Day 1 : Cancun
Arrive in Cancun airport where you will be met by your local guide and transferred to your hotel. Overnight stay in Cancun.
Overnight in Four Points, Cancun
Meal plan: n/a
17 days
Ask us for pricing
This is the price per person for a private tour (based on 2 people travelling) excluding international flights. Contact us for pricing for other group sizes including individuals.
Intro
Embark on a journey through time as you unearth the remarkable history of the Mayan culture. Traverse the mangroves and lagoons of Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. Travel to the ancient city of Uxmal and experience a spectacular sound and light show among its ruins. Witness a fascinating mix of Christian and Mayan rituals in the ceremonial centre of Chamula. Explore the waterways of the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve in search of crocodiles and macaws. Meet the indigenous Tzotzil Maya and see how they live their lives and uncover the spectacular Temple of Inscriptions among the ruins of Palenque before climbing the pyramids of Calakmul to enjoy truly magnificent views over the jungle canopy.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- The archaeological site of EK Balam
- Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve
- Explore the Homún Cenotes
- The caves of Loltún
- Isla Aguada and Isla de Pájaros
- Visit the indigenous Tzotzil Maya people in Chamula
- The Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve
- The ancient ruins of Calakmul
- Maya ruins of Becán
- The historic Maya settlement of Muyil
- The walled city of Tulum
Places Visited
Sisbichén - Ek Balam - Valladolid - Yucatan - Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve - Uxmal - Chichén Itzá - Homún Cenotes - Loltún - Siho Playa - Villahermosa - Isla Aguada and Isla de Pájaros - San Cristóbal - Simojovel - Chamula - Zinacantán - Sumidero Canyon - Comitán de Dominguez - Lakes of Montebello - Las Nubes - Canto de la Selva - Montes Azules - Yaxchilan - Lacandon rain forest - Río Lacanja - Frontera Corozal - Palenque - Calakmul - Chicanná - San Felipe - Becán - Chetumal - Bacalar - Mahahual - Tulum - Señor - Muyil
What's Included
Arrival & departure transfersGround transport with driver
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks
Day 2 : Cancun
Drive on to Valladoid, en route stopping to visit the village of Sisbichén and the archeological ruins of Ek Balam. Continue your journey on to Valladolid for your overnight stay.
Overnight in El Meson del Marques, Valladolid
Meal plan: Breakfast
Ek Balam is an archeological site in the northern Maya lowlands. Excavations of these ruins began in 1997, which exposed the ancient settlement - including its defensive walls, Oval Palace and chapel. Ths site is renowned for the preservation of the tomb of Ukit Kan Lek Tok, a king who is buried in the largest pyramid. During excavations, luxurious relics and pieces of jade and bone were found, suggesting that Ek Balam was a wealthy and influential Mayan town.
Day 3 : Valladolid
Spend the day exploring the wildlife of Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, taking a boat trip through the national park through the offshore islands. Later enjoy local delicacies of the Yucatan peninsula, including fresh fish soup. Overnight stay in Valladoid.
Overnight in El Meson del Marques, Valladolid
Meal plan: Breakfast
The "city of hills" is one of the oldest towns in Yucatán. Once the religious centre of the peninsular Mayan population, the city boasts the pyramid temple of Kinich Kakmó, the god of the Sun, while the monastic church San Antonio de Padua in the town centre has one of the largest church forecourts in all of Mexico.
The Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve protects almost 150,000 acres of forest land and beaches - being declared as a national park in 1979. The biosphere includes fishing villages, many rare animals and migratory birds. Its 35 miles of protected beaches are important nesting sites for endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles. The salt water lakes of Ria Lagartos are distinctively pink in colour. This is a result of water evaporating, which then leads to an increase in marine micro organisms within the lake that give the water this unique colour.
The Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve protects almost 150,000 acres of forest land and beaches - being declared as a national park in 1979. The biosphere includes fishing villages, many rare animals and migratory birds. Its 35 miles of protected beaches are important nesting sites for endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles. The salt water lakes of Ria Lagartos are distinctively pink in colour. This is a result of water evaporating, which then leads to an increase in marine micro organisms within the lake that give the water this unique colour.
