How To Spend 10 Days In Mexico - 7 Unique Itineraries

Explore the enchanting realm of Mexico with our five unique 10 day Mexico itineraries. Immerse yourself in the nation's rich history, savour its delectable cuisine, and embrace the vibrant culture. Unravel the secrets of ancient civilizations, bask in breathtaking landscapes, and revel in warm hospitality.

Itinerary #1: Mayan Heritage Tour in Yucatan

Experience Yucatán's allure in this 10-day trip. Venture deep into the jungle for a unique perspective, relishing delectable cuisine, mesmerizing sunsets, and the inviting embrace of local communities dedicated to crafting your dream escape.

Day one marks the start of your Mexican odyssey. Secure a rental car and settle into your city center hotel. Day two leads to Chemuel, a coastal village where youth have safeguarded cherished cenotes. Guided by locals, cycle through the village, exploring three enchanting cenotes for immersive nature swims.

Discover the renowned Tulum archaeological complex, a UNESCO gem, on day three. Day four unveils the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, where eco-tours champion conservation and responsible travel. Revel in Bacalar Lagoon's splendor during a private catamaran voyage on day five.

Dive into day six with a jungle trek guided by a savvy local. Delve into flora, fauna, and ancient Mayan healing, basking in nature's serenity. Unearth Chichen Itza's wonder, a world marvel, on day seven. Day eight delves deep into Yalcoba's Mayan heart, offering a fresh lens on regional culture and nature.

Partake in a culinary masterclass in Nuevo Durango on day nine, crafting traditional dishes from garden-fresh ingredients. The journey concludes on the final day, packing memories as you depart.

Feeling good about this trip? Check availability or book directly.

Chichen itza sunset, Mexico © Shutterstock

Mexico, Yucatan, Chichen Itza, Temple of Kukulcan @ Shutterstock

X'Keken Cenote. Yucatan, Mexico © Gosha Images/Shutterstock

X'Keken Cenote. Yucatan, Mexico © Gosha Images/Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10 days Mexico itinerary.

Day 1

  • Arrival to Yucatan.
  • Overnight in Tulum. 

Day 2

  • Unknown cenotes of Chemuel by bicycle.
  • Overnight in Turin. 

Day 3

  • Tour in Tulum.
  • Overnight in Tulum. 

Day 4

  • Small Group Tour in Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve.
  • Overnight in Tulum. 

Day 5

  • Premium Private Catamaran Tour.
  • Overnight in Chunhuhub. 

Day 6

  • Mayan Jungle Exploration.
  • Overnight in Tulum. 

Day 7

  • Private Tour in Chichen Itza.
  • Overnight in Tulum.

Day 8

  • Explore hidden cenotes in Yalcoba.
  • Overnight in Tulum. 

Day 9

  • Traditional Foodie Experience in Nuevo Durango.
  • Overnight in Nuevo Durango. 

Day 10

  • Departure from Yucatan.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now.

churros-shutterstock_254310856

Churros, Mexico @ Shutterstock

Itinerary #2: Oaxacan Coast Adventure

Embark on a 10-day Oaxacan coastal escapade, brimming with captivating experiences. Day one unfolds as you collect your rental car at the airport, beginning your journey in Mazunte. Explore the seven Huatulco coves on day two, guided by an expert, snorkelling amid diverse marine life.

Day three promises kayaking along coves' waves, including snorkelling at Playa La Entrega. Free time graces day four, highlighted by turtle releases and a serene mangrove rowboat voyage, revealing regional biodiversity

Day five offers beach-bound exploration and a visit to the turtle sanctuary, culminating in a sunset spectacle at Punta Cometa. Day six beckons a leisurely morning before heading to Puerto Escondido in your rental car.

Days seven and eight brim with excitement: master the surf on Puerto Escondido's waves and savour a horseback ride through San Jose Manialtepec's lush lagoons, paired with mezcal tasting and sunset vistas.

Discover unspoiled Puerto Escondido beaches on day nine, admiring the horizon's fiery sunset. Revel in your final day before returning your rental car at Puerto Escondido airport, cherishing unforgettable Mexican memories and anticipating your next adventure.

Curious? Check prices and availability and book this trip now.

