This 3-week trip through Mexico, Guatemala and Belize is packed with exciting activities and destinations you don't want to miss! See the incredible archaeological sites of Chichen Itza, Palenque and Tikal, swim in crystalline natural waterfalls at Agua Azul and Semuc Champey, hike the active Pacaya Volcano and snorkel at the pristine Belize Barrier Reef in Caye Caulker.
Day 1: Cancun, MexicoTransfer from Cancun to Cancun
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Cancun, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Transfer from Cancun to Tulum
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Tulum.
Spend your time in Tulum on a unique location. Surrounded by nature you can discover our cenote, relax on the beautiful beach and enjoy delicious food, all in a never-before setting in Tulum. MangleX offers you authentic, friendly service and nights underneath the stars you will never forget.
Our cabin suites are elevated above a beautiful mangrove forest. The suite with queen size bed is solar-powered and comes equipped with a beautiful bathroom, mosquito nets, wifi reception in the bar area and hot / cold water showers.
Tulum is famous for its beautiful and breathtaking beaches. The white sand, palmtrees, blue ocean and fresh wind can be found just on the other side of the road. Hit one the beds, take a nice walk or watch the sunrise. MangleX has it all.
Living in balance with nature is something we value. Our energy supply comes from the sun, our water supply comes from the cenote (and the waste water is filtered and pumped back) and most of our constructions are build with local materials to ensure we are in balance with the nature surrounding us.
Transfer from Tulum to Merida
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Merida.
The Hotel Nacional Mérida is strategically located in the heart of the beautiful colonial city of Merida, best known as “the white city”. We are surrounded by the most incredible touristic spots, restaurants, cafes, theaters, antique cathedrals, churches, government institutions and traditional shops, all within walking distance.
Learn about the ancient ways of life in this well-preserved Mayan citadel with an English speaking guide. Ponder the disappearance of this archaeological site former inhabitants while you walk around these pre-Hispanic ruins. Recently added to the list of the 7 World Wonders, this is a site you do not want to miss!
Upon arrival to Chichen Itza, a specialised guide will give you a detailed tour of the site, enjoying the quiet of the morning visit before the crowds. Throughout the tour, your guide will provide archaeological essential background to better understand the history of Chichen Itza.
Discover how this large pre-Columbian city played an important role in the Mayan civilization around 600 AD to 1200, and remained a center of worship and pilgrimage until the arrival of the Spaniards. Even today, it is still considered sacred by the Maya people of Yucatán Peninsula site. Like many of the cities of ancient Mexico, the site was abandoned, and its ruins were hidden by jungle. Hear how the site was discovered and excavated by archaeologists, earning the protection of UNESCO and today considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. They will explain the philosophy, cosmology and mythology behind this ancient place, such as the meaning of the stone carvings, pyramids, platforms, ball games. Visit the Temple of the Jaguars, the Temple of the Warriors and of course the famous pyramid, also known as the Temple of Kukulkan. Hear how a serpent of light seems going up the stairs of this temple in the spring and fall equinoxes (around March 21st & September 21st).
The Hotel Nacional Mérida is strategically located in the heart of the beautiful colonial city of Merida, best known as “the white city”. We are surrounded by the most incredible touristic spots, restaurants, cafes, theaters, antique cathedrals, churches, government institutions and traditional shops, all within walking distance.
Come and experience a beautiful eco-architectural and historical combination. Discover the Spanish architecture by visiting the beautiful Hacienda Yaxcopoil, swim in the crystal clear waters of the spectacular cenotes (sinkholes), and follow the sacred paths of the Mayas.
Pick-up will be around 8:40am from your Merida accommodation. On this exciting tour you will explore unique cenotes (sinkholes) and several Spanish-style estates known as "Haciendas" that are representative of the "Henequen Golden Age".
We will first make a stop at Hacienda Yaxcopoil. The name of this hacienda means in the Mayan language “the place of the green Alamo tree” and dates back to the XVII century. There we are going to learn about three main pages of our history; pre-Colombian, Spanish colony and the splendor of the sisal fiber industry during the XIX and the early XX century. The walking tour consists in visiting the main house with its high ceilings and large windows and other rooms where there are Mayan artifacts found in the surroundings.
Afterwards, see the Adivino pyramid, The Nunnery Quadrangle, and The Governor's Palace.
Next, continue to the municipality of Peba, located only 15 minutes from Yaxcopoil Hacienda, where there is a Cenote surrounded by a wide variety of flora and fauna still used for the Mayan traditional medicine. The shallow and transparent water of this cenote is great for kids and adults.
