Mexico Cultural Stories & Guelaguetza Festival

Day 1 – Welcome to Mexico City!

Touch down in the heart of Mexico City! Step out of arrivals and spot your friendly driver waiting, ready to whisk you straight to your hotel. You’re staying in Zócalo Central – smack in the middle of it all. Take a moment to freshen up, shake off that travel dust, and pinch yourself. After months of waiting, you’re finally here!

Tonight, it’s time for your first taste of Mexico, gathering with your new crew for a welcome feast featuring tacos spilling over with smoky meat, tamales steamed in banana leaves, and salsa so fiery and fresh it feels like there’s a mariachi band in your mouth! With music in the air, laughter around the table, and a group of soon-to-be friends by your side, this night sets the perfect tone for the epic journey ahead.

Accommodation: Zocalo Central (or similar)
Included: Dinner

Day 2 – Mexico City

It’s your first full day in Mexico City, so let’s get into it! You’ll kick things off at a local market, where the sights, smells, and tastes are a full-on sensory feast. Tables are piled high with fiery red chillies, petals splash colour from every flower stand, and the scent of crisping tortillas practically calls your name. You’ll be spinning through the aisles, but trust us – it’s the best kind of dizzy!

With the warm-up done, you’ll hit the streets for a food tour that’ll make you question everything you’ve ever called “Mexican food”. And just when you think you’re stuffed, out come the sweet, sugar-coated delights you didn’t even know you were craving. Churros, anyone?

By the end of the day, your belly’s full, you’re wearing a massive grin, and Mexico City has already hooked you in. Ready for round two tomorrow?

Accommodation: Zocalo Central (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 – Teotihuacan

In the mood to kick off the morning with something epic? Of course, you are! Then how does floating above ancient pyramids in a hot air balloon at sunrise sound? This optional extra is not for the faint of heart, but it’s one of those pure “Mexico Bucket List” experiences you won’t want to miss out on. If heights aren’t your thing, no worries – find the perfect spot on the ground and watch the balloons drift across the sky like colourful confetti. Take it all in, and regroup with everyone once they’re back on solid ground.

Once you’ve taken in that view, it’s history ‘o’ clock as you delve into the ancient site of Teotihuacan, walking in the footsteps of ancient civilisations, scaling a pyramid or two, and letting the eyebrow-raising the stories of the “City of the Gods” sweep you away.

It was a pretty full-on morning, so the afternoon is all yours to chillax. Rooftop sundowners, anyone?

Accommodation: Zocalo Central (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 – Frida Kahlo & Xochimilco

First stop: the iconic Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s colourful, creative playground. Every corner pulses with her flair, and her bold, eye-popping art feels so alive, that you’ll leave feeling like you’ve met the legend herself!

Next, hop on a boat and drift through the Xochimilco Floating Gardens. Sure, it’s a bit on the touristy side, but once you learn that these chinampas have been around for over 1,000 years you’ll see it with new eyes. Plus, the photo ops here are second to none, so hop aboard a colourful boat, drift past flower-adorned barges, and take it all in.

By late afternoon, you’ll finally get a rest as you make the 2-hour drive to your new home: the Hacienda Vista Hermosa. This 16th-century restored sugar cane hacienda is absolutely fabulous, so don’t miss the chance to cool off in the outdoor pools or lose yourself in its tropical gardens.

Accommodation: Hacienda Vista Hermosa (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Taxco

Mountain magic, here you come, as your Fencox Crew heads to Taxco, the “silver capital” of Mexico and one of the country’s Pueblos. That means it’s one of the most gorgeous towns – no biggie! 

This town’s all about those twisty cobbled streets, Spanish-style buildings, and more silver shops than you can shake a taco at. As you wander, take every opportunity you can to drink in the breath-stealing views. 

After filling your camera roll (and your belly, let’s be honest), it’s back to your hacienda hideaway. This trip has already packed in pyramids, Frida, floating gardens and now mountains – and you’re still only on Day 5! What on earth is next?!

Accommodation: Hacienda Vista Hermosa (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 – Cholula

What’s better than one magical town? Two in one day, of course. Today, you’re ticking off not one, but two of Mexico’s most enchanting spots. First up, Cholula, home to the largest pyramid in the world (yep, even bigger than Egypt’s!). But here’s where it gets weird: the pyramid is hidden beneath a hill, and sitting right on top of it is a church, and all of this is set against a backdrop of volcanoes. This might even make it to the top 10 coolest sights you’ve ever feasted your eyes upon.

