Mexico City. Surrounded by majestic buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, the Zócalo offers a stunning view of the country's rich history and culture. The experience culminates with a visit to the iconic Palacio de Bellas Artes. This colorful and traditional show takes you on a journey through the diverse regions and cultures of Mexico, brought to life through dance, music, and traditional costumes. The grand setting of the Palacio, with its famous Tiffany glass curtain, adds a touch of magic to this unforgettable day of Mexican art and culture.
• Ballet Folklórico at Bellas Artes (optional): For those willing to experience more, the Ballet Folklórico de México is an add-on option to our trip. Here, traditionand artistry come alive on stage. Each show is a journey through Mexico’s diverse regions, offering a unique blend of history, passion, and spectacle that will leave you spellbound.
• Traditional tacos lunch: After exploring the Zócalo, we’ll satisfy our hunger with a stop for traditional tacos in the historic center. These tacos are truly unique—flavors and textures unlike anything you’ll find abroad—a simple yet unforgettable taste of Mexico’s culinary soul.
• Chapultepec Castle + Anthropology Museums: Afterward, the journey leads to the magnificent Chapultepec Castle, perched atop Chapultepec Hill, offering breathtaking views of the city. This historic castle, once an imperial residence and now a museum, is filled with lavish rooms, murals by famous Mexican artists, and exhibits that tell the story of Mexico’s independence and modern history. We'll take a walk by the woods to the National Museum of Anthropology, widely regarded as one of the most important museums in Latin America. Located in the heart of Chapultepec Park, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts from Mexico’s diverse civilizations, including the Aztecs, Mayas, Olmecs, and Zapotecs.
• Welcome dinner: In the evening, we gather for our welcome dinner, the first opportunity for participants to connect as a group. Over a shared meal, the organizing team will introduce the Trek, walk everyone through the logistics, and set the tone for the journey ahead. It’s a relaxed and festive moment to meet fellow travelers, share first impressions, and begin building the community spirit that defines the Mexico Trek.

Day 2 · 16 March 2026 · Mexico City — CDMX landmarks

• Teotihuacán Pyramids: The day continues with an unforgettable visit to Teotihuacan, the ancient city of pyramids located just outside Mexico City. As you walk along the Avenue of the Dead and ascend the towering Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon, you'll be transported back in time to one of the most powerful civilizations in Mesoamerica. The grandeur of these structures and the mystery surrounding the culture that built them offer a profound connection to Mexico’s ancient past.
• Lunch at La Cueva: Following our visit to the pyramids, we’ll enjoy lunch at La Cueva Teotihuacán, a truly unique restaurant nestled inside a real volcanic cavern just steps from the ancient site. Dining here is as remarkable as it sounds—imagine savoring expertly crafted Mexican dishes in a cool, atmospheric cave, accompanied by live traditional music or ceremonial pre-Hispanic performances. It’s a dining experience that feels both immersive and deeply connected to the heritage of the place.
• Canals of Xochimilco / Vibrant neighborhoods: After our morning visit to the majestic Teotihuacan pyramids, we’ll head back to Mexico City for an afternoon of exploration, with two exciting options to choose from. One group may explore the iconic neighborhoods of Polanco, Condesa, and Roma—each offering a unique blend of culture, architecture, and culinary experiences. Stroll through tree-lined avenues, admire early 20th-century mansions, and stop at trendy cafés, art galleries, or boutiques that showcase the creative pulse of modern Mexico City. Alternatively, the second group will head to the Canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we’ll board colorful trajineras (flat-bottomed boats) to cruise through ancient Aztec waterways. Accompanied by mariachi music and vibrant scenery, this experience is a festive and picturesque way to connect with Mexico’s cultural roots. Both options promise a memorable afternoon highlighting different sides of the capital’s charm.
• Oaxacan dinner: We’ll gather once more for a group dinner featuring the rich flavors of Oaxacan cuisine. The menu may include traditional dishes such as mole negro, tlayudas (crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meats), and quesillo (Oaxacan string cheese), all paired with mezcal for those who wish to try it. It’s the perfect way to end the day—sharing the tastes of one of Mexico’s most celebrated culinary traditions.

