StephMyLife – Mexico Tour (Day Of The Dead)
Dates: 24th October – 3rd November 2026
Trip length: 11 days
Start location & time: Hotel Kaab Tulum – 3pm
End location & time: Hotel Clé Reforma Insurgentes, Mexico City – 10am
Fly in: Cancun, Mexico
Fly out: Mexico City, Mexico
Price: 8 Early Bird Spots available for €3,699. Regular price €3,999
This 11-day Mexico tour begins in Tulum on the Caribbean coast, travels through Valladolid and Mérida in the Yucatán, includes an overnight stay and catamaran snorkelling trip in Cozumel, and finishes with four nights in Mexico City for Lucha Libre and the Day Of The Dead Parade.
This trip is for the kind of traveller who wants a fun, social, boutique adventure through Mexico. It’s perfect for women who love a mix of history, culture, and learning about new places, as well as beaches, margaritas, and plenty of socialising. The vibe will be fun and adventurous – we’ll explore colourful cities, try new foods, dress up for Day of the Dead, and enjoy nights out together, but you’ll also have pockets of downtime to chill, swim, or wander at your own pace. If you’re open‑minded, love learning about local culture, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want a trip that’s full of experiences without being high‑end or resort-style, this trip is for you.
Tour Highlights
- Sail Cozumel on a catamaran boat tour with snorkelling & lunch
- Explore Tulum ruins by bike
- Full day tour: Chichen Itza & cenotes
- Private street food tour in Mérida
- Lucha Libre in Mexico City
- Attend the main Day Of The Dead Parade
- Morning yoga session
- 10 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 8 Dinners
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 (Sat 24th Oct): Arrival in Tulum & Welcome Dinner
Hotel check in at Hotel Kaab Tulum (3pm), followed by a tour briefing with a welcome drink. Steph & our trip leader will give you some essential information about the tour, and some tips about staying safe during the trip. You’ll have a chance to get to know the group.
In the evening, we will head for dinner at a local taco restaurant. This hidden gem is famous for its seafood tacos – but they have vegetarian and meat options also. Along with great margaritas.
After our dinner we will head to a nearby cocktail bar to check out the famous Tulum nightlife. One cocktail or mocktail is included in the tour.
Accommodation: Collection O Kaab Downtown Tulum (4-star)
Included meals: Dinner & a cocktail or mocktail at the bar after.
Day 2 (Sun 25th Oct): Bike Tour & Tulum Archaeological Zone
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll grab our bikes and head out to explore Tulum properly. It’s flat, so it’s easy cycling, and this is one of the nicest ways to get around here! We’ll ride out towards the coast to visit the Mayan ruins, which sit right above the sea. (If cycling is an issue for you, we can help you arrange a taxi to meet us at the beach & ruins).
From there, we’ll head down to the beach and hop in the water or lay in the sand and read. We’ll grab lunch at a laid back beachside restaurant, then later we’ll visit the Tulum Archaeological Zone to explore more of the site and take in the views from the cliffs. You’ll have time to walk around with our guide, learn a bit about the history, and take photos overlooking the water.
In the evening, we’ll head to a great local spot for dinner. They have authentic burritos, tacos, and tostadas. The seafood options are great, but they have vegetarian and vegan options too. Afterwards, our local guide will take anyone who’s up for it on a local bar crawl, showing us a few of their favourite spots in town to experience more of Tulum’s nightlife.
Accommodation: Collection O Kaab Downtown Tulum (4-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 (Mon 26th Oct): Yoga, Cobá, Three Cenotes & Transfer to Mérida
After breakfast, we’ll start the morning with a private yoga session at our hotel. The session can be adapted depending on what the group wants – something more intense or something slower to stretch out after travel. Afterwards, we’ll check out and begin our journey inland through the Yucatán.
Our first major stop will be the archaeological site of Cobá, where you’ll have time to walk around and explore the Mayan ruins. We’ll also have an authentic Yucatecan lunch together and visit three cenotes in the area.
After the cenotes, we’ll continue west to Mérida and check into our accommodation. Although this is a longer travel day, we gain an hour as we cross from Quintana Roo into Yucatán. In the evening, we’ll have dinner near the hotel and settle in for our two-night stay in the city.
Accommodation: Hotel Real Toledo by Kavia, Mérida (3-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 (Tues 27th Oct): Uxmal, Mérida Mural Walk & Street Food Tour
After breakfast, we’ll travel from Mérida to Uxmal. Uxmal is an ancient Mayan city and one of the most important archaeological sites in the Yucatán Peninsula.
