Mexico Grande – Mexico Tour for Young Adults & Young Solo Travellers

Mexico Grande Tours for Young Adults

The one that goes from the glorious Chichen Itza to the Cancun coast on a magical 13-day Mexico tour

Viva Mexico! This magical destination truly has it all. Crammed full of rich cultural tradition and diverse geography, there is something for everyone – from Puerto Vallarta and Cancun to the jungles of the Yucatan and from the World Heritage Site of Chichen Itza to the thriving metropolis of Mexico City. At every turn, immerse yourself in adventure activities, water sports, cultural sites, an unbelievable variety of food, and a sizzling nightlife. In every aspect, Mexico dials up the heat.

“70 percent join our trips solo”

“70% of our travellers join our trips solo, so you’ll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories. This is the best way to turn solo travel into the most social travel imaginable.” (Cited from the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults. For the latest info and eventual changes see here)

“Most popular youth travel company in the world”

Info by the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults (“Most popular youth travel company in the world”, Wikipedia): “Our trips are exclusively for 18-35s, and whether you join us solo or in a group, our trips are designed so you can share incredible experiences with young travellers just like you.”

Reviews by tour participants:

4.9 out of 5 stars (54 Reviews)* (all reviews and the latest rating available on the details page

Target age group:

18 to 35 (35 to 45 at “Reunion Trips“)

Trip duration and price:

13 days, 1 country from about $ 3009* (final prices – also in other currencies like British £ or € – available on the booking page)

Destinations:

North America > Mexico

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Planned Itinerary:

Day 1: Puerto Vallarta

Day 2: Puerto Vallarta

Day 3: Puerto Vallarta

Tequila

Guadalajara

Day 4: Guadalajara

Guanajuato

Day 5: Guanajuato

Mexico City

Day 6: Mexico City

Day 7: Mexico City

Day 8: Mexico City

Oaxaca

Day 9: Oaxaca

Day 10: Oaxaca

Merida

Day 11: Merida

Chichen Itza

Cancun

Day 12: Cancun

Day 13: Cancun

Day 1: Start Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta

Welcome to one of the most popular beach towns in Mexico, also known as the ‘Mexican Riviera’. Spa, pool, relax, repeat are all high on the agenda today – and that’s before we top it all off with a beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene.

Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)

Included Meals:

DinnerIncluded ExperienceEat Dinner on the Beach in Puerto VallartaGrab your new buddies and a Paloma cocktail. It’s time to feast on Mexican food and watch the sunset over the sea.

Day 2: Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta
Today you’re free to explore Puerto Vallarta however you like. You can surf, or zip line, take a day trip to remote beaches on a sailing trip. Then, in the evening, catch a Pirate show! Expect the unexpected in Puerto Vallarta.

Holiday Inn Express Puerto Vallarta (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Take a Zipline AdventureWhizz through the trees on a high octane zipline adventure.
Additional costs apply

Watch a Pirate Show (with Dinner too!)Climb aboard a pirate galleon for a night of swashbuckling fun, music and food.
Additional costs apply

Take a Day Trip to Yelapa and MajahuitasSpend the day exploring paradise on a sailing trip that takes you to remote beaches.
Additional costs apply

Day 3: Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara

Puerto VallartaBye bye beach hangs, but don’t worry, this isn’t your last taste of Mexican beach life – we’ll see you soon, sea.

TequilaNothing screams ‘Mexico’ like tequila, so why not head to a genuine distillery where you can learn how this fiery spirit is made and taste some for yourself? Afterwards, take a stroll around the streets to get a feel for the old and new world architecture this place is known for – and then sample some seriously electric nightlife.GuadalajaraIt’s time to learn about the city known as the ‘Pearl of the West’, Guadalajara, with its four main squares and glorious cathedral. Then you could go and find a spot to watch one of the city’s famous live Mariachi bands do its thing.

Hotel de Mendoza Guadalajara (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceVisit a Tequila DistilleryDiscover how Mexico’s famous liquor is made. And knock back a cheeky shot or two.

Day 4: Guadalajara to Guanajuato

GuadalajaraWe leave Guadalajara and hit the road. GuanajuatoHere at the old colonial city of Guanajuato (now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage City), you’ll learn about the history of the famous silver mining town and how the economy has shaped much of its culture. Discover the famous ‘Mummies’, the lovers at the ‘Alley of Kisses’, and even the Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel himself.