Day 3 · 17 March 2026 · Mexico City — Conversations about Mexico

• Conversations about Mexico at the Senate: We will visit the Mexican Senate in the heart of Mexico City. This day offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with leading entrepreneurs, policymakers, academics, and civil society leaders who are shaping Mexico’s present and future.
• Challenges and Visions of Mexico: Conversations with Special Guests: Conversations with influential figures offer a deeper understanding of the country’s political landscape, social challenges, and the policies that guide its development. It's an enriching experience that blends civic engagement with a broader perspective on Mexico’s role in the global arena. Through a series of panels and conversations, we will explore key issues facing the country today, including economic development, public security, political reform, innovation and entrepreneurship, and the evolving U.S.–Mexico relationship. These sessions will not only offer deep insights into Mexico’s challenges and aspirations but also provide space for critical dialogue and idea exchange.
• Entrepreneurship lunch: During our day at the Mexican Senate, we’ll pause for a group lunch to recharge and reflect. Over the meal, participants will also have the chance to engage in an informal conversation on business and entrepreneurship in Mexico, exploring opportunities, challenges, and the role of innovation in the country’s development.
• Transfer to Mérida: After our conversations at the Senate, we will head to the airport to take our flight from Mexico City to Mérida, the cultural heart of Yucatán.

Day 4 · 18 March 2026 · Mérida — Discovering Mérida

• Paseo de Montejo: We’ll begin with a stroll along Mérida’s most iconic avenue, where elegant 19th-century mansions recall the wealth of the henequén era, when the region was known as the “green gold” capital. Today, the boulevard blends historic architecture with lively cafés, boutiques, and cultural spaces, making it the perfect introduction to the city’s charm.
• Plaza Grande & the Cathedral: At the heart of Mérida, the Plaza Grande offers a vibrant gathering place surrounded by colonial landmarks. Here we will visit the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, the oldest cathedral on the mainland Americas, built with stones from ancient Mayan temples. The square is also alive with street performers, vendors, and the daily rhythm of local life, offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural heartbeat.
• Lunch at mercado: At midday, we’ll stop for lunch at Mérida’s central market, a lively hub of colors, sounds, and aromas. Here, participants can sample authentic Yucatecan flavors straight from local vendors while soaking in the everyday rhythm of the city. It’s an immersive way to experience Mérida’s culinary traditions right at their source.
• Traditional Yucatán cuisine dinner: To end the day, we’ll immerse ourselves in the flavors and traditions of Yucatán. Over a meal featuring iconic dishes such as cochinita pibil, papadzules, and sopa de lima, participants will experience the region’s unique culinary heritage. This will be complemented by a visit to a local mercado or cultural center, where we can explore traditional crafts, music, and dance, deepening our appreciation of Mérida’s living culture.

Day 5 · 19 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Chiché Itzá, cenotes and landscapes

• Chichén Itzá: The following day, we’ll visit the iconic Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We'll explore the majestic El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Sacred Cenote, learning about the cosmology, architecture, and rituals of the ancient Maya civilization.
• Cenote swimming and diving + lunch: After exploring the site, we'll make a refreshing stop at a nearby cenote, where we’ll take a dip in its crystal-clear waters—a perfect way to relax and connect with the natural beauty and spiritual significance of these sacred spaces in Mayan culture. The site allows for participants to have resting spots and a restaurant where we will provide lunch. After this awe-inspiring visits, we’ll continue our journey to Cancún, where we’ll spend the final leg of the trek unwinding by the Caribbean Sea.
• Transfer to Cancún: After our refreshing swim in the sacred cenotes, we will continue our journey with a scenic drive to Cancún, where the Caribbean coastline and resort atmosphere await.

Day 6 · 20 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Carribean enjoyment day

• Enjoying and relaxing at Cancún beach: Our first day in Cancún is all about unwinding. With no set agenda, participants are free to enjoy the area at their own pace—whether that means lounging by the beach with a book, swimming in turquoise waters, indulging in a spa treatment, or sipping a cold drink under the palm trees. Cancún's Caribbean atmosphere offers the perfect opportunity to recharge, reflect, and soak in the beauty of the ocean. As the sun sets, we’ll come together for a Friday night beach party to celebrate the unforgettable journey we’ve shared. With music, dancing, and toes in the sand, it’s the perfect send-off for a trek filled with discovery, connection, and lifelong memories.
• Optional activities: We will provide a list of optional activities that trekkers can decide to do. Previous years have included: ocean safari, surfing, hiking. Trekkers will also be able to decide to stay at the hotel, which is all inclusive.
• Beach party!!: The night unfolds with a lively beach party. We’ve booked a vibrant spot right on the sand, where you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. With music, dancing, and a range of delicious food and drinks, the beach party promises an energetic and fun-filled evening.

