Expedition to the ancient city of the gods, Teotihuacan, to the million-strong colonies of monarch butterflies, and to the gray whales and whale sharks in Baja California.
MEXICO
February 2 – 12, 2025
tour to Mexicot
our to Madagascar
tour to Mexicot
our to Madagascar
tour to mexico best tour ancient city of the gods, Teotihuacan, monarch butterflies, and to the gray whales and whale sharks in Baja California
An expedition into the heart of Mexico: from ancient mysteries to natural wonders! Experience the spirit of ancient civilizations as you breathe in the magic of the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon in Teotihuacan, the ancient city of the gods.
The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary will transport you to a world of millions of winged creatures, turning the forest into a living spectacle. In the waters of Baja California, you can discover the secrets of the deep sea with giant gray whales and whale sharks. Venture off the beaten path and explore the non-touristy corners of Mexico City, relax on the serene beaches of La Paz and the snow-white shores of Coronado Island.
Let your heart beat to the rhythm of Mexico's magic, where every moment holds a new discovery and every day becomes an unforgettable journey.
The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary will transport you to a world of millions of winged creatures, turning the forest into a living spectacle. In the waters of Baja California, you can discover the secrets of the deep sea with giant gray whales and whale sharks. Venture off the beaten path and explore the non-touristy corners of Mexico City, relax on the serene beaches of La Paz and the snow-white shores of Coronado Island.
Let your heart beat to the rhythm of Mexico's magic, where every moment holds a new discovery and every day becomes an unforgettable journey.
Photo by Aleksandr Rybin
SCHEDULE AND COST:
Dates: February 2 – 12, 2025
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Number of Participants: 10 – 12
Cost per Person:
– 3 790 USD for 12 participants, or
– 3 890 USD for 11 participants, or
– 3 990 USD for 10 participants.
10% discount for early booking (before September 2, 2024)
All-inclusive, except:
Approximate flight costs:
Single Room Supplement: 620 USD (single occupancy provided throughout the itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: tещtour to Mexico
Day 1. February 2, 2025 (Sunday) - MEXICO CITY
Morning arrival in Mexico City. Meet with the guide and transfer to the hotel. City tour of Mexico City, the capital of Mexico: visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and the central square, Zócalo. During the tour, we will also explore some of the city's unique, non-touristy neighborhoods. Overnight in the very heart of Mexico City at the magnificent historical Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico 5*, where many celebrities have stayed.
Meals: No
Accommodation: Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico 5*
* Recommended flights to Mexico City:
– Turkish Airlines from Moscow, departing Moscow on February 1 at 20:05, with a 1 hour 40 minute layover in Istanbul, arriving in Mexico City on February 2 at 7:50 am, or
– Emirates from Moscow, departing Moscow on February 1 at 16:35, with a 4 hour 30 minute layover in Dubai, arriving in Mexico City on February 2 at 16:00, or
– Turkish Airlines direct flight from Istanbul, departing Istanbul on February 2 at 1:55 am, arriving in Mexico City on February 2 at 7:50 am, or
– Any other flight from any city arriving in Mexico City no later than 10:00 am on February 2.
Day 2. February 3, 2025 (Monday) - MEXICO CITY – TEOTIHUACAN – MEXICO CITY
Early departure. Trip to Teotihuacan, the capital of a mysterious civilization that influenced the areas of present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and even Nicaragua. Here are the largest pre-Hispanic structures in Mexico – the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. The name of the city means "City of the Gods."