Day 4 : Valladolid - Uxmal
Spend the morning exploring the jungle ruins of Chichén Itzá, before travelling on to the village of Homún. Navigate through the Yucatan jungle to discover the Homún Cenotes. In the evening, enjoy a sound and light show in the ruins of Uxmal. Overnight stay in Uxmal.
Overnight in Hacienda, Uxmal
Meal plan: Breakfast
To date, only about 30 of the many buildings of Chichén Itzá buried and overgrown by the jungle have been uncovered and restored. "El Castillo," the most impressive building (30m high), reaches towards the sky, while "El Caracol" resembles a snail shell. The observatory was used by the Maya to observe Venus and her orbit.
The Homún Cenotes lie near to the village of Homún. These natural sinkholes in the limestone bedrock have revealed secret pools beneath. The second of the three cenote is more hidden - reached only by ladder that leads deep down through an opening in the rocks. The third cenote is believed to be the most scenic, providing visitors with an idyllic spot for swimming in the turquoise waters.
The Homún Cenotes lie near to the village of Homún. These natural sinkholes in the limestone bedrock have revealed secret pools beneath. The second of the three cenote is more hidden - reached only by ladder that leads deep down through an opening in the rocks. The third cenote is believed to be the most scenic, providing visitors with an idyllic spot for swimming in the turquoise waters.
Day 5 : Uxmal - Siho Playa
Immerse yourself in the history of the late Classic Maya period on a tour of Uxmal. Later, travel on to Loltún, where you will explore its extensive cave system. Continue your journey on to Siho Playa for overnight stay.
Overnight in Tucan Siho-Playa, Siho Playa
Meal plan: Breakfast
The name Uxmal means "built three times," being re-modeled and added to between the years of 600-950 AD and thus showcasing an extraordinary variety of architectural styles as well as testifying to the glory of the Classical Maya Period. The buildings are a myriad of decorated façades, vast terraces, squares, columns, and archways.
The caves of Loltún is one of the largest cave systems on the Yucatán peninsula. To date, archeologists have explored 2km of the system. Carbon dating of the artifacts that have been found here indicates that the cave was used by humans 2,200 years ago - once believed to have been a religious place of santurary. Some of these caves of Loltún are now open to visitors, where ancient murals and rock paintings can still be seen today.
The caves of Loltún is one of the largest cave systems on the Yucatán peninsula. To date, archeologists have explored 2km of the system. Carbon dating of the artifacts that have been found here indicates that the cave was used by humans 2,200 years ago - once believed to have been a religious place of santurary. Some of these caves of Loltún are now open to visitors, where ancient murals and rock paintings can still be seen today.
Day 6 : Siho Playa - Villahermosa
Begin the day with a boat trip around the Isla de Pájaros, looking out for dolphins and spotting a variety of bird species. After this, pay a visit to the lighthouse museum on the Isla Aguada and enjoy views across the lagoon. Overnight stay in Villahermosa.
Overnight in Viva Villahermosa, Villahermosa
Meal plan: Breakfast
Isla Aguada is a large fishing town. The town is known for its lighthouse - dating back over 100 years, this lighthouse has recently opened as a museum. Visitors can take a boat from the Isla Aguada around Isla de Pájaros to experience the rich marine wildlife that the region is famed for. This includes many native and migratory birds, along with the great number of dolphins who use the Aguada lagoon for mating, feeding and resting.
Day 7 : Villahermosa
Embark on a journey on to Simojovel, where you will learn of the regions history. Begin by exploring its amber mines before later hiking through the coffee fields to visit a plantation. Overnight stay in San Cristóbal.
Overnight in Ciudad Real Centro Historico, San Cristóbal
Meal plan: Breakfast
The municipality of Simojovel was historically renowned for its coffee harvesting, along with the mining and trading of amber - evidence of these industries can still be found throughout the region today. The cultural traditions and cuisine throughout Simojovel have been inherited from ancient Mayan ancestors.
