Veracruz 1819 Kitsempty Spaces The Blog

12 Days / 11 Nights to Explore the Cities, Ancient Ruins, Mountains, Coffee Region & Tropical Rain Forests of Veracruz

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3. Veracruz 1819 Kitsempty Spaces The Blog 2017
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• Located in Malecon, this hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Veracruz Wax Museum and Veracruz Aquarium. Veracruz Harbour and Zocalo are also within 2 mi (3 km). Located in Malecon, this hotel is within 1 mi (2 km) of Veracruz Wax Museum and Veracruz Aquarium. Veracruz Harbour and Zocalo are also within 2 mi (3 km).

VeraCruz is DC's only, and one of the world's very few bar/venues dedicated to interior murals. The entire interior space is muralized every 8-10 weeks by local, regional, national and foreign artists, creating a radically transformed space regularly throughout the year.

On this 12 day journey, you will embark on a road trip filled with local cultural and historical adventures mixed with stunningly beautiful tropical and alpine scenery as you travel to the far corners of México's gulf coast state of Veracruz.

During each day of your Veracruz exploration, one of our local English/Spanish speaking tour guides will be with you to lead your group on a discovery of this culturally rich and geographically diverse region.

You will visit major Veracruz cities, travel to the coffee growing areas, explore a huge outdoor market, marvel at the high altitude alpine vistas, enter a pirate's cave by boat, tour an ecological reserve in the tropical rain forests of southern Veracruz, and much more.

On this México vacation, you will truly experience The Best of Veracruz!

Details

Trip Difficulty: Easy – Moderate

Group Size: 4 – 6 people.
Larger groups can be accommodated. Please contact us for special pricing.

Minimum Age: 8 years

• Arrival to the City of Veracruz

Your trip guide will be waiting for you upon your arrival at the Veracruz International Airport and will then take you to your hotel. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, there may be some time to show you around the city or get something to eat if you are hungry.

• San Juan de Ulúa (harbor fortress & later, a prison)
• Tour the Historical Downtown Area
• El Baluarte de Santiago (the last remaining military fort that was once a part of the wall built around the city)
• Visit the Veracruz Naval Museum

After breakfast, you will start the day with a historical tour of San Juan de Ulúa; a massive fortification built in the harbor of the port city to protect it from foreign invaders and savage pirates. Later, it was converted into a prison. Next, your group will return to the central district for a walking tour to see the important historical landmarks including the main Cathedral. Just a short walk from the downtown area, you will encounter El Baluarte de Santiago (a military fort). At one time, the port of Veracruz had a wall surrounding it for protection. This fort was once part of the wall which faced the sea and with its cannons, helped protect the city from invading pirate ships. After lunch, your guide will lead you on a tour of the very modern Veracruz Naval Museum where you will view many interesting multi-visual exhibits explaining the history of the Mexican Navy. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to explore on your own. Overnight in the city of Veracruz. (B,L)

• Explore the town of La Antigua (Final Landing Site of Hernán Cortéz)
• Walk the Beach in Villa Rica (where the Spanish Conquerors first landed)
• Visit the Ancient Quiahuiztlan Archaeological Burial Site

Today you will travel to the small town of La Antigua where you will see the remains of what is thought to be an administration building built by Cortez and his soldiers. Your guide will explain the known history of this area as well as give you a tour of how this riverside town was laid out back in the early 1500s. It is also in Antigua that you will see one of the first churches built in the Americas. Then you will keep traveling north to the ancient burial ruins called, Quiahuiztlan (Key-ah-wheezt-lan). This peaceful remote site is located on a bluff with a stunning view of the Gulf of México coastline. One of the more interesting aspects of this site is the 70 small miniature temples or tombs used by the more affluent people as their final resting place. Just below this site is the small village of Villa Rica. This is the frist place Hernán Cortéz landed with his men in 1519. Later you will overnight at one of the beach side hotels found in the Costa Esmeralda region of Veracruz. (B,L)

• Tour El Tajín Archaeological Site (A UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• See the Papantla Voladores Perform Their Ancient Ceremony
• Explore the city of Papantla (Europeans discovered Vanilla here)

