THE MAYAN TRAIL Group Tour

Welcome to Mexico! You will arrive at the Cancun International Airport where we can pick you up for your transfer to the charming Hotel Playa del Carmen (or similar).

After breakfast you will meet your tour-guide and head to vibrant Valladolid. After a guided walking tour of this spirited city, you will be taken on an exciting guided tour of Chichén Itza, an ancient Mayan archaeological site that has recently been declared a UNESCO world heritage site. This site is home to Yucatan’s most popular and visited pyramid. Tonight you will stay at the lovely Hotel Dolores Alba Merida (or similar).

Estimated Travel Time: 4hr /322km

There are no activities planned for today so you can choose to explore the city on your own or take one of the optional activities which are offered. You can go diving in the mysterious and beautiful cenotes of Cuzama, or take a day tour to Celestún National Park, home to many spectacular tropical birds. Enjoy a second overnight stay at the Hotel Dolores Alba Merida (or similar).

Today you will leave Merida and journey to picturesque Palenque. On the way, we will stop in the colonial city of Campeche for a guided city tour. As you walk through the narrow streets of the old town, a World Heritage Site, you will discover the fascinating stories and legends of pirates, conquistadors and the indigenous Maya. The city has conserved its huge bastions and ramparts which were formerly city’s major defense, protecting its rich temples, plazas and palaces from pirate attacks! After lunch we will continue to the final destination for the day, Palenque, Chiapas. The city is surrounded by lush rainforest and is the only urban area in a municipality of over 600 communities. Spend the night at the fantastical Hotel El Jaguar or a similar accommodation.

Estimated travel time: 6.5hr /541 km

Look forward to an informative guided visit to the Palenque Ruins. Palenque represents tremendous achievements in Mayan art and urban design. The ancient city has a planned layout, with monumental edifices and some of the largest clearings found in all the Maya area. You will have a free afternoon to participate in optional activities and explore the jungle. Enjoy a second night at the enchanting Hotel El Jaguar.

Today we will travel to the spectacular city of San Cristobal de las Casas. On the way, we will stop and take in the majesty of the waterfalls of Agua Azules. After a refreshing swim in a natural pool, guests continue their journey to San Cristobal City where accommodation will be at the elegant Hotel San Martin (or similar).

Estimated Travel Time: 6 hrs / 220 kms

Today’s destination is the charming village of San Juan Chamula. San Juan Chamula is one of several Tzotzil communities located in the highland towns outside San Cristobal and part of one of three Tzotzil districts which comprise the group’s ceremonial center. The town also serves as the main hub of religion and commerce for the Tzotzil Maya in Chiapas. Here you will learn more about ancient Mayan traditions and see some important cultural rituals. Spend another night at the lovely Hotel San Martin (or similar).

Today we will leave Mexico and venture into gorgeous Guatemala. First we will visit the northern town of Panajachel in the Western Highlands. Tonight you will stay at the stylish Hotel Kamol Bey (or similar).

Estimated travel time: 5 hrs / 405 kms

Today you will take a boat and cross Lake Atitlan to get to the idyllic San Juan La Laguna. This town is much quieter than many of the other towns around the lake so it’s the perfect place to quietly relax and commune with nature. As you walk through the streets you will encounter many painters painting in the traditional native style. Agriculture is the most important part of the economy here so make sure you try some organic coffee and visit the organic plantations. In the evening, you will have the opportunity to interact with a Mayan family by staying at their house we will learn more about Tz’utujil food and culture. You will spend the night at Posadas Mayas Rupalajistalin.

Today you will travel to Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Antigua Guatemala was the cultural, economic, religious, political and educational center for the entire region until the capital was moved. Over the span of three centuries the city acquired a number of superb monuments. You have the entire afternoon to explore this city as you wish. Tonight you will stay at the beautiful Hotel San Jorge (or similar).