Hotel Gran Plaza Guanajuato (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceVisit Hospicio Cabañas This work of architectural art was originally built as a place to care for disadvantaged people. Nowadays, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Included ExperienceExplore Guadalajara on FootStroll around the official birthplace of tequila and mariachi music.

Day 5: Guanajuato to Mexico City

GuanajuatoThanks to the bright facades of Guanajuato, your eyes should be wide open by now. Just in time too, because there is so much to see in Mexico City.Mexico CityMexico City is the largest city in the country and impressively, the oldest capital in Central America. Known for its Aztec temple, its surprising altitude at 2200m, and mountainous landscape, this place is busy, bustling and oh-so-wonderful.

Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceTour Guanajuato on foot Narrow cobbled streets. Colourful colonial architecture. Manicured gardens. You’ll see why this place is labelled ‘most beautiful city in Mexico’.
Included Experience Visit San Miguel de Allende The candy-coloured buildings and antiquated streets make this one of Mexico’s most photogenic cities. And the perfect backdrop for an Insta shoot.

Day 6: Mexico City

Mexico City
The theme ‘getting out there’ will take on a whole new meaning today. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are the focus for this leg of your journey in this bustling city. Get stuck into the local flavours by tasting some Mexican delicacies at a local market. Then, tonight, re-fuel with city eats, like enchiladas, tamales and tacos. Even head out and get a little loco, if the mood takes you…

Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included Experience Taste Street Food at a Local MarketCraving some authentic tacos, pambazo or barbacoa? It’s time to galvanise your tastebuds.Included ExperienceSee the Birthplace of Frida Kahlo Heads up culture vultures! Visit Coyoacan to walk in the footsteps of the famous artist. And check out the museum in her honour.

Day 7: Mexico City

Mexico City
It’s a busy one today, travellers. Archaeological city Teotihuacan, pyramids and Aztec temples are the focus for this leg of your journey. As you go, local guides will kindly impart their extensive knowledge on many interesting topics so you’re in the know on anything and everything. And if you happen to be here at the right time, you might even get to experience Lucha Libre, Mexican wrestling!

Hotel Royal Reforma (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included Experience Visit the ancient ruins of TeotihuacanAdmire the ‘City of Gods’: one of the first great cities of the Western Hemisphere. Although no one really knows who built it.Check out Teotihuacan from a Hot Air BalloonHot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan
Additional costs apply

Day 8: Mexico City to Oaxaca

Mexico CityMeeting your TM and fellow travellers this morning, you’ll be setting off for Oaxaca (pronounced Wa-ha-ka)! Have you got it? Great – let’s hit the road.OaxacaWelcome to Oaxaca, with its bohemian bars, charming colonial buildings and ridiculously pretty churches. Commonly known as the gastronomical capital of Mexico, the food here is guaranteed to guac your world. The perfect drink to wash it all down? Mezcal, of course.

Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Day 9: Oaxaca

Oaxaca
Today, you’re going to soak up some serious Oaxaca vibes with a guided city tour where you’ll get to check out the local markets. The colourful city streets are going to be the perfect place for some Insta shots, and if you can be dragged away from the views for long enough, there’s plenty of delicacies to try during your free night.

Hotel Oaxaca Real (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceTake a tour of OaxacaStroll the cobbled streets of one of Mexico’s most authentic cities. Sample the epic street food and revel in the laid-back pace.Included ExperienceSample the Famous Mezcal Test your courage with a ‘straight up’ of this potent national drink. Included Experience Visit Monte Alban’s ruins and markets Explore one of the earliest cities of MesoAmerica. Then hit up the market for some local keepsakes.

Day 10: Oaxaca to Merida

OaxacaAdios Oaxaca, Merida is calling our names! And we won’t waste any time, hopping on an included flight to whiz us there without delay. MeridaHere in mellow Merida, you’ll explore Mexico’s quiet side. Wander down cobbled streets and grand plazas on a unique walking tour, with some free time to explore the bustling markets. Later you can feast yourself on Yucatan specialities and head off for a blissful slumber.

Hotel Caribe (or similar)Included ExperienceFly to MeridaSwoop into the capital of Mexico’s Yucatan region. Get set for a barrage of beaches, jungles, ancient Mayan sites and epic nightlife.
Included ExperienceDiscover MeridaA photogenic fiesta of colour and culture. This is the perfect place to get a real taste of life in Yucatan.