Day 8 : San Cristóbal de las Casas
Begin your day with a visit to the village of Chamula, where you will learn of fascinating Catholic and Mayan rituals. You will then explore more of your surroundings on a hike to Zinacantán. End your day with a tour of Zinacantán, where you will encounter natives and learn indigenous skills, including weaving. Overnight stay in San Cristóbal.
Overnight in Ciudad Real Centro Historico, San Cristóbal
Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch
Nestled in the Chiapas Highlands, the small town of Chamula is home to the indigenous Tzotzil Maya people. The town has its own police force as it has unique autonomous status within Mexico and no outside police or military are allowed. Chamula serves as the main hub of commerce and religion for the indigenous population of the state. It is most famous for the town’s fascinating mix of pre-Hispanic and Catholic beliefs and there are no pews or alter inside the church. Instead, worshippers kneel on the floor, chanting and lighting candles. Rituals often include drinking ceremonial cups of Coca Cola, Pepsi or Posh, an alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane - and prayers are chanted in an archaic Tzotzil dialect. Many of the rituals practised involve a Curanderos (medicine man) who diagnoses medical and psychological afflictions and prescribes remedies such as certain coloured candles and specific petals and feathers. The main landmark of the town is the Church of San Jan which is filled with colourful candles and statues of saints in wooden boxes many of whom wear mirrors to deflect evil.
Zinacantán is a Nahuatl name that dates back to the times of the Conquista, and translates to mean 'land of bats'. Almost all of the population in this town are Tzotzil Mayans, who still speak the indigenous Mayan language, wear traditional dress and celebrate their strong ties to ancient Mayan culture.
Zinacantán is a Nahuatl name that dates back to the times of the Conquista, and translates to mean 'land of bats'. Almost all of the population in this town are Tzotzil Mayans, who still speak the indigenous Mayan language, wear traditional dress and celebrate their strong ties to ancient Mayan culture.
Day 9 : San Cristóbal - Comitán de Domínguez
Take a boat trip through the Sumidero Canyon and enjoy the views of Sumidero National Park. Later, travel on to take a tour of the city of Comitán de Dominguez. Overnight stay in Comitán de Dominguez.
Overnight in Hacienda de los Angeles, Comitán de Dominguez
Meal plan: Breakfast
The magnificent Sumidero Canyon leads to the deep gorge carved by the Río Grijalva. Its steep cliffs, rising up to 1,000 m (3,280 ft.), are reminiscent of Nordic fjords. The area is composed of high waterfalls and rocks copiously overgrown with fern and moss. Next door is the Sumidero National Park, which boasts tropical vegetation and exotic animals, such as little alligators, toucans, pelicans, and herons.
The city of Comitán is located in eastern Chiapas, near the Guatemala border. It was originally named 'Balún Canán', but later renamed 'Comitán' when it came under Aztec control. The city sits high on a hillside and it surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside scenery. Comitán is home to many examples of historic colonial architecture, including Iglesia Santo Domingo - the 17th century church. Other highlights for visitors include the Museum for modern Mexican art and the Centro Cultural Rosario Castellanos.
The city of Comitán is located in eastern Chiapas, near the Guatemala border. It was originally named 'Balún Canán', but later renamed 'Comitán' when it came under Aztec control. The city sits high on a hillside and it surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside scenery. Comitán is home to many examples of historic colonial architecture, including Iglesia Santo Domingo - the 17th century church. Other highlights for visitors include the Museum for modern Mexican art and the Centro Cultural Rosario Castellanos.
Day 10 : Comitán de Domínguez - Canto de la Selva
Embark on a rafting trip along the lake trails of Montebello. Later in the day, hike around the beautiful Las Nubes and enjoy views across distant waterfalls. Overnight stay in Canto de la Selva.
Overnight in Canto de la Selva Jungle Lodge, Canto de la Selva
Meal plan: Breakfast
In a hilly forest area on the border of Chiapas and Guatemala, you come across the Lakes of Montebello - formed from collapsed cretaceous caves. In the park there are about 70 large and small lakes, which are partly connected by surface or underground channels. A scenic area, with some outstanding viewpoints, here you can truly enjoy the unique colours of the Lagos de Montebello.