After breakfast, you will continue your journey to visit the ancient ruins site of El Tajín which is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Totonacan people built over 150 structures including 17 ball courts and flourished there between 800 and 1150 A.D. The most famous structure at El Tajin is called, the Pyramid of the Niches. Either your tour guide or an on-site guide will escort your group on a tour of the major structures and answer your questions. P40dc 801 beech grove. The starting point of the tour will be at a small museum located near the entrance of the site. Later, you will have the opportunity to witness the ceremonial flight of the Voladores. Five men (Voladores or fliers) will reenact high above the ground an ancient ritual which was performed by the Totonacs to appease their god of fertility to bless the area with an abundance of food and water. After lunch, you will get the opportunity to take a tour of the interesting town of Papantla. This northern area of Veracruz is also the place where the Spanish invaders first smelled and tasted a delightful new spice which was growing there. You know it today as vanilla. You will overnight again in the Costa Esmeralda area. (B,L)

• Visit Hacienda Lencero (Mexican General, Santa Anna once lived here)
• Learn about the Ancient History at the Anthropology Museum in Xalapa
• Tour the Major Cultural Sites of Xalapa (the capital of Veracruz state)

After breakfast, you will travel toward the bustling city of Xalapa (Ha-la-pah) which is the capital of Veracruz. Just outside of this vibrant town is the beautiful estate called, Hacienda El Lencero. You will visit the main mansion, the gardens, and the chapel which the Mexican General, Santa Anna (Remember the Alamo) constructed specifically for his wedding. After touring the hacienda, your group will continue to the very modern Anthropology Museum. Here you will find the largest collection of artifacts from the people who once lived in the Mexican gulf coast region. One of the main attractions on display are the huge Olmec stone heads. After lunch, your bilingual guide will lead you on a tour of the main sites in Xalapa. This city is rich in culture with art galleries, interesting small shops, and is also the home to the University of Veracruz. You will overnight in the nearby town of Coatepec. (B,L)

• Explore the Coffee Growing Region of Veracruz
• Visit a Coffee Plantation
• Explore the Pre-Hispanic Towns of Xico & Coatepec
• View Texolo Waterfall (Use in the movie, Romancing The Stone)

You will be in the higher and more temperate altitudes of Veracruz where small organic coffee plantations can be found. You will have the opportunity to meet with the owner of one of these small coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process. Nearby there are two very quaint towns; Coatepec and Xico, both designated as 'México Magic Towns.' Coatepec is recognized for its beautiful main park, fun shopping, and many coffee shops. Xico is a pre-Hispanic cobbled street town with a beautiful church, handicraft shops, and nearby, you will find the waterfall which was used in the movie, Romancing the Stone. Later, your trip continues to Coscomatepec, a town which is located below the towering snowcapped volcano called, Pico de Orizaba. You will overnight in a hotel there. (B,L)

• Explore the Mountain Regions of Veracruz
• Visit the Scenic Mountain Village of Alpatláhuac
• Wander the Huge Outdoor Market in Coscomatepec
• Eat a Freshly Cooked Lunch at the Market

After breakfast, your guide will take you to the small village of Alpatláhuac where the local Catholic church is perched high above the town. It is there that you can get a sweeping panorama of this higher altitude hilly area of western Veracruz. Then it is back to Coscomatepec where it will be time to get ready for a true Mexican cultural experience. Every Monday the whole town transforms into an outdoor market place. Everything from shoes to live animals are bought and bartered here. You can have lunch right in the market where you can sample some local dishes which are prepared fresh. Most likely your group will be the only foreigners there so the locals will probably be watching you as much as you are observing them. Overnight again in Coscomatepec. (B)

• Explore the Tropical Gulf Coast of Veracruz
• Explore a Local Fish Market
• Enjoy Lunch on the Beach (the seafood is freshly caught)
• Ocean Boat Ride
• View Hundreds of Tropical Birds on an Island
• Motor into a Huge Sea Cave once used by Pirates

This morning your group will leave the mountainous area of western Veracruz and embark on a road trip to the southern rain forested areas of the state. First stop is to visit a local fish market in the town of Alvarado. Then you will continue to a small village adjacent to the Gulf of México where you will have a relaxing lunch. Next, it's to motor off into the ocean on a local small boat to explore the shoreline, see a huge cave used by pirates, and witness hundreds of birds on an island just off shore. Overnight in a rustic cabin in one of the small seaside villages. (B,L)

• Explore the Los Tuxtlas Region (a recognized tropical rain forest World Biosphere Area)
• Mineral Mud Bath
• Lake Catemaco Boat Ride to Spot Tropical Birds & Monkeys on Islands in the Lake
• Walking tour of the Lakeside Town of Catemaco

