TREASURES OF THE CARRIBEAN: CUBA AND MEXICO Group Tour

Your arrival in Havana marks the beginning of a vibrant and historic experience! Here's a quick guide to make the most of your first free day in the city:

Accommodation: Hotel in Havana – Standard 5. Enjoy the amenities of your hotel while you settle in. Many hotels in this category are centrally located, ideal for exploring on foot.

Suggestions for your free time: Take the day to familiarize yourself with Havana. Here are some of the most iconic places to visit:

• The Capitol, an impressive neoclassical building and symbol of the city. You can take a guided tour and admire its golden dome.
• Cathedral Square, located in Old Havana, surrounded by colonial architecture and charming cafes. Ideal for sitting and observing local life.
• The Malecón, an iconic seaside promenade. Perfect for watching the sunset and mingling with the locals.
• The Castle of the Three Kings of Morro, a colonial fortress with spectacular views of the sea and the city. You can get there by taxi or organized tour.
• The National Museum of Fine Arts, divided into two buildings: the first is the Museum of Cuban Art and the second is the Museum of Universal Art. A great way to understand the country's cultural richness.
• The Plaza Vieja, a renovated space with restaurants, galleries, and a bohemian atmosphere.
• The Gran Teatro de La Habana, Alicia Alonso, home of the Cuban National Ballet. Even if you don't attend a performance, its façade is worth seeing.
• The Museum of the Revolution, located in the former Presidential Palace. Ideal for learning about Cuba's modern history.
• Bar Restaurant El Floridita, a historic bar famous for its daiquiris and its association with Hemingway.

Useful tips for your first day:

• Wear light clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
• Exchange some money at the airport or at official exchange offices (CADECA).
• Always carry water with you, especially if you're walking around Old Havana.

Your second day in Havana promises to be unforgettable! Here's a detailed overview to help you make the most of it: Day Itinerary: Breakfast at the hotel. Start the day with a typical Cuban breakfast. Guided walk through the historic center. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby. You'll be taken to explore Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights of the city walking tour include Plaza de Armas: Havana's oldest square, surrounded by colonial buildings; Plaza de la Catedral: Famous for the imposing San Cristóbal Cathedral; Plaza Vieja: Full of life, restaurants, street art, and restored architecture; and Calle Obispo: A pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and art. Later, you'll visit the Havana Club Rum Museum, where you can learn about the traditional Cuban rum-making process. At the end of the tour, you'll enjoy a tasting.

Continue with a classic car tour. Hop aboard an open-top vintage car and explore modern Havana to discover the Malecón, Revolution Square, the Vedado neighborhood, the Hotel Nacional, and the elegant Fifth Avenue in Miramar. It will undoubtedly be a perfect opportunity to take photos and experience the essence of Cuba's past in style.

Free evening in Havana. Recommended restaurants for dinner:

• Paladar La Guarida Restaurant: One of Cuba's most famous restaurants, featuring modern Cuban cuisine in a historic building.
• Doña Eutimia Restaurant: Traditional cuisine, excellent ropa vieja, and a great atmosphere, ideal in the Cathedral Square area.
• El Floridita Restaurant and Bar: The birthplace of the daiquiri, frequented by Hemingway. One of the iconic bars.
• La Bodeguita del Medio Restaurant and Bar: Famous for its mojitos and for being steeped in history, art, and celebrity signatures.

Enjoy Havana's nightlife. Interested in enjoying live music or a salsa show? Some options:

• Fábrica de Arte Cubano (FAC): Cultural center and nightclub with art, music, and cuisine.
• Casa de la Música de Miramar: Ideal for seeing a live Cuban band and dancing salsa.
• Hotel Nacional (1930 Room): Cabaret show with traditional Cuban music.

