The Heart of Mexico

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Monday March 9: Mexico City

Depart from the USA. Arrive in Mexico City and meet your ACIS Tour Manager before transferring to and checking into your hotel. Begin to explore this energetic and culturally diverse metropolis, which weaves together a rich and intriguing tapestry of history, traditions and modernity. (D)

Day 2, Tuesday March 10: Mexico City

The day begins with a walking tour of this vibrant city, the largest one in Mexico and the country’s capital. You’ll see the remains of the Templo Mayor, the ceremonial center of the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán (which later became Mexico City); the Zócalo, the main public square and gathering place in the city center; and the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral, constructed over a span of nearly 250 years on the northern side of the plaza. In the afternoon, browse through the renowned National Museum of Anthropology, dedicated to the culture and history of Mexico. Then it’s time to don your dancing shoes and take a salsa dance lesson. You’ll get a brief introduction to the history and culture behind this passionate form of dance before immersing yourself in its cheerful rhythms and expressive movements. (B,D)

Day 3, Wednesday March 11: Mexico City

The morning starts with a visit to the massive Basilica de Guadalupe, one of Catholicism’s and Mexico’s most revered sites, which is thought to receive as many as 20 million pilgrims and visitors each year. Then travel to the magnificent archaeological ruins of Teotihuacán, once Mesoamerica’s grandest city. Built between the 1st and 7th centuries, its vast monuments and influence pre-dated the Aztecs by several centuries. Ponder its origins and mysteries as you discover stunning features such as the Temples of the Sun and the Moon, and the Temple of Quetzalcóatl. In the afternoon you’ll tap into cultural traditions and your own creativity during a Mexican Sacred Heart making workshop. Working with local artisans, learn how to craft these small religious folk charms, which are typically made from wood that’s decorated with tiny metal milagros figures, and used for healing purposes or votive offerings. (B,D)

Day 4, Thursday March 12: Mexico City

Start the day by traveling to Coyoacán, a charming borough of Mexico City that’s filled with colonial architecture, brightly painted houses along cobblestone streets and vine-adorned balconies. Explore the Frida Kahlo Museum, located in the stunningly blue Casa Azul. The exhibits within this former home of the legendary Mexican artist—noted worldwide for her boldly colorful and surreal self-portraits—blend an art museum with unique personal mementos. After time for lunch on your own, you’ll discover Xochimilco, a neighborhood noted for its network of canals, floating gardens, and the vividly colored, gondola-like trajineras that ply their waters. As you glide along the canals in one of these gaily decorated boats, enjoy the happy sounds of mariachi bands and the tantalizing aromas of street food wafting in. (B,D)

Day 5, Friday March 13: Mexico City

It wouldn’t be right to leave the city without discovering its colorful and bustling mercados—and that’s just what’s in store this morning as you stroll through the Sonora Market and San Juan Market. The former is noted for its wide array of incense, crystals, candles and other mystical ingredients needed for spells or healing potions, while the latter is the “chef’s market,” famous for its fresh produce, seafood and game meats. If you’re daring, perhaps try a tasty local specialty: chapulines, or toasted, seasoned grasshoppers. After time for lunch on your own, enjoy the lush greenery Chapultepec Park. Beloved by Chilangos and visitors alike, it’s a serene oasis of tranquility amid Mexico City’s hustle and bustle. Here you will visit the impressive 18th century Chapultepec Castle, an architectural jewel that stands on a hill and offers panoramic views of the city. (B,D)

Day 6, Saturday March 14: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)