After breakfast, your party will travel on a small road which winds through the natural thick tropical rain forest. On the way, you will enter a tropical ecological reserve and be pampered with a mineral mud bath. A special mud is applied over your entire body and after it dries, you immerse yourself in a natural mineral spring pool using minty fresh patchouli leaves to wash off the dried mud. It is very refreshing! Next, from the dock of this reserve, your group will embark on a lake boat ride to take in the wonderful green tropical vistas found in this designated World Biosphere area where you will encounter many tropical birds and maybe spot howler and spider monkeys on islands in the lake. Lunch will be served at a restaurant overlooking this tranquil lake paradise. In the evening, your guide will lead you on a leisurely walk to explore the downtown area of Catemaco. (B,L)

• Scenic Road Trip Around the Lake
• Hike in the Tropical Jungle Forest Lead by a Local Villager
• Swim in Pools found under Hidden Waterfalls
• Enjoy a Special Lunch at a Local Family's Home
• Optional - Evening Temascal Ceremony

This morning, your guide will take you and your traveling companions on a day of tropical exploration starting with a scenic driving trip around a part of the lake. The lake has about 32 miles of shoreline. However, there is still not a road that goes all the way around the entire lake. Your final destination will be to the small village of Benito Juarez. A local village guide will meet you and then lead everyone on a hike into the tropical rain forest jungle. Along the way, your guide will explain about some of the plants and trees you will be passing. You will also encounter some beautiful waterfalls where (if you choose to) you can swim in the cool pools found below these cascading jungle falls. After the hike, your group will enjoy a specially prepared lunch by a local family at their home. Later you will return to Catemaco and overnight there. On this evening, you will also have the option at an additional cost to experience a Temascal Ceremony. Picture yourself in an igloo-shaped hot sauna chanting and sweating. It is an experience you won't soon forget. (B,L)

• Visit a Cigar Company to Learn How Cigars are Hand-Rolled
• View the 'Niagara Falls' of Veracruz
• Farewell Dinner

This area of southern Veracruz is prime for growing tobacco. After checking out of your hotel, you will tour a local cigar manufacturing company. There you can learn about how they grow, cultivate, process, and package their products before they are ready to be shipped worldwide. All aspects of this process are done by hand so you will get to see up-close their employees as they rapidly and skillfully work at the different stations. Next, your group will travel a short distance to view the awesome waterfall called, Salto de Eyipantla (Eee-gee-pant-la). This waterfall was featured in the movie, Apocalypto directed by Mel Gibson. Lunch will be at a small restaurant located next to the waterfall. Then you will travel back to the city of Veracruz to check in at a local hotel. Later, everyone will meet for a fun farewell dinner in the downtown area. (B,L,D)

• Travel Day Home from the Veracruz International Airport
• Buen Viaje!

Tour Fees

$2037 /adult
$1097 /child ages 8-17 years
Single Supplement: $390

Trip fees listed above are in US dollars, based on double occupancy, and are subject to change until the date your deposit is received.

Our trip has been absolutely beautiful with gorgeous foliage and beautiful waterfalls. My wife and I have been to Costa Rica, Panama, and Ecuador, but Veracruz is by far, the best.

-Richard & Shirley Good
Michigan

Often overlooked by tourists to the country, the coastal state of Veracruz has a wealth of hidden gems for you to discover, with charming colonial towns and awe-inspiring archaeological sites tucked away amongst breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Lying alongside the glimmering Gulf of Mexico, it was here in Veracruz that the Spanish founded their first settlements and attempted to conquer the Aztecs.

There are lots of interesting historical sights and cultural landmarks to be found in picturesque towns such as Tlacotalpan and La Antigua, while the mesmerizing Mesoamerican ruins at La Tajin count among the most impressive in the country.

With the towering snowcapped Orizaba also on show – Mexico's highest mountain – and beautiful beaches along the Gulf for you to check out; Veracruz has a lot to offer. Discover this unknown region of Mexico with our list of the best places to visit in Veracruz.

Map of Veracruz, Mexico

Click to enlarge

10. Coatepec

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, the laidback town of Coatepec is a lovely place to visit that is known for one thing and one thing only – coffee. Surrounded by endless farms, coffee plantations, and cloud forests, the town has long produced some of the best coffee in the country, with ‘La Vereda' and ‘Bola de Oro' being among the most popular.

As such, no visit to Coatepec can ever be complete without trying at least a couple of its famous brews, and there are loads of places around town where you can grab a cup or two.