Sunrise over rural mountain town in Oaxaca Mexico ©  OverlandTheAmericas/Shutterstock

Sunrise over rural mountain town in Oaxaca Mexico © OverlandTheAmericas/Shutterstock

Beach Zipolite Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

Beach Zipolite, Oaxaca, Mexico @ Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10 days Mexico itinerary.

Day 1

  • Arrival in Oaxaca.
  • Overnight in Mazunte.

Day 2

  • Boat Tour to the 7 Bays of Huatulco.
  • Overnight in Mazunte.

Day 3

  • Huatulco Kayak and Snorkelling.
  • Overnight in Mazunte.

Day 4

  • Turtle Release in La Escobilla.
  • Mangrove Boat Ride.
  • Overnight in Mazunte.

Day 5

  • Day at leisure in Mazunte.
  • Overnight in Mazunte.

Day 6

  • Self-drive trip from Mazunte to Puerto Escondido.
  • Overnight in Puerto Escondido

Day 7

  • Surf lessons in Puerto Escondido.
  • Overnight in Puerto Escondido.

Day 8

  • Horseback riding on the beach.
  • Mezcal Tasting.
  • Overnight in Puerto Escondido.

Day 9

  • Day at leisure in Puerto Escondido.
  • Overnight in Puerto Escondido.

Day 10

  • Departure from Puerto Escondido Airport.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Puerto Escondido's Playa Zicatela is reportedly one of the finer surfing beaches in southwestern Mexico © Shutterstock

Puerto Escondido's Playa Zicatela, southwestern Mexico © Shutterstock

Itinerary #3: Mexico's Nature and Beaches

Embark on a 10-day Mexican trip from Chiapas to Yucatan's treasures. Commence in Chiapas, cruising through the awe-inspiring Sumidero Canyon on day one, encountering diverse wildlife amid towering cliffs.

Day two leads to San Juan Chamula, where Mayan and Catholic traditions intertwine. Explore Agua Azul Falls, Misol Ha Pools, and Palenque Archaeological Site on day three, marvelling at cascades and landscapes.

Day four transitions to Mérida via Villahermosa, followed by a Chichen Itza tour and cenote visit on day five. Discover Holbox Island's serenity via private transfer and a ferry ride on day six, known for its fishing and natural beauty.

Days seven and eight are dedicated to Holbox's tranquil beaches, uncovering the island's Mayan name's significance. Revel in Mexican beaches on day nine, savouring azure hues and camaraderie.

Bid farewell on day ten, as a golf cart shuttles you to the ferry dock, connecting to Cancun Airport, concluding a journey adorned with nature, culture, and blissful relaxation.

Curious? Check prices and availability or customize this trip to your needs.

San Idefonso Cathedral in Merida, Mexico © Shutterstock

San Ildefonso Cathedral, Merida, Mexico © Shutterstock

Tropical beach setting on Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo, Mexico © Shutterstock

Tropical beach setting on Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo, Mexico © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10-day Mexico itinerary.

Day 1

  • Arrival in San Cristobal and Excursion to Simidero Canyon.
  • Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 2

  • Indian communities San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan from San Cristobal de las Casas.
  • Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 3

  • San Cristobal de Palenque visiting Agua Azul, Misol Ha and Palenque
  • Overnight in Palenque.

Day 4

  • From Palenque to Merida.
  • Overnight in Merida.

Day 5

  • Day tour to Chicen Itza.
  • Overnight in Merida.

Day 6

  • From Merida to Holbox.
  • Overnight in Holbox.

Day 7

  • Holbox Free Day.
  • Overnight in Holbox.

Day 8

  • Holbox Day at Leisure.
  • Overnight in Holbox.

Day 9

  • Holbox Free Day.
  • Overnight Holbox.

Day 10

  • From Holbox to Cancun Airport.

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now.

Itinerary #4: Culture & Jungle in Chiapas

Join us on a 10-day Chiapas trip, immersing in canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and towns. Launch at Angel Albino Corso International Airport, transferring to Chiapa Corso Hotel. Day two offers Sumidero Canyon kayaking from Cahuare island and San Cristobal de las Casas exploration.

Day three unveils mystical San Juan Chamula's Mayan rituals. Tzimol's fourth day features an all-terrain trek to Angostura Dam, followed by day five's visit to Los Lagos de Montebello's colourful lagoons.

Day six explores Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve's Lacantún River via Canto de la Selva. Day seven presents Yaxchilan's Mayan history and the Usumacinta River float. Day eight delves into jungle wonder with a Lacandones guide.