Estimated Travel Time: 1 hrs / 78 kms

Today you will have the time to explore this delightful town. Explore the museums, the colonial buildings and churches. Antigua is great place to shop for unique souvenirs including textiles, jade and silver. Have another relaxing night at the Hotel San Jorge (or similar).

Enjoy scenic views of a tropical river as you travel from Antigua to the town of Rio Dulce. Rio Dulce (Literally, “Sweet River”) is located in the northeast region of Izabal. Rio Dulce is part of the much larger Lago de Izabal. Lago de Izabal is connected to Rio Dulce by a bridge. Take a tranquil boat ride through these lovely towns. Tonight you will stay at the rustic Hotel Hacienda Tijax (or similar).

Estimated Travel time: 7 hrs / 523 kms

Enjoy a free day to participate in activities! We recommend visiting the impressive citadel Castillo San Felipe, the Mayan Ruins of Quirigua, the Finca Paraiso Hot-spring Waterfall, and Rio Dulce National Park. There is certain to be something which catches your interest! Tonight you will once again stay at the Hotel Hacienda Tijax (or similar).

Today we’re off to fanciful Flores, a beautiful town by the peaceful Lake Petén. You will once again have the whole afternoon to participate in optional activities like the visit to the Las Guacamayas Biological Station, the Mayan Ruins of Uaxactun, Ixpanpajul Nature Park, a round trip to Tzimin Chac to see the sunset or just a walk around the town. Look forward to an enjoyable evening at the tranquil Hotel Casona de la Isla.

Estimated Travel time: 7 hrs / 523 kms

In the morning you will be given a guided tour of the tremendous Tikal Ruins. After lunch we will leave the exhilarating country of Guatemala and cross the border at San Ignacio into Belize. Nestled between Guatemala, Mexico, and the Caribbean Seat, Belize is a constitutional monarchy that was originally called British Honduras. Belize has beautiful beaches and lush rainforests as well as a thrilling colonial history and significant cultural diversity. Tonight you will stay at the quaint Hotel Trek Stop or a similar accommodation.

Estimated Travel time: 1.5 hrs / 110 kms

There are no activities planned for today so you can book any of the optional activities you wish! San Ignacio is very close to Belize's famous Mayan ruins and offers plenty of exciting outdoor activities including caving, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, and more! You will once again stay at the lovely Hotel Trek Stop.

Today travelers will journey to Belize´s capital where they will take a water taxi to a small island full of surprises. This calm town is friendly easy going town so it’s the perfect place to rest and recover. We will spend two nights here. On early British maps the island's name is spelled "Cay Corker." Known historically for its plentiful supply of exposed fresh water at La Aguada. It has been suggested that the named comes from colonial times, when the island was a favorite stop for sailors to replenish their water bottles. Tonight you will stay at the comfortable Hotel Caye Caulker Plaza (or similar).

Spend the whole day on the island relaxing or exploring the spectacular coral reef. Snorkel tours and dive boats leave daily for full or half day outings to the reef, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and the Blue Hole and for manatee spotting tours. This reef is the second largest in the world! There are also plenty of places to shop and sample the local foods. Enjoy a second peaceful evening at the Hotel Caye Caulker Plaza (or similar).

Enjoy a free day relaxing and sampling the island cuisine before spending another pleasant evening at the Hotel Hotel Caye Caulker Plaza (or similar).

After breakfast we will drive you to the beautiful seaside village of Playa del Carmen where guests will check into the modern Hotel Playa del Carmen before spending some time at the beach and exploring the local area. ( Public Bus Belize City to Chetumal)

Today you can enjoy the white sand beach of Playa del Carmen, take a day tour, or just go shopping on 5th avenue. Soak up your last full day of the vibrant Mexican atmosphere. You will spend your last night at the pretty Hotel Playa del Carmen.

The end of your tour has arrived and it’s time to return home or being the next leg of your journey! You have the option to say goodbye to your new friends. Our friendly staff can help you book your departure transfer to the Airport or extra nights!