DAY One – Arrival Mexico City
See the sights of this modern world capital and discover the heart and soul of the ancient Aztec empire. In order to preserve and protect
the city's rich colonial atmosphere, the Centro Historico has received a UNESCO designation as a World Heritage Site.
Your hotel is located within the very heart of this zone. Guided walking tour includes the Zocalo, Diego Rivera murals, Cathedral, and Aztec ruins.
DAY Two – Teotihuacan/
Full-day touring includes the Plaza of Three Cultures, Shrine of Guadalupe, and the mammoth Teotihuacan Pyramids. Today’s near the pyramids includes
a visit to an orphanage (please bring basic school supplies),
maguey demonstration, and a fascinating tortilla competition. Try your hand (literally) on the traditional comal.
DAY Three – Chapultepec/Queretaro 
Drive through Chapultepec Park and a visit to Maximilian’s Castle, overlooking Reforma Boulevard. Continue to Queretaro, founded in 1531.
Your first stop is at the gorgeous Aqueduct, an antique and local icon.
The historic downtown offers over 460 years of history and tradition through its temples, mansions and palaces that make this city one of the most beautiful colonial spots.
DAY Four - Queretaro
This morning, stroll along cobble-stone streets as you explore the picturesque Historic Center. Your next stop is Cerro de Las Campanas, situated to the west of the city.
Here, Maximilian, Miramon and Mejia were shot during the Independence War. Today, this is a splendid recreational spot with an array of green areas, playground and an artificial lake.
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DAY Five – Morelia/Patzcuaro
Drive to Morelia, nestled among some truly spectacular scenery. You’ll revel in vistas that alternately remind people of Switzerland and the Italian countryside.
Explore the Centro Historico and sample some of the delicious regional candies. Late afternoon arrival in Patzcuaro.
DAY Six – Patzcuaro/Santa Clara del Cobre
Patzcuaro is an enchanted, other worldly sort of place. Enjoy a unique boat ride to Janitzio Island. As they have for centuries, Purepecha Indians still sit in
their small canoes and ply the waters of Lake Janitzio as they pose with their butterfly nets. This region is one of the richest in Mexico for folk art. Visit a
colonial convent, built around 11 patios, that is now a shopping paradise. And if that’s not enough, visit Santa Clara del Cobre, where local artisans still make
hand-hammered copper vessels using the age-old method.
Every dimple in the lustrous metal is the mark of man, the mark of fire, and the mark of skill.
DAY Seven - Ixtapa
Today’s scenic drive via the new toll road leads you to Mexico’s upscale resort, Ixtapa, a beautiful stretch of beach dotted with hotels, golf courses, and ample shopping.
After a relaxing afternoon on the beach, your guide will accompany you to Zihuatanejo, just over the hill, with all the charm and authenticity of old-world Mexico.
Here, quaint shops and bargaining opportunities line the picturesque Paseo del Pescador.
DAY Eight - ¡Viva Ixtapa!
Your Dorado Pacifico Hotel is highly regarded as one of the nicest overlooking El Palmar beach. This eleven-story ocean front resort is a
great vacation spot for families and students alike. The Dorado features three pools, waterslides, and scheduled activities.
DAY NINE - Return to United States
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MIDWEEK DEPARTURES
9 Days/8 nights |
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NIGHTS
Mexico City
Queretaro
Patzcuaro
Ixtapa
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MEALS
Daily breakfast and lunch or dinner.
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