Las Nubes, meaning 'clouds' in English, is a picturesque region that lies in the Chiapas. Visitors can hike off the beaten track deep in its jungles, meandering along the banks of the Lacantún River and stumbling upon its magnificent waterfalls.
Las Nubes, meaning 'clouds' in English, is a picturesque region that lies in the Chiapas. Visitors can hike off the beaten track deep in its jungles, meandering along the banks of the Lacantún River and stumbling upon its magnificent waterfalls.
Day 11 : Montes Azules
Spend the day exploring the Montez Azules Biosphere Reserve. Hike through the jungle, wander along the beach and kayak on the river. Later take an afternoon hike around Tamandua before returning to Canto de la Selva where you will stay overnight.
Overnight in Canto de la Selva Jungle Lodge, Canto de la Selva
Meal plan: Breakfast
The Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve is located in the Selva Lacandona region of southeastern Chiapas. Montes Azules is said to have the tallest trees in Mexico, some of which reach heights of over 200 ft, along with many hidden lagoons and winding rivers. The reserve became a designated Natual Protected Area in 1992 and is home to many endangered species - including, tapir, river otter and the spider monkey. The Mexican government gave large parts of the land in Montes Azules to the native Lacondon tribe to oversee its protection. The Lacandon leaders have limited the number of non-tribal visitors who enter the region, which has made the experience for those who do all the more enjoyable.
Day 12 : Canto de la Selva - Lacanja
Embark on a boat trip in the Montes Azules biosphere reserve, meander through the Lacandon rain forest whilst looking out for crocodiles and macaws. Stop to take a tour of the Maya city, Yaxchilán. Continue your journey by boat, passing Frontera Corozal on your way to Lacanja. Overnight stay in Lacanja.
Overnight in Campamento Rio Lacanja, Río Lacanja
Meal plan: Breakfast
Yaxchilán is reached via the Usumacinta River. In its golden age, the Mayan city controlled Palenque as well as Tikal and Copán in Honduras. Situated in the rain forest on the border with Guatemala, this ancient city is famous for its stelaes, reliefs, and sculptures. Prominent buildings are the Acropolis, the Royal Palace, and the hieroglyphic stairs with panels illustrating ball game scenes.
Among the most interesting sights of the ruins of Bonampak in the Lacandon rain forest, are the fascinating murals in the "Temple of the Paintings". They show scenes from the classic period of the Mayan Empire and were restored by a disciple of the famous painter Frida Kahlo.
The town of Frontera Corozal is located on the Usumacinta River on the Mexico-Guaremala border. The town is situated within the Lacandon jungle and is surrounded by tropical rainforest. It is renowned for its dock, where boats - called lanchas - ferry people across to the ancient Mayan ruins of Yaxchilan.
Among the most interesting sights of the ruins of Bonampak in the Lacandon rain forest, are the fascinating murals in the "Temple of the Paintings". They show scenes from the classic period of the Mayan Empire and were restored by a disciple of the famous painter Frida Kahlo.
The town of Frontera Corozal is located on the Usumacinta River on the Mexico-Guaremala border. The town is situated within the Lacandon jungle and is surrounded by tropical rainforest. It is renowned for its dock, where boats - called lanchas - ferry people across to the ancient Mayan ruins of Yaxchilan.
Day 13 : Lacanja - Palenque
Enjoy a rafting on Río Lacanjá before taking a hike through the rainforest, where you will find the ancient mayan site of Lacanjá. Travel on to Parador Vallescondido, where you will taste local delicacies before taking a maya cookery lessons. Later, take a tour of the village of Palenque where you will stay overnight.
Overnight in Ciudad Real Palenque, Palenque
Meal plan: Breakfast
Close to the village of Palenque are the most beautiful ruins in all of Mexico. Founded around 300 BC, Palenque flourished in the 7th and 8th centuries AD. All buildings that are still visible date from this period. Among them are the "Temple of Inscriptions", with more than 620 hieroglyphs depicting King Pacal’s history, the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Sun, and the North Temple with its stucco remains and military scenes.
