Day 1, Mon Oct 27th : Arrival Day + Transfer to Hotel + Vaquería de las Ánimas

Welcome to Mérida! After your arrival and hotel check-in, enjoy your first evening at Vaquería de las Ánimas, a traditional Yucatán folk dance and music event. This lively celebration features local dances, music, and costumes, with a Día de los Muertos twist—participants dress as Catrinas (skeletons) and Calaveras (skulls), blending vibrant Día de los Muertos figures with traditional vaquero attire. It’s a joyful and colorful way to experience the region’s cultural heritage while honoring the departed.

Day 2, Tue Oct 28th: City Tour + Free Afternoon

Start your day with a guided city tour of Mérida, where you’ll visit iconic sites like the Plaza Principal, the Catedral de San Ildefonso, and the Paseo de Montejo. Learn about the city’s colonial history, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant architecture. After the tour, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city on your own. Perhaps visit local markets, relax at a café, or shop for handmade crafts.

Day 3, Wed Oct 29th: Mérida Cooking Class – Day of the Dead Edition

Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Yucatán with a special Day of the Dead themed cooking class. During this hands-on experience, you’ll learn to prepare traditional Mexican dishes that are typically offered during the Día de los Muertos celebrations. Along the way, you’ll also learn about the cultural significance of each dish, especially in the context of honoring the departed. As part of this unique experience, you’ll participate in setting up a traditional ofrenda (altar) for Día de los Muertos. Bring a photo of a loved one who has passed, or even your pet, to honor their memory on the altar. It’s a meaningful and personal way to connect with this important Mexican tradition.

Day 4, Thu Oct 30th : Cenotes Santa Bárbara

Explore the stunning Cenotes Santa Bárbara, a group of beautiful cenotes located just outside of Mérida. Enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in the crystal-clear waters of these natural sinkholes, surrounded by lush jungle. The cenotes provide a peaceful and refreshing experience, perfect for unwinding in nature.

Day 5, Fri Oct 31st: Uxmal Archaeological Zone + Paseo de las Ánimas

Today, you’ll visit the ancient Mayan city of Uxmal, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Yucatán. Explore its grand pyramids, including the Pyramid of the Magician, and learn about the ancient civilization that built this remarkable city. In the evening, you’ll experience Paseo de las Ánimas, a lively cultural event celebrating the spirits of the dead, in honor of Día de los Muertos. The night is filled with stories, performances, and colorful processions.

Day 6, Sat Nov 1st: Hacienda Sotuta de Peón + Desfile de Catrinas

Visit Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, a historical henequen plantation that gives you a fascinating glimpse into the Yucatán’s agricultural past. Learn about the production of henequen (a type of agave), which was once a major industry in the region. Afterward, you’ll take part in Desfile de Catrinas, a joyful and colorful Day of the Dead parade. People dress up as Catrinas, elegantly dressed skeletons, and march through the streets in a lively celebration of life and death.

Day 7, Sat Nov 2nd: Bye Mexico – Departure Transfer 

On your final day, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure. As you leave Mexico, you’ll take with you memories of beautiful traditions, cultural experiences, and an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Yucatán.