Mexican Fiesta

Welcome to Puerto Vallarta - and what a place to kick off our adventure!  One of the most popular beach towns in Mexico, it's easy to see why this place is known as the 'Mexican Riviera'. Spa, pool, relax, repeat are all high on the agenda today. You’ll be thinking "this is the life" - and that's before we top it all off with a  beachfront dinner, with the water and twinkling lights setting an unforgettable scene. We're best friends already, and it's only day one. What will tomorrow have in store?

Today you’re free as a bird and that means exploring as much or as little of Puerto Vallarta as you like. Punta Mita is known for perfect beginner waves if surfing along a secluded bay is your thing; if not, then there are plenty of other activities on offer, including a ride on a pirate ship cruise compete with an acrobatic performance and fireworks. What else? Where to begin? Today you could find yourself speeding through the jungle on a zipline, or  spending the day away at the quaint coastal town of Sayulita. And for those keen to kick it right in downtown Puerto Vallarta, head to some beachside watering holes for drinks, giant lobster feasting, swims and people watching. It's a hard life. And we're just getting started.

Bye bye beach hangs, but don't worry, this isn't your last taste of Mexican beach life - we'll see you soon, sea.
Looking for even more cultural immersion? There's nothing more Mexican than tequila, so why not head to a genuine distillery where you can learn how this fiery spirit is made and taste some for yourself. And if that's put you in the fiesta mood, you're in the right place.  While you stroll around the streets you'll get a feel for the old and new world architecture that this place is known for - as well as some seriously electric nightlife.
It's time to learn about the city known as the 'Pearl of the West', Guadalajara, with its four main squares and glorious cathedral. Then you could go and find a spot to watch one of the city's famous live Mariachi bands do its thing.

We leave Guadalajara and hit the road. Next up you'll arrive at the old colonial city of Guanajuato where you will learn about the history of the famous silver mining town and how the economy has shaped much of its culture. Heavy on the Spanish influence, this UNESCO World Heritage city will transport you to another time and get lost for hours in its quaint cobblestone alleyways. Uncover the tales of the town, it's famous 'Mummies' and its most famous lovers at the 'Alley of Kisses'. Next up, the Hidalgo Market, designed by Gustave Eiffel himself.

Thanks to the bright facades of Guanajuato, your eyes should be wide open by now. Just in time too, because there is so much to see in Mexico City.
Mexico City is the largest city in the country and impressively, the oldest capital in Central America. Known for its Aztec temple, its surprising altitude at 2200m, and mountainous landscape, this place is busy, bustling and oh-so-wonderful.

The theme 'getting out there' will take on a whole new meaning today. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera are the focus for this leg of your journey in this bustling city. Get stuck into the local flavours by tasting some Mexican delicacies at a local market. Do some shopping in Coyoacan. Then, tonight, re-fuel with city eats, like enchiladas, tamales and tacos. Even head out and get a little loco, if the mood takes you...

It’s a busy one today, travellers. Archaeological city Teotihuacan, pyramids and Aztec temples are the focus for this leg of your journey. As you go, local guides will kindly impart their extensive knowledge on many interesting topics so you're in the know on anything and everything. And if you happen to be here at the right time, you might even get to experience Lucha Libre, Mexican wrestling!

Our fiesta comes to a close today as we say our sad farewells in Mexico City. Swap deets - another Contiki adventure is on the horizon.