Classic Mexico Adventure - 14 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will be staying in hotels for all 13 nights of the tour.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  13 breakfasts are included in this trip.

• What is the typical group size for this adventure?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• Are there any age restrictions for joining this trip?

  Travelers must be at least 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2 (Light). Travelers should be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What are some of the main highlights and included activities on this trip?

  Highlights include climbing the Pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan, sampling mezcal at a local distillery, exploring the ruins at Palenque, and lounging on the beaches of Playa del Carmen. The tour also includes a guided tour of Teotihuacan, orientation walks in Puebla, Oaxaca, and Mérida, a guided tour of Palenque ruins, a visit to Campeche, a guided tour of Chichén Itzá, an Alebrijes Artisan Community Workshop, and an Oaxaca cuisine tasting experience.

• What optional activities are available on the tour?

  Optional activities include visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum or National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, the Cholula Ruins, a Mole Cooking Class or Mezcal Factory Tour in Oaxaca, a Jungle Trail Hike in Palenque, visiting Uxmal ruins or a cenote near Mérida, and exploring Tulum ruins or a cenote in Playa del Carmen, among others.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes taxis, private vehicles, planes (an internal flight from Oaxaca to Villahermosa is included), and walking. The majority of transportation will be via first-class buses, so it's recommended to bring an extra layer due to air conditioning.

• What is the policy for solo travelers, and is there a single supplement?

  Solo travelers are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement for shared accommodation on group trips. However, if you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour, unless specified for some combo tours.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, an internal flight from Oaxaca to Villahermosa (en route to Palenque, possibly via Mexico City) is included in the cost of the trip.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is tipping customary in Mexico, and how much should I budget for it?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (approximately 10%) is customary. For local guides and drivers, recommendations range from $5-10 USD per day. Tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is also appreciated, with a guideline of $5-7 USD per person, per day.

• What currency should I use, and what should I know about money exchange?

  Mexican pesos are most widely accepted, though US dollars may be accepted in popular tourist areas like Cancun. Withdrawing from an ATM generally offers the best exchange rate. It's advisable to carry a small emergency fund in cash. Credit and debit cards are useful, but their functionality can vary, so don't rely on them as your only source of money. Bring notes in good condition and denominations lower than 50 USD.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation (minimum USD 200,000 coverage). Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and luggage loss coverage are strongly recommended.

• Are there any specific health considerations before traveling?

  You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. It's also recommended to carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who will manage logistics, provide information, suggest activities, and introduce you to local experiences. Local guides are also used for specific sites to provide more specialized knowledge.

• What should I know about safety and security on this trip?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. While cities are generally safe during the day, travel in small groups and use taxis at night. Be cautious with water-based activities and only participate if accompanied by a guide.

• Are laundry facilities available on this trip?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. It's suggested to bring biodegradable soap if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that connects local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses, integrating them into the tour operator's itineraries.

• Do I need to pay a departure tax?

  A departure tax of approximately $35 USD per person may apply, though it is sometimes included in international flight tickets. There may also be an approximately $45 USD tourist tax at Cancún International Airport, which is usually included in international tickets. It's recommended to verify with your airline.