The Many Sides of Mexico: Puerto Vallarta to Oaxaca
The Many Sides of Mexico: Puerto Vallarta to Oaxaca
The Many Sides of Mexico: Puerto Vallarta to Oaxaca
15 Days Starting in Puerto Vallarta and ending in Oaxaca
Visiting: Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25842
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Soak up the incredible contrasts of Mexico on this two-week trip from the Pacific coast to the heartland of the its interior. Loaded with highlights, you’ll dive into the country’s rich culture and history in Guadalajara, Guanajuato, and San Miguel de Allende before arriving in the megalopolis of Mexico City, bursting with art, music, and markets. Next, you’ll visit the ancient Aztec pyramids of Teohuacan on your way to Puebla, before finishing your trip off in Oaxaca with almost too many delicious foods and local taverns to discover.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Puerto Vallarta
Location: Puerto Vallarta
Accommodation: Hotel Soy Local Puerta Vallarta
Accommodation Name: Hotel Soy Local Puerta Vallarta
Arrive at any time. Attend the welcome meeting in the evening and then opt to grab dinner with the group.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Puerto Vallarta
Location: Puerto Vallarta
Accommodation: Hotel Soy Local Puerta Vallarta
Accommodation Name: Hotel Soy Local Puerta Vallarta
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get ready for a full free day in Puerto Vallarta for optional activities. Your CEO will help arrange and give you some insider recommendations, but you could spend some time on the beach, go whale watching (seasonal, Dec-Mar), a day trip with snorkelling to Isla Marietas or find a nice place to grab some food and people watch. In the evening meet with the group to trade stories and go out to search for some delicious local street food.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Enjoy a full free day for optional activities in Puerto Vallarta, like whale watching (seasonal, Dec-Mar), beach hanging, or a day trip with some snorkelling at nearby Isla Marietas. Spend the evening in search of the most delicious local food you can find.
Day 3: Puerto Vallarta/Guadalajara
Location: Puerto Vallarta
Accommodation: Casa Vilasanta
Accommodation Name: Casa Vilasanta
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Travel inland to Guadalajara this morning. Make a stop along the way near the town of Tequila to visit a distillery to learn about how tequila is traditionally made with a tasting included and lunch. Continue on arriving in Guadalajara in the early evening for a CEO-led orientation walk.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Set off on foot to get to know this city in western Mexico. Known for tequila and mariachi music Guadalajara packs a lively atmosphere appealing to any traveller. Wander the colonial plazas and spot landmarks like the Teatro Degollado and the Palacio del Gobierno houses.
ACTIVITY: Mexico is the birthplace of tequila, and there is nowhere better to learn about the iconic drink. Visit a distillery in a town between Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara to learn about the history of tequila and the production process, before the main highlight –a tasting session with lunch. Sip, don't shoot!
Day 4: Guadalajara
Location: Guadalajara
Accommodation: Casa Vilasanta
Accommodation Name: Casa Vilasanta
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free morning today to discover Guadalajara's charm. In the afternoon, set off on a city tour including the nearby vibrant city of Tlaquepaque. Think mariachis, historical centres, and loads of fun and street food. The rest of the evening is open to do as you please. Maybe go for another walk through the main square and find a cool tavern to grab a drink with the group.
FREE TIME: EVENING Spend some time shopping, eating, and relaxing in Guadalajara for your last night in the area.
ACTIVITY: See more of Guadalajara on this in-depth city tour including some free time to explore the gastronomy hub of Tlaquepaque. See the work of Mexican muralist Jose Clemente Orozco and discover the best views in the city.
Day 5: Guadalajara/Guanajuato
Location: Guadalajara
Accommodation: Hotel Santa Regina
Accommodation Name: Hotel Santa Regina
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel by public bus to Guanajuato today. Enjoy an afternoon walking tour to discover the city's beautiful architecture, tunnels, cultural history, and of course, street food.
ACTIVITY: Gain a deeper understanding into this town located in a valley surrounded by mountains. Filled with brilliantly coloured buildings around a central park and loads of great places to try some local eats. Make a stop to a local bakery, head to a stall for some fresh squeezed juices, then try some tlacoyos, a sort of folded taco, stuffed with cheese and chicken. Next, head underground to see the labyrinth of tunnels below the city. And spend the remainder of the tour learning about the history and culture of this place while eating different kinds of street food from tamales to sopes, you'll taste vibrant flavours.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Day 6: Guanajuato/San Miguel De Allende
Location: Guanajuato
Accommodation: Hotel Hacienda Monteverde
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hacienda Monteverde
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wander through Guanajuato during your free morning. Grab a bite to eat on your own before the bus ride to San Miguel de Allende. Here the group will go on a CEO-led orientation walk before time to have dinner on your own.
FREE TIME: MORNING Free morning to grab a pastry on your own and walk through the main square one last time before moving on. Plenty of time for a quiet morning coffee and some people watching.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
ACTIVITY: Your CEO will lead you on an orientation walk of San Miguel de Allende. This colonial-era city is located in Mexico's central highlands and is home to a budding art scene and many cultural festivals. Wander the cobblestoned streets and learn the history and stories of this place while in the shadow of the pink towers rising above the El Jardín main plaza.