We can start exploring the archaeological site with a hot air balloon flight over the pyramids of the ancient city. After the flight, we will visit the archaeological zone itself. On the way back to Mexico City, we will visit the most important Catholic shrine in all of Latin America – the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Basilica is a major pilgrimage site for deeply devout Catholics from both Mexico and other Catholic countries, as it houses the indigenous poncho on which an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared in the 16th century. From the Tepeyac Hill, located next to the Basilica, there is a beautiful view of Mexico City.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico 5*
Day 3. February 4, 2025 (Tuesday) - MEXICO CITY – MONARCH BUTTERFLY BIOSPHERE RESERVE – MORELIA
In the morning, we will head to the state of Michoacán, which is famous for being the wintering ground (from December to March) for monarch butterflies that travel 4,000 - 5,000 km from Canada and the USA. At this time, you can see hundreds of thousands of these amazing creatures in their natural habitat in the reserve. There are so many butterflies that you can even hear them flying around. From the entrance of the reserve to the habitat of the butterfly colonies, you can take a horseback ride. Transfer to the capital of Michoacán, Morelia, whose center is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Morelia is the birthplace of the second father of Mexican independence – José María Morelos. The majestic buildings of the city are the best example of classic colonial architecture. Overnight at the Herencia by Hosting House 4*, located in a historic colonial mansion with exquisite colonial architecture. The hotel is in the historic center of Morelia, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Herencia by Hosting House 4*
Day 4. February 5, 2025 (Wednesday). MORELIA – SAN JUAN PARANGARICUTIRO CHURCH – GUADALAJARA
Breakfast at a stylish café-restaurant situated in the charming central courtyard of our hotel. In the morning, we'll embark on a small adventure in search of the village buried by lava in 1943. Today, this place is marked by the preserved arches of the San Juan Parangaricutiro Church, the tallest building in the town, which can be climbed via the solidified lava. Transfer to the second-largest city in Mexico – Guadalajara. We'll check in at La Villa del Ensueno Boutique Hotel 4* in the Tlaquepaque area. This hotel features a masterful interior in traditional Mexican style, with uniquely designed rooms.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: La Villa del Ensueno Boutique Hotel 4*
Day 5. February 6, 2025 (Thursday). GUADALAJARA – LA PAZ
After breakfast, we'll take a walk through the center of Guadalajara – one of the largest cities in Mexico, where Baroque architecture mingles with modern skyscrapers, colonial history meets the frenetic pace of the modern city, and descendants of Spanish conquistadors coexist with Huichol Indians who worship nature spirits. During the city tour, we will visit the historic center, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hospicio Cabañas, the most colorful colonial district of Tlaquepaque, and a rarely visited viewpoint of the Santiago River Canyon on the city's outskirts. Transfer to the airport and flight to La Paz, California, with Volaris, flight Y41202, departing at 14:48 and arriving in La Paz at 15:27. Transfer to the hotel. Check-in at the very comfortable 5-star Hotel Catedral La Paz in the historic city center and 5 minutes from the beach. Enjoy a pleasant evening on the hotel terrace with a cocktail in hand and a view of the sunset.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Catedral La Paz 5*
Recommended flights from Guadalajara to Mexico City:
– Volaris, direct flight Y41202, departure from Guadalajara at 14:48, arrival in La Paz at 15:27.
Day 6. February 7, 2025 (Friday). LA PAZ – WHALE SHARKS – LORETO
In winter, the Baja California Peninsula and its surrounding Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean become a pilgrimage site for many marine animals, some of which we will have the chance to meet up close. For instance, whale sharks, the largest of sharks yet completely harmless and plankton-eating, come here. We will snorkel with them in their natural habitat. After lunch, we’ll transfer to the small town of Loreto, where the next day we will continue exploring the local fauna. Accommodation at the comfortable Hacienda Suites Loreto 3* in the historic town of Loreto in Baja California, within walking distance of many attractions.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hacienda Suites Loreto 3*
Day 7. February 8, 2025 (Saturday). Loreto - Sea Lions on Coronado Island - Guerrero Negro
Today, we head to the sea lion colonies lounging gracefully on the cliffs of Coronado Island. Our goal is to interact with them in their natural habitat before relaxing on the island's pristine beach with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. Later, we will travel to the desert town of Guerrero Negro, our base for observing whales. Accommodation at Hotel TerraSal.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel TerraSal
Day 8. February 9, 2025 (Sunday). Guerrero Negro - Gray Whales - Sand Dunes - Guerrero Negro
Guerrero Negro is situated in the heart of the Lower California peninsula near the Ojo de Liebre Lagoon, where 90% of migrating gray whales arrive to mate and give birth. These whales, feeling secure in protected waters and aware of their numerical advantage, exhibit calm and friendly behavior, often approaching boats to play with visitors and even allowing themselves to be touched or kissed. Travelers from around the globe gather here for an intimate experience with these magnificent creatures. In the afternoon, weather permitting, we will venture into the local sand dunes.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel TerraSal
Day 9. February 10, 2025 (Monday). Guerrero Negro - Gray Whales - Loreto
Due to unpredictable weather conditions affecting whale behavior and our ability to approach them, we have set aside an additional day for our whale safari. Over these two days, we are sure to enjoy close encounters with these amazing animals, capturing stunning footage and unforgettable moments. In the afternoon, we will travel to Loreto.
Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hacienda Suites Loreto 3*
Day 10. February 11, 2025 (Tuesday). Loreto - La Paz
Return to La Paz. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a picnic on one of the deserted beaches around La Paz. This day also serves as a contingency in case any sea outings are canceled due to weather conditions (either in Loreto or La Paz).
