Magical Mexico: Mérida
October 29 - November 4, 2025
Spirit of the Yucatán: A Día de los Muertos Journey through Mérida
Denver Botanic Gardens and Reefs to Rockies invite you to uncover the vibrant traditions and breathtaking beauty of Mérida during Día de los Muertos. This curated adventure weaves together the heartfelt rituals of the celebration with immersive experiences in arts, cuisine, and history, offering an authentic connection to the region’s rich heritage.
- Explore Mérida’s Highlights: Stroll through Mérida’s cobblestone streets and discover stunning colonial architecture, from the grandeur of Plaza Grande to the elegant mansions along Paseo de Montejo.
- Unique Cultural Experiences: Visit a historic Sisal factory, explore artisanal salt works, and savor in a beachside barbecue.
- Celebrate Like a Local: Witness the profound beauty of Día de los Muertos through cemetery visits, traditional home altars, and engage in traditional workshops.
- Explore Ancient Wonders: Stand in awe of Uxmal, one of the Yucatán’s most iconic archaeological sites.
- Relax and Reflect: Enjoy leisure time in Mérida and bid farewell with a sunset toast yacht celebration.
Join us for a journey that celebrates the essence of the Yucatán, blending time-honored traditions with extraordinary moments.
Collaboration trip with Denver Botanic Gardens hosted by Yvonne Garcia Bardwell, Associate Director of Community Relations.
About Your Host: Meet Yvonne Garcia Bardwell, your passionate guide to the heart of Mexico. Born and raised in South Texas, Yvonne‘s deep-rooted love for her Mexican heritage infuses every aspect of her life and work. Her bicultural, bilingual roots bridge cultures effortlessly, connecting travelers with the vibrant traditions, flavors, and stories of Mexico.
As a community leader and cultural ambassador, Yvonne‘s mission is to share the soul of her beloved country, from its breathtaking landscapes to its rich artistic expressions and culinary wonders. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her personal connection to Mexico runs deep, ensuring that your journey with her goes far beyond typical tourism.
With Yvonne as your host, you’ll venture off the beaten path to experience the true magic, depth, and diversity of Mexican life, creating unforgettable memories and celebrating the authentic culture, connections, and community that make Mexico truly special.
ITINERARY
Day 1 (Wed, Oct 29) – Arrival to Mérida ~ Arrival to Mérida International Airport (MID) and transfer to hotel.
Accommodations: Wayam
Meals: None
Day 2 (Thurs, Oct 30) – City Tour of Merida ~ Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture of Mérida, the cultural capital of the Yucatán Peninsula. This tour takes you through the city’s historic heart. We’ll visit the iconic Plaza Grande and Palacio de Gobierno to admire its stunning murals depicting Yucatán’s history. We’ll also explore Casa de Montejo for a glimpse into colonial-era artistry and stroll down Paseo de Montejo, lined with grand mansions and art galleries.
Accommodations: Wayam
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 3 (Fri, Oct 31) – Sisal, Salt, and Bee-keeping ~ Discover Yucatán’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to a historic Sisal factory, delving into the region’s textile legacy. Participate in a hands-on beekeeping session to learn about the unique Melipona bees and their importance in Mayan traditions. Then, uncover the artistry of salt harvesting, an ancient practice with enduring significance. Conclude the day with a beachside barbecue, savoring in local flavors by the sea.
Accommodations: Wayam
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4 (Sat, Nov 1) – Día de los Muertos in the Yucatán ~ Experience the heart of Día de los Muertos traditions with a visit to the cemetery in Tekit, where families lovingly honor their ancestors. Explore beautifully crafted altars in three local homes, each a profound expression of remembrance and celebration. Relish a traditional Yucatecan lunch before exploring a guayabera shirt factory to learn about this iconic regional attire. End the day with a refreshing dip at Cenote Nah Yah, a tranquil natural wonder steeped in mystique.
Accommodations: Wayam
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 5 (Sun, Nov 2) – Día de los Muertos: Traditions and Flavors ~ Delve deeper into the heart of Yucatán’s Día de los Muertos festivities in Santa Elena. Begin with a hands-on cooking workshop to prepare traditional dishes integral to the celebration. Visit an organic farm to uncover the cultural and medicinal significance of local herbs. Conclude the day with a guided exploration of Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient Mayan history meets the enduring spirit of remembrance.
Accommodations: Wayam
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6 (Mon, Nov 3) – Farewell to Mérida ~ Spend a leisurely morning as you wish in Mérida exploring the lush greenery and vibrant blooms at Parque la Plancha. You can also visit La Casa del las Artesanías or Bazar García Rejón for last-minute shopping. Art enthusiasts can visit the galleries along Calle 60, while others might prefer savoring an iced coffee at one of the local shops near the main square. In the afternoon, bid a memorable farewell to Mérida with a private yacht cruise. Savor refreshing drinks as we glide along tranquil waters, watching the sun set in a blaze of Yucatán’s vibrant colors. Our final day together concludes with a delicious Farewell Dinner in town.
Accommodations: Wayam
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 (Tues, Nov 4) – Departure ~ Transfer back to Mérida International Airport in time for our flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
DETAILS
Price: $3990* per person based on two people sharing double occupancy accommodations. If you prefer private, single occupancy accommodations, add $760**.
Includes: accommodations; airport transfers on arrival and departure days; private transportation on Days 2-6; bilingual trip leader; host from Denver Botanic Gardens (Yvonne Garcia Bardwell); meals as listed; activities and entrance fees as listed; basic $0 trip cost travel insurance; gratuities at restaurant meals, for your trip leader, drivers, and for local guides; and 24-hour in-country support. Pre-departure cancellation benefits can be added to the basic insurance policy for an additional cost.
Excludes: flights (we will assist with flight arrangements); passport fees; room upgrades; 1 lunch and 4 dinners; pre- or post- hotels; optional travel insurance policy with pre-trip cancellation and interruption benefits; optional activities; taxis; gratuities for hotel staff; and personal expenses.
*Price is based on payment by check. Credit card fees, if applicable, will be assessed at time of payment based on card used.
**If you are a solo traveler that prefers to share a double occupancy room, we will try to pair you with another traveler. If we can’t find a suitable roommate for you, the private room surcharge will apply.
Group Size: Min 7, Max 12 + DBG Host + Trip Leader
Level of Difficulty – Easy to Moderate: Mérida in late October and early November offers warm, tropical weather that can be quite intense, with temperatures often soaring above 90°F (32°C). The city itself is mostly flat, with wide, paved streets, making it easy to navigate on foot, but the heat can make it feel more challenging than usual. Most walking tours typically last 2 to 3 hours. While the streets are easy to walk, the high humidity and sun can be draining, so it’s important to stay hydrated, where comfortable, lightweight clothing, and to take breaks. On days when we explore areas outside the city, expect more exertion as temperatures can feel even hotter in the open air. Moderate walking in the heat, especially without much shade, will require some stamina, but the rewards are well worth it for those who are prepared for the warmth.
A Note About Gratuities – Your trip cost includes gratuities for your trip leader, local guides, and drivers, as well as at restaurants for included meals. This allows us to reliably and equitably compensate everyone working so hard to keep you happy, healthy, and safe during your trip.
Important Information: Itinerary has been built to allow flexibility to accommodate activities and sightseeing. Every effort will be made to carry out all activities as planned and advertised. However, trip leaders reserve the right to make alterations, deletions, or modifications to the itinerary deemed necessary due to circumstances beyond their control.