Discover Palenque's hidden treasures on day nine and explore the Roberto Barrios Waterfalls. Depart from Carlos Roviros Perez International Airport on day ten, concluding an unforgettable Chiapas journey.

Keen on travelling? Customize and book this trip.

Maya woman in Chamula by Cristobal de las Casas in Mexico © Shutterstock

Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico © Shutterstock

Cathedral San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas - Mexico @ Shutterstock

Cathedral San Cristobal de las Casas, Chiapas - Mexico @ Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10 days Mexico itinerary.

Day 1

  • Arrival in Chiapas.
  • Overnight in Chiapa de Corzo.

Day 2

  • Sumidero Canyon and Proceed to San Cristobal de las Casas.
  • Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 3

  • San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan.
  • Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 4

  • Waterfalls of Tzimol.
  • Overnight in Tzimol.

Day 5

  • Montebello's Lakes and Hike El Perol Trail.
  • Overnight in La Trinitaria

Day 6

  • Jungle and hiking in Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve.
  • Overnight in Marques de Comilla.

Day 7

  • Yaxchilan - The Mayan City Lost in Time.
  • Overnight in Ocosingo.

Day 8

  • Lacañja trekking and night walk at Naha.
  • Overnight in Ocosingo.

Day 9

  • Palenque and Roberto Barrios Waterfalls.
  • Overnight Palenque.

Day 10

  • Transfer to the airport.

Excited by the possibilities? Book this trip now.

Find tons of ideas for your Mexican adventure in our guide to the best vacation spots in Mexico.

Mayan ruins in Palenque, Mexico © Shutterstock

Mayan ruins in Palenque, Mexico @ Shutterstock

Itinerary #5: Amazing Mexico

Embark on a 10-day Mexican trip, starting from vibrant Mexico City and culminating by the Caribbean Sea. Begin with historic sites like Zocalo and Chapultepec Park, while day two delves into La Merced market's flavours and Coyoacan's charm.

Day three brings views of Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes en route to Puebla. Day four transfers you to Oaxaca, leading to day five's exploration of Monte Alban, the ancient Zapotec capital.

Day six unveils the remarkable Hierve El Agua Falls and Mitla's unique architecture. Day seven takes you to Merida, followed by day eight's city walking tour.

Days nine and ten delve into Yucatan's mysteries, visiting Kabah, Uxmal's UNESCO sites, and Chichen Itza's iconic structures. Conclude your adventure by the Caribbean Sea, savouring memories of Mexico's cultural and natural wonders.

Curious? Book this trip.

Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman in Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman in Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

Teotihuacan-mexico-sun-temple-shutterstock_238396660

Teotihuacan, Mexico © Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10 days Mexico itinerary.

Day 1

  • Arrival in Mexico City and City Tour.
  • Overnight in Mexico City.

Day 2

  • La Merced Marker and La Casita and Coyoacan.
  • Overnight in Mexico City.

Day 3

  • Excursion to Puebla Cholula.
  • Overnight in Puebla.

Day 4

  • From Puebla to Oaxaca with City Tour.
  • Overnight in Oaxaca.

Day 5

  • Day trip to Monte Alban.
  • Overnight in Oaxaca.

Day 6

  • Day Tour to Hierve el Agua, Yule Tree and Mitla.
  • Overnight in Oaxaca.

Day 7

  • Transfer to Merida.
  • Overnight in Merida.

Day 8

  • Merida City Tour.
  • Overnight in Merida.

Day 9

  • Excursion to Uxmal and Kabah.
  • Overnight Merida.

Day 10

  • Transfer to Unico Riviera Maya visiting Chichen Itza.

Striving for unforgettable memories? Book this trip now to create unforgettable moments.

mexico-city-national-palace-shutterstock_104705381

National Palace Mexico City © Shutterstock

Itinerary #6: Mexico's Highlands and Coast

Embark on an unforgettable 10 Days in Mexico Trip, unveiling historic gems, natural wonders, and colonial charms. Commence at Mexico City International Airport, transferring to your downtown hotel near Zocalo Square.

Day two unfolds with a historical city tour, while day three showcases Teotihuacan's divine archaeological site.

Discover the Sumidero Canyon's grandeur in Tuxtla Gutierrez on day four, then immerse in the allure of San Cristobal de las Casas on day five, mingling with native highland communities. Day six brings the splendid Agua Azul Falls and Palenque's allure.

