Catemaco is located in the heart of the volcanic mountains of the Sierra de Los Tuxtlas along the Gulf of Mexico. The area is known as a spiritual center, where many locals partake in shamanism and pre-hispanic medicinal practices. Those who visit often take "lanchas" or small boats to nearby Monkey Island, which was featured in the movie "Medicine Man". The island is home to the red-cheeked monkeys, that were brought from Thailand by the University of Veracruz for research. Today visitors can venture to the island to see these monkeys, and often bring bananas or coconuts as treats. The nearby Ecological Reserve of Nanciyaga is home to some of the most amazing flora and fauna in all of Mexico. Those who visit will be amazed by the activites that await them; From hiking through the jungles, kayaking across the lake, or relaxing in the cabanas while receiving a mineral mud mask, there is something for everyone.

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Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1992, El Tajín is a major archaeological site in México near the northern, present day city of Papantla, Veracruz. It became the most important center in north-east Mesoamerica after the fall of the Teotihuacán Empire. The 2,000 year old landmark is famous for its Ball Courts, the Temple of Columns and The Pyramid of the Niches, which was once used as a solar calendar. El Tajín, which means 'city or place of thunder' in the Totonac language, is a masterpiece of ancient Mesoamerican architecture. This excursion includes a visit to the ruins of El Tajín combined with a beach weekend on the sands of Veracruz.

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Surrounded by volcanoes and snow-capped mountains, Puebla is the capital and largest city in the Mexican State of Puebla. Halfway between the port of Veracruz and Mexico City, Puebla was an important colonial establishment and was also home to Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, a revolutionary poet and playwright. The largely industrial city is home to the Mexican headquarters and main manufacturing site of Volkswagen. Puebla's cuisine is known worldwide and is most recognized for its unforgettable mole, a spicy sauce made from chocolate, nuts, and peppers. Popular sites in Puebla include La Capilla del Rosario, a chapel inlaid with gold, El Barrio del Artista (The Artist's Neighborhood), the African Safari Zoo, and the Zócalo where you'll find the Cathedral and Municipal Palace. Double-decker buses give visitors an opportunity to enjoy the city's architecture, museums and monuments.

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With a population of more than 600,000, the port city of Veracruz is México's second largest Gulf coast city. One hour east of Xalapa, the port of Veracruz once served as a loading site where silver extracted from Mexican mines was shipped to Spain. One of the city's most popular landmarks is a large fortress called San Juan de Ulúa, which was built to protect the city from invaders. Today, the Veracruz harbor and aquarium draw many visitors, both native and foreign. Highlights of downtown Veracruz include the Municipal Palace, the Cathedral, and Plaza de Armas, the town square or zócalo, which is also the center of the city's lively nightlife. Lined with cafes and restaurants specializing in seafood, it is charming both by day and at night when musicians and dancers perform in the square. Veracruz has a rich tradition of music and dance that includes danzón, marimba, and el son jarocho, a mix of Cuban and Mexican folk music; the song La Bamba is a perfect example. The annual springtime Carnival and the Afro-caribbean Festival in July are just a few of the city's most popular events.

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Located approximately 43 miles north of Veracruz, is the quaint fishing village of Villa Rica. Thought to be the location of the first Spanish settlement in Mexico, vistors can now explore the remains of a fort and a church on the Cerro de la Cantera. Villa Rica is also ideal for those wanting to relax on the sandy beaches, or for swimming in the pristine ocean. Situated atop a hill, overlooking the coast is Quiahuiztlán. Located near Villa Rica, this archeological site is home to ancient Totonac tombs. Meaning precious stone in the Totonac language, Quiahuiztlán was used as an Indian burial site for wealthy individuals from the nearby town of Zempoala.

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