While its coffee is undeniably delicious, Coatepec actually has much more to offer. The center of town is full of magnificent old colonial buildings, and lots of restaurants and bars sell traditional local fare. The best time of year to visit is in September when the whole town springs to life to celebrate San Jeronimo, its patron saint.

9. Villa Rica

Nowadays a small, sleepy fishing village, it was at Villa Rica that Hernan Cortes, the famous Spanish explorer, established the first European settlement in the Americas north of Panama, all the way back in 1519. Meaning ‘Rich Village,' Villa Rica was named after all the gold the Spanish found in the area.

While the dusty remains of some buildings constructed by Cortes can still be seen in town, within five years of its founding, the town had been relocated to what is now the bustling port city of Veracruz. Since then, time and history have passed Villa Rica by, and most people now visit for its lovely beach and laidback vibe.

8. Orizaba

Designated as one of Mexico's pueblos magicos – or magical towns – by the country's tourism board, Orizaba is a delight to visit, with historical sights, cultural attractions, and breathtaking nature all on offer. Set in a scenic spot in a valley high in the mountains, Orizaba is very attractive, with lovely parks surrounding its colonial center and a lazy river meandering through town.

Besides a brilliant art museum boasting a large collection of Diego Rivera paintings, the undoubted highlight is the majestic art nouveau architecture of the Iron Palace that was built by Gustave Eiffel himself.

The town also has lots of great cafes and restaurants scattered here and there, with plenty of delicious local fare for you to try out. While visiting Orizaba, be sure to take an exhilarating cable car ride to the top of Cerro Borrego, which offers up fantastic views of the town below and the awe-inspiring Pico de Orizaba – the country's highest mountain.

7. Cempoala

Home to the crumbling ruins of several vast fortresses, squares, and temples, the Mesoamerican archaeological site of Cempoala is fascinating to wander around, and history lovers will delight at the elegant architecture. Founded around 1,500 years before the arrival of the Spanish, Cempoala was once a significant settlement; around 25-30,000 people would have lived there, and it was even the capital of Totonocapan for a while.

Defeated by Aztec armies in the 15th century, Cempoala slowly declined, so all we can see today are the remains of a once flourishing city. The most impressive on show are the Templo del Sol – or Great Pyramid – and the interesting designs and ornamentation found on the sides of El Pimiento and Templo Las Caritas.

6. Lago de Catemaco

Located at the heart of the Sierra de Los Tuxtlas – a mountainous belt that lies right next to the Gulf of Mexico – the glistening Lago de Catemaco is a great place to head if you want to kick back and relax. There are lots of pristine beaches and fun watersports for you to check out.

Empty Spaces Song

Ringed by gently rolling hills, the large freshwater lake is perfect for swimming in; many people take boat trips out to the small, isolated islands that dot its waters, with some of them home to different species of monkey.

It is well worth staying a few days at the sleepy lakeside town of Catemaco, as the area surrounding the lake has lots of beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and mountains for you to check out, and there is some fantastic birdwatching to be had. Cisco packet tracer free download.

5. La Antigua

The second oldest Spanish settlement in the country, La Antigua was founded by Hernan Cortes all the way back in 1525. The crumbling, vine-covered ‘Casa de Cortes' that dates to his time is now one of the town's main attractions. A very peaceful and pleasant place to spend some time, La Antigua's cobbled streets are fantastic for getting lost in, and stopping off at one of the excellent seafood restaurants is simply a must.

The other main sight in town is the Ermita del Rosario church, which is widely considered to be the oldest Spanish-built structure in the Americas. Other than that, there is not all that much to do in La Antigua besides taking a relaxing cruise down the Rio Antigua and lazily watch the world go by.

4. Xalapa

Tucked away in the highlands in the interior of the state, Xalapa, the capital city of Veracruz, has a vivacious and youthful feel to it, thanks to its large student population. Its universities have long had a profound influence on the city, and its arts and culture scene is thriving due to its many theaters, museums, and bookshops.

Nightlife is great to experience in Xalapa too, with lots of trendy bars and nightclubs for you to check out. Besides the lovely colonial architecture on show in the center of town, the main attraction is the wonderful anthropological museum that hosts a huge collection of Mesoamerican artifacts.

3. Tlacotalpan

Lying on the north bank of the Rio Papaloapan, Tlacotalpan is full of beautiful, colonial-era architecture; it is not without reason that it is also known as the ‘Pearl of the Papaloapan.' Once an important river port, riches flowed into Tlacotalpan and funded the building of all the magnificent buildings we see before us today.