It feels very different to Chichen Itza – it’s quieter, less spread out, and the stonework is much more detailed. You’ll have time to walk around at your own pace and explore the site properly. If the group wants, we can add a guided visit for more context.
Afterwards, we’ll stop for lunch nearby and try traditional Mayan dishes that are specific to this region before returning to Mérida.
Back in the city, we’ll head out for a short walking photo tour through Mérida. The city is known for its colourful streets, murals and beautiful architecture, so we’ll take our time wandering through the centre and stopping for photos along the way.
After the walk, we’ll begin our 1.5 hour private street food tour with a local Mérida-based guide. This tour supports the local economy directly and the families who have been the backbone of this market for decades. Rather than sitting down in one restaurant, we’ll move through different stalls and vendors, trying regional dishes as we go. It’s a good way to get our bearings in the city and understand what people actually eat here day to day!
Accommodation: Hotel Real Toledo by Kavia, Mérida (3-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, (Street food tour included as light dinner)
Day 5 (Weds 28th Oct): Chichen Itza, Cenote & Transfer to Valladolid
After breakfast, we’ll check out and travel from Mérida to Chichen Itza, one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It was once a major Mayan city and political centre, and our visit here was the highlight of my last trip to Mexico. The history here is truly fascinating!
Our certified guide will walk us through the site, explaining how it functioned, the meaning behind the carvings, and how astronomy played a role in the architecture. You’ll see El Castillo (the main pyramid), the Temple of the Warriors, and the Great Ball Court, and have time to explore and take photos.
After the ruins, we’ll visit a cenote where you’ll have time to swim. Life vests and lockers are included, and there are changing facilities on site.
The day includes a Mexican buffet lunch and a tequila tasting. Afterwards, we’ll continue to Valladolid and check into our accommodation.
That evening, we’ll have dinner at a local restaurant in Valladolid known for its take on traditional Yucatecan food. The menu focuses on regional dishes and local ingredients, so it’s a good chance to try flavours specific to this part of Mexico rather than the more familiar taco-and-margarita version you might associate with the country. It’s an easy place to unwind after a full day of travel and sightseeing.
Accommodation: Real Hispano, Valladolid (3-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tequila Tasting
Day 6 (Thurs 29th Oct): Early Transfer to Cozumel & Catamaran
After breakfast, we’ll check out and begin our journey to Cozumel. We’ll travel by private transfer from Valladolid to Playa del Carmen and then take the ferry across to the island. This is a much shorter road journey than travelling from Mérida, giving us more time to enjoy the hotel and island that afternoon.
We’ll stop for lunch along the way (own cost), likely in Playa del Carmen but this will depend on timings for the day.
We should arrive in Cozumel just before noon, check into our hotel, and then we’ll be picked up for our Catamaran trip. We will do this today, during the afternoon and golden hour. We’ll spend around five and a half hours on board a shared sailing catamaran (not private for the group). We’ll stop to snorkel at El Cielo, Palancar and Columbia reefs. Snorkelling equipment will be provided, and there will be a guide in the water with us during the swim stops.
Lunch will be served on board, and soft drinks are included throughout the trip. Once the snorkelling portion is finished, an open bar is available for the rest of the sail. After, we will return to the hotel where we can shower, get freshened up and head for dinner together.
Accommodation: Hotel B Cozumel (4-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 (Fri 30th Oct): Cozumel Pool Morning & Flight to Mexico City
Wake in your ocean view room and head for breakfast at the hotel. This morning we will spend our time as we should on an island: lazing in a cabana, swimming in the sea, snorkelling and sunbathing. We will have some cabanas booked at the hotel and cocktails & mocktails prepared for you all. After a busy few days, this is our chance to chill out before the festival. If anyone would like to take a taxi into town. I can help you arrange this.
We’ll transfer from the hotel to Cozumel Airport for our 4:20pm flight to Mexico City. Your flight and 15-25kg baggage allowance are included. On arrival, we’ll transfer by private coach to Hotel Clé Reforma Insurgentes and check in.
That evening, we’ll have dinner together in Mexico City – it’s not included but I have a few great places that I recommend.
Accommodation: Hotel Clé Reforma Insurgentes, Mexico City (4-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Cocktails or Mocktails at the pool.
Day 8 (Sat 31st Oct): Day Of The Dead Parade
We’ll start the morning with breakfast & at the hotel and then head out to look for costumes for the parade. The mega parade starts at 2pm, so we have time in the morning to get some costumes.