Day 11: Merida to Cancun

MeridaPack up your swag of Mexican trinkets and say goodbye to the calm oasis of Merida and hello yet another incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed site: Chichen Itza.

Chichen ItzaNext stop, the most famous ancient ruins in Mayan history. With our Local Guide leading the charge, we’ll learn all about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country, and the worlds that came before us. Afterwards, we’ll take a dip in a cenote – which is the best way to beat the Mexican heat.CancunIn stark contrast, next up is Mexico’s super resort – Cancun. With high energy vibes this stop is a no brainer when it comes to getting your fiesta on. One suggestion for tonight’s dinner at the Mercado 28, a busy market serving true Mexican delights.

Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceTour Chichen Itza with a LocalTake a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.Included Experience Swim in a cenote at Chichen ItzaIt’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!

Day 12: Cancun

CancunCancun is a hub of fiery entertainment… known for way more than party vibes. Powdery beaches, endlessly swimmable waters and laid-back taco joints (basically all you need, no matter your mood.) Your Trip Manager knows this place like the back of their hand too, so you’re guaranteed to be in the know on all the best spots to head for the evening.

Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceChill with a Sunset Beach DinnerGet the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes. Swim with Whale SharksSwimming with the biggest fish in the world, it’s an experience you’ll remember for life!
Additional costs apply

Ride in a Jungle SpeedboatThe best way to check out Cancun’s glorious shores – and boost your adrenaline at the same time.

Additional costs apply

Chill on the Beach at Isla MujeresWe’ll travel by catamaran across to one of the prettiest islands in the Caribbean, known for its beaches and swanky scuba diving spots.
Additional costs apply

Explore the Jungle in a 4x4The most adrenaline-fulled way to explore the tropical jungle of Puerto Morelos! Head deep into the forest with your crew to check out twisting trails and jaw-dropping greenery.
Additional costs apply

Day 13: End Cancun

Cancun

Morning global roamers, we came, we saw, we conquered all… We’ll fuel up on one last breakfast together, then it’s time to wipe away the tears and do those final friend requests because today you’re homeward bound with firm plans in full steam for a Contiki 2.0 reunion in Asia no-doubt.

Included Meals:

Breakfast

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details & booking page

Some of the Highlights:

Included Experience
Visit a Tequila Distillery

Discover how Mexico’s famous liquor is made. And knock back a cheeky shot or two.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Tour Chichen Itza with a Local

Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Swim in a cenote at Chichen Itza

It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!

INCLUDED

Watch a Pirate Show (with Dinner too!)

Climb aboard a pirate galleon for a night of swashbuckling fun, music and food.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Take a Day Trip to Yelapa and Majahuitas

Spend the day exploring paradise on a sailing trip that takes you to remote beaches.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Check out Teotihuacan from a Hot Air Balloon

Hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Trip Highlights

The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list

You’ll find all highlights and eventual changes on the details page

FAQs:

Do I need a visa to enter Mexico?

The visa requirements for entering Mexico will change depending on:
– The length of your visit
– The purpose of your visit
– Your country of origin

Visit https://www.contiki.com/resources/visas-guide to find the visa requirements for your specific situation.

You’ll find all FAQs and the latest info on the details page

Included Meals:

11 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Team:

Expert Trip Manager + Driver Team + Local Guides

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Group Size:

Maximum 46 people

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Transfers:

Coach and Flight

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

More Details:

You’ll find all details and the latest updates on the details & booking page

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(Partially) travel with a nice group or entirely travel solo?

By booking an organized Mexico tour for young adults or other North America trips for young people you can not only reduce planning hassle, but often also save money, as tour operators can buy accommodations, transportation, etc. in larger contingents in advance and thus get special conditions. You will also benefit from the experience of the tour operator, professional tour guides (whose stories you can enjoy…) and have the easy opportunity to meet nice fellow travelers when traveling in a group. Anyone who has traveled before will know that travel companions or other traveling acquaintances are one of the most essential factors for unforgettable experiences. In addition, you usually have enough individual freedom even with organized tours and you can, if the arrival and departure is not included, additionally extend your stay individually before or after the group tour with young adults. If you still prefer to organize your trip completely on your own and travel independently, then you’ll find all the practical tools you need to plan and book quickly & cheaply on our individual travel page.