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Catedral La Paz 5*
Day 11. February 12, 2025 (Wednesday). La Paz - Mexico City - International Return Flight
Late check-out and transfer to the airport. Flight to Mexico City with Volaris, flight Y4421, departing La Paz at 12:30 PM and arriving in Mexico City at 3:45 PM. International flight home from Mexico City.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: No
Recommended flights from Mexico City:
– Emirates Airlines to Moscow via Dubai, departing Mexico City on February 12 at 7:40 PM, layover in Dubai for 2 hours 40 minutes, arriving in Moscow on February 14 at 7:45 AM.
– Turkish Airlines to Istanbul direct flight, departing Mexico City on February 13 at 5:35 AM, arriving in Istanbul on February 13 at 6:15 AM.
– Turkish Airlines to Istanbul direct flight, departing Mexico City on February 13 at 9:35 AM, arriving in Istanbul on February 13 at 10:40 AM (additional night in Mexico City required in case of domestic flight delay), or
– Any other flight from Mexico City to any city, departing Mexico City no earlier than 8:00 PM on February 12.
An additional night in a hotel in Mexico City is recommended in case of a delay in the domestic flight.
** Recommended flights from La Paz to Mexico City:
– Volaris, direct flight Y4421, departing La Paz at 12:30 PM, arriving in Mexico City at 3:45 PM.
* The tour operator accepts no responsibility for any changes to local airline schedules that may occur after booking. We will do our best to mitigate any violation of the approved itinerary, but cannot be held responsible for any loss of funds, bookings, missed connections or other chargeable services. The itinerary is subject to change due to schedules and availability of domestic flights. Travel insurance is highly recommended
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Number of Participants: 10 – 12
Cost per Person:
– 3 790 USD for 12 participants, or
– 3 890 USD for 11 participants, or
– 3 990 USD for 10 participants.
10% discount for early booking (before September 2, 2024)
All-inclusive, except:
- International flights to and from Mexico City,
- Domestic flights Guadalajara – La Paz and La Paz – Mexico City,
- International travel medical insurance,
- Mexican visa (not required for Russian citizens),
- Lunches and dinners.
Approximate flight costs:
- Moscow – Mexico City – Moscow: $1,400 – $1,700 USD (usually purchased independently. We provide consultation for ticket purchases).
- Istanbul – Mexico City – Istanbul: $1,000 – $1,300 USD (usually purchased independently. We provide consultation for ticket purchases).
- Domestic flights Guadalajara – La Paz and La Paz – Mexico City: $350 – $450 USD (We can assist with purchasing these tickets).
Single Room Supplement: 620 USD (single occupancy provided throughout the itinerary).
TRAVEL PROGRAM: tещtour to Mexico
Day 1. February 2, 2025 (Sunday) - MEXICO CITY
Morning arrival in Mexico City. Meet with the guide and transfer to the hotel. City tour of Mexico City, the capital of Mexico: visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and the central square, Zócalo. During the tour, we will also explore some of the city's unique, non-touristy neighborhoods. Overnight in the very heart of Mexico City at the magnificent historical Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico 5*, where many celebrities have stayed.
Meals: No
Accommodation: Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico 5*
* Recommended flights to Mexico City:
– Turkish Airlines from Moscow, departing Moscow on February 1 at 20:05, with a 1 hour 40 minute layover in Istanbul, arriving in Mexico City on February 2 at 7:50 am, or
– Emirates from Moscow, departing Moscow on February 1 at 16:35, with a 4 hour 30 minute layover in Dubai, arriving in Mexico City on February 2 at 16:00, or
– Turkish Airlines direct flight from Istanbul, departing Istanbul on February 2 at 1:55 am, arriving in Mexico City on February 2 at 7:50 am, or
– Any other flight from any city arriving in Mexico City no later than 10:00 am on February 2.
Day 2. February 3, 2025 (Monday) - MEXICO CITY – TEOTIHUACAN – MEXICO CITY
Early departure. Trip to Teotihuacan, the capital of a mysterious civilization that influenced the areas of present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and even Nicaragua. Here are the largest pre-Hispanic structures in Mexico – the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. The name of the city means "City of the Gods."
