Harvesting the Offering and Night of the Dead at Xoxocotlán Pantheon, night of October 31st

Oaxaca - 06:30 hrs (early morning)
Start the day by visiting the marigold fields, the iconic flowers of the festival. Enjoy the beauty of these fields and discover the symbolic importance of these flowers, crucial for crafting vibrant altars.

Next, head to the local market, where you can choose and buy the essential items for your own altar. Experience the authenticity of this market as you explore the colorful array of sugar skulls, candles, and other traditional items.

The following stop will be a traditional home, where you will be warmly welcomed with a rich cup of chocolate atole and some snacks. Admire a beautifully decorated family altar and learn about family traditions and rituals associated with Día de Muertos. There will be opportunities to ask questions and share experiences with local hosts.

Around 13:30 hrs, return to your hotel. Enjoy free time until 18:00 hrs.

Xoxocotlán - You will be picked up between 18:00 hrs to 18:30 hrs at your hotel to continue the visit to Xoxocotlán Pantheon.

Visiting the Xoxocotlán Pantheon is a profoundly moving and spiritual experience. Here’s why it stands out:

Witness a genuine celebration of life and death, where locals honor their deceased loved ones in a time-honored tradition. Unlike larger events, this is intimate and personal.

Graves are illuminated by hundreds of candles and marigold flowers, creating an unforgettable visual and emotional experience filled with respect and remembrance.

This is not a tourist performance—it’s a community gathering. Some families may even invite you to share in their sacred traditions, offering a closer connection to Mexican culture.

Gain insights into the belief that the souls of the dead return to visit the living, with each altar symbolizing the bond between life and death.

Enjoy dinner at the popular fair around the cemetery (not included). Return to the hotel around 24:00 hrs.

Monte Alban Pyramids and Day of the Dead Parade & Celebrations in Etla, Oaxaca; night of Nov 1st

Zona Arqueologica de Monte Alban - At 11:00 hrs (before mid-day)

Begin the day exploring the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, an impressive archaeological site that showcases the greatness of the Zapotec civilization and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the temples, courtyards, and observatories while expert guides share the fascinating history and cultural significance of this place.

After visiting Monte Albán, travel to the village of Etla, where the first stop will be to see up close the making of the famous wooden alebrijes, followed by an enjoyable meal in the same area.

Villa de Etla Municipality - Witnessing the Day of the Dead in Etla is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience. At night, the village becomes a living tribute to the dead, blending vibrant tradition with spiritual meaning. The highlight is the Comparsa Parade, where locals dressed as skeletons, devils, and spirits flood the streets with energetic music and dance. You won’t just watch—you’ll be invited to join in.

As night falls, head to the town center to join a traditional parade, where you’ll dance to the local band’s music, immersing yourself in the joyful tradition of music and dance during the Día de Muertos celebration. The vibrant energy of the parade will surround you as you join the festivities and experience the authenticity of this holiday.

The night will end with an authentic dinner that includes tamales, Oaxacan chocolate, and mezcal. Savor the richness of the local cuisine while sharing stories and laughter with locals and other tour participants.

Return to the hotel around 24:00 hrs.

• Pick up at Hotel
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Other

• nor Dinner nor Drinks

Living Memories: A Two-Day Journey Through Día de los Muertos.

Discover the profound beauty of Mexico’s Día de los Muertos with this exceptional two-day tour that encapsulates the essence of life and death. On October 31st, immerse yourself in the heartfelt ambiance of the Xoxocotlán Pantheon, where families pay tribute to their loved ones with altars adorned with vibrant marigolds and flickering candles. Experience the powerful bond between the living and the deceased, and engage in local traditions that have been passed down through generations.

On November 1st, join the lively Comparsa Parade in Etla, where joy and reverence merge as locals celebrate in colorful costumes and music fills the air. Dance alongside participants and partake in the communal spirit of remembrance. This tour provides a rare opportunity to deeply engage with the culture and traditions of Día de los Muertos, making it a truly unforgettable experience that honors both loss and love.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.