Mayan Mysteries and Mexican Waves - Overland Trip

Itineraries

Arrive at Cancun International Airport and transfer to hotel in Playa del Carmen.

Free day to relax on the beach or visit the ruins of Tulum, a Mayan temple complex in a dramatic setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. (B)

We drive to Chichen Itza, making a short stop in the small colonial town of Valladolid. The afternoon is free to relax at the hotel or to visit a cenote (underground water source) nearby. In the evening we have the option of seeing a dramatic sound and light show at the ruins. (B)

Early in the morning we visit the magnificent site of Chichen Itza, and spend time exploring its temples and pyramids before the crowds arrive. Later, we travel to Merida. (B)

A full free day to enjoy the charming capital city of the state of Yucatan, packed with lively markets and beautiful colonial buildings. Nearby are the ruins of Uxmal and the Celestun National Park, home to huge flocks of flamingos. (B)

Drive to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Campeche, a delightful place famous for its brightly painted houses. (B)

We take a bus to Palenque, the town close to the impressive site of the same name. (B)

Today we visit the amazing Mayan ruins at Palenque, set amidst stunning rainforest. Later we continue to Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls, areas of beautiful jungle scenery where we can also take a refreshing swim. (B)

We head into the jungle early in the morning in a quest for these little visited Mayan ruins. A boat ride takes us to Yaxchilan (Place of the Green Stones), one of the few Mayan cities where women have ruled. In the afternoon we visit Bonampak, a site that is known for its well preserved frescos. The Lacandon Indians are the original inhabitants of this part of the jungle, and we spend the night at a Lacandon settlement in simple multi-share cabins. (BLD)

After breakfast we take a walk through the Lacandon jungle with an indigenous Indian guide. Along the way we stop at small waterfalls to take a swim. In the late afternoon we drive back to Palenque. (BL)                                            

Travelling towards the coast we reach the small village of Bacalar, located close to the Laguna Bacalar, the second largest lake in Mexico. The afternoon is free to relax at the hotel, or swim in the lake. (B)

Transfer to Puerto Juarez where we take the ferry to Isla Mujeres. (B)

This small and beautiful island is located close to Cancun, but feels like a different world. Once a quiet fishing village, it still retains its Mexican charm, and warm, inviting atmosphere. We have time to relax on the stunning white beaches and snorkel in the crystal clear water. (B)

Transfer to Cancun in time for your international flight. Tour ends on arrival at the airport. (B)