Mexico Trek 2026

Mexico Trek 2026 ran from 14 March 2026 to 22 March 2026: 9 days in Mexico City, Mérida and Riviera Maya.

Itinerary

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.

Speakers at Mexico Trek 2026

• Laura Itzel Castillo Juarez — President of the Senate, Morena
• Jorge Alvarez Maynez — National Party Leader and Former Presidential Candidate, Movimiento Ciudadano
• Mara Lezama — Governor, Quintana Roo
• Miguel Torruco Garza — Undersecretary of Public Safety, Mexico's Federal Government
• Waldo Fernandez Gonzalez — Senator - President of the USMCA Committee, Green Party
• Jose Zazueta — Director, Amazon Mexico Retail
• Teo Tijerina — Founder and CEO, Hera Biotech
• Antonio Martin del Campo — Senator, Partido Accion Nacional
• Amanda M. Greco — Director of the Social Entrepreneurship Program, Stanford University
• Eugenio Segura Vazquez — Senator, Morena
• Julio Cesar Gomez Torres — Secretary of Public Security, Government of Quintana Roo
• Alejandra Cullen — Mexican economist and Public Policy Analyst, UNO Tv
• Raul Paz Alonzo — Undersecretary of Investment Promotion, Secretary of Economy, Yucatan
• Patricia Urriza — Congresswoman, Movimiento Ciudadano
• Roger Gongora Castillo — Undersecretary of Investment, Trade, and Competitiveness, Secretary of Economy, Yucatan

Places on the route

• Teotihuacán Pyramids
• Mercado de Coyoacán
• Frida Kahlo House
• Senate
• Palacio de Bellas Artes
• Metropolitan Cathedral
• Chapultepec Castle
• Chichén Itzá
• Los Azulejos
• Progreso Beach
• Paseo Montejo
• Xochimilco’s ancient canals on trajineras
• Bank of Mexico (Banxico)
• Sacred Cenotes
• Mérida
• Mayan Riviera
• National Museum of Anthropology
• Reforma Barceló
• Lucha Libre
• Ballet Folklórico de México
• Soumaya Museum

What participants said

“Mexico Trek was one of the best ways to spend spring break. Over 8 days, we went from the pyramids to the Senate chambers in Mexico City to cenotes in the Yucatán to the beaches of Cancún, and it all felt seamlessly organised without ever feeling rigid. The organizers were responsible, warm, and genuinely invested in making sure every participant had a great time — they thought of everything, from logistics to speaker lineups to making sure we actually experienced Mexico beyond the tourist…” — Shreya G.

“The organizing team did a phenomenal job with planning the trip and making it as meaningful and impactful as possible for everyone. The visits to the Senate and the Secretary of Economy in Yucatán were unforgettable. The trip was amazing in that it showed how culturally beautiful Mexico is. I will forever cherish this trip and be extremely grateful to the organizers for their hard work, dedication, and patience.” — Jaquelin T.

“It was a great time in Mexico, fantastic people. This trip changed my perspective on Mexico and the opportunities which lie ahead are immense. This place has a rich history and natural beauty.” — Chahat S.

“I had a great time and I loved to see how the team provided attention at a very personal level. Will definitely do Mexico again!” — Prakhar P.

“The trek was well organized and provided a comprehensive view of Mexico, covering everything from politics and history to culture, as well as its natural and human beauty. Visits to Teotihuacán, the National Museum of Anthropology, and Chichén Itzá offered unforgettable journeys into the country's past, and the discussions in the Senate and with local officials in Mérida gave real insight into Mexico's political and economic development. Everything was of the highest standard: food,…” — Nurlan T.

In the press