Mexico - Day of the Dead Celebrations
A Cultural Immersion Tour
October 27 - November 4, 2026Mexico - Day of the Dead Celebrations
October 27 - November 4, 2026Highlights
- Visit UNESCO Heritage Sites
- Witness Day of the Dead traditions
- Admire the world's largest pyramid
- Participate in a folk art sculpture workshop
- Gaze at the gilded dome of Rosary Chapel
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for additional things to see
- And More... See itinerary for details
Activity
Read more about WTT Activity Levels
- 50% Easy
- 40% Moderate (multiple walking tours and altitude)
- 10% (driving distances)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
Itinerary
Tuesday, 27 October 2026: Arrive Oaxaca; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival into Oaxaca no later than 3:00pm. Group transfers from the airport to the hotel based on flight arrival times are included. Founded in 1529, Oaxaca, pronounced (“wa-hah-kah”), is located in an area of southwest Mexico known for its extraordinary cuisine, unique handicrafts, colonial architecture and indigenous cultures. The tour begins in the lobby of the hotel at 6:00pm. After our Welcome Meeting, we will enjoy a Welcome Dinner to get better acquainted. Overnight Oaxaca - 4 nights
Wednesday, 28 October 2026: Monte Alban Archeological Site; Oaxaca City Tour (B,L)
Today we immerse ourselves in Oaxacan culture. We begin with a visit to the nearby archaeological site of Monte Alban, a once-great city nestled in the mountains of the Sierra del Sur that governed for 1200 years. Monte Alban was the ancient capital of Zapotec civilization and was one of the first urban centers in Mesoamerica. This afternoon we return to Oaxaca. We share lunch together and then enjoy a city tour on foot. Walk the charming streets, explore a lively Zócalo (square) and visit the Church of Santo Domingo. The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.
Thursday, 29 October 2026: Artisans Tour - Black Pottery & Alebrijes; Cemetery Visit (B)
The Oaxaca region has some of Mexico's most intriguing and vibrant folk art. Today we'll visit a few artisan villages to learn more about their work. Our first stop is the village of San Bartolo to visit a “barro negro” workshop. The black clay crafts produced here are distinguished by color, sheen and unique designs. Next, we head to the village of San Martin Tilcajete, home to incredible workshops of brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures called alebrijes. The alebrijes were originally created by carver Manuel Jimenez but soon became so popular that others in the area began carving to generate extra income. We participate in a workshop where we have the chance to create your own alebrijes. Weather permitting, we have a night visit to a local cemetery where we will see Day of the Dead decorations offered to loved ones who have been buried there.
Friday, 30 October 2026: Mitla Archaeological Site; Mezcal Tasting (B,L)
Today, we will visit the Tule tree, a 2,000+ year old ahuehue tree -the oldest in Mexico. From there we will continue to the archaeological site of Mitla, "the place of the dead." This ancient city was built about 800 AD with amazing architecture and striking geometric patterns carved in stone. We also travel onto the village of Santiago Matatlan for a lesson in the production of a Mezcal and a tasting. Mezcal is a locally distilled alcohol, traditionally made from agave roasted in pits lined with volcanic rock, often giving the drink a smoky flavor.
Saturday, 31 October 2026: Travel to Puebla; Puebla Walking Tour (B,L)
After checking out of our hotel, we travel north to Puebla, known as the “City of Angels” thanks to the may examples of religious architecture from Mexico's colonial era. Upon arrival, we will enjoy lunch and then learn more about this UNESCO World Heritage site with a city tour of the historic district. We'll visit the Cathedral, the Parián craft market, and see many typical brick houses with tiled facades in shades of blue or turquoise and with flower ornaments. We will also visit the stunning Rosary Chapel, subject to availability. Its golden temple has amazed visitors so much that since its earliest days in the 17th century, it has been dubbed the “eighth wonder of the world.” After touring, we will check in to our hotel in Puebla and the rest of our day will be at leisure. Overnight Puebla - 1 night
Sunday, 01 November 2026: Travel to Mexico City via Cholula Pyramid; Mexico City Tour (B)
Today we travel to Mexico City, making a stop in Cholula to see the Pyramid of Tepanampa, the largest ancient structure in the Americas, and the Church of Our Lady of Remedies. On a clear day you can see volcanoes in the distance that dominate the area. We continue onto Mexico City and enjoy a city tour. Upon arrival, we pass Reforma Avenue, built by Emperor Maximilian and some of the city's most important monuments. Explore Zócalo and see the stunning examples of colonial architecture. Visit the National Palace and the biggest cathedral in Mexico. Overnight Mexico City - 3 nights
Monday, 02 November 2026: Day of the Dead Celebration Walking Tour; Afternoon at Leisure; Ballet Folklore Show (B)
All throughout the day, we will witness many of the traditions surrounding the Day of the Dead celebrations. Cempasuchil, orange flowers marking the celebration, can be seen throughout the city. Our guide will take us to the main square, local markets and alters. There will be down time in the afternoon to continue exploring if you wish or relax at the hotel. Many museums and galleries host Day of the Dead exhibitions, adding to the festive atmosphere. This evening, we regroup for a special performance at the Ballet Folklore Show. We will be enchanted by the traditional music and incredible dancers in spectacular costumes.
Tuesday, 03 November 2026: Day Trip to Teotihuacan; Farewell Dinner (B,D)
We begin our day at the Basilica of the Guadalupe, the most famous sanctuary in Mexico. We continue on to one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in Mesoamerica, Teotihuacan, the "Place of the Gods." Teotihuacan was a major city in Mesoamerica, predating the Aztec civilization by centuries, and known for its impressive architecture and murals. Here we'll admire the Temple of Quetzalcóatl, the Pyramid of the Sun, the Temple of Quetzal-Papalotl and the Pyramid of the Moon. Tonight we'll get together for our Farewell Dinner to recount our adventures from the past week.