Welcome to the natural paradise of western Cuba! Today, you'll leave bustling Havana behind to immerse yourself in the tranquility and rural beauty of the Viñales Valley, one of Cuba's most stunning regions. Today's Itinerary: Breakfast at your hotel in Havana. Make sure you have a good breakfast before your trip, as the drive to Viñales can take 2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus. Drive to Viñales: Enjoy the scenery as you leave the urban environment and enter the country's most picturesque agricultural region. Your first stop will be Casa del Veguero. Learn directly from the producers how Cuban tobacco is grown, harvested, and cured, observe the secaderos (tobacco houses), and, if you're lucky, you might even see a torcedor (cigar maker) in action. Opportunity to purchase handcrafted cigars directly from the producer. The second stop will be Cueva del Indio, a tour of an impressive cave system, partly on foot and partly by boat along an underground river, a perfect spot for taking photos of the stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Arrive in the town of Viñales. Check in to your hotel (category 2, standard). Despite its simplicity, many accommodations in Viñales offer a cozy atmosphere and spectacular views of the mogotes (mountain formations unique to the area).

Suggestions for the afternoon or the next day in Viñales: Viñales is ideal for outdoor activities. Here are some suggestions based on your energy level and interests:

• Hiking: take gentle or moderate walks through the Viñales Valley where you can discover tobacco farms, coffee plantations, and local communities.
• Cycling: Easy routes between the mogotes and farms. You can rent bikes in town or through the hotel.
• Birdwatching: The area is home to many endemic species, such as the tocororo (Cuba's national bird) and the zunzuncito (the world's smallest hummingbird).
• Rock Climbing: For the adventurous, Viñales is one of the best sport climbing destinations in the Caribbean.
• Horseback riding through the Viñales Valley, accompanied by a local guide, visits tobacco fields, caves, and spectacular viewpoints.
• Cave exploration: In addition to the Cueva del Indio, you can visit Cueva de San Miguel or Cueva del Palmarito.

Tip for enjoying a night in Viñales:

• Try a home-cooked dinner at a "casa particular." Most families in Viñales offer delicious meals made with local products: roast pork, yuca with mojo sauce, congrí rice, and fresh tropical fruits.

Your journey today combines nature, history, and architecture as you travel from the verdant landscapes of Viñales to elegant Cienfuegos, a gem of southern Cuba with a strong French heritage. Here's a complete rundown of your day! Your itinerary for the day: Viñales – Bay of Pigs – Cienfuegos. Depart in the morning after breakfast at your hotel in Viñales. Get ready for a journey of approximately 6–7 hours in total, with an unforgettable stop at the Bay of Pigs. Arrive at: Bay of Pigs and Treasure Lagoon. Located on the Zapata Peninsula, this area is rich in history and biodiversity. Boat trip to Treasure Lagoon, accessed from Guamá, a recreated tourist village with Taino houses. Sail through mangroves and natural canals. Discover the local flora and fauna: manatees, herons, and more. Optional visit to the Crocodile Farm. As a historical fact, you should know that the Bay of Pigs was the scene of the failed invasion attempt on Cuba by CIA-trained Cuban exiles in 1961. Lunch included in the Zapata Peninsula area, possibly at a local paladar or tourist restaurant overlooking the water.

In the afternoon, arrive in Cienfuegos, nicknamed "The Pearl of the South." Cienfuegos is known for its neoclassical architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Free time to explore the city's main attractions. Some suggestions for making the most of the afternoon:

• José Martí Park: Historic heart of the city.
• Tomás Terry Theater: Beautiful 19th-century building. If it's open, it's worth a visit.
• San Fernando Boulevard: Pedestrian area with shops and cafes.
• Cienfuegos Malecón: Perfect for a sunset stroll along the bay.

Accommodation: Hotel in Cienfuegos, category 4★ standard, with breakfast and lunch included.

Suggestions for dining in the city of Cienfuegos. Cienfuegos is known for its Creole cuisine featuring fresh seafood. Here are four excellent paladares:

• Paladar Ache, traditional Cuban dishes with a gourmet touch. A good option for a quiet, cozy dinner.
• Paladar Villa Lagarto, oceanfront, ideal for watching the sunset. Specializing in fish, seafood, and tropical cocktails.
• Paladar La Enramada, local cuisine in a rustic setting. Recommended for its home-style dishes and friendly service.
• Paladar Sol y Son, a fusion of Caribbean flavors and international cuisine. An artistic atmosphere with occasional live music.

