11 days in Mexico City, Queretaro & Guanajuato Itinerary

At the very center of Mexico, the tiny state of Queretaro encompasses a range of ecosystems, from arid deserts to tropical rainforests. A trip to Queretaro reveals a compact area once controlled by the powerful Aztec Empire, which now contains mostly small towns, agricultural villages, and family-run ranches. Despite its small size, this state is packed with pleasant surprises, from historically significant sites and wildlife-rich biosphere reserves, to major pre-Columbian ruins. One of the most popular places to visit in Queretaro is La Pena de Bernal, one of the world's tallest and oldest monoliths, formed by natural forces at least 60 million years ago.

With well over a third of its area suitable for agriculture, Guanajuato remains the "Granary of the Republic" as a major producer of corn, beans, sorghum, barley, and wheat. A tour of Guanajuato allows you to trace the "Bicentennial Route," originally followed by an insurgent army led by Miguel Hidalgo, one of the leaders of Mexican struggle for independence. Other popular things to do in Guanajuato include exploring historical haciendas and mines, attending local festivals, and visiting the state's thriving cities. Start in the World Heritage-listed eponymous capital, known for its cobblestoned streets, pleasant plazas, and unusual underground roadways.