The Río Lacanja river lies at the heart of the Lacandon jungle, bordering the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve. The Lacandon tribal leaders must grant permission to visitors who wish to raft along the river and visit the many mysterious, ancient Mayan ruins that lie beside the river.
The Río Lacanja river lies at the heart of the Lacandon jungle, bordering the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve. The Lacandon tribal leaders must grant permission to visitors who wish to raft along the river and visit the many mysterious, ancient Mayan ruins that lie beside the river.
Day 14 : Palenque - Chicanná
Spend the day exploring the ancient town of Calakmul. Wander through the rain forest, climb the pyramids and enjoy views over the jungle. Overnight stay in Chicanná.
Overnight in Chicanna Ecovillage Resort, Chicanná
Meal plan: Breakfast
The ancient ruins of Calakmul lie deep within the Tierras Bajas jungle. This city played a key role in the history of this region and was once home to over 50,000 people. Its well-preserved structures give a real insight into the Maya way of life and include the largest and tallest known pyramid in the Yucatán region. Today, the ruins of Calakmul are set within the Mesoamerica biodiversity hotspot and is home to a remarkable array of flora and fauna.
Day 15 : Chicanná - Mahahual
Visit the ruins of Becán before travelling on to Chetumal and take a tour of the Museo de la Cultura. Make the journey to the town of Bacalar to see the fortress of San Felipe Bacalar. Finally drive on to Mahahual, where you will stay overnight.
Overnight in Matan Ka'an, Mahahual
Meal plan: Breakfast
The ancient Maya ruins of Becán lie in the state of Campeche. It was given its name, meaning 'ravine or canyon', due to the large ditch that surrounds the settlement - which is 16 ft wide and 32 ft wide. The archeological site contains many monuments that were built throughout the pre-classical Maya period and is believed to have grown to become an important ceremonial centre.
Chetumal is the capital city of Quintana Roo, which lies on the east coast of the Yucatán region. Situated at the mouth of the River Hondo, Chetumal is an important port that has become Mexico's main trading gateway with Belize. Ancient Maya ruins are hidden in the expanse of jungles not far from Chetumal - whilst visitors can also try and spot manatees in the city's muddy mangroves.
The small town of Bacalar is situated on the Bacalar lagoon. This tranquil town was once the city of Maya civilisation during the pre-colombian times - evidence of this can be seen in the fortress of San Felip Bacalar. This fortress was built in 1733 as protection against pirates and marauding wood traders. Visitors to Bacalar can enjoy beautiful views of the lagoon from the fortress.
Chetumal is the capital city of Quintana Roo, which lies on the east coast of the Yucatán region. Situated at the mouth of the River Hondo, Chetumal is an important port that has become Mexico's main trading gateway with Belize. Ancient Maya ruins are hidden in the expanse of jungles not far from Chetumal - whilst visitors can also try and spot manatees in the city's muddy mangroves.
The small town of Bacalar is situated on the Bacalar lagoon. This tranquil town was once the city of Maya civilisation during the pre-colombian times - evidence of this can be seen in the fortress of San Felip Bacalar. This fortress was built in 1733 as protection against pirates and marauding wood traders. Visitors to Bacalar can enjoy beautiful views of the lagoon from the fortress.
Day 16 : Mahahual - Tulum
Learn the history of mayan agricultural cultivation and way of life for locals living in Señor. Travel to Muyil, where you can watch craftsmen using traditional methods of tapping latex in the woods of Quintana Roo. Overnight stay in Tulum.
Overnight in Papaya Playa Project, Tulum
Meal plan: Breakfast
Muyil, also known as Chunyaxché, stands as one of the most ancient Maya sties on the eastern coast of the Yucatan region. It was one of longest inhabited settlements of its kind - where artifacts can date back to as early as 350 BCE and to as late as 1200-1500 CE. Within the settlement of Muyil, visitors can see ruins of pyramids which provide an example of ancient Petan architecture.
Day 17 : Tulum - Cancún
The morning will be free for you to spend at your leisure. Later, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Tulum, stopping at the maya rock fortress of Templo del Dios Descendente, and the Templo de los Frescos. Before then travelling on to Cancún for your departure flight and onward journey.
