You might have seen it in the movies or on TV but now's your chance to experience the Day of the Dead in real life with this six-day tour. Explore Mexico City's markets and tuck into local street food. Get into the spirit with traditional face painting then join a citywide procession. Venture to a small town to witness the elaborate altars built in honour of loved ones passed. You'll walk away with a greater appreciation for this important cultural event and some incredible memories to boot.
Travel Style
Classic
Service Level
Standard
Physical Grading
2 - Light
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: San Juan Market visit, Mexico City. Mexico City walking tour. Visit to Jamaica Market to learn about ceremonial objects used for Day of the Dead. San Juan Market visit with lunch. Face painting. Visit to Dolores Cementery in Chapultepec. Free time in Mexico City. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Shop for Day of the Dead goods at Jamaica Market, Get into the spirit with face painting, Join one of many street parties, Witness a graveyard procession in a small town, Indulge in Mexican street food
How large will the group be?
Max 16
What meals are included in this trip?
5 breakfasts, 1 lunch
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private vehicle, metro, walking.
Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Hotels (5 nts).
Itinerary
Mexico City
Arrive at any time. Day of the Dead takes place between October 31 and November 2 and is a celebration and remembrance of the deceased. Families will build private altars and bring large feasts to cemeteries, to be with the souls of the departed. It is believed that the souls will come back to visit and take part in the celebrations. Some of the “ofrendas” (altars) are very elaborate and include sugar skulls and marigold flowers. In most regions, the souls of infants and children are honoured on November 1. Adults are remembered on November 2. It is generally a festive rather than somber gathering.
Mexico City
Get out and explore Mexico City by walking through the historic centre with the CEO. Stop by the Jamaica Market to chat with some vendors, and learn about Day of the Dead goods for sale. Visit the San Juan Market to check out food stalls and sample some delicious Mexican street food.
Mexico City
Today, experience the atmosphere of Dolores, Mexico’s largest cemetery. Just before Día de Los Muertos, the cemetery comes alive with vibrant altars, candlelit pathways, music, and families honouring their loved ones. It’s a unique opportunity to witness the traditions and heartfelt rituals that make this cultural celebration one of the most meaningful in Mexico.
Mexico City
In the morning travel to Xochimilco, a natural reserve where the farmlands of the ancient Aztec people were created with a system of “chinampas” and water channels. Witness how the inhabitants of Xochimilco integrate their unique natural elements and landscape into their Day of the Dead celebrations. Cruise along the channels in a traditionally decorated trajinera and learn more about the local history from a knowledgeable guide. Make a stop at one of the chinampas or floating gardens, and have an included meal before having time to decorate your faces with traditional make-up for the celebrations. The final stop of the day will be to Xochimilco ́s cemetery and the heart of Day of the Dead.
Mexico City
Take advantage of a free day to explore more of Mexico City and surroundings. Opt to visit the massive pyramids of Teotihuacán, check out the Frida Kahlo Museum, or join more of the festivities.
Mexico City
Depart at any time.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.