Day seven presents Palenque's mystique, followed by Campeche's pastel-hued colonial allure. Day eight explores Uxmal's archaeological marvel and Mexican flavours. On day nine, witness Chichen Itza's iconic Maya architecture before retiring in Riviera Maya.

Delight in Riviera Maya's beauty on the last day before transferring to Cancun Airport, concluding a remarkable Mexican adventure.

Keen on travelling? Customize and book this trip.

A balloon vendor in front of the Catedral de San Ildefonso in Merida Mexico

Merida, Mexico @ Shutterstock

mexico-city-Palacio-Bellas-Artes-shutterstock_573127864

Mexico City, Mexico @ Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10 days Mexico itinerary.

Day 1

  • Arrival in Mexico City.
  • Overnight in Mexico City.

Day 2

  • Mexico City Historical Tour.
  • Overnight in Mexico City.

Day 3

  • Teotihuacan Pyramid Tour.
  • Overnight in Mexico City.

Day 4

  • Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo Tour.
  • Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 5

  • San Cristobal de las Casas and San Juan Tour.
  • Overnight in San Cristobal de las Casas.

Day 6

  • Agua Azul Falls and Palenque.
  • Overnight in Palenque.

Day 7

  • Palenque Archeological Tour.
  • Overnight in Campeche.

Day 8

  • Uxmal and Merida Tour.
  • Overnight in Merida.

Day 9

  • Chichen Itza Ruins.
  • Overnight Playa del Carmen.

Day 10

  • Cancun Airport Departure Flight.

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now.

Tulum Playa del Carmen beach, Mexico © Shutterstock

Tulum Playa del Carmen beach, Mexico © Shutterstock

Itinerary #7: Los Cabos Self Drive

Join us on one of our favourite 10 days in Mexico itineraries, where your rental car becomes your guide to Cabo's captivating beaches and islands. Launch your adventure in Mexico City, picking up your rental car on day one for the drive to Cabo San Lucas.

On day two, venture to Cabo's iconic El Arco, where two oceans meet, and marvel at Land's End's sea lions. Day three offers leisure to explore Cabo San Lucas or opt for an ATV tour.

Drive to Todos Santos on day four, a vibrant town with colourful colonial buildings and artistic flair. Spend day five uncovering its beaches and Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve.

Day six leads to tranquil La Paz, with peaceful beaches and natural marvels, followed by an optional Espiritu Santo Island trip on day seven. Day eight invites serene relaxation on La Paz's beaches.

Explore La Paz at your pace on days nine and ten before bidding farewell. Drive to the airport in La Paz or Los Cabos, concluding an enriching Baja California Sur escapade.

Ready to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now.

Sailing in a yellow and orange sunset around Los Arcos in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico © Vivid Pixels/Shutterstock

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico @ Shutterstock

humpback-whale-cabo-san-lucas-mexico-shutterstock_1311209699

Humpback Whale in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico @ Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check this overview of the 10 days Mexico itinerary.

Day 1

  • Arrival in Cabo San Lucas.
  • Overnight in Cabo San Lucas.

Day 2

  • Day at leisure at Cabo San Lucas or optional ATV Tour.
  • Overnight in Cabo San Lucas.

Day 3

  • Self-drive from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos
  • Overnight in Todos Santos.

Day 4

  • Day at leisure at Todos Santos.
  • Overnight in Todos Santos.

Day 5

  • Self-drive from Todos Santos to La Paz.
  • Overnight in La Paz.

Day 6

  • Day at leisure at La Paz.
  • Overnight in La Paz.

Day 7

  • Espiritu Santo Island Trip.
  • Overnight in La Paz.

Day 8

  • Day at leisure at La Paz.
  • Overnight in La Paz.

Day 9

  • Day at leisure at La Paz.
  • Overnight in La Paz.

Day 10

  • Self-drive to the airport in La Paz.

Thirsty for adventure? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

Mexico, Baja California, Los Cabos sunrise

Mexico, Baja California, Los Cabos sunrise

For more inspiration for your trip to Mexico, see The Rough Guide to Mexico. Browse our customisable Mexico itineraries, talk to our local Mexico travel experts and find out how to get to Mexico.

Rough Guides Editors

written by
Rough Guides Editors

updated 06.06.2024

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