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- English
- Spanish
Living Memories: A Two-Day Journey Through Día de los Muertos.
Experience the profound beauty of Mexico's Día de los Muertos with this unique two-day tour that captures the essence of life and death. On October 31st, immerse yourself in the heartfelt atmosphere of the Xoxocotlán Pantheon, where families honor their loved ones with altars adorned in vibrant marigolds and flickering candles. Witness the powerful connection between the living and the dead, and participate in local traditions that span generations.
On November 1st, join the lively Comparsa Parade in Etla, where joy and reverence blend as locals celebrate in colorful costumes and music fills the air. Dance alongside participants and share in the communal spirit of remembrance. This tour offers a rare opportunity to engage deeply with the culture and traditions of Día de los Muertos, making it a truly unforgettable experience that celebrates both loss and love.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
If your hotel is not listed, do not worry, you can add your address (for example an Airbnb location). Otherwise we will be in contact with you before tour date, so we can clarify what hotel or address you will stay.
Itinerary
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1
06:30 hrs (early morning) We will begin our day by exploring the marigold fields, the emblematic flowers of the festival. Immerse yourself in the beauty of these fields, where you’ll learn about the symbolic significance of these flowers, essential for creating vibrant altars. Then, we’ll head to the local market, where you’ll have the opportunity to select and purchase the essential elements for your own altar. Experience the authenticity of this market as you explore the colorful varieties of sugar skulls, candles, and other traditional items. Our next stop will take us to a traditional home, where we’ll be welcomed with hospitality, a rich cup of chocolate atole, and some snacks. You’ll also be able to admire a beautifully decorated family altar. You’ll learn about family traditions and rituals associated with Día de Muertos, with the opportunity to ask questions and share experiences with local hosts. Around 13:30 hrs, return to your hotel. Free time until 18:00 hrs.
7 hours • Admission ticket free -
2
We will pick you up between 18:00hrs to 18:30hrs at your hotel to continue the visit to Xoxocotlán Pantheon. Visiting the Xoxocotlán Pantheon is a deeply moving and spiritual experience. Here’s why it stands out: You’ll witness a genuine celebration of life and death, where locals honor their deceased loved ones in an age-old 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 isn’t 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. You’ll 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. Take the dinner at the popular fair around the cemetery (not included). Return to hotel around 24:00 hrs.
3 hours • Admission ticket free -
3
At 11:00 hrs (before mid-day) We will begin our 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. We’ll explore the temples, courtyards, and observatories while our expert guides share with you the fascinating history and cultural significance of this place. After visiting Monte Albán, we’ll travel to the village of Etla, where our first stop will be to see up close the making of the famous wooden alebrijes, followed by an enjoyable meal in the same area.
6 hours • Admission ticket included -
4
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, we will 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 hotel around 24:00 hrs
5 hours • Admission ticket free
Harvesting the Offering and Night of the Dead at Xoxocotlán Pantheon, night of October 31st
Monte Alban Pyramids and Day of the Dead Parade & Celebrations in Etla, Oaxaca; night of Nov 1st
Additional info
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- For a 50% refund, you must cancel 2–6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 2 full days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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