We can start exploring the archaeological site with a hot air balloon flight over the pyramids of the ancient city. After the flight, we will visit the archaeological zone itself. On the way back to Mexico City, we will visit the most important Catholic shrine in all of Latin America – the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The Basilica is a major pilgrimage site for deeply devout Catholics from both Mexico and other Catholic countries, as it houses the indigenous poncho on which an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared in the 16th century. From the Tepeyac Hill, located next to the Basilica, there is a beautiful view of Mexico City.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Geneve CD de Mexico 5*
Day 3. February 4, 2025 (Tuesday) - MEXICO CITY – MONARCH BUTTERFLY BIOSPHERE RESERVE – MORELIA
In the morning, we will head to the state of Michoacán, which is famous for being the wintering ground (from December to March) for monarch butterflies that travel 4,000 - 5,000 km from Canada and the USA. At this time, you can see hundreds of thousands of these amazing creatures in their natural habitat in the reserve. There are so many butterflies that you can even hear them flying around. From the entrance of the reserve to the habitat of the butterfly colonies, you can take a horseback ride. Transfer to the capital of Michoacán, Morelia, whose center is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Morelia is the birthplace of the second father of Mexican independence – José María Morelos. The majestic buildings of the city are the best example of classic colonial architecture. Overnight at the Herencia by Hosting House 4*, located in a historic colonial mansion with exquisite colonial architecture. The hotel is in the historic center of Morelia, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Herencia by Hosting House 4*
Day 4. February 5, 2025 (Wednesday). MORELIA – SAN JUAN PARANGARICUTIRO CHURCH – GUADALAJARA
Breakfast at a stylish café-restaurant situated in the charming central courtyard of our hotel. In the morning, we'll embark on a small adventure in search of the village buried by lava in 1943. Today, this place is marked by the preserved arches of the San Juan Parangaricutiro Church, the tallest building in the town, which can be climbed via the solidified lava. Transfer to the second-largest city in Mexico – Guadalajara. We'll check in at La Villa del Ensueno Boutique Hotel 4* in the Tlaquepaque area. This hotel features a masterful interior in traditional Mexican style, with uniquely designed rooms.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: La Villa del Ensueno Boutique Hotel 4*
Day 5. February 6, 2025 (Thursday). GUADALAJARA – LA PAZ
After breakfast, we'll take a walk through the center of Guadalajara – one of the largest cities in Mexico, where Baroque architecture mingles with modern skyscrapers, colonial history meets the frenetic pace of the modern city, and descendants of Spanish conquistadors coexist with Huichol Indians who worship nature spirits. During the city tour, we will visit the historic center, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hospicio Cabañas, the most colorful colonial district of Tlaquepaque, and a rarely visited viewpoint of the Santiago River Canyon on the city's outskirts. Transfer to the airport and flight to La Paz, California, with Volaris, flight Y41202, departing at 14:48 and arriving in La Paz at 15:27. Transfer to the hotel. Check-in at the very comfortable 5-star Hotel Catedral La Paz in the historic city center and 5 minutes from the beach. Enjoy a pleasant evening on the hotel terrace with a cocktail in hand and a view of the sunset.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Catedral La Paz 5*
Recommended flights from Guadalajara to Mexico City:
– Volaris, direct flight Y41202, departure from Guadalajara at 14:48, arrival in La Paz at 15:27.
Day 6. February 7, 2025 (Friday). LA PAZ – WHALE SHARKS – LORETO
In winter, the Baja California Peninsula and its surrounding Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean become a pilgrimage site for many marine animals, some of which we will have the chance to meet up close. For instance, whale sharks, the largest of sharks yet completely harmless and plankton-eating, come here. We will snorkel with them in their natural habitat. After lunch, we’ll transfer to the small town of Loreto, where the next day we will continue exploring the local fauna. Accommodation at the comfortable Hacienda Suites Loreto 3* in the historic town of Loreto in Baja California, within walking distance of many attractions.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hacienda Suites Loreto 3*
Day 7. February 8, 2025 (Saturday). Loreto - Sea Lions on Coronado Island - Guerrero Negro
Today, we head to the sea lion colonies lounging gracefully on the cliffs of Coronado Island. Our goal is to interact with them in their natural habitat before relaxing on the island's pristine beach with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. Later, we will travel to the desert town of Guerrero Negro, our base for observing whales. Accommodation at Hotel TerraSal.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel TerraSal
Day 8. February 9, 2025 (Sunday). Guerrero Negro - Gray Whales - Sand Dunes - Guerrero Negro
Guerrero Negro is situated in the heart of the Lower California peninsula near the Ojo de Liebre Lagoon, where 90% of migrating gray whales arrive to mate and give birth. These whales, feeling secure in protected waters and aware of their numerical advantage, exhibit calm and friendly behavior, often approaching boats to play with visitors and even allowing themselves to be touched or kissed. Travelers from around the globe gather here for an intimate experience with these magnificent creatures. In the afternoon, weather permitting, we will venture into the local sand dunes.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel TerraSal
Day 9. February 10, 2025 (Monday). Guerrero Negro - Gray Whales - Loreto
Due to unpredictable weather conditions affecting whale behavior and our ability to approach them, we have set aside an additional day for our whale safari. Over these two days, we are sure to enjoy close encounters with these amazing animals, capturing stunning footage and unforgettable moments. In the afternoon, we will travel to Loreto.
Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: Hacienda Suites Loreto 3*
Day 10. February 11, 2025 (Tuesday). Loreto - La Paz
Return to La Paz. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a picnic on one of the deserted beaches around La Paz. This day also serves as a contingency in case any sea outings are canceled due to weather conditions (either in Loreto or La Paz).
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Catedral La Paz 5*
Day 11. February 12, 2025 (Wednesday). La Paz - Mexico City - International Return Flight
Late check-out and transfer to the airport. Flight to Mexico City with Volaris, flight Y4421, departing La Paz at 12:30 PM and arriving in Mexico City at 3:45 PM. International flight home from Mexico City.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: No
Recommended flights from Mexico City:
– Emirates Airlines to Moscow via Dubai, departing Mexico City on February 12 at 7:40 PM, layover in Dubai for 2 hours 40 minutes, arriving in Moscow on February 14 at 7:45 AM.
– Turkish Airlines to Istanbul direct flight, departing Mexico City on February 13 at 5:35 AM, arriving in Istanbul on February 13 at 6:15 AM.
– Turkish Airlines to Istanbul direct flight, departing Mexico City on February 13 at 9:35 AM, arriving in Istanbul on February 13 at 10:40 AM (additional night in Mexico City required in case of domestic flight delay), or
– Any other flight from Mexico City to any city, departing Mexico City no earlier than 8:00 PM on February 12.
An additional night in a hotel in Mexico City is recommended in case of a delay in the domestic flight.
** Recommended flights from La Paz to Mexico City:
– Volaris, direct flight Y4421, departing La Paz at 12:30 PM, arriving in Mexico City at 3:45 PM.
* The tour operator accepts no responsibility for any changes to local airline schedules that may occur after booking. We will do our best to mitigate any violation of the approved itinerary, but cannot be held responsible for any loss of funds, bookings, missed connections or other chargeable services. The itinerary is subject to change due to schedules and availability of domestic flights. Travel insurance is highly recommended
Cost includes:
Cost excludes:
To take with:
- Accommodation in 3*, 4*, 5* hotels along the route
- Mercedes Sprinter minibus (or similar) for 14 passengers with working air conditioning and an experienced driver
- All transportation costs (gasoline, parking, toll roads)
- Breakfast according to the program
- Drinking water on the bus
- Guided tours and entrance tickets along the route
- Private hot air balloon flight in Teotihuacan
- Private boat for whale watching (2 days)
- Private boat on an excursion to the seals
- Private boat for whale shark excursions
- Picnic on the beach (without alcohol)
- Guide and interpreter services
- Russian- and English-speaking team leader
Cost excludes:
- International flight to Mexico City and back
- Domestic flights Guadalajara – La Paz and La Paz – Mexico City
- Medical insurance for traveling abroad,
- Mexican visa (not required for Russian citizens),
- Lunches and dinners
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Tips
- Single accommodation
To take with:
- two sets of clothes (trousers, long sleeve shirt, T-shirt, underwear, socks, sun hat);
- Comfortable and durable shoes: 1) Lightweight for cities; 2) Trekking shoes or boots for visiting villages, trekking and photography;
- lightweight trekking jacket;
- raincoat;
- swimsuit;
- sunglasses and sunscreen;
- individual first aid kit (painkiller, antiseptic, antibiotic, antiviral agent, remedy for gastrointestinal disorders, multivitamins, rehabilitation solution, band-aid, your personal medicines);
- personal hygiene products;
- headtorch;
- hiking backpack: either a bag or a suitcase with a volume of up to 100 liters;
- a small backpack for personal belongings and photo and video cameras;
- mosquito net for sleeping place (optional);
- mosquito repellents;
- camera, video camera, tripod;
- waterproof bag.
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
- 1UNIQUENESS
We find the most astonishing places on Earth and speed up to reach them. Our motto is to go ahead of road roller, touch the unique and unknown, before it disappears. - 2ADVENTURISM
Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again. - 3SAFETY
In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features. - 4EXPERIENCE
We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbings are guided by Mzungu himself, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort. - 5LOW PRICE
All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.
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