Mayan Highlights - Overland Trip

3 weeks: Cancun to Playa del Carmen (IN-QSC)

Snorkel over the world\'s second largest reef in Caye Caulker, Explore the forested hills of San Ignacio, Climb the Tikal ruins for amazing jungle views, Experience lakeside life in Panajachel, Relax on the white sand beaches of Belize, Pick up colourful wares at the famous highland markets of Chichicastenango,

Through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala, this adventure combines the volcanic beauty of the highlands with the mystery of ancient Mayan ruins and perfect beaches of the Caribbean. From Cancun to Playa del Carmen, this three week journey offers the chance to get out and get active, or enjoy a more relaxing pace while exploring the Mayan highlights of Central America.

Accommodation

Simple hotels (20 nts), Homestay (1 nts)

Kitty Notes

Allow USD $440 for meals not included.

Itineraries (Cancun - Playa del Carmen)

Day 1 Cancun

Cancun is unlike any other place in Mexico. A haven for sun-worshippers, retirees and American spring-breakers, Cancun is full of resorts, bars and shops and there is always something going on. It's strange to think that in the 1970s this was a small fishing village.

Days 2 Chichen Itza/Merida

Visit the 2,000 year old Mayan pyramids of Chichen Itza, a fusion of religion, architecture and science. In the Yucatan capital, Merida, wander through museums and plazas, relax in outdoor cafes or discover the weird and wonderful wares on sale at the markets.

Days 3-4 Palenque

Admire temple walls sculpted with images of gods, rulers and ceremonies on a stroll around these ruins. Discover Pakal's jade-encrusted sarcophagus. Nearby are the Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls.

Day 5-6 San Cristobal de las Casas

Enjoy the cooler climates of a city rich with local culture.

Days 7 Lake Atitlan

Ringed by volcanoes and colourful villages, the view from the shores of Lake Atitlan is beautiful. Modern Panajachel is a great base for outdoor activities: take a cruise on the lake, hike, swim, surf, kayak or try a spot of paragliding for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Day 8 San Jorge

Travel to San Jorge, near Panajachel where a local family will host you for the next night.

Days 9-11 Chichicastenango/Antigua

Stop here to visit the famous highland village market before travelling to the historically important town of Antigua.

Days 12-13 Flores/Tikal

Visit the impressive ruins of Tikal. Towering above the jungle of a national park, the five limestone towers are an awesome sight and one of the most magnificent Mayan ruins. Later, chill-out in the charming city of Flores.

Days 14-15 San Ignacio

Over the border in Belize, this town is surrounded by fast flowing rivers and forested hills that just beg to be explored.

Days 16-18 Caye Caulker

After all that activity, it's time to relax on this tiny island. Snorkel or dive in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, home to the second largest reef in the world, or just kick back on the beach and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere.

Days 19-20 Tulum

You travel to the city of Tulum. This city was at its height during the 13th-15th century and is thus one of the later Mayan outposts.

Days 21-22 Playa del Carmen

This beach town is a final chance to go souvenir shopping, have some fun in the sun or enjoy the easy-going Mexican nightlife.

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Departures

Reference	Departure		Arrival		Price GBP	Kitty	Notes
IN-QSC20080906	06 Sep 08	Cancun	27 Sep 08	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20080927	27 Sep 08	Cancun	18 Oct 08	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20081004	04 Oct 08	Cancun	25 Oct 08	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20081018	18 Oct 08	Cancun	08 Nov 08	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20081115	15 Nov 08	Cancun	06 Dec 08	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20081129	29 Nov 08	Cancun	20 Dec 08	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20081213	13 Dec 08	Cancun	03 Jan 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20081227	27 Dec 08	Cancun	17 Jan 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090110	10 Jan 09	Cancun	31 Jan 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090124	24 Jan 09	Cancun	14 Feb 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090207	07 Feb 09	Cancun	28 Feb 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090221	21 Feb 09	Cancun	14 Mar 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090307	07 Mar 09	Cancun	28 Mar 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090321	21 Mar 09	Cancun	11 Apr 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090404	04 Apr 09	Cancun	25 Apr 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090418	18 Apr 09	Cancun	09 May 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090502	02 May 09	Cancun	23 May 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090523	23 May 09	Cancun	13 Jun 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090606	06 Jun 09	Cancun	27 Jun 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0
IN-QSC20090620	20 Jun 09	Cancun	11 Jul 09	Playa del Carmen	£615	0