Mexico

Follow the same incredible route as Gap360's Mexico Adventure — from the buzzing streets of Mexico City to the jungle-fringed Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá and the Caribbean shores of Playa del Carmen — entirely on your own terms. By swapping guided group transport for ADO buses and budget flights, and group-tour hotels for well-rated hostels and guesthouses, you can cover all the same highlights for a fraction of the price. Expect colonial cities, mezcal distilleries, cenotes, canyon boat trips, flamingo-dotted islands and world-class beaches. All cost estimates are approximate and per person.

Travel Crew

~£780

This self-launched version of Gap360's Ultimate Mexico tour covers all the same legendary stops — Isla Holbox, Chichen Itza, Merida, Bacalar, Tulum and Playa del Carmen — without the group tour price tag. You'll swap the operator's markup for local buses, shared shuttles and self-booked activities on GetYourGuide and Klook, while staying in well-rated hostels and budget guesthouses along the route. All the beaches, cenotes, ruins and nightlife; none of the premium. Costs below are approximate per-person estimates based on current backpacker rates.

Travel Crew

~£610

Follow the same incredible route as Intrepid's Real Mexico tour — from the sprawling streets of Mexico City to the Caribbean coast of Playa del Carmen — entirely on your own terms. This self-launched version takes you through Oaxaca's colonial markets, San Cristobal's highland cobblestones, jungle-clad Palenque ruins, colourful Campeche, the cenotes of Valladolid and the wonder of Chichen Itza. You'll travel by public ADO buses (Mexico's excellent long-distance coach network), stay in quality budget hotels and hostels, and book activities directly or via GetYourGuide — saving a huge chunk versus the group tour price. Note: all costs are approximate estimates based on current budget traveller rates.

Travel Crew

~£660