Once today’s adventures have concluded, you’ll return to the white city of Merida.
(Note: We suggest passengers to bring a bathing suit, towel and money for snacks or a box lunch).
Transfer from Merida to Palenque
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Palenque.
Swim in the refreshing waters of the multi-tiered limestone waterfalls in Agua Azul and take a walk in nature. At Misol-Ha the river plunges 40 meters over the edge of a cliff offering you the chance to walk in the caves behind the stream. Explore the ancient Maya city of Palenque and climb the pyramids to look out over the lush green jungle setting.
You will be picked up early in the morning and transferred to the Palenque ruins. You will have 3 hours and 30 minutes to visit these beautiful ruins hidden in the jungle. Then you will be transferred to Misol-ha where you will spend 45 minutes. The last stop will be at Agua Azul where you will have 2 hour and 30 minutes to freely explore this beautiful area. After seeing these 3 beautiful attractions, you will be taken back to Palenque and dropped off at your accommodation.
Palenque Ruins: The ancient Mayan city of Palenque is one of Mexico's most breath-taking archaeological parks surrounded by lush tropical forest and jungle. This site has a serene, mystical atmosphere. From the moment you enter, you feel engulfed by a sense of history, timelessness and awe. Explore the site on foot and climb up the pyramids for great views of the ancient city and the jungle. (approx. 3 1⁄2 hours)
Agua Azul Waterfalls: Rio Xumul-Ha (meaning River of Blue Water, or in Spanish, Agua Azul) features a series of torrential cascades and fast flowing waters rolling down a limestone ridge to form pools and small streams. Take a one-hour walk next to the falls in the breath-taking green valley and swim in one of the calm parts of the refreshing blue river. (approx. 2 1⁄2 hours)
Misol-Ha Waterfall: River Misol-Ha (meaning "Streaming Water"), in the "Chol Maya" tribe area of Chiapas, creates one of the state's most wonderful natural sights as the river glides off the edge of a cliff and 40 meters down into a deep pool of water surrounded by lush vegetation. Swim in the deliciously refreshing water and be impressed by the sight of the fall from below. A small walkway will take you behind the water curtain created by the waterfall where you can walk inside the caves. (approx. 30 - 45 minutes)
Explore the remote and mystical archaeological sites of Bonampak & Yaxchilan hidden deep in the Lacandon Jungle near the Guatemalan border in Southern Chiapas.
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Palenque early in the morning to head towards the incredible ruins of Yaxchilan. We will have a stop on our way for breakfast before continuing to Corozal border where we will take off in a boat and navigate the Usumacinta river (1 hour) to Yaxchilan. We will have 2 hours to visit the impressive Yaxchilan Archaeological Site buried deep in the Lacandon Jungle. Here you will have a few hours to discover this secluded site with plenty of time to take photos and relax listening to the sounds of nature. We will then return to the border where you will enjoy a tasty lunch before having a 1-hour visit to the Bonampak Ruins where you will have the chance to explore the magical archaeological site and see ancient frescoes firsthand. From Bonampak, you will return to Palenque and be dropped off at your accommodation around 8 pm.
Transfer from Palenque to San Cristobal de las Casas
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to San Cristobal.
Located in the Historic Center of San Cristóbal de las Casas. Declared a historic monument by the National Institute of Anthropology and History, our hotel is located in a remodeled house of colonial style dating from the sixteenth century.
We are only two blocks from the main square of the city where you can walk to the most important tourist places including the central square, the cathedral, churches and museums, craft shops, as well as the convention center and several tourist walkways.
Immerse yourself in the indigenous communities of Chiapas living in the towns of Zinacantan and San Juan Chamula where you can experience their culture firsthand. Visit the local church and marketplaces where you will be overwhelmed by an explosion of colour and life.
We will pick you up at your accommodation at 09:30am and will take you to visit the local indigenous communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan where you will have plenty of time to wander around the local artisan markets and peek inside the beautifully preserved churches. A local guide will explain the history of the region as you drive through the beautiful and peaceful countryside to reach these remote towns. Discover firsthand the ancient native traditions and ways of life. Observe how ancient Mayan traditions are now intertwined with modern day Catholic practices. Please bring extra money for souvenirs and snacks along the way. Remember to be respectful of the local people as they are usually very shy and don't like having their picture taken. Ask politely or have your guide ask for you.
Located in the Historic Center of San Cristóbal de las Casas. Declared a historic monument by the National Institute of Anthropology and History, our hotel is located in a remodeled house of colonial style dating from the sixteenth century.