Day 7 · 21 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Mayan history and beach

• Mayan culture: For those looking to explore a bit more of Cancún beyond the resort, we’ll offer a short cultural outing in the morning. We’ll start with a visit to the Museo Maya de Cancún, a beautifully designed museum showcasing an impressive collection of Mayan artifacts from across the Yucatán Peninsula. The visit also includes a walk through the adjacent San Miguelito ruins, a quiet archaeological site nestled in a tropical setting. Afterward, we’ll head to Mercado 28, a lively local market in downtown Cancún known for its artisan crafts, souvenirs, and casual eateries—an ideal spot to enjoy authentic snacks and do some last-minute shopping before returning to the resort for a final afternoon of rest and relaxation.
• Farewell dinner and reflections: As the sun sets, we’ll gather for a special farewell dinner by the beach, a perfect setting to celebrate our journey and close the Mexico Trek with great food, good company, unforgettable memories. We will use this space to share final takeaways and reflections from organizers and participants.

Day 8 · 22 March 2026 · Riviera Maya — Saying Goodbye

• Goodbye breakfast (optional): On the final morning, participants may join an informal breakfast before departing. It’s a relaxed option for those who wish to enjoy a light meal together before heading out.
• Free time: After breakfast, there will be free time to spend as you prefer—whether relaxing at the resort, enjoying one last swim, or picking up souvenirs—until it’s time to transfer to the airport for departures.
• Departures: Departure times will be shared in the WhatsApp group to facilitate coordination for group trips to the airport.

Mexico Trek 2025 itinerary

9 days in Mexico City, Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City.

Day 0 · 15 March 2025 · Mexico City — Art & folklore (Optional but fully included)

• Visit Frida Kahlo’s home: La Casa Azul, the vibrant home of iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, offers a deeply personal glimpse into her world. Located in Coyoacán, Mexico City, this house-turned-museum is a vivid reflection of Frida's life, creativity, and passion.
• Meal in Coyoacán market & cantina drinks: We will visit Coyocan market, one of the most traditional in Mexico to eat market food, taste mamey ice cream and try pulque. Afterwards we will visit a cantina to live an authentic lively atmosphere serenaded with mariachi bands.
• Lucha libre!: To cap off the night, head to the arena for Lucha Libre, Mexico's colorful and dramatic wrestling matches, where masked luchadores battle in a show of athleticism and theatrics.

Day 1 · 16 March 2025 · Mexico City — Socio Political Perspectives of Mexico

• Guided tour to Historic Center and Lunch: Tour of the main monuments and historical sites in downtown Mexico, including the Palacio de Bellas Artes, the Zócalo, the Cathedral, and main streets. We will eat traditional tacos.
• Ballet Folklórico at Bellas Artes (Optional): the experience culminates with a performance by the Ballet Folklórico de México at the iconic Palacio de Bellas Artes. This colorful and traditional show takes you on a journey through the diverse regions and cultures of Mexico, brought to life through dance, music, and traditional costumes.
• Anthropology Museum and Castillo de Chapultepec Visits: We will have a guided tour of the Anthropology Museum that explores all the pre-Hispanic cultures of Mexico, and the Chapultepec Castle that tells the story of colonial and independent Mexico.
• Networking Night: We will have conversations with Alumni and influential figures offer a deeper understanding of the country’s political landscape, social challenges, and the policies that guide its development.

Day 2 · 17 March 2025 · Mexico City — Discovering Mexican Culture

• Reception and Tour at Teotihuacán Pyramids: We will take a guided tour of the Teotihuacan archaeological site, where we will learn more about pre-Hispanic mythology and its ceremonial centers.
• Trajineras Tour Xochimilco: Traditional party on the trajineras of Xochimilco. We will navigate the canals of Xochimilco while celebrating the journey, eating typical food, listening to mariachis, and drinking tequila.

Day 3 · 18 March 2025 · Mexico City — Understanding Socio Political Perspectives of Mexico

• Senate visit and conversation with Senator: We will visit the Senate of the Mexican Republic, Mexico's most important legislative body.
• Politics, Economics and Security conversations: We will hear from experts in politics, economics and security about Mexico’s current situation in those key topics.
• Challenges and Visions of Mexico Conversations with Special Guest: We will have conversations with a special guest to get a deeper understanding of the country’s political landscape, social challenges, and the policies that guide its development.
• Transfer to Puerto Escondido: We will travel to Puerto Escondido using the AICM.