Today awaits you, a day filled with lush nature and colonial culture! The trip from Cienfuegos to Trinidad is relatively short, but packed with beautiful landscapes and unforgettable experiences. The day's itinerary will take you from Cienfuegos to El Cubano Natural Park and then to Trinidad. In the morning, depart from Cienfuegos. After breakfast at your hotel, head east toward Trinidad, with a special stop along the way to enjoy the natural surroundings of the Escambray Mountains. Your first stop will be El Cubano Park in Topes de Collantes, in the Escambray Mountains. Located just outside of Trinidad, this park offers a perfect blend of rainforest, rivers, and waterfalls. In the park, you will take a light hike along the El Cubano Trail, which passes through tropical forests and over suspension bridges. You will end at Javira Waterfall, where you can take a dip in its cool waters (please bring a swimsuit and towel). Lunch will be served at a local restaurant with traditional Cuban cuisine and fresh local produce.

In the afternoon, arrive in Trinidad. After the walk and lunch, continue to Trinidad, one of the best-preserved colonial cities in the Caribbean.

Overnight at your hotel (standard 3-star). Some hotels in Trinidad have a rustic or colonial style. It's also common to stay in 3-star private homes, which offer personalized service and a family atmosphere.

Recommendations for the evening in Trinidad: Trinidad comes alive at dusk with live music, cobblestone streets, and lively bars. Recommendations:

• Casa de la Música (on the steps): Live traditional music and salsa.
• Canchánchara Bar: Try the typical cocktail made with aguardiente, honey, and lemon.
• Stroll through the Plaza Mayor, with its magical atmosphere at dusk.

Today, a perfect blend of colonial history and Caribbean relaxation awaits you! Trinidad is an architectural and cultural gem of Cuba, and this day offers a complete experience: explore its historic center and then enjoy the sea. The day's itinerary includes a visit to Trinidad and Ancón Beach. Breakfast at the hotel and you'll be fueled up for a full day: tropical fruits, bread, eggs, strong Cuban coffee... and you're ready to explore! In the morning, you'll take a guided tour of Trinidad's historic center. One of the best-preserved colonial cities on the continent, Trinidad was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Its frozen-in-time atmosphere and cobblestone streets transport you back to the 19th century. Highlights of the tour will include the Plaza Mayor: the heart of the city, surrounded by colonial palaces, museums, and palm trees; the Romantic Museum (Palacio Brunet): the 19th-century residence of an aristocratic family with period furniture and beautiful views from the balcony; the Parochial Church of the Holy Trinity: monumental and historic; and the art galleries and craft shops, especially embroidery, ceramics, and local art. A tip: Don't forget to also visit Amargura Street and the Casa de la Trova, places full of musical life.

In the afternoon, you can optionally visit Ancón Beach, south of Trinidad. After the tour, it's time to relax on the coast. Ancón Beach, just a 15-20 minute drive from downtown Trinidad, has warm waters, white sand, and turquoise waters ideal for swimming or relaxing. You'll also have the option to rent umbrellas, enjoy a cocktail, or try water sports like snorkeling or kayaking. Playa María Aguilar (lesser-known), is quieter and more rustic, perfect for a relaxed atmosphere without the crowds. Return to the hotel and dinner included. Enjoy a traditional Cuban dinner at your accommodation. Many hotels or private homes in Trinidad serve typical dishes such as roast pork, ropa vieja, tostones, and Cuban desserts like coconut candy or guava casquitos.

More to explore in Trinidad? If you'd like to extend your day, take the optional excursion to the Valle de los Ingenios (Valley of the Sugar Mills), a perfect spot for a day trip later in your trip. This former sugarcane region boasts viewpoints, colonial towers like the Torre Iznaga, and remains of 19th-century plantations.