Painted in an eclectic mix of blues, pinks, yellows, and oranges, the colonial buildings are beautiful to behold, with life in the peaceful town revolving around its two main plazas of Parque Hidalgo and Plaza Zaragoza. As there is not all that much to do in Tlacotalpan, it's best to just bask in the ambiance and wander around town, taking in all the fantastic sights.

2. Veracruz

Known as ‘Puerto' to locals, the bustling city of Veracruz is home to Mexico's largest and most important port; as such, it has long attracted people to its shores. Due to this, the city exhibits a dazzling array of different cultures. This intoxicating mix is best experienced through its cuisine and music scene, which showcases indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Cuban influences.

Famed for its pounding nightlife, Veracruz is loads of fun to visit. February is a particularly good time to stop by as its raucous carnival celebrations bring the city to a standstill. Founded by the Spanish all the way back in the early 16th century, Veracruz has some lovely colonial-era architecture on show, with its two historic forts amongst its many highlights. Ambling peacefully along its harborside boardwalk is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city.

Veracruz 1819 Kitsempty Spaces The Blog Youtube

1. El Tajin

The breathtaking and expansive ruins of El Tajin are among the most well-preserved and impressive in Mesoamerica, and no visit to Veracruz can ever be complete without exploring the amazing archaeological site. Once one of the largest cities in the region, El Tajin flourished for centuries, with palaces, ball courts, and temples springing up – until the city's fortunes waned around the year 1200.

Veracruz 1819 Kitsempty Spaces The Blog 2017

Today you will travel to the small town of La Antigua where you will see the remains of what is thought to be an administration building built by Cortez and his soldiers. Your guide will explain the known history of this area as well as give you a tour of how this riverside town was laid out back in the early 1500s. It is also in Antigua that you will see one of the first churches built in the Americas. Then you will keep traveling north to the ancient burial ruins called, Quiahuiztlan (Key-ah-wheezt-lan). This peaceful remote site is located on a bluff with a stunning view of the Gulf of México coastline. One of the more interesting aspects of this site is the 70 small miniature temples or tombs used by the more affluent people as their final resting place. Just below this site is the small village of Villa Rica. This is the frist place Hernán Cortéz landed with his men in 1519. Later you will overnight at one of the beach side hotels found in the Costa Esmeralda region of Veracruz. (B,L)

• Tour El Tajín Archaeological Site (A UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• See the Papantla Voladores Perform Their Ancient Ceremony
• Explore the city of Papantla (Europeans discovered Vanilla here)

After breakfast, you will continue your journey to visit the ancient ruins site of El Tajín which is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Totonacan people built over 150 structures including 17 ball courts and flourished there between 800 and 1150 A.D. The most famous structure at El Tajin is called, the Pyramid of the Niches. Either your tour guide or an on-site guide will escort your group on a tour of the major structures and answer your questions. P40dc 801 beech grove. The starting point of the tour will be at a small museum located near the entrance of the site. Later, you will have the opportunity to witness the ceremonial flight of the Voladores. Five men (Voladores or fliers) will reenact high above the ground an ancient ritual which was performed by the Totonacs to appease their god of fertility to bless the area with an abundance of food and water. After lunch, you will get the opportunity to take a tour of the interesting town of Papantla. This northern area of Veracruz is also the place where the Spanish invaders first smelled and tasted a delightful new spice which was growing there. You know it today as vanilla. You will overnight again in the Costa Esmeralda area. (B,L)

• Visit Hacienda Lencero (Mexican General, Santa Anna once lived here)
• Learn about the Ancient History at the Anthropology Museum in Xalapa
• Tour the Major Cultural Sites of Xalapa (the capital of Veracruz state)

After breakfast, you will travel toward the bustling city of Xalapa (Ha-la-pah) which is the capital of Veracruz. Just outside of this vibrant town is the beautiful estate called, Hacienda El Lencero. You will visit the main mansion, the gardens, and the chapel which the Mexican General, Santa Anna (Remember the Alamo) constructed specifically for his wedding. After touring the hacienda, your group will continue to the very modern Anthropology Museum. Here you will find the largest collection of artifacts from the people who once lived in the Mexican gulf coast region. One of the main attractions on display are the huge Olmec stone heads. After lunch, your bilingual guide will lead you on a tour of the main sites in Xalapa. This city is rich in culture with art galleries, interesting small shops, and is also the home to the University of Veracruz. You will overnight in the nearby town of Coatepec. (B,L)