Wednesday, 04 November 2026: Return Home from Mexico City (B)
Our Mexico vacation comes to a close. Please schedule your return flight at your convenience. Your tour leader will assist in organizing ride-sharing transportation to the airport based on flight times. Mexico City International Airport is approximately 20 minutes from the hotel.
Mexico - Day of the Dead Celebrations
October 27 - November 4, 2026Pricing
Room Share
$3,836.00 (Sold Out)Single Room
$4,960.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Trip Full, Accepting Standbys
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arrival transfers
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Departure transfers
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than water unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Visa and/or passport fees
- Gratuity for Mexican Guide traveling with the group (Budget $50)
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Leader
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Thursday, 30 Apr 2026: Last day $500 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Sunday, 19 Jul 2026: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Friday, 28 Aug 2026 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Friday, 28 Aug 2026: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after
your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your
cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate.
WTT is not licensed to sell travel insurance. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
Mexico - Day of the Dead Celebrations
October 27 - November 4, 2026Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
VISA: US citizens do not need a Visa to enter Mexico. All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a VISA. VISA requirements are based on your country of residence.
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations." For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: OAX - Oaxaca, Mexico (Oaxaca Int'l Airport)
Arrival Date: Tuesday, October 27th. Arrive no later than 3:00PM.
Arrival Transfer: Group transfers included. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: MEX - Mexico City, Mexico (Mexico City Int'l Airport)
Departure Date: Wednesday, November 4th. Depart at your convenience.
Departure Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi service. WTT Tour Leader will assist in coordinating ride sharing.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are included: The Final Travel Instructions will list the transfer arrangements including who is in your transfer group, where to meet the driver, and who to contact in the unlikely event you cannot locate the driver.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Oaxaca: Holiday Inn Express Centro Oaxaca
Puebla: Hotel NH Puebla Centro Historico
Mexico City: Hotel Galeria Plaza Reforma
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
International Tours: Please be aware that hotels outside the US may have smaller room sizes, may involve steps to enter the hotel and may not have air conditioning. While WTT strives to find hotels that are similar to US standards, we cannot guarantee it.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
Worried about possible flight delays? Consider arriving one day before the official tour start date. Many of our travelers choose this optional service. Your pre-tour package includes:
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Transfer from airport to hotel
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$170.00 Roomshare pp $309.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Mexico - Day of the Dead Celebrations
October 27 - November 4, 2026Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 50% Easy
- 40% Moderate (multiple walking tours and altitude)
- 10% (driving distances)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions on International Tours: WTT has limited to no control over food selections or variety from meal-to-meal, especially at hotels. While we do our best to accommodate dietary requests and ensure variety of options, we cannot guarantee either.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps leading up to the time you depart for the most current information.
For This Trip You May Want—
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking
- Refillable water bottle
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day
- Inexpensive rain poncho or travel umbrella, just in case
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance and the restrictions imposed by other forms of transportation such as [trains and small planes].
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase plus a carry-on bag.
- We recommend your suitcase be no larger than 26 inches high as measured from the FLOOR to the top of the retracted handle to make it easy for you to handle yourself.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient.
- Steps exist at most hotel entrances. On occasion the coach must unload passengers and luggage some distance from the hotel entrance.
What are the health recommendations for this tour?
The standards for health and hygiene in Mexico are decent, however you should only drink bottled water and do not use ice made from tap or well water.
The possibility of contact with mosquitoes exists in Mexico, especially during the rainy season. You can significantly reduce the chance of being bitten by wearing protective clothing (long sleeves and pants) and using a quality mosquito repellent. Consumer Reports recommends brands containing 20% Picaridin or 25% DEET as the best defense against all types of mosquitoes and biting insects. Avoid natural or herbal based repellents as they do not provide adequate protection from being bitten.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
Only you can determine your need to stay in contact while traveling.
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country. In addition, learn how to make an international call before you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the web site www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: whether the country you are visiting is a cash-based society, the number of meals you are responsible for, your individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping expectations.
- Mexico's official currency is the Mexican Peso.
- Credit cards are widely accepted in most destinations. Many banks charge a currency exchange fee (anywhere from 3%-10%) on most transactions. Check with your bank. There are credit cards that impose no foreign transaction fees.
- Debit cards can be useful for cash advances. ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining cash as they are found in most airports and big cities and tourist areas. However, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work overseas. Some foreign countries limit the amount that can be withdrawn daily. You must know your PIN number for your debit card to use ATMs. Always use caution when withdrawing money.
- Most ATMs are in English and Spanish but when withdrawing, the money amount will always be shown in Mexican pesos.
- Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
- Exchange $100+ into local local currency so you have cash upon arrival. Be sure to keep smaller denominations of cash on hand for taxis, small purchases, etc.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
All tips to drivers and local guides who join the tour to lead individual activities will be paid on your behalf.
- You are responsible for Tipping the In-Country Escort who travels with the group.
- We suggest you read up on tipping culture in the various places you will be visiting so you can show your appreciation for any personal service provided with an appropriate gratuity.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Mexico - Day of the Dead Celebrations
October 27 - November 4, 2026STANDBY REQUEST FORM
1)There is no obligation to take the tour if you submit a standby request. 2)If an opening occurs, WTT will email you based on the room-type available. 3)WTT membership is not required to go on standby, however we do notify our members ahead of non-members.

Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.