Your trip is coming to an end, but a day full of history and a final night of experiencing the unique rhythm of Havana still await you. Here is a detailed summary of your journey. Your itinerary will take you from Trinidad to Santa Clara, and then continue to Havana. Breakfast at your hotel in Trinidad. Start the day with a hearty breakfast and prepare for a transfer of approximately 6 to 7 hours, with a historical stop along the way. Your first stop is Santa Clara, a city deeply linked to Che Guevara, both for his legacy and for the events of the Revolution. In Santa Clara, you will be able to visit the Che Guevara Mausoleum and the Armored Train Monument. Ernesto Che Guevara Square: Here you will find the mausoleum, where the remains of Che Guevara and several other Revolutionary fighters rest, the Che Museum: documents, photos, and personal belongings of the commander, and then the Armored Train Monument: a tribute to one of the decisive actions led by Che Guevara in the capture of the city in 1958. Estimated visit time: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Continue your journey to Havana. After visiting Santa Clara, you will resume your journey to the Cuban capital. Depending on traffic, you will arrive in Havana in the late afternoon or evening. Check-in at your standard 5-star hotel, ideal for ending your trip in comfort and elegance.

Last night in Cuba: music, culture, and rhythm. This is your chance to bid farewell to the island in style! Here are some suggestions for different tastes: Classic shows and cabarets:

• The Tropicana Cabaret, Cuba's most famous, open-air cabaret, with dancers, glittering costumes, and a live orchestra, creating a retro-glamorous ambiance, just like in the 1950s.
• The Parisien Cabaret at the famed Hotel Nacional de Cuba. A vibrant show of Afro-Cuban and Caribbean music in a more intimate setting. Ideal if you prefer something more central.
• You can also choose traditional music and live jazz at the well-known club, La Zorra y el Cuervo, an iconic jazz club with top-level musicians. Entrance is through a red phone booth. Very authentic.
• Buena Vista Social Club (modern version). Spaces like Cafe Taberna or Hotel Nacional offer shows with former members or disciples of the legendary group.
• Club El Gato Tuerto, a bohemian atmosphere, ideal for listening to trova, bolero, and intimate songs with a glass of rum.

It's time to close your Cuban adventure and begin a new chapter in the Mexican Caribbean! Your transfer from Havana to Cancun takes you from an island rich in history to a coastal destination filled with paradisiacal beaches and ancient culture. Your day's itinerary will take you from Havana to Cancun. Transfer to José Martí International Airport in Havana. Make sure you leave with enough time for your flight (at least 3 hours before). Remember to have your valid passport, Cuban tourist card (to be presented upon departure), and your plane ticket and customs/immigration declaration for Mexico ready. Arrive at Cancun International Airport. Upon landing, you will go through immigration and customs. Reception at the Cancun airport. Your local representative will be waiting for you at the exit with a sign or clear signal for your direct transfer to the hotel. The landscapes that await you in the coming days in Cancun: white-sand beaches with crystal-clear waters, mangroves and lagoons, such as Laguna Nichupté, nearby Mayan ruins such as El Rey or Tulum, or resorts and nightlife in the Hotel Zone.

Accommodation in Cancun – Standard 3-star hotel (with breakfast). Once settled in, you can use the rest of the day to rest or explore the surroundings. Even if your accommodation is not all-inclusive, many 3-star hotels in Cancun are close to the beach and have access to nearby restaurants and bars.

Optional things to do on your first day in Cancun:

• Relaxation on the beach: Playa Delfines: public and with spectacular views; Playa Chac Mool or Playa Tortugas: ideal for swimming or walking on the white sand. Perfect spots for a first dip in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
• Photographs at the Cancun lookout; the iconic "Cancun" sign is on Playa Delfines. Ideal for your first photo in Mexico.