After soaking up Cholula, it’s onward to Puebla, another Pueblo where colour-drenched streets and more photo ops are waiting for you.

Accommodation: NH Puebla (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 – Puebla

Good morning, Puebla! Time to lace up and take a wander through nearly 500 years of history. The cobblestone streets here are basically time machines and the Spanish colonial buildings that line the way are so perfectly manicured you’d think they have a personal stylist. Puebla wasn’t just plopped here for its pretty face though – it was originally built to keep trade routes in check between Mexico City and the Gulf. Now, though, it’s all about those picture-perfect facades and lace-iron Juliette balconies, and you’re the lucky one soaking it all in.

By lunchtime, you’ll be trading Spanish-era streetscapes for Puebla’s food scene. And if you haven’t tried mole yet, this is your chance. It’s the bomb! A rich, velvety sauce that mingles chocolate, spices and chillies into a taste that’s equal part smoky, sweet and spicy… confirmed by those who have bravely travelled before you – one bite, and you’ll either love it or hate it! Which side of the tasting fence do you think you’ll end up on?

Accommodation: NH Puebla (or similar)
Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 8 – Tacos & Tequila

Get your aprons on and appetite ready, because today you’re going to become a Mexican cooking pro with an expert-led cooking class! From chopping to sizzling, you’ll be whipping up your own dish of Puebla Mole (which is different from the well known Oaxacan version). By the end of it, you’ll have a plateful of homemade Mexican magic that’s almost too good to eat. Almost!

After you’ve snaffled every bite of your culinary creation, you’ll round things off with a distillery, getting up close and personal with the art behind one of Mexico’s liquors – this one is made from chilli! This is where the magic happens – and yes, there will be tastings!

Wrap up the day with some well-earned free time. Not sure where to eat? No worries, your guide’s got the lowdown on the best local spots for dinner.

Accommodation: NH Puebla (or similar)
Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 9 – Oaxaca

There’s a little daytime surprise today… let’s just say there’s an epic lunch involved, but we’ll keep the details under wraps. You’ll thank us later. You’ll also get to zigzag through Oaxaca’s cobblestone jungle, dodging church towers that practically poke the sky and murals that burst off the walls, practically shouting at you to stop and stare. This city doesn’t do boring, that’s for sure.

Accommodation: Na’ura (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

What is the Guelaguetza Festival?

Have you heard of one of Mexico’s most legendary cultural blowouts yet? The Guelaguetza Festival is Oaxaca’s pride and joy – a two-week explosion of dance, music and more colours than you ever thought existed. It’s a full-on, all-senses-in kind of celebration where the streets absolutely come alive.

The word “Guelaguetza” comes from the Zapotec language and means “offering” or “gift”. Way back when, indigenous groups in this area gathered on a hill to give thanks to the goddess of corn, with days-long food offerings, dance and traditions. Fast forward to today and those roots still hold strong. Different regions of Oaxaca show up in full force to strut their stuff – whether that’s through dazzling folk dances or eye-catching costumes that make you feel like you’ve fallen straight into a Frida Kahlo painting.

So, what can you expect? Parades that feel like a whirlwind of twirling skirts, feathered headdresses and more embroidery than you can shake a maraca at. Oh, and did we mention the street food? You’ll be munching on Oaxacan favourites as fireworks light up the sky and the streets pulse with ancient rhythms. Sounds good, right?

Day 10 – Guelaguetza Festival

Hard to believe it’s already Day 10, right? You’re not slowing down though – tonight, it’s full speed ahead into the Guelaguetza Festival, where things are about to get wild in the best way possible!

First up though, is the city’s famous market, where you’ll find row upon row of colour-drenched stalls stacked high with everything from fresh produce to handwoven textiles, with local artisans handcrafting their goods right there in front of you. It also doesn’t hurt that the air is thick with the smoky scent of mole, herbs and roasted chillies. Mmmm, yum!

Now, when evening hits, Oaxaca bursts into action with the long-awaited Guelaguetza parade. This is what you came to Mexico for, and it’s like the whole city’s been splashed in kaleidoscopic colour! Locals strutting in neon-hued gear that could make a parrot blush, dancers spinning like tops, and that hip-shaking music in the air – this is a full-on fiesta that’ll have you grinning ear to ear. By the end of it all, you’ll be asking yourself: can this trip get any better? Spoiler alert – yes, it can!