Meal plan: Breakfast
Tulum is the site of a pre-colombian Mayan walled city that would once have been an important port for Cobá. The ruins can be found on the cliff tops along the west coast of the Yucatán region in the state of Quintana Roo. Tulum is among some of the best preserved coastal Maya settlements and is thought to have been the last cities that was built by the Maya.
Accommodation
All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.
Four Points
Cancun (1 night) The Four Points Hotel can be found in downtown Cancun. The bedrooms have a simple, yet contemporary design and are fitted with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy the hotel facilities, including the fitness centre, rooftop swimming pool and spa. Toastina Cafe and The Eatery Bistro & Restaurante provide a variety of international cuisine and drink options.
El Meson del Marques
Valladolid (2 nights) El Meson del Marques lies at the heart of Valladolid. The hotel has a rich history that dates back to the beginning of the 17th century. The decor is fusion of colonial and contemporary styles. Each bedroom is fitted with modern amenities that includes air-conditioning and satellite television. Guests can also enjoy views across the historic city from their private balcony. The Hosteria del Marques restaurant serves a variety of regional and international dishes. Guests can also enjoy the hotel swimming pool and relax by the pool bar.
Hacienda
Uxmal (1 night) Hacienda Uxmal can be found just beside the Uxmal Cacao and Chocolate Museum, not far from the historic Uxmal Pyramids and Temples. The boutique Hacienda hotel overlooks scenic agave fields and gardens. It displays a blend of traditional Mayan and Spanish decor. The spacious bedrooms are fitted with modern fixtures and fittings. Guest can enjoy a variety of cuisine options at the hotel restaurant, and relax in the communal lounge spaces and swimming pool.
Tucan Siho-Playa
Siho Playa (1 night) Tucan Siho-Playa can be found on the coast, not far from Campeche. The contemporary hotel is decorated in a traditionally Mexican style. The spacious bedrooms provide guests with access to air-conditioning and satellite television. There is also a hotel swimming pool and private beach area that guests can enjoy during their stay. The restaurant serves a combination of traditional Mexican and international dishes.
Viva Villahermosa
Villahermosa (1 night) Viva Villahermosa is situated at the heart of the city of Villahermosa. The contemporary, yet colonial-style hotel provides spacious and comfortable accommodation to visitors exploring the region. The bedrooms are fitted with modern fixtures and fittings including wifi and air-conditioning. The Restaurand La Hacienda serves a variety of local and international cuisine options. Guests can also make use of the hotel bar, swimming pool and fitness suite.
Ciudad Real Centro Historico
San Cristóbal (2 nights) The Hotel of Ciudad Real is located at the heart of San Cristobal, not far from the city's iconic sights that includes Santo Domingo Church. The hotel has been built in a traditional Mexican-Caribbean architectural style. The bedrooms blend a fusion of classic Mexican furnishings with modern comforts to provide a relaxing space for travellers exploring the region. The hotel has a choice of three restaurants that each offer a selection of Chiapas and international dishes.
Hacienda de los Angeles
Comitán de Dominguez (1 night) Hotel Hacienda de Los Angeles is located in the centre of the Comitan de Dominiguez. The hotel has been decorated in a simple, yet contemporary style. The ensuite bedrooms provide guests with access to satellite television and bottled water, to allow for a comfortable stay. The on-site restaurant serves authentic Chiapas delicacies.
Canto de la Selva Jungle Lodge
Canto de la Selva (2 nights) Canto de la Selva Jungle Lodge is nestled in Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest on the border of the Yasuni National Park. The remote location of the lodge provides a tranquil setting from which to explore the natural surroundings. The elegant decor of each lodge creates a relaxing space for guests, who can enjoy views from private balconies across the surrounding jungle. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of local dishes, along with a scenic view across the river. Guests can also enjoy the lodge spa, or activities such as yoga and kayaking.
Campamento Rio Lacanja
Río Lacanja (1 night) Campamento Rio Lacanja can be found in the banks of Rio Lacanja in La Selva Lacandona. The rustic cabins complement their natural surroundings, providing guests with an authentic, yet comfortable experience of rural Mexico. The on-site restaurant serves simple dishes that are served under a thatched canopy in the midst of the jungle. Guests can relax on their cabin balcony and enjoy views of the surrounding wilderness.
