Celebrate the Day of the Dead in Mexico
¡Bienvenidos a México!
On this charming trip to Mexico, you will discover the colorful Mexican holiday Dia de Muertos where Mexicans connect with their deceased. In the pulsating metropolis Mexico City, you will enjoy a Streetfood tour through the colorful markets with a "Salsa Workshop" and visit the floating gardens of Xochimilco. Afterward, get to know Mexico's colonial cities and experience local traditions with a local family, far away from large tourist crowds. Another highlight of the trip is a stop in Atlixco, a magical village where you join the celebrations with the "Desfile de Calaveras" and a nightly visit to a cemetery in a village at the foot of the Popocatépetl.
Overall, Day of the Dead in Mexico is a time of joy, remembrance and community in which living and deceased family members come together to honor the circle of life and death. It is a unique opportunity to experience and celebrate Mexico's rich cultural identity.
Services
Included:
- 7 nights accommodation in double or twin rooms
- Private transfers in an air-conditioned car
- Meals as per itinerary
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- English-speaking guide on excursions
- All applicable fees and taxes
Excluded:
- Personal expenses
- Hotel extras
- International & domestic flights
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel and medical insurance
Optional:
- This tour can also be done with a group of up to 12 participants
Itinerary at a Glance
Mexico City
Welcome to Mexico
Mexico City
Explore Mexico City on foot
Mexico City - Teotihuacan - Querétaro
The City of the Gods
Querétaro
Traditional celebrations
Querétaro - Atlixco
Stone warriors & a cemetery visit
Atlixco
Colorful festivities in Atlixco
Atlixco - Mexico City
A day of Mexican flavors
Mexico City
Farewell, Mexico
Detailed Itinerary
Mexico City
Day 1: Welcome to Mexico
Upon arrival, your driver will pick you up at the airport and bring you to your hotel in Mexico City. Take some time to relax after your flight or explore the capital on your own for a first glimpse of Mexico.
Mexico City
Day 2: Explore Mexico City on foot
This morning, meet your guide and begin your walking tour through Mexico City's historic center. Discover the vast Zócalo, the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral, the exterior of the Government Palace, and the ornate Old Post Office.
Your introduction to Mexico concludes with a fascinating visit to the Anthropological Museum, located near Chapultepec Park. This is an ideal way to dive into the country’s rich pre-Hispanic cultures.
In the evening, stroll down the Paseo de la Reforma, glowing orange with marigolds (“Cempasúchil”) and lined with colorful alebrijes, a magical atmosphere unique to this time of year.
Mexico City - Teotihuacan - Querétaro
Day 3: The City of the Gods
You’ll be picked up at your hotel and driven to Teotihuacán, the legendary "City of the Gods", located 50 km northeast of Mexico City. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the largest ancient city in Latin America, with much still hidden beneath the surface. Marvel at the towering Pyramids of the Sun and Moon before continuing north to Querétaro.
There, enjoy a walking tour through its charming UNESCO-listed historic center. The Zócalo and narrow streets are beautifully decorated with altars, flowers, and lights, as locals celebrate in full "Halloween fever." Visit Plaza de la Independencia, Convento de la Cruz, the iconic aqueduct, and Casa de la Marquesa.
Querétaro
Day 4: Traditional celebrations
Today, a truly special experience awaits you. Accompanied by your guide, you'll visit a small village near Guanajuato to celebrate Día de Muertos with a local Mexican family.
Together, you’ll help prepare a traditional ofrenda, a home altar adorned with photos, marigolds, candles, favorite foods, and incense to welcome the spirits of loved ones.
After a delicious homemade lunch, you’ll take part in an intimate ceremony before visiting the beautifully decorated cemetery. This heartfelt tradition honors the belief that the living light the way for the dead to return.
In the late afternoon, you'll head back to Querétaro.
Querétaro - Atlixco
Day 5: Stone warriors & a cemetery visit
Start early from Querétaro and head to Tula to explore the Atlantes, an impressive Toltec archaeological site famous for its massive stone warrior statues.
After lunch (not included), continue to Atlixco, a magical town renowned for its vibrant Día de Muertos traditions, colorful streets, and rich cultural heritage.
In the evening, visit a cemetery in a small village at the foot of Popocatépetl. As night falls, families gather with candles, incense, and flowers to lovingly decorate the graves. A church mass echoes through loudspeakers, while the cemetery glows with marigolds and flickering lights.
Return to your hotel around 2 a.m.
Atlixco
Day 6: Colorful festivities in Atlixco
Today, head to Atlixco’s festively decorated center for the Valle de las Catrinas tour. Every year, giant Catrinas and decorative skulls line the streets and plazas, creating a vibrant, colorful atmosphere. Enjoy parades, dances, and cultural performances filled with traditional music, theater, and stories of life and death.
In the late afternoon, get ready for the Desfile de Calaveras, a joyful parade celebrating Día de Muertos. Dress in traditional attire or as a calavera and join the festivities, or find a spot to admire the colorful floats, giant skeletons, mariachi bands, and dazzling costumes. It’s a moving tribute to Mexico’s most beloved holiday.
Atlixco - Mexico City
Day 7: A day of Mexican flavors
This morning, you’ll head back to Mexico City for one final highlight of your journey. Mexican cuisine, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, takes center stage today.
With your foodie guide, explore one of the city’s most colorful markets. Sample delicious street snacks, stroll through the vibrant flower section, and dive into the rich history of Mexican food culture, surrounded by vivid colors, enticing aromas, and lively sounds. Finally, you'll also learn how to make authentic salsas, a skill to take home with you.
The afternoon is free for you to relax, explore at your own pace, and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your trip.
Mexico City
Day 8: Farewell, Mexico
Finally, it's time to say “Adiós” to this beautiful, colorful, and welcoming country. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home. If you're thinking about extending your adventure, we'd be delighted to help you plan your follow-up trip. Hasta luego!
