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Please note that not all activities and places shown in the videos are included in the tour. Check the day-by-day description for itinerary details.
Experience Oaxaca City’s rich traditions, including the vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations featuring colourful parades, face painting, cemetery visits, and engaging artisan workshops. Marvel at ancient Zapotec archaeological wonders and the stunning Hierve el Agua, a set of natural rock formations resembling petrified waterfalls.
Continue your adventure with an immersive camping experience in the world’s largest cactus reserve, where hike and gather around a crackling bonfire under a canopy of stars. As we journey towards Mexico City, immerse in the rich atmosphere of its historic centre, concluding our trip with lively cantinas and soul-stirring Mariachi performances.
For those craving more, extend your trip with one or two extra nights in Mexico City. Explore the ancient Teotihuacán pyramids, delve into Frida Kahlo’s captivating museum, and join a festive boat party along the enchanting Xochimilco canals.
Oaxaca is famous for its vibrant life, colourful markets and excellent gastronomy. Its majestic churches and refined plazas have earned a Unesco World Heritage badge. As we step into the heart of the city, we’ll be greeted by the captivating sights and sounds of the Day of the Dead celebrations beginning to unfold. Prepare to immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of tradition and celebration!
At 5:30 pm, gather for a briefing on our upcoming adventure. It’s a chance to set the stage for our journey and connect with fellow travellers. After that, head out for our first group dinner!
Don’t forget to consult our “Guide for the Day of the Dead” to ensure you make the most of this unforgettable experience.
Prepare for a day of awe-inspiring exploration as we embark on an excursion to Hierve el Agua Springs. Nestled amidst the rugged sierras, these natural wonders beckon with their breathtaking beauty. Enjoy a guided hike and take a refreshing dip in the infinity pools!
After a delightful traditional lunch, we return to Oaxaca City, where the festivities of the Day of the Dead await. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant celebrations and parades, soaking in the colourful displays of tradition and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Museo de Santo Domingo, a treasure trove of Oaxacan history and art.
Prepare to step back in time as we embark on a journey to the majestic Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán. Perched atop a hill, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers unparalleled views and a glimpse into the rich history of the Zapotec civilization.
As the afternoon unfolds, indulge in the spirit of the Day of the Dead with a basic face-painting session, preparing for the evening’s festivities. As dusk descends, join in the lively Day of the Dead parade, a celebration of life and remembrance unlike any other. Experience the joyous atmosphere as the streets come alive with music, colour, and laughter. After the parade, the evening is yours to wander through the atmospheric pantheons or mingle with locals at lively bars.
After the exhilarating festivities of the previous evening’s parade, today offers a leisurely opportunity to recharge and immerse yourself further in the vibrant tapestry of Oaxaca City. Embrace the essence of the Day of the Dead celebrations as you explore the rich cultural heritage and artisanal traditions that define this enchanting city.
Depending on the day’s schedule, an optional excursion to the artisan villages surrounding Oaxaca may be available. Explore the masterful craftsmanship of local artisans as you visit traditional workshops specialising in intricate wooden figures and exquisite pottery.
Embark on an unforgettable journey as we venture to the Tehuacán Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, home to the renowned Jardín Botánico Helia Bravo Solís. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of cactus plants as we embark on a guided reserve tour. Learn about the diverse species of cacti that thrive in this unique ecosystem and marvel at their remarkable adaptations to the arid landscape.
As the day transitions into night, we’ll set up camp amidst the tranquil surroundings. Let’s gather around a crackling fire under the starlit sky!
Rise early to enjoy a hearty breakfast and dismantle our tents before embarking on our journey to Mexico City. Today marks the beginning of our adventure in this bustling metropolis, where ancient history intertwines with modern life.
As we make our way to the capital, we’ll keep our eyes peeled for any traffic delays that may extend our journey. Upon arrival, we’ll dive straight into an introductory walk around the historic centre of Mexico City. From the iconic landmarks of Bellas Artes and El Zócalo to the lively atmosphere of the mariachi square and traditional cantinas, there’s no shortage of sights and sounds to explore. Be sure to consult Lupita’s Guide to Mexico City for insider tips and recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, and explore in this dynamic city.
Today marks the end of the tour, allowing you the opportunity to savour your remaining time in Mexico City. Please be advised that accommodation for tonight is not included in the tour package. However, we’re here to assist you with any arrangements you may need.
Explore the awe-inspiring Teotihuacán Site, an ancient marvel that showcases the grandeur of past civilizations. Our guided tour will bring this archaeological gem to life. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Mexico City’s vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural treasures, or simply relax. Hotel Marlowe is your convenient base for further urban adventures.
Price: 99 USD (Includes mentioned Accommodation and Activities)
Today, we’ll explore the awe-inspiring Teotihuacán Site, an ancient marvel that showcases the grandeur of past civilizations. Our guided tour will bring this archaeological gem to life. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Mexico City’s vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural treasures, or simply relax. Hotel Marlowe is your convenient base for further urban adventures.