We’ll give ourselves a good window to get dressed and do our makeup – this is part of the experience! I’ll share a Pinterest board in the group chat to get some inspiration for looks
Once we’re ready, we’ll head out together already dressed for the day. The main Day Of The Dead parade moves through the city centre with floats, performers, musicians and full costume productions. We’ll head to the route together, stay for a good stretch and take it in properly.
Afterwards, we can either head back to freshen up or go straight out for dinner together, depending on how everyone’s feeling.
Accommodation: Hotel Clé Reforma Insurgentes, Mexico City (4-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 (Sun 1st Nov): Mexico City & Lucha Libre
After breakfast, we’ll have a relaxed morning in Mexico City. You’ll have time to rest, head out for coffee or explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
Later, we’ll head out to experience Lucha Libre – Mexico’s traditional wrestling. It’s fast, loud and theatrical, with masked wrestlers, dramatic entrances and a crowd that gets fully involved. We’ll spend around two and a half hours at the arena.
After the show, we’ll head to a traditional cantina for dinner before returning to the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Clé Reforma Insurgentes, Mexico City (4-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 (Mon 2nd Nov): Xochimilco
After a free morning to rest or check out the city’s coffee shops, we will drive one hour outside the city to take a boat ride on the Xochimilco canals. We’ll board a traditional trajinera and cruise slowly through the canals, with views of chinampas, small farms, and daily life along the water. Vendors paddle up offering snacks, drinks, and souvenirs, and musicians often float by if you want to hire a song. It’s a colourful, social atmosphere, and a popular thing to do when you’re in CDMX. Throughout the ride, a guide will share the history of the canals and the communities that keep these traditions alive.
After returning to the city, we’ll head to the hotel and get ready for our final dinner together, enjoying a Mexican feast and the atmosphere in Mexico City on the Day Of The Dead.
Accommodation: Hotel Clé Reforma Insurgentes, Mexico City (4-star)
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 (Tues 3rd Nov): Departure
After one final breakfast together at the hotel, it’s time to say goodbye! There’s no scheduled activity today – departures are flexible depending on your flight time. The official check-out time is 12pm, and from there you’ll make your way to the airport. Airport transfers are not included in the tour, but we’ll help you organise reliable transport.
Included meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Tulum: Hotel Kaab Tulum (3-star) – 2 nights
- Mérida: Hotel Real Toledo by Kavia (3-star) – 2 nights
- Valladolid: Real Hispano (3-star) – 1 night
- Cozumel: Hotel B Cozumel (4-star) – 1 night
- Mexico City: Hotel Clé Reforma Insurgentes (4-star) – 4 nights
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in the price?
This tour includes:
- Boutique accommodation
- Daily breakfast, four lunches, eight dinners
- Tequila tasting & cocktails on selected days (see meal inclusions each day)
- Street food tour in Merida
- A domestic flight from Cozumel to Mexico City (with baggage),
- Private transport when listed,
- Guided tours when listed (including a certified guide at Chichen Itza, which is the best way to visit!)
- A catamaran snorkelling trip
- Yoga Class
- Lucha Libre tickets
- Entry to archaeological sites and cenotes listed
- A local tour leader to show us the ropes and guide us through Mexico
Optional add‑ons include a private room upgrade for €280 per person.
What’s not included in the price?
- International flights
- Travel insurance (required for all guests)
- Lunches and dinners not listed as included in the itinerary
- Alcoholic drinks unless specified (e.g., tequila tasting, selected cocktails, catamaran open bar)
- Optional activities and upgrades, such as additional guided tours or audio guides not listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, extra snacks, and additional drinks
- Tips for local guides, drivers, and your Adventure Leader (always optional)
- Visa fees if applicable
- Private room upgrade (€280 per person)
What type of accommodation will we stay in?
We stay in a mix of boutique hotels and locally‑run properties across Tulum, Valladolid, Mérida, Cozumel, and Mexico City. All hotels are clean, comfortable, and well‑located for exploring each destination. Rooms are based on twin share, with a single supplement available if you prefer your own private room.
Are meals included?
This tour includes:
- 10 breakfasts
- 4 lunches
- 8 dinners
- Selected drinks, including a tequila tasting, soft drinks and open bar on the catamaran, and one cocktail/margarita on two evenings.
Other meals are optional so you can enjoy Mexico’s incredible food scene. We’ll share recommendations and plan a few group meals at our favourite local spots.