Day 7: San Miguel De Allende
Location: San Miguel de Allende
Accommodation: Hotel Hacienda Monteverde
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hacienda Monteverde
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start off with a half-day city tour of San Miguel de Allende. See various historical sites like the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, Iglesia de San Francisco, and Templo del Oratorio de San Felipe Neri. Learn the cultural significance of various places and admire the architecture of this place before a free afternoon for various optional activities.
ACTIVITY: Get to know the historical and cultural significance of local landmarks in San Miguel de Allende on a half-day city tour. Visit important sites like, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, Iglesia de San Francisco, and Templo del Oratorio de San Felipe Neri.
FREE TIME: Enjoy some free time for optional activities in the area like, horseback riding, a cooking class, tequila tasting, or a visit to some nearby hot springs. Your CEO can help you organize whichever you choose.
Day 8: San Miguel De Allende/Mexico City
Location: San Miguel de Allende
Accommodation: Hotel PF Suites
Accommodation Name: Hotel PF Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hop on the local bus to Mexico City this morning and arrive around midday. Enjoy a free afternoon and opt for an evening out on the town.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Day 9: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel PF Suites
Accommodation Name: Hotel PF Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to discover the busting and vibrant megalopolis of Mexico City. With so much to see, do, and eat in this vibrant city, be sure to get recommendations from your CEO about the best things to experience on any particular day. Maybe grab some street tacos and people watch in the main square.
FREE TIME: Spend a full day enjoying Mexico City on your own. Hang out in the main square, visit historical sites and museums, and try as many different street food vendors as you can stand. Check in with your CEO for some recommendations on the best activities and experiences to try out on any given day.
Day 10: Mexico City
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel PF Suites
Accommodation Name: Hotel PF Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take advantage of a day get to know Mexico City. Opt to check out the sprawling zócalo (main square), visit the Frida Kahlo museum in vibrant Coyoacán, or view impressive Mayan and Aztec artifacts at the National Anthropology Museum.
Additional Information: If you plan to visit the Museum of Frida Kahlo on this day, we recommend booking your visit in advance. Tickets are limited and are not sold in-person.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Take advantage of free time to get out and explore this amazing city and its surroundings. Opt to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, visit the Juarez neighbourhood, an area teeming with restaurants, bars, parks, and boutique shops. Maybe make a stop at the Palacio Nacional to see Diego Rivera's famous mural, "The History of Mexico". Or eat like a local and join a food tour and get a sense of the vast culinary scene here.
Day 11: Mexico City/Puebla
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation: Hotel Gilfer
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gilfer
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise early and explore the ancient city of Teotihuacan on a guided tour. Stand in awe of the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, stroll down the Avenue of the Dead and learn all about the site's importance to Mexico's ancient cultures for thousands of years, at one point being the largest city in the entire Americas. Continue to Puebla and enjoy an orientation walk downtown.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit the ruins of Teotihuacán northeast of Mexico City. This ruin site dates back to 100BC and has the impressive Avenue of the Dead, Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. Bring water, wear a hat and solid walking shoes to learn all about this pre-Columbian Mesoamerican city that at its peak was once the largest city in all of the Americas.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: The route will vary for each tour, allowing our CEOs to share their personal favourites. You can expect to see the zócalo, artisans' market and visit the historic buildings within centre of this World Heritage city.
Day 12: Puebla
Location: Puebla
Accommodation: Hotel Gilfer
Accommodation Name: Hotel Gilfer
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to explore the city. Opt to visit a ceramics workshop, check out the pyramid of nearby Cholula, sample delicious local specialties, or watch a lucha libre wrestling match at night.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Discover all that Puebla has to offer its travellers on this free day to explore. Opt to visit a ceramics workshop, check out the pyramid of nearby Cholula, sample delicious local specialties, or watch a lucha libre wrestling match at night.
Day 13: Puebla/Oaxaca
Location: Puebla
Accommodation: Hotel Parador del Dominico
Accommodation Name: Hotel Parador del Dominico
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey south to beautiful Oaxaca, and get a feel for the city on an orientation walk, stopping to visit one of its sprawling markets. After, visit the Alebrijes Artisan Community for your G for Good moment. Meet a local artisan, speak with them, ask any questions the group may have, and learn more about how the Alebrijes are crafted.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: All walks will be slightly different, allowing your CEO to show off their favourite spots. You can expect to see the Santo Domingo Cultural Centre, walk through the zocalo and the famous 20th of November market. Opt to sample some delicious Oaxacan foods along the way such as mole, tlayudas or chapulines.