We begin our day in Coyoacán, exploring its vibrant market and soaking in the local charm. Then, we’ll visit Museo Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s iconic home, to immerse ourselves in her world. Next, we’ll head to Xochimilco for a tranquil Trajinera boat ride through its ancient canals and lush gardens. We’ll end the day with a group dinner at a delightful restaurant, celebrating the unforgettable experiences we’ve shared!
Price: 199 USD (Includes mentioned Accommodation and Activities)
Overlanding is your gateway to discovering hidden gems and making extraordinary connections in off-the-beaten-path destinations.
As part of the adventure, expect some flexibility. Travelling through remote areas may lead to adjustments in stops, accommodations, activities, and meals. Please note that the described driving hours are estimates and do not include time for activities, or meals. They can also be affected by road closures or other unforeseen conditions.
Before booking, be sure to check out our Frequently Asked Questions Page, where we address possible scenarios you might encounter.
This tour includes 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.
Our hotel in Oaxaca doesn’t have a restaurant, but it is located just in front of the 20th November market, opening with great breakfast options in the early morning.
20% of the meals are prepared using our van equipment—a fun way to bond as a group! For the remaining meals, you’re free to explore on your own, follow our recommendations, or join our group meals. This flexibility allows you to experience the local cuisine at your own pace and budget.
We accommodate most dietary needs. However, please be aware that options might be limited during certain stops (like en-route lunch stops). For more details, check out our FAQ page.
Our hotel rooms typically feature two double beds and private bathrooms for every two people, with options for queen or triple rooms available on request at some stops. We provide all the necessary gear for camping, including foam mats, air mats with pillows, sleeping bags, and liners. You’ll share a spacious tent designed for four with just one person from the same sex.
For more details, check out our accommodation section on the FAQ page.
We’re all about giving you the best experience possible, with must-do activities that other tours leave out. When you compare, you’ll see our trips are the best deal!
You can choose from any of these optional extras during the booking process:
This trip is rated as Easy,
Travellers can expect light physical activities, with one optional challenge. You’ll experience one camping night and some hikes, so a basic fitness level and adventurous spirit are helpful. Be prepared to carry your bags in certain situations, such as from parking to the hotel, and navigating stairs and high steps at archaeological sites and in the van.
This overlanding experience through Mexico was amazing!!
Jamie the guide is so full of energy and passion for this beautiful country. A well-thought-out route with a diverse variety of stays. So many highlights, that you will feel like you have been there for longer than 3 weeks, it’s packed full of wonder. I could not recommend a better way to travel to Mexico!
As a first-time overlander, I thoroughly enjoyed this tour!
The value for money is excellent, with at least one included activity daily, ensuring you make the most of your time in Mexico. It strikes a perfect balance, offering a blend of culture, breathtaking landscapes and interactions with locals. Highlights included: the Day of the Dead parades with face painting and visits to genuine places like La Ventanilla, complementing the iconic typical sites.
A great tour of Southern Mexico and celebrating the day of the dead festival is something that everyone should do. The itinerary was a good pace and made enjoyable with Jaime leading us.
Excellent preparation on all levels. Nothing is left undone. Great attention to detail. Five stars!
I was able to join Lupita’s “Genuine Mexico, Day of the Dead Edition” from Mexico City to Oaxaca. Jaime graciously allowed me to join the group because I was unable to fully participate in the first week of my “Wonders of Mexico” trip in Spring 2023 due to my knee injury. Because the “Day of the Dead” trip was fully booked, Jaime made special arrangements for my husband and I to stay in the group hotel. The group welcomed us with open arms and we had a fabulous time with them for a week.
I am a graduate of ITMI (The International Tour Management Institute in California, USA). I graduated from their in-person 4 week course as a Certified Tour Director in 1982. It is from the perspective of that training that I write this review.
Most tours can drive you to the various sites and deliver you to a hotel. The dirty little secret about group travel is the power of the Tour Director to make or break a trip. Blindness to human nature, the inability to “read” the group, can kill a trip. Only very special leaders can work their magic on a group of strangers and and watch them depart the trip as true friends.
I know a good Tour Director when I see one. Jaime is one of those very special leaders. Lupita Overland is the embodiment Jaime’s vision. What sets Lupita apart is Jaime’s keen awareness of how groups function. This understanding gives Jaime the uncanny ability to bring out the best in everyone who participates—passengers, crew, hotel staff, local guides. His even temper and good humor is appreciated by everyone. The end result is a cohesive group which functions well and where everyone has fun.
My “Wonders of Mexico” trip in Spring 2023 was fabulous. I watched Jaime quickly knit our group together into a fun-loving, cohesive whole. I have been a passenger on more more than 15 long haul overland adventures….with Trailfinders, Guerba, Exodus, Dragoman and Intrepid. I have travelled as a passenger with Abercrombie & Kent, Windstar Cruises, and with some of the best ground operators around the world. Against all of these, Lupita’s “ Day of the Dead October 2023 ” stands as one of the best group experiences I have ever had. Well done!