• Explore the Coffee Growing Region of Veracruz
• Visit a Coffee Plantation
• Explore the Pre-Hispanic Towns of Xico & Coatepec
• View Texolo Waterfall (Use in the movie, Romancing The Stone)

You will be in the higher and more temperate altitudes of Veracruz where small organic coffee plantations can be found. You will have the opportunity to meet with the owner of one of these small coffee plantations and learn about the coffee-making process. Nearby there are two very quaint towns; Coatepec and Xico, both designated as 'México Magic Towns.' Coatepec is recognized for its beautiful main park, fun shopping, and many coffee shops. Xico is a pre-Hispanic cobbled street town with a beautiful church, handicraft shops, and nearby, you will find the waterfall which was used in the movie, Romancing the Stone. Later, your trip continues to Coscomatepec, a town which is located below the towering snowcapped volcano called, Pico de Orizaba. You will overnight in a hotel there. (B,L)

• Explore the Mountain Regions of Veracruz
• Visit the Scenic Mountain Village of Alpatláhuac
• Wander the Huge Outdoor Market in Coscomatepec
• Eat a Freshly Cooked Lunch at the Market

After breakfast, your guide will take you to the small village of Alpatláhuac where the local Catholic church is perched high above the town. It is there that you can get a sweeping panorama of this higher altitude hilly area of western Veracruz. Then it is back to Coscomatepec where it will be time to get ready for a true Mexican cultural experience. Every Monday the whole town transforms into an outdoor market place. Everything from shoes to live animals are bought and bartered here. You can have lunch right in the market where you can sample some local dishes which are prepared fresh. Most likely your group will be the only foreigners there so the locals will probably be watching you as much as you are observing them. Overnight again in Coscomatepec. (B)

• Explore the Tropical Gulf Coast of Veracruz
• Explore a Local Fish Market
• Enjoy Lunch on the Beach (the seafood is freshly caught)
• Ocean Boat Ride
• View Hundreds of Tropical Birds on an Island
• Motor into a Huge Sea Cave once used by Pirates

This morning your group will leave the mountainous area of western Veracruz and embark on a road trip to the southern rain forested areas of the state. First stop is to visit a local fish market in the town of Alvarado. Then you will continue to a small village adjacent to the Gulf of México where you will have a relaxing lunch. Next, it's to motor off into the ocean on a local small boat to explore the shoreline, see a huge cave used by pirates, and witness hundreds of birds on an island just off shore. Overnight in a rustic cabin in one of the small seaside villages. (B,L)

• Explore the Los Tuxtlas Region (a recognized tropical rain forest World Biosphere Area)
• Mineral Mud Bath
• Lake Catemaco Boat Ride to Spot Tropical Birds & Monkeys on Islands in the Lake
• Walking tour of the Lakeside Town of Catemaco

After breakfast, your party will travel on a small road which winds through the natural thick tropical rain forest. On the way, you will enter a tropical ecological reserve and be pampered with a mineral mud bath. A special mud is applied over your entire body and after it dries, you immerse yourself in a natural mineral spring pool using minty fresh patchouli leaves to wash off the dried mud. It is very refreshing! Next, from the dock of this reserve, your group will embark on a lake boat ride to take in the wonderful green tropical vistas found in this designated World Biosphere area where you will encounter many tropical birds and maybe spot howler and spider monkeys on islands in the lake. Lunch will be served at a restaurant overlooking this tranquil lake paradise. In the evening, your guide will lead you on a leisurely walk to explore the downtown area of Catemaco. (B,L)

• Scenic Road Trip Around the Lake
• Hike in the Tropical Jungle Forest Lead by a Local Villager
• Swim in Pools found under Hidden Waterfalls
• Enjoy a Special Lunch at a Local Family's Home
• Optional - Evening Temascal Ceremony

This morning, your guide will take you and your traveling companions on a day of tropical exploration starting with a scenic driving trip around a part of the lake. The lake has about 32 miles of shoreline. However, there is still not a road that goes all the way around the entire lake. Your final destination will be to the small village of Benito Juarez. A local village guide will meet you and then lead everyone on a hike into the tropical rain forest jungle. Along the way, your guide will explain about some of the plants and trees you will be passing. You will also encounter some beautiful waterfalls where (if you choose to) you can swim in the cool pools found below these cascading jungle falls. After the hike, your group will enjoy a specially prepared lunch by a local family at their home. Later you will return to Catemaco and overnight there. On this evening, you will also have the option at an additional cost to experience a Temascal Ceremony. Picture yourself in an igloo-shaped hot sauna chanting and sweating. It is an experience you won't soon forget. (B,L)