We are only two blocks from the main square of the city where you can walk to the most important tourist places including the central square, the cathedral, churches and museums, craft shops, as well as the convention center and several tourist walkways.
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring Sumidero Canyon on a boat trip to enjoy the sight of impressive waterfalls, enter mystical caves and see the cliff where Chiapanec Warriors committed suicide instead of being forced to surrender to the Spanish Conquistadores. Pass through the colonial town of Chiapa de Corzo on your way back to San Cristobal.
This tour starts in the morning when we pick you up from your hostel and drive you 45 minutes from San Cristobal through the mountains along the scenic highway towards Tuxtla Gutierrez. Keep an eye out on the beautiful panoramic views as you drive through the clouds to reach the canyon. You will arrive at the colonial town of Chiapa de Corzo, from where you will embark on a boat trip that will take you on a 2-hour ride down the river, where the steep walls of the canyon tower overhead. Look out for stunning waterfalls, caves and the dramatic cliffs. You may have the chance to glimpse a crocodile and tons of other natural wildlife, especially birds. Take your last photos as we make our way back to the dock where we will meet our van again.
From here we will make the return trip to San Cristobal passing along the curvy mountain roads to reach the colonial town of San Cristobal. You will be dropped off in the city center so you can continue your day of sightseeing, shopping or popping into a local cafe for a fulfilling lunch on your own. From the city center, you can easy walk to your hotel.
WHAT TO BRING: Take a hat and if you will be wearing shorts please remember to use sunscreen for your legs, because you will be on a boat cruising by the immense walls of this amazing canyon. Do not worry about wearing your swimsuit as swimming is not allowed (due to the crocodiles!).
Located in the Historic Center of San Cristóbal de las Casas. Declared a historic monument by the National Institute of Anthropology and History, our hotel is located in a remodeled house of colonial style dating from the sixteenth century.
We are only two blocks from the main square of the city where you can walk to the most important tourist places including the central square, the cathedral, churches and museums, craft shops, as well as the convention center and several tourist walkways.
Transfer from San Cristobal de las Casas to Panajachel
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Panajachel, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Upon arrival at Avenida Santander Zona 2 (next to Hotel Dos Mundos), you will be given instructions on how to take a public bus from Panajachel to reach the village where your host family lives, San Jorge La Laguna. Enjoy a genuine insight into the lives of locals with a fascinating homestay.
Home Stay in San Jorge La Laguna (D)
Upon arrival at Avenida Santander Zona 2 (next to Hotel Dos Mundos), you will be given instructions on how to take a public bus from Panajachel to reach the village where your host family lives, San Jorge La Laguna.
The home stay will give you a genuine insight into the everyday lives of a local family during your trip by staying one or more more nights with a family from the Kakchiquel Indigenous group in San Jorge La Laguna. Maya Experience Home Stays has started this home stay program in the village to give something back to the communities around Lake Atitlan, and also to give you a very genuine experience of living with a Maya local family to experience their culture and customs. This experience is very new to the village and families who welcome foreigners into their homes. As a responsible traveler, we as guests must be aware of and sensitive to the culture by behaving respectfully during our time with the family and in the village.
Although shy at first, the villagers are very friendly and welcoming people. Make sure you ask permission to take photos of the people in the village since the Mayan community commonly believes a photograph will steal their soul. You will most likely find the housing situation in San Jorge La Laguna rather basic but the reason for partcipating in this home stay is to enjoy a real insight into Guatemala, so you can experience the culture firsthand and interact with the local community on a personal basis. We hope that you enjoy this very unique experience.
A small gift for the family would be a nice gesture of appreciation for the family welcoming you into their home. Cooking or kitchen materials such as pasta, rice, sugar, fruit, vegetables or kitchen utensils are very much appreciated ($3 USD per person approx). Other materials from your home country or children's books (coloring, basic English, workbooks, almanacs) would be a great addition to the family library.
Transfer from Panajachel to Antigua
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Antigua, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Today, you will hop in a boat for a tour of Lake Atitlan and a visit to its colorful indigenous villages. You will be dropped off back in Panajachel when the tour is finished.
Boat Tour of Lake Atitlan with visits to indigenous villages. Return to Panajachel (B)
You will have all the instructions on how to go from the Homestay to the meeting point. Then, you will hop in a boat for a tour of Lake Atitlan and a visit to its colorful indigenous villages.
The word "atitlan" is translated from Maya as "the place where the rainbow gets its colors" and accordingly you will understand why so many people have been drawn to this magical lake for hundreds of years. Panajachel alone is an 800 year old town home to mostly Cachikel Maya and an increasing number foreigners from every corner of the globe, all coming together to soak up a piece of that serenity and originality that this place provides.
