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Overview

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE AND DEATH: YUCATÁN’S DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS
Merida, Yucatan, Mexico
Oct 26 - Nov 1, 2026
Iveth Campos image
Iveth Campos
$2,080
Deposit: $300

About your trip

  Step into a world where life and death intertwine in vibrant color, flavor, and emotion.

Día de Muertos is not a time of mourning, but a beautiful celebration of life—an ancient tradition that honors the memory of loved ones with joy, music, and, most of all, food.

In the heart of Yucatán, this sacred celebration comes alive in ways you’ve never imagined. Here, the table becomes an altar, and every dish—a story. From the smoky, comforting taste of mucbipollo cooked underground, to the delicate sweetness of papaya en dulce and pan de muerto, food is the soul of remembrance.

Join us for an unforgettable cultural experience where Mayan traditions blend with colonial heritage to create a one-of-a-kind celebration.

Taste the past, honor the present, and celebrate life—one bite at a time.

Highlights

  

*Celebrate Dia de Muertos like a local 

*Discover sacred places like the cenotes and the ruins of Uxmal 

*Dive into Yucatecan flavors with a Day of the Dead-themed cooking class

*Savor once a year flavors dishes in honor of the dead

*Visit Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, a historic place with henequen plantation

*Be guided by our local & dedicated tour leaders throughout the Journey

What's included

Arrival Private transfer

Arrival private transfer from the airport to hotel in vehicle with a/c

6 nights of hotel

6 nights of hotel at: Gamma Mérida el Castellano | Hotel in Yucatán or similar

Daily breakfast

Walking city tour

Merida walking city tour (3 hours approximately)

Shared transportation

Shared transportation with professional drive during day 4,5 & 6 in vehicle with a/c (Except for the afternoon/night day of the day activities)

Cooking class

Shared cooking class – DAY OF THE DEAD HOLIDAY EDITION with market visit, food tasting, ingredients, English speaking guide, local transportation & lunch included.

Entrances fees

Entrances fees as follows: Cenotes Santa Barbara, Uxmal Archaeological zone & Hacienda Sotuta de Peon.

Lunch during days 3,4, 6

English speaking staff

English speaking staff accompaniment during day of the dead activities.

Departure transfer

Departure private transfer from hotel to airport in vehicle with a/c

All local taxes

What's not included

Flights

Travel Insurance

Entrance fees not listed

Meals & drink not listed

Tips to guides & driver

Your Trip

Your Trip image

Itinerary:

   

Day 1, Mon Oct 26th : 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 27th: 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 3, Wed Oct 28th: Merida City Tour + Flavors after dark: Local snacks tour

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.

After your morning city tour, enjoy a free afternoon to relax, explore at your own pace, or return to your hotel before your evening experience begins. Later in the day, continue your journey with Flavors After Dark, a guided evening adventure through Mérida’s vibrant food scene.

Savor a variety of local beers and iconic Yucatecan snacks such as elotes (Mexican street corn), churros, chicharrón, marquesitas, ice cream, and more. As the city comes alive in the late afternoon and evening, you’ll explore lively streets, local spots, and hidden gems while tasting some of the region’s most beloved treats.


Day 4, Thu 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 5, Fri Oct 30th: 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 Oct 31st: 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, Sun Nov 1st: 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.

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to availability, weather conditions, and other unforeseen circumstances. Evening cultural events and public celebrations are organized by local authorities and may be modified without prior notice.

Location

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1. Merida, Yucatan, Mexico

Merida, Yucatan, Mexico

About your organizer

IC
Iveth Campos
We are a Mérida-based travel agency specializing in authentic cultural and culinary experiences across Mexico. With over 8 years of industry expertise, our dedicated team of tour guides and travel advisors designs tailor-made itineraries for both groups and individuals. We’re passionate about showcasing Mexico’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine through personalized, meaningful journeys.

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