• Visit a Cigar Company to Learn How Cigars are Hand-Rolled
• View the 'Niagara Falls' of Veracruz
• Farewell Dinner

This area of southern Veracruz is prime for growing tobacco. After checking out of your hotel, you will tour a local cigar manufacturing company. There you can learn about how they grow, cultivate, process, and package their products before they are ready to be shipped worldwide. All aspects of this process are done by hand so you will get to see up-close their employees as they rapidly and skillfully work at the different stations. Next, your group will travel a short distance to view the awesome waterfall called, Salto de Eyipantla (Eee-gee-pant-la). This waterfall was featured in the movie, Apocalypto directed by Mel Gibson. Lunch will be at a small restaurant located next to the waterfall. Then you will travel back to the city of Veracruz to check in at a local hotel. Later, everyone will meet for a fun farewell dinner in the downtown area. (B,L,D)

• Travel Day Home from the Veracruz International Airport
• Buen Viaje!

Tour Fees

$2037 /adult
$1097 /child ages 8-17 years
Single Supplement: $390

Trip fees listed above are in US dollars, based on double occupancy, and are subject to change until the date your deposit is received.

Our trip has been absolutely beautiful with gorgeous foliage and beautiful waterfalls. My wife and I have been to Costa Rica, Panama, and Ecuador, but Veracruz is by far, the best.

-Richard & Shirley Good
Michigan

Often overlooked by tourists to the country, the coastal state of Veracruz has a wealth of hidden gems for you to discover, with charming colonial towns and awe-inspiring archaeological sites tucked away amongst breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Lying alongside the glimmering Gulf of Mexico, it was here in Veracruz that the Spanish founded their first settlements and attempted to conquer the Aztecs.

There are lots of interesting historical sights and cultural landmarks to be found in picturesque towns such as Tlacotalpan and La Antigua, while the mesmerizing Mesoamerican ruins at La Tajin count among the most impressive in the country.

With the towering snowcapped Orizaba also on show – Mexico's highest mountain – and beautiful beaches along the Gulf for you to check out; Veracruz has a lot to offer. Discover this unknown region of Mexico with our list of the best places to visit in Veracruz.

Map of Veracruz, Mexico

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10. Coatepec

Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Madre, the laidback town of Coatepec is a lovely place to visit that is known for one thing and one thing only – coffee. Surrounded by endless farms, coffee plantations, and cloud forests, the town has long produced some of the best coffee in the country, with ‘La Vereda' and ‘Bola de Oro' being among the most popular.

As such, no visit to Coatepec can ever be complete without trying at least a couple of its famous brews, and there are loads of places around town where you can grab a cup or two.

While its coffee is undeniably delicious, Coatepec actually has much more to offer. The center of town is full of magnificent old colonial buildings, and lots of restaurants and bars sell traditional local fare. The best time of year to visit is in September when the whole town springs to life to celebrate San Jeronimo, its patron saint.

9. Villa Rica

Nowadays a small, sleepy fishing village, it was at Villa Rica that Hernan Cortes, the famous Spanish explorer, established the first European settlement in the Americas north of Panama, all the way back in 1519. Meaning ‘Rich Village,' Villa Rica was named after all the gold the Spanish found in the area.

While the dusty remains of some buildings constructed by Cortes can still be seen in town, within five years of its founding, the town had been relocated to what is now the bustling port city of Veracruz. Since then, time and history have passed Villa Rica by, and most people now visit for its lovely beach and laidback vibe.

8. Orizaba

Designated as one of Mexico's pueblos magicos – or magical towns – by the country's tourism board, Orizaba is a delight to visit, with historical sights, cultural attractions, and breathtaking nature all on offer. Set in a scenic spot in a valley high in the mountains, Orizaba is very attractive, with lovely parks surrounding its colonial center and a lazy river meandering through town.

Besides a brilliant art museum boasting a large collection of Diego Rivera paintings, the undoubted highlight is the majestic art nouveau architecture of the Iron Palace that was built by Gustave Eiffel himself.

The town also has lots of great cafes and restaurants scattered here and there, with plenty of delicious local fare for you to try out. While visiting Orizaba, be sure to take an exhilarating cable car ride to the top of Cerro Borrego, which offers up fantastic views of the town below and the awe-inspiring Pico de Orizaba – the country's highest mountain.

