Mayan Explorer
16 days Cancún to Playa del Carmen
Trip Code: CEM
Chichén Itzá, Palenque, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Panajachel, Lake Atitlán, Antigua, Tikal, Playa del Carmen.
The Mayan world straddles several modern-day countries, but a shared culture and history give modern Maya an identity beyond borders. From ancient ruins in the Yucatán to colonial Chiapas and colourful, traditional Guatemalan markets, immerse yourself in the ancient and the thriving on this journey through the land of the Maya.
Day 1 Arrive Cancún
Arrive in Cancún at any time.
Day 2-3 Chichén Itzá / Mérida (2B)
Start the day with a tour of the beautifully restored stepped pyramids of Chichén Itzá. By early evening, arrive at the charming colonial city of Mérida for a two-night stay.
Day 4 Palenque (B)
Take a cozy minivan ride to the town of Palenque. The nearby Palenque archaeological site is one of the most significant ruins in the whole Mundo Maya, and the jungle setting is as impressive as the ruins themselves.
Day 5-7 San Cristóbal de las Casas (3B)
Travel deep into the Chiapas highlands, stopping by the spectacular and sacred Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls. The Spanish colonial architecture of San Cristóbal de Las Casas is a highlight of our stay. Explore the nearby indigenous communities—some of the most traditional in Mexico—on a guided tour. There are too many great options in the area to see them all; some of the most popular include a boat trip up the Sumidero Canyon, horseback riding, biking, and shopping in the local markets.
Day 8-9 Guatemalan Highlands / Panajachel (2B)
A day of travel ends with a quiet evening on the shores of Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán. Volcanoes and small indigenous villages surround this pristine lake, truly one of the most beautiful spots in Central America. Two nights in the town of Panajachel provide an excellent base to explore this fascinating region. Here is our chance to admire some of the villages of Lake Atitlán on an included boat tour.
Day 10-11 Antigua (2B)
Visit the fascinating Sunday market at Chichicastenango. Our final stop in the Guatemalan highlands is the colonial town of Antigua, where a city tour will show us the highlights. Climb a nearby volcano, mountain bike or just relax in a pleasant streetside café.
Day 12-13 Flores / Tikal (2B)
Travel north to visit the charming town of Flores, where you may choose to explore, shop or take a swim in Lake Petén Itzá. A highlight of the stay is a visit to the famous ruins of Tikal.
Day 14-15 Playa del Carmen (2B)
Travel back to the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean in Mexico. Take a ferry to the nearby diving mecca of Cozumel or a short trip down the coast to the Mayan beachside ruins of Tulúm.
Day 16 Depart Playa del Carmen (B)