Day 4 · 19 March 2025 · Puerto Escondido — Living Mexican Beaches

• Beach club relaxation: After arriving to the Oaxaca coast with a night flight, the next day is dedicated to relaxation and beachside fun. We’ve reserved a beautiful beach club where you can unwind and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe
• Optional activities: TBD – We will provide a list of optional activities that trekkers can decide to do. Trekkers will also be able to decide to stay at the hotel, which is all inclusive.
• Beach party: The night unfolds with a lively beach party. We’ve booked a vibrant spot right on the sand, where you can immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. With music, dancing, and a range of delicious food and drinks, the beach party promises an energetic and fun-filled evening.

Day 5 · 20 March 2025 · Puerto Escondido — Zicatela beach

• Zicatela Beach: After a lively night of celebration, the next day is all about unwinding at Zicatela Beach. This renowned stretch of sand offers a perfect setting to relax and enjoy the last moments of your beach getaway.
• Free time: You can spend your time soaking up the sun, taking a dip in the ocean, or engaging in exciting aquatic activities. For those eager to catch some waves, surfing lessons are available to help you make the most of the famous surf conditions.
• Transportation to Oaxaca City: We will take the bus to transfer to Oaxaca City
• Traditional Dinner at Oaxaca City: We will have a group dinner at the beach to taste typical Oaxaca dishes

Day 6 · 21 March 2025 · Oaxaca City — Discovering mythical Oaxaca

• Explore Monte Alban ruins: The exploration continues with a visit to Monte Albán, the ancient Zapotec city perched on a hilltop overlooking Oaxaca Valley. As you wander through the impressive ruins, including temples, pyramids, and ball courts, you’ll gain insight into the sophisticated civilization that once thrived here
• Downtown visit: The journey leads to the historic center of Oaxaca City. Here, you'll immerse yourself in the rich culture and architecture of this vibrant city. A highlight of your visit will be the Church of Santo Domingo, renowned for its stunning baroque architecture and opulent gold leaf interior.
• Cultural dinner: In the evening, the experience culminates with a special dinner at the Cultural Center San Pablo, a beautiful venue that reflects Oaxaca's rich cultural heritage. During the dinner, the Alfredo Harp Helú Foundation will give a compelling talk about their altruistic efforts to improve the region.

Day 7 · 22 March 2025 · Oaxaca City — Farewell Dinner and Guelagetza show

• Petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua: We start our day with a visit to Hierve el Agua, a stunning natural wonder in Oaxaca. Known for its impressive petrified waterfalls and mineral-rich springs, Hierve el Agua offers breathtaking views and unique geological formations. You can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools or simply enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the area
• Arbol del Tule: After exploring Hierve el Agua and Teotitlán del Valle, the day continues with a visit to the Árbol del Tule, renowned for having one of the widest trunks of any tree in the world. This ancient Montezuma cypress is a marvel of nature, and its impressive size and age make it a symbol of Oaxaca’s natural beauty.
• Guelaguetza show and farewell party: In the evening, the grand finale of your trip features a private Guelaguetza dinner and show. Held in an intimate setting, this event will offer a delicious feast of traditional Oaxacan cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary heritage of the region.

Day 8 · 23 March 2025 · Oaxaca City — Saying Goodbye

• Goodbye breakfast (optional): We will say goodbye to each other sharing our last Oaxacan breakfast together
• Free time in Oaxaca City: There will be free time for those who wish to engage in their preferred activities within Oaxaca City.
• Departures: Departure times will be shared in the WhatsApp group to facilitate coordination for group trips to the airport.

Mexico Trek 2024 itinerary

9 days in Mexico City, Mérida and Riviera Maya.

Day 0 · 9 March 2024 · Mexico City — Art & folklore (Optional)

• Meal in Coyoacán market & cantina drinks: We will visit Coyocan market, one of the most traditional in Mexico to eat market food, taste mamey ice cream and try pulque. Afterwards we will visit a cantina to live an authentic lively atmosphere serenaded with mariachi bands.
• Lucha libre!: To cap off the night, head to the arena for Lucha Libre, Mexico's colorful and dramatic wrestling matches, where masked luchadores battle in a show of athleticism and theatrics.

Day 1 · 10 March 2024 · Mexico City — Welcome to Mexico

• Reception and registration at Barceló Reforma Hotel: Participants should make their own way to the Barceló Hotel. It is advised to coordinate in groups to share an Uber from the airport. You can check in quickly and explore the city, but must return to the hotel by no later than 17:45. Those unable to check in within this timeframe can do so individually by contacting Carolina
• Inaugural Dinner: Opening ceremony of the trek. During this dinner, you will meet members of the Mexico Trek who will be available to support you with any Mexico-related questions during the trek or in the future.
• Introduction Session: The itinerary will be reviewed. Important considerations regarding safety, transportation, etc., will be discussed. Integration activities will be conducted.