Accommodation: Na’ura (or similar)
Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 11 – Village Crafts and Culture

Oaxaca’s known for its artsy side, so that’s what you’re going to delve into today as you head out to a nearby town packed with artisan workshops, where you’ll get to see centuries-old techniques brought to life right before your eyes. You’ll meet the locals behind the magic here – the master potters, weavers, woodcarvers and embroidery wizards – and see how these crafts have been passed down through generations. 

Pottery that looks like it belongs in a museum? Check. Handwoven textiles that make your current wardrobe look like a snooze fest? Double check. The only question is: which will steal your heart (and your pesos)?

Later, things take a theatrical turn as you settle in for a performance of the legend of Princess Donaji, complete with drama, flair and costumes to match – a perfect way to wrap up the day.

Accommodation: Na’ura (or similar)
Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12 – Guelaguetza Festival

Catch up on those zzz’s this morning, Fencox Crew… you’ll need every ounce of energy for what’s coming! This afternoon, you’re diving into the Guelaguetza Festival’s main event, with the town practically exploding in a riot of stomping feet, swirling skirts and head-turning headdresses. We’re talking about an all-out celebration, where the energy’s as thick as the confetti in the air, and you’re right in the middle of it. With this crew, every day feels like a party.

First, though, it’s mezcal time. Tequila’s wild cousin doesn’t mess around, so gear yourself up for a tasting session that’ll knock your socks off. Sip slow… this isn’t amateur hour! Think you can keep it up for another few days?

Accommodation: Na’ura (or similar)
Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 13 – Huatulco

Time to say adios to Oaxaca as the city yawns back to life post-celebration! Today, you’re trading the party-popping streets for the chilled-out vibes of Huatulco, where the Pacific Ocean breeze has “rejuvenation” written all over it.

Once you arrive, sink right into the slower pace of beach life as you settle into your coastal hotel, complete with sea views and warm sands. Think of it as your own slice of paradise for the next three nights – perfect for unwinding, recharging and getting ready for the next round of adventures!

Accommodation: Camino Real Zaashila Huatulco (or similar)
Included: Breakfast

Day 14 – Local Farming Community

Ready to roll up your sleeves and get a taste of authentic-as-it-gets farm life? Wander through green-drenched fields, meet the folks who know the land best, and get hands-on with local produce on this morning’s trip. The flavours here are fresher than fresh, so it’d be rude not to taste a little bit of everything this region is famous for along the way…

Then, as the day heats up, there’s only one thing for it: a cool, secret waterfall that’s just calling your name. Dive in and splash around – we bet you’ll leave feeling as refreshed as if you’ve just hit a “reset” button. Tonight, you’re free to follow wherever the evening takes you, so choose your own adventure!

Accommodation: Camino Real Zaashila Huatulco (or similar)
Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 15 – Beach Day

Roll out of bed to the sound of waves lapping the shore – Huatulco’s easy-breezy paradise is just so easy to fall in love with, especially when the vibe’s as relaxed as this. Today, it’s all about ‘you’ time: drift between the pool, a palm-fringed green reserve and your own private stretch of beach. No agenda, no rush – just sun, sand and sea. It’s a hard life, right?

For dinner, it’s a free night, but after two weeks together, your crew’s practically family. So, why not set a time for sunset drinks on the beach? Raise a glass to the inside jokes, the wild Guelaguetza Festival stories and the kind of travel crew you didn’t see coming.

Accommodation: Camino Real Zaashila Huatulco (or similar)
Included: Breakfast

Day 16 – Mexico City

With bags packed and a laid-back beach vibe still lingering, you’ll hop on a short flight back to where this whole adventure kicked off – Mexico City! After touching down, there’s time for one last whirl around the city to snap up any last-minute souvenirs. 

Then, get ready for a farewell dinner featuring all of your obsession-worthy Mexican classics: mole that’ll make you melt, tacos piled high with all the good stuff and margaritas that’ll have you smacking your lips and going “ooh”. As you gather with your crew one last time, you’ll swap wild stories from the road, laugh about the little things and toast to an epic adventure that’ll be hard to top. You might even tear up a little (blame those spicy jalapeños, right?).

Accommodation: Zocalo Central (or similar)
Included: Breakfast

Day 17 – Farewell Friends!

One last breakfast together, one last round of side-splitting laughs and then it’s time for those bear hugs and promises to keep in touch. As you head out for the airport, our trusty driver will make sure you’ve got plenty of time before takeoff – no stress in sight!

With your heart and camera roll full, the only question left is… which Fencox adventure will we see you on next?

Included: Breakfast