You'll visit the following villages:
San Pedro La Laguna, much like Panajachel has a large population of bohemian tourists and ex-pats, however the indigenous people of the town still preserve their original ways of life and wear traditional dress, remain very conservative and practice the same style of subsistence agriculture that their ancestors practiced years ago. Just outside of town coffee crops are cultivated on the mountain side and hard working farmers hike up and back on a daily basis to tend to their crops. Walk uphill towards the town center (away from the docks) and you will see a whole different side to this popular lakeside village.
Santiago Atitlán is the largest of the communities around the lake with a population of over 32,000, 95% of which are indigenous Tz’utujils. Traditionally, it is fishing and farming town; it is also known for the manufacture of cayucos, wooden canoes. Directly from the dock, the main street leads visitors up to the main square where there is a vibrant and very lively indoor/outdoor marketplace where street hawkers target "gringos" as they wander by looking for good deals on original locally made souvenirs. Santiago is also home to a very interesting Maya/Catholic sacred statue called Maximon (also known as San Simon by the Spanish and Rilaj Maam by the Maya). All Guatemalan people worship this deity and go to him to ask for blessings or give offerings. During "Semana Santa" (Holy Week) in March/April, the statue is paraded around town and celebrations are held to worship this Guatemalan god. If you can, catch a glimpse of this interesting and very unique local custom.
San Antonio Palopo is one of the most interesting villages around lake Atitlan and the best place to really get an idea for how these traditional indigenous towns used to feel. Walking through the village one can see people wearing intricately designed "huipiles" (woven tunics) and women weaving fabric made of wool and cotton. Take in the views of this tranquil town and imagine what the villagers' peaceful life is like living in adobe houses with tin roofs, farming and selling souvenirs to make a living. This is one of the best places to purchase a "huipil" traditional hand-woven tunic knowing that the profits are going straight to the villagers.
You will be dropped off back in Panajachel when the tour is finished.
This is a convenient and well rated 3* Hotel located in Antigua, details will be made available at the time of booking
Brag to your friends about trekking an active volcano after hiking up the steep slopes of the Pacaya Volcano to reach a moon-like landscape of dried lava with panoramic views of nearby volcanoes above the clouds.
Get up close and personal with an active volcano and brag to your friends about it. Hike up the Pacaya Volcano slope fo two hours and then trek onto dry lava that resembles a moon-like landscape. Look up to catch an eruption from the active volcano if you're lucky (depending on the activity of the volcano you may or may not see eruptions or lava). Take unforgettable photos in a landscape so surreal that you feel like you are walking on the moon. Admire the breathtaking landscape and views of neighbouring volcanoes peeking through the clouds around you. Take your time returning to the base of the mountain as you make your way down the slippery, muddy slopes. (Note: Horses can be rented for the trip up and back.)
We recommend wearing comfortable trekking shoes and bringing a flash light and a walking stick (or rent one for a few dollars from local kids before you start your hike). It gets dark and steep on the mountain if you are going up in the afternoon. If you are travelling during rainy season bring a raincoat or poncho... you will definitely need it! Bring bottled water for the trek and some extra cash to buy snacks afterwards or pack a few power bars in your day pack to take with you.
This is a convenient and well rated 3* Hotel located in Antigua, details will be made available at the time of booking
Transfer from Antigua to Lanquin
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Lanquin, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
This is a convenient and well rated 3* Hotel located in Lanquin, details will be made available at the time of booking
Hike through the mysterious caves of Kamba, which are filled with extraordinary limestone formations. Enjoy free time to swim in the crystalline waters of Semuc Champey, where you will find natural pools filled with fresh mountain spring water above a 300-meter long limestone bridge immersed in a pristine lush jungle setting.
Take a hike through the mysterious caves of Kanba (activity at your own risk) which are filled with extraordinary limestone formations distributed among an endless stretch of different chambers (so far, the end of the cave system has not yet been discovered) housing a sharp pointed rock altar where ancient Maya once performed sacred rituals. The Maya people of Guatemala continue holding spiritual ceremonies here and believe that the cave is the "heart of heaven" where the secrets of many centuries are held.
