Day of the Dead 2010 in Pátzcuaro

“Mexico City Extension” (Before the Day of the Dead)	Oct 27 & 28	$400
“Our Classic Adventure”	Oct 30 - Nov 7	$1495
“Seeing The Day Of The Dead With A Sketchbook”	Oct 30 - Nov 7	$1595
Pueblos Mágicos: “Pátzcuaro, Morelia & Guanajuato”	Nov 6 - 14	$1495

The Day of the Dead in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán is México’s premier cultural celebration. In addition, the Lake Pátzcuaro area is one of Latin America’s most physically diverse and historically interesting regions. On this adventure packed journey, we explore exotic volcanic highlands with remote native villages, lush tropical hideaways, impressive ancient ruins, and lovely 16th century colonial towns. Festivities abound. We also browse the fabulous local craft markets and savor delicious gourmet Mexican cuisine. On the Night of the Dead, we enjoy lively and colorful festivals in a number of traditional villages where, in the graveyards, we experience a fantastic array of enchanting candlelight and brilliant flowers.

Where will we go? What will we do?

This 9 day adventure travel week is a carefully developed blend of culture and exploration designed to make maximum use of this wonderful untrampled region. Few adventure travel destinations offer the variety that awaits us in Pátzcuaro and vicinity. Many of our destinations can't be found in the guidebooks! Pátzcuaro is unique, and we will show you why, by leading you through a charming labyrinth of ancient colonial buildings, lovely plazas, and vibrant markets. From our base in Pátzcuaro, we also travel farther out, to visit pleasant secret destinations. In the region of the Tropical Slope, we'll enjoy wonderful colonial ambiance and lovely lush countryside, see spectacular fountains and waterfalls, and visit mysterious archaeological sites. We also travel high into the Sierra to visit the heartland of Purépecha Indian culture and the volcano Paricutín. You may decide to come with us to explore Morelia, México's most colonial state capital, to enjoy the spectacular architecture, museums and churches.

What is a typical day?

We often leave the hotel at 9 sharp. Some days are divided into several time and activity blocks, while other activities may require an entire day. November 1st can be a long day, lasting very late into the evening, or early morning. Because we often travel from Pátzcuaro to visit remote locations, it is often not possible to return on your own ahead of the group. Although we do not walk great distances, we do walk almost everywhere we go. Some days include a fair amount of walking around villages and archaeological sites. One to two miles of walking each day in 70 to 80 degree heat is common for this program, but some optional activities are more demanding. Quality outdoor footwear in good condition is required.

Are there interesting things to buy?

The Lake Pátzcuaro region is the heart of quality Mexican arts and crafts, and the shopping in the huge Day of the Dead market, is fantastic! On a scale of 1 to 10, Pátzcuaro is an 11!

What is the ATI "style of travel"?

We visit exotic destinations off the beaten path where we are surrounded not by tourists, but by the people who live there. This program is a unique opportunity to travel to a little visited region with some great people and do and see amazing things. But this is not a "luxury vacation" and you will not be pampered. You will be a member of an adventure travel team, and must make every effort to get along with other members of your team. Spanish is not necessary. What is necessary is a genuine interest in other peoples, their history, and their way of life. The people of the region treat us with great respect, and we do the same. When cultural differences arise, we need to be kind and patient.

Accommodations

We journey to isolated and backward regions. That's the whole idea! A certain adventurous spirit is required to appreciate our accommodations, and everything else about the region and program! Our rustic accommodations are modest, relatively clean and relatively comfortable by Mexican standards. Most of our clients find the accommodations to be both charming and comfortable. Some do not. For example, our hotel in Pátzcuaro is a lovely colonial structure located on the breathtaking main plaza in the heart of the ancient city. Most rooms are basic with their own bath, but no telephones, and hot water in the morning and evenings only. Some rooms have T.V. Some do not. Pátzcuaro boasts several fine restaurants offering gourmet Mexican cuisine.

Danger and Safety

Although it is unlikely that you will have major problems while on this ATI adventure, there are potential hazards to your safety while participating in this program. If you agree to travel with us, you must understand and accept that ATI cannot guarantee your safety. We have a lot of fun, but it is your responsibility to be very careful.

The fine print:
To travel with the Adventure Travel Institute, you must read, understand, and accept the terms and conditions of all ATI documents related to your ATI Program including, but not limited to, the forms entitled How to Apply for an ATI Program, the ATI Application Form, the ATI Tour Participant Agreement Including Release of Liability, as well as the contents of the ATI Program Brochures, ATI Program Information Sheets, and the ATI Orientation Packet.