How many people will be in the group?
This is a medium-sized group trip, capped at 17 guests plus your host, Steph.
Who is This Trip For?
This trip is for the kind of traveller who wants a fun, social, boutique adventure through Mexico. It’s perfect for women who love a mix of history, culture, and learning about new places, as well as beaches, margaritas, and plenty of socialising. The vibe is young, fun, and adventurous – we’ll explore colourful cities, try new foods, dress up for Day of the Dead, and enjoy nights out together, with pockets of downtime to chill, swim, or wander at your own pace. If you’re open‑minded, love learning about local culture, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want a trip that’s full of experiences & meeting new people then this is for you.
This trip is not for you if you’re looking for a luxury or high‑end holiday. The hotels are locally owned, boutique, comfortable, and well‑located, but they’re not five‑star resorts. The itinerary involves moving around a lot in the first half of the tour and full days of activities, so it won’t suit anyone who prefers a slow pace or minimal movement. It’s a lively, social group experience with nights out, shared meals, and a mix of socialising, culture, and adventure. The Day of the Dead parade and Lucha Libre are busy, high‑energy environments, and the overall vibe is vibrant, immersive, and sometimes a little chaotic – very much the real Mexico. If you’re expecting a quiet, polished, beach‑only holiday or you’re not open to trying local food, traditions, and cultural experiences, this isn’t the trip for you.
Throughout the trip, both your local guide and I will be there to make sure you feel comfortable, supported, and confident every step of the way. We’ll show you the ropes, help you settle in quickly, and make sure you always know what’s happening next.
Is the Day of the Dead parade included?
Yes. We attend the main Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City together. We’ll get dressed up, do makeup as a group, and head out early to enjoy the atmosphere before the crowds build. For costumes for the parade, I’ll share a Pinterest board with ideas for makeup and clothes before the trip. We have also carved out time to shop for accessories in the market before the parade, as there are lots of options here.
What level of fitness is required?
This is a relaxed, low‑intensity trip. You should be comfortable walking for a few hours at a gentle pace and cycling short distances on flat ground. If you prefer not to cycle, we can arrange a taxi instead but this would not be covered in the tour cost.
Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Most travellers do not need a visa for short stays in Mexico. After booking, we’ll advise you of the entry requirements for your passport.
Is Mexico safe to visit?
The areas we are visiting, yes. We travel through safe, tourist‑friendly regions and work with trusted local partners. You’ll have private transport, licensed guides, and a full support team throughout the trip.
Can dietary requirements be catered for?
Yes. Mexico has excellent options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten‑free travellers. Please let us know your requirements in advance so we can plan accordingly. We will send out a pre-trip form where you can tell us your requirements so that we can let restaurants know.
What is the weather like in late October and early November?
This is one of the best times to visit Mexico. Expect warm days, mild evenings, and low rainfall across the Yucatán and Mexico City. Daytime temperatures are typically in the mid‑20s°C, with cooler evenings in the capital. Light layers are ideal.
I’m a solo traveller — can I join?
Absolutely. Most guests travel solo. You’ll be paired with another solo traveller in a twin room unless you choose to upgrade to a private room.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for this tour and must include medical cover for the full duration of your trip.
What is the payment plan for this tour?
To secure your spot, you’ll pay a 15% non‑refundable deposit at the time of booking.
The remaining balance is then split into three instalments:
- 30% – 1st May 2026
- 30% – 1st July 2026
- 25% – 16th August 2026
After you book, we will email you our standard payment schedule, but you can customize the installment amounts and dates to suit your own budget and timeline. However ll payments must be completed before the final balance deadline.
If you book within the final payment window (6 weeks), the full amount will be due at the time of booking.
What is the cancellation policy for this tour?
To secure your spot, a non‑refundable deposit of 15% is required at the time of booking.
Your final balance is due 10 weeks before departure.
If you need to cancel:
- 16+ weeks before your trip: Your deposit is non-refundable if your spot cannot be replaced. (If we can replace you on the tour, we’ll refund as much as possible once supplier fees and name‑change charges are covered.)
- 13–15 weeks before your trip: 50% of your trip cost is non‑refundable.
- 8–12 weeks before your trip: 75% of your trip cost is non‑refundable.
- Less than 8 weeks before your trip: Unfortunately, no refund can be given, as domestic flights and supplier services will already be paid for.
If we ever have to cancel (for example, if minimum numbers aren’t met), you’ll receive a full refund or the option to transfer to another date.
Got any more questions? Email Me!