ACTIVITY: Alebrijes were created by a Mexican artisan named Pedro Linares who was known for making piñatas and carnival masks. After falling ill and hallucinating crazy figures and creatures inside his mind, the artist decided to bring what he saw to life by creating the small figurines we know as Alebrijes. Often made of a mash-up between animals, these figurines are now made by Oaxacan artisans out of wood and then painted with vibrant pigments and lots of patterns. Learn more about how these figurines integrated themselves into Oaxacan/Mexican folklore and how the craft expanded from originally being made from cardboard to now being carved from Copal wood. Meet a local artisan and speak with them, ask any questions the group may have and to learn more about how the Alebrijes are crafted.
Day 14: Oaxaca
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation: Hotel Parador del Dominico
Accommodation Name: Hotel Parador del Dominico
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take advantage of free time, and opt to learn how to make mole in a cooking class, shop at nearby artisan villages, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mitla, or sample some mezcal at a local distillery - look out for the worm! In the evening enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local expert and taste a variety of regional cuisine.
Additional Information: You can pre-book the Hierve el Agua Day Trip during check-out and pay a visit to a petrified waterfall outside of Oaxaca.
ACTIVITY: Attend a cooking demonstration in Oaxaca with a local expert who will be making a variety of authentic regional cuisine. You'll learn about the ingredients and enjoy a tasting with some samples.
Please note that this will not be a full meal.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Take advantage of free time to get out and explore this amazing city and its surroundings.
Day 15: Oaxaca
Location: Oaxaca
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (14 nts). -
Meals
14 breakfasts, 1 lunch -
Your G for Good Moment: Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit, Oaxaca
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Guanajuato City and Street Food Tour, Guanajuato
Your Discover Moment: Oaxaca -
Guided tour of Teotihuacan
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Orientation walk in Puebla
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Orientation walk and market visit in Oaxaca
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Tequila distillery visit and tasting
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City tour of Guadalajara
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Orientation walk in San Miguel de Allende
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City tour of San Miguel de Allende
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Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit
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Cooking demonstration with local expert in Oaxaca
Accommodation
Hotels (14 nts).
Transport
Private vehicle, public bus, walking.
Meals Included
14 breakfasts, 1 lunch
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
Mode of Transport
Private vehicle, public bus, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They 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 being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Check out our Q&As
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What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit, Oaxaca
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Guanajuato City and Street Food Tour, Guanajuato
Your Discover Moment: Oaxaca. Guided tour of Teotihuacan. Orientation walk in Puebla. Orientation walk and market visit in Oaxaca.Tequila distillery visit and tasting. City tour of Guadalajara. Orientation walk in San Miguel de Allende. City tour of San Miguel de Allende. Alebrijes Artisan Community Visit. Cooking demonstration with local expert in Oaxaca. Free time in Puebla, Oaxaca Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, and Mexico City. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. -
Highlights
Listen to mariachi bands and sample tequila at a tavern in Guadalajara, Climb the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan, Sample mezcal at a local distillery, Try one of the delicious varieties of mole in Mexico's gastronomic heartland
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Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. -
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. -
Important Notes
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
-
Group Leader Description
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They 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 being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
-
Group Size Notes
Max 16, avg 12.
-
Meals Included
14 breakfasts, 1 lunch
-
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. Please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
-
Transport
Private vehicle, public bus, walking.
-
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
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Accommodation
Hotels (14 nts).
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My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
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Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day. -
Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
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Finishing Point Instructions
If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.
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Packing List
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear -
Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
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Money Exchange
It is uncommon to pay for optional activities, souvenirs and meals on credit card in the areas this trip visits, so be prepared with a combination of USD cash and local currency to pay for these on-trip costs.
That said, credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank prior to travelling. ATMs generally only dispense local currency, not USD. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.
You will be able to exchange USD to local currency along the way , but please be advised that slightly torn notes and notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 50USD (or equivalent). Learn about local exchange rates at www.xe.com. -
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
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Optional Activities
Puerto Vallarta
- Whale Watching - Puerto Vallarta
- Beach Time
- Sunset Sailing Tour
- Marietas Island Snorkel Tour
- Food & Drink Tour Puerto Vallarta
San Miguel de Allende
- Cooking Class - San Miguel de Allende
- Horseback Riding in San Miguel de Allende
Mexico City
- National Museum of Anthropology (95MXN per person)
- Taco Street Food Crawl
- District of Coyoacán Visit (50-75USD per group)
- Museum of Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul) (320MXN per person)
- Xochimilco Boat Tour (25-50USD per person)
- Lucha Libre Match (350-500MXN per person)
Cholula
- Cholula Ruins Visit (85MXN per person)
San Pablo Villa de Mitla
- Valley of Mitla Ruins Visit (950MXN per person)
Oaxaca
- Mezcal Factory Tour
- Hierve el Agua Day Trip
- Mole Cooking Class (1200MXN per person)
Monte Albán
- Monte Albán Tour (900MXN per person) -
Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. -
Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).
Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling. -
A Couple of Rules
Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.
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Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally.
G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.
G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation.
Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.
Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects. -
Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
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Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com
ewsletters/
Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit. -
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances
estrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport. -
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
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Max Pax
16
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.