Day 2 · 12 March 2024 · Mexico City — Business and innovation in Mexico and LATAM

• Anthropology Museum and Castillo de Chapultepec Visits: We will have a guided tour of the Anthropology Museum that explores all the pre-Hispanic cultures of Mexico, and the Chapultepec Castle that tells the story of colonial and independent Mexico.
• Business Trends + Lunch + Soumaya Museum: We will meet with Grupo Carso, Mexico's largest business group, to understand their perspective on where Mexico needs to focus its efforts in the future.
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation Conversation: We will meet with Hi Ventures (formerly ALLVP), the largest venture capital fund in Mexico, to discuss the opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.
• Transition to Electromobility + Networking night: We will meet with the Secretary of Economy in Puebla to discuss the success story of how the state has become a hub for electromobility, and we will have a networking opportunity with Mexican entrepreneurs.

Day 3 · 11 March 2024 · Mexico City — Socio Political Perspectives of Mexico

• Guided tour to Historic Center and Lunch: Tour of the main monuments and historical sites in downtown Mexico. We will eat traditional food at a market.
• Senate visit and conversation with Senator: We will visit the Senate of the Mexican Republic, Mexico's most important legislative body.
• Challenges of Mexico Conversations: We discussed with some of the most important researchers about the economy and national security of Mexico.

Day 4 · 13 March 2024 · Mexico City — Reception and Tour at Teotihuacán Pyramids

• Reception and Tour at Teotihuacán Pyramids: We will take a guided tour of the Teotihuacan archaeological site, where we will learn more about pre-Hispanic mythology and its ceremonial centers.
• Trajineras Tour Xochimilco: Traditional party on the trajineras of Xochimilco. We will navigate the canals of Xochimilco while celebrating the journey, eating typical food, listening to mariachis, and drinking tequila.
• Free time to rest or explore the city: After these two intense activities, we will provide free time for those who wish to rest or continue exploring the city (we recommend Coyocan, Roma or Polanco). Remember that the following day we leave at 5 am for the airport for our trip to Mérida.

Day 5 · 14 March 2024 · Mérida — Exploring Yucatán

• Progreso Beach walking tour + Cantina: We will have typical Yucatan Peninsula food while walking along Progreso Beach.
• Paseo Montejo Visit: We will tour Paseo Montejo, the main street of Mérida, to learn about the city's historic center and what colonial life was like in the states of Mexico.
• Dinner in Terraza with Local Leaders: We will have dinner with local business and political leaders to gain a deeper understanding of the context and perspectives of a state in Mexico.

Day 6 · 15 March 2024 · Riviera Maya — Exploring Wonders

• Chichen Itza Tour: We'll embark on a guided tour of the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Dive deep into the Mayan culture
• Cenotes swim + lunch: We'll visit a stunning cenote where you can swim and enjoy a lunch by its crystal-clear waters.
• Reception cocktail + Dinner: Welcome cocktail featuring traditional drinks. We'll also share key tips on how to make the most of your Xcaret experience.
• Show Mexico Expectacular: We will experience a captivating show filled with music, dance, and performances that bring Mexico's historical epochs to life, offering deeper insights into its culture

Day 7 · 16 March 2024 · Riviera Maya — Enjoying Mexico’s Magical Beaches

• Cenotes Swim (optional): We'll embark on a guided tour of the archaeological site of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Dive deep into the Mayan culture
• Charrería Exhibition (optional): Exhibition of Charros showcasing artistic and synchronized horse riding. Participation is optional, and confirmation will be requested via the WhatsApp group to reserve your spot.
• Farewell Dinner: Farewell dinner where we'll wrap up the Trek, closing with reflections from participants and team-building activities.
• Farewell Party: We will celebrate together our time in Mexico at Xcaret’s Night Club. All drinks are included. For safety reasons, leaving Xcaret for other nightclubs is not allowed, and we will not be responsible for those who disregard this instruction

Day 8 · 17 March 2024 · Riviera Maya — Saying Goodbye

• Goodbye breakfast (optional): We are going to meet for a last breakfast together
• Free time: There will be free time for those who wish to engage in their preferred activities within the Hotel.
• Departures: Departure times will be shared in the WhatsApp group to facilitate coordination for group trips to the airport.