Journeys: Day of the Dead in San Miguel de Allende

Tonight, you will kick off the six days of celebration with a Welcome Dinner at a traditional Mexican cantina featuring local specialties, stories, music, and charm. If you arrive early, take some time to explore San Miguel de Allende, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site with the centre of town being a time capsule of cobblestone streets lined with jewel toned houses.

Begin your exploration of San Miguel de Allende with a guided walk through one of Mexico's most captivating colonial cities as it prepares for Día de Muertos. Stroll streets lined with marigolds, colourful altars, and papel picado while your local guide shares the traditions, symbolism, and cultural significance of one of Mexico's most meaningful celebrations. Pause to enjoy traditional hot chocolate and pan de muerto before meeting local artisans preserving the delicate craft of alfeñique. Learn how these intricate sugar creations have become an enduring part of Day of the Dead traditions and continue to be passed down through generations. Later, visit the workshop of renowned mojiganga artisan Hermes Arroyo for a National Geographic Journeys experience. Gain insight into the history and craftsmanship behind these towering papier-mâché figures, which have become synonymous with San Miguel's celebrations, before painting your own handcrafted Day of the Dead mask. Later in the journey, wear your creation as you join a local community parade, experiencing the celebration alongside the people who keep these traditions alive. Dinner is at your leisure this evening.

Travel beyond the city to visit Salud Indígena, an Otomí women's cooperative dedicated to preserving Indigenous knowledge, traditional medicine, and culinary traditions. Learn about the role of medicinal plants in daily life, discover the techniques used to decorate handmade Otomí tortillas, and gain insight into how community tourism helps sustain local culture and create economic opportunities. Share a home-cooked lunch prepared by members of the cooperative before returning to San Miguel de Allende. This afternoon, explore Fábrica La Aurora, a former textile mill reimagined as a vibrant centre for art and design. Accompanied by an expert guide, discover galleries and working studios while learning how local artists interpret and celebrate Día de Muertos through a range of traditional and contemporary mediums. Enjoy time to browse the exhibitions before the evening is yours to explore at your own pace. Dinner is at your leisure, or perhaps find a nearby rooftop to take in the festive atmosphere from above.

Gain a deeper understanding of Día de Muertos with a guided visit to the Virgen de Guadalupe Cemetery, where a local expert shares the traditions, symbolism, and family customs that make this one of San Miguel de Allende's most meaningful celebrations of remembrance. Later, enjoy time to explore the city at your own pace or choose from two optional experiences: a visit to Cañada de la Virgen or a hands-on salsa workshop at Vía Orgánica Ranch. As the day draws to a close, join locals for the iconic Catrinas Parade. Watch elaborately costumed participants, music, and artistic traditions weave through the streets in a celebration that honours the enduring connections between the living and those who came before.

Travel to the nearby hot springs for a relaxing soak in the natural thermal waters just outside of San Miguel de Allende. Find yourself surrounded by gardens, mountain views, and mineral-rich pools to recharge and connect with the environment. Then visit the church of Atotonilco, nicknamed "Mexico's Sistine Chapel" and see the birthplace of the Mexican War of Independence. Arrive back in town for a free afternoon to explore, before gathering in the evening for an included farewell dinner with the group.

Depart at any time.