Enjoy some free time to swim and go river tubing in the crystalline waters of Semuc Champey where there are natural pools filled with fresh mountain spring water above a 300-meter long limestone bridge. Flowing underneath the bridge is the Cahabón River where you will have time to swim in the cool waters in a beautiful natural surrounding immersed in native flora and fauna. At the end of the bridge you will visit waterfalls over 40-feet in height where the water from the pools rejoins the Cahabon River. The color of the water is constantly changing depending on factors such as the season, sun and rainfall, a characteristic of the national park that makes this place an idyllic and awe-inspiring setting to experience and take photographs.
This is a convenient and well rated 3* Hotel located in Lanquin, details will be made available at the time of booking
Transfer from Lanquin to Flores
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Flores, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Experience the jungle as it comes alive in the early hours of the morning. Learn about this former Maya citadel, once the largest and most powerful civilization in Meso-America, by exploring this archaeological site and taking advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to marvel at the majestic pyramids hidden away in the jungle.
Depart Flores at 4:30 am this morning for your early morning experience to Tikal archaeological site. Walk among giant pyramids towering over 200 feet at dawn to feel the magical vibration of Tikal and its historic splendor. Listen to the jungle sounds of exotic birds, monkeys and small mammals and feel the humid jungle air on your skin as the Maya inhabitants of this site felt it 2000 years ago. Immerse yourself in the jungle at dawn for an early morning tour through the archaeological site to experience the jungle come alive as it wakes up at sunrise, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get in touch with nature and marvel at the majestic pyramids hidden away in the jungle.
This magical ancient city is teeming with native flora and fauna. If you are lucky you may be able to spot a jaguar walking leisurely through the park, although large numbers of visitors have caused the wildlife to move further into the jungle away from the noise. Howler monkeys here are famous for their loud growling sounds which may surprise you from a tree top overhead. Keep an eye out for colorful birds throughout the park such as toucan, parrots, eagles and quetzals.
Tucked away in the vast Peten Region that covers 222 square miles of lush jungle in the northwest corner of Guatemala lie the ruins of the most magnificent archaeological site and important Maya citadel in Mesoamerica. Tikal National Park, declared as a UN World Heritage Site in 1979, is the largest excavated archaeological site on the American continents and is one of the most important natural reserves of Central America.
It is known that Tikal, meaning “Place of Voices” in Maya, was one of the most powerful cities of their era covering more than 16 square kilometers and dominating other tribes in the surrounding region as well as interacting with neighboring cultures as far as Teotihuacan in the Valle de Mexico. The site was estimated to house between 10,000 - 90,000 inhabitants before being abruptly abandoned over 1000 years ago.
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If you prefer, you can purchase your entrance tickets at any Banrural bank in Flores the day before the tour to avoid waiting in line.
Transfer from Flores to Belize City
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Belize City, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Transfer from Belize City to Caye Caulker
Please make your own way to the ferry terminal to catch your overwater transfer to Caye Caulker.
Colinda Cabanas has been voted the # 1 bargain in Central America and # 20 in the WORLD by Trip Advisor. We have 14 different units which are all located on a quiet sandy beach on the preferred East side. Each of our 14 cabanas offer different options and amenities depending on your needs and your budget !
Enjoy a free day to experience on your own
Colinda Cabanas has been voted the # 1 bargain in Central America and # 20 in the WORLD by Trip Advisor. We have 14 different units which are all located on a quiet sandy beach on the preferred East side. Each of our 14 cabanas offer different options and amenities depending on your needs and your budget !
Transfer from Chetumal to Playa del Carmen
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Playa del Carmen
Transfer from Caye Caulker to Chetumal
Please make your own way to the ferry terminal to catch your overwater transfer to Chetumal. Please keep in mind that the check-in is 2 hours prior to departure!
El Acuario Hotel is a charming Caribbean hotel with only 12 rooms and one Suite. Located downtown Playa del Carmen, just a few minutes walk from the beach and the pedestrian shopping avenue. Beautiful, calm, relaxing, we offer an ideal environment for your family vacation or business trip! All our rooms are equipped with air conditioning, ceiling fan, cable TV, kitchenette (sink, fridge, electric grill, microwave oven, kitchenware and dishes), table and chairs, private bathroom with shower, and a spacious terrace with hammock and view to the tropical garden and swimming-pool. The Suite is available for mid- to long-term rentals (minimum one month), and has one bedroom, 1.5 Bathrooms, living room with sofa bed, dining room, fully equipped kitchen and large terrace with view to the pool. Common areas: large tropical garden, swimming-pool, barbecue and palapa area. Services: free coffee, wireless Internet, 24-hours front desk, laundry, concierge, massages, bicycle and car rentals. We look forward to receiving you!!!
Transfer from Playa del Carmen to Cancun
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Playa del Carmen, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