7. Cempoala

Home to the crumbling ruins of several vast fortresses, squares, and temples, the Mesoamerican archaeological site of Cempoala is fascinating to wander around, and history lovers will delight at the elegant architecture. Founded around 1,500 years before the arrival of the Spanish, Cempoala was once a significant settlement; around 25-30,000 people would have lived there, and it was even the capital of Totonocapan for a while.

Defeated by Aztec armies in the 15th century, Cempoala slowly declined, so all we can see today are the remains of a once flourishing city. The most impressive on show are the Templo del Sol – or Great Pyramid – and the interesting designs and ornamentation found on the sides of El Pimiento and Templo Las Caritas.

6. Lago de Catemaco

Located at the heart of the Sierra de Los Tuxtlas – a mountainous belt that lies right next to the Gulf of Mexico – the glistening Lago de Catemaco is a great place to head if you want to kick back and relax. There are lots of pristine beaches and fun watersports for you to check out.

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Ringed by gently rolling hills, the large freshwater lake is perfect for swimming in; many people take boat trips out to the small, isolated islands that dot its waters, with some of them home to different species of monkey.

It is well worth staying a few days at the sleepy lakeside town of Catemaco, as the area surrounding the lake has lots of beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and mountains for you to check out, and there is some fantastic birdwatching to be had. Cisco packet tracer free download.

5. La Antigua

The second oldest Spanish settlement in the country, La Antigua was founded by Hernan Cortes all the way back in 1525. The crumbling, vine-covered ‘Casa de Cortes' that dates to his time is now one of the town's main attractions. A very peaceful and pleasant place to spend some time, La Antigua's cobbled streets are fantastic for getting lost in, and stopping off at one of the excellent seafood restaurants is simply a must.

The other main sight in town is the Ermita del Rosario church, which is widely considered to be the oldest Spanish-built structure in the Americas. Other than that, there is not all that much to do in La Antigua besides taking a relaxing cruise down the Rio Antigua and lazily watch the world go by.

4. Xalapa

Tucked away in the highlands in the interior of the state, Xalapa, the capital city of Veracruz, has a vivacious and youthful feel to it, thanks to its large student population. Its universities have long had a profound influence on the city, and its arts and culture scene is thriving due to its many theaters, museums, and bookshops.

Nightlife is great to experience in Xalapa too, with lots of trendy bars and nightclubs for you to check out. Besides the lovely colonial architecture on show in the center of town, the main attraction is the wonderful anthropological museum that hosts a huge collection of Mesoamerican artifacts.

3. Tlacotalpan

Lying on the north bank of the Rio Papaloapan, Tlacotalpan is full of beautiful, colonial-era architecture; it is not without reason that it is also known as the ‘Pearl of the Papaloapan.' Once an important river port, riches flowed into Tlacotalpan and funded the building of all the magnificent buildings we see before us today.

Painted in an eclectic mix of blues, pinks, yellows, and oranges, the colonial buildings are beautiful to behold, with life in the peaceful town revolving around its two main plazas of Parque Hidalgo and Plaza Zaragoza. As there is not all that much to do in Tlacotalpan, it's best to just bask in the ambiance and wander around town, taking in all the fantastic sights.

2. Veracruz

Known as ‘Puerto' to locals, the bustling city of Veracruz is home to Mexico's largest and most important port; as such, it has long attracted people to its shores. Due to this, the city exhibits a dazzling array of different cultures. This intoxicating mix is best experienced through its cuisine and music scene, which showcases indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Cuban influences.

Famed for its pounding nightlife, Veracruz is loads of fun to visit. February is a particularly good time to stop by as its raucous carnival celebrations bring the city to a standstill. Founded by the Spanish all the way back in the early 16th century, Veracruz has some lovely colonial-era architecture on show, with its two historic forts amongst its many highlights. Ambling peacefully along its harborside boardwalk is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city.

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1. El Tajin

The breathtaking and expansive ruins of El Tajin are among the most well-preserved and impressive in Mesoamerica, and no visit to Veracruz can ever be complete without exploring the amazing archaeological site. Once one of the largest cities in the region, El Tajin flourished for centuries, with palaces, ball courts, and temples springing up – until the city's fortunes waned around the year 1200.

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Wandering around the crumbling ruins that tower over you is a mesmerizing experience as you follow in the footsteps of the people who once lived here; the vast Pyramid of the Niches is the undoubted highlight. For history lovers interested in learning more about El Tajin and its many beautiful buildings, it is a good idea to hire a tour guide who can explain all the elegant designs and motifs you come across.