Ciudad Real Palenque
Palenque (1 night) The Hotel of Ciudad Real Palenque has been built in a traditional Mexican-Caribbean architectural style. The bedrooms blend a fusion of classic Mexican furnishings with modern comforts to provide a relaxing space for travellers exploring the region. The hotel has a choice of three restaurants: The Ciudad Real, the Terraza and La Palmas, which each offer a selection of Chiapas and international dishes. Guests can also make use of the hotel swimming pool, relax in the poolside hammocks or enjoy a few drinks at the hotel bar.
Chicanna Ecovillage Resort
Chicanná (1 night) Chicanna Ecovillage Resort is nestled in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. The ensuite bedrooms are decorated in a contemporary style, each with a private terrace that overlooks the resort gardens. The Biopshere Restaurant offers a selection of regional dishes. Guests can also enjoy the resort gardens and swimming pool.
Matan Ka'an
Mahahual (1 night) Matan Ka'an Hotel is situated by the beaches of Mahahual. Both the architecture and decor of the hotel are influenced by its Mexican heritage. The communal rooms and bedrooms are decorated with authentic dark wooden furniture, colorful tapestries and murals. The hotel restaurant specialises in local and national Mexican dishes. Other facilities include a hotel spa, bar, and swimming pool.
Papaya Playa Project
Tulum (1 night) Papaya Playa Project was established with the aim of sustainably blending hospitality with the local culture in Tulum. The hotel was designed in a traditional Mayan style. Using local knowledge and materials to create an environment that complements the surrounding nature. Some of the stilted bedrooms are set just metres from the ocean, whilst others provide guests with roof decks that rise above the surrounding jungle. Each room is equipped with both modern comforts and picturesque views to create a unique rural experience. The restaurant faces the ocean, serving largely Mayan and Mexican dishes.
Mexican Sea Activities (1-10 days)
Swim, dive and cruise the shores to discover Mexico's marine life
Mountains of Mexico
Explore Mexico's stunning mountains on foot
Rafting in Mexico
Unforgettable rafting and free-fall experiences in the heart of the jungle
Canyons of Mexico (1-5 days)
Delve into Mexico's tapestry of craggy cliffs and copper-green canyons
Mexican Beaches (1-7 days)
Unwind on Mexico's idyllic white sand beaches
Ancient Wonders of Mexico (19 days)
Trace Olmec, Aztec, Zapotec & Mayan roots
Mayan Lives - Then & Now (17 days)
Trace the path of Mayan history - from antiquity to today
Classic Mexico & Cuba (15 days)
Discover the highlights of two Latin gems
Classic Mexico (14 days)
Aztec ruins, Oaxacan flavours & colonial towns
Treasures of Oaxaca (10 days)
The last bastion of indigenous Mexico
Day of the Dead Festival (10 days)
The festival where death never felt so alive.
Flavours of Mexico (9 days)
A culinary tour of Mexico's gastronomy capital
Zapotecan Village Trek (8 days)
Indigenous village trek in a world of biodiversity
Mexico City & Teotihuacan (5 days)
Ancient history meets modern metropolis
Caroline , Zapotecan Village Trek, MexicoThe hiking was amazing with spectacular scenery and knowledgeable guides. The luxurious but rustic wooden cabins were really welcoming after a long days hiking.
Jeannie Saville , Flavours of Mexico, MexicoIt is not surprising that UNESCO has added Mexican cuisine to its list of cultural treasures worth preserving. The variety and quality of Oaxacan food is awe inspiring and ranges from street food to creative chefs in top class restaurants. All aspiring young chefs should visit the Sunday market in Tlacolula, a real feast for the eyes and the palette. We have learnt a huge amount on this tour about life in Mexico and the problems of Mexico`s indigenous people.
Bill Dodd , Flavours of Mexico, MexicoHaving travelled to Mexico on various trips over the years I was surprised to find Oaxaca was so different. Many traditions that have died out elsewhere are still alive and kicking in Oaxaca. And the food is sublime.