Get ready for a day filled with archaeological wonders and colonial culture! Today, you'll travel from the Caribbean beaches of Cancun to the heart of the Yucatecan Mayan world with a visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Chichen Itza, followed by an afternoon in the charming white city of Merida. Your day's itinerary will take you from Cancun to the Chichen Itza Archaeological Site and then continue to the historic city of Merida. Depart early from Cancun to avoid the heat and crowds. The approximate journey to Chichen Itza will be 2.5 hours. Visit Chichen Itza, one of the most important archaeological sites in Mesoamerica and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main structures to see at the site include the Pyramid of Kukulcan (El Castillo), an astronomical observatory, and a ceremonial center. During the equinoxes, the interplay of light and shadow creates the illusion of a descending serpent, the Temple of the Warriors and the Thousand Columns, the Ball Court—the largest in Mesoamerica, the Sacred Cenote, and the Observatory (El Caracol). We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes. If you go with a guide, the experience will be much more enriching. Lunch is optional and is usually arranged near the archaeological site, at a typical Yucatecan restaurant (options such as cochinita pibil, lime soup, or pickled chicken).

In the afternoon, you will continue your trip to Mérida. It will take an estimated 1.5 to 2 hours from Chichén Itzá. Upon arrival, check-in at your 3-star hotel in Mérida. After a short break, you will explore Mérida for the first time. The capital of the state of Yucatán, known as "the White City," has a beautiful colonial center with a strong Spanish influence. Recommended places in the historic center: Plaza Mayor (Plaza Grande): The city's central point, surrounded by historic architecture; San Ildefonso Cathedral: Mexico's oldest cathedral (16th century); Montejo House: A classic example of Plateresque architecture; and the Government Palace: With murals depicting Mayan history. A new tip: You can explore the entire center on foot. In the afternoon, there's a great atmosphere, with street performers and artisan markets.

Optional, relaxed dinner in Mérida. Enjoy Yucatecan cuisine at a local restaurant. Suggestions:

• Apoala Restaurant (contemporary Yucatecan cuisine, in Santa Lucía)
• La Chaya Maya Restaurant (authentic and popular)
• Picheta Restaurant (terrace with a view of the cathedral and fusion cuisine)

Today you will experience one of the most authentic experiences of the Yucatan! From the historic charm of a colonial hacienda to the magical serenity of a cenote, this day combines culture, history, and nature in a unique blend. Today's itinerary: Mérida – Hacienda Yaxcopoil – Cenote – Mérida. Breakfast at your hotel. Enjoy a typical Yucatecan breakfast, which could include panuchos, huevos motuleños, or fresh tropical fruit, depending on your accommodations. Recharge for the day. Visit Hacienda Yaxcopoil, located about 30-40 minutes south of Mérida. Yaxcopoil was one of the great henequen haciendas of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is preserved as a museum, allowing you to tour its original rooms, gardens, and production areas. During the tour, you'll see the main house: original furniture, antique tiles, and high ceilings, the henequen machinery—the "green gold" that boosted the Yucatan economy—its chapel, gardens, and interior courtyards. A first tip: It's ideal for photography and to learn about the lifestyle of the rural nobility of the time. Continue with a visit and swim in a cenote. After the cultural tour, immerse yourself in nature with a dip in one of the nearby cenotes, unique formations on the Yucatan Peninsula. You'll visit the X'batún cenote (open, surrounded by vegetation), very accessible, tranquil, and perfect for swimming or floating in peace. What to bring? Swimsuit, towel, sandals or water shoes, light change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen (if permitted), and a waterproof camera if you have one.

In the afternoon, return to Mérida. You'll have free time to rest, stroll downtown, or have a drink on the city's terraces. Optional suggestions for exploring in the evening:

• Stroll along Paseo de Montejo, inspired by the Champs-Élysées in Paris.
• Visit the Great Museum of the Mayan World if you're interested in pre-Hispanic culture.
• Enjoy a relaxed dinner with live music in Plaza de Santa Lucía.

Today you'll visit two of the most iconic Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns) in southeastern Mexico: Izamal, the yellow city, and Valladolid, a colonial gem in the heart of Yucatán. This day combines history, gastronomy, spirituality, and local color. Today's itinerary: Mérida – Izamal – Valladolid. Enjoy breakfast in Mérida. Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel and prepare for a day full of discoveries. In the morning: Visit to Izamal – “The City of the Hills”, located 1 hour 20 minutes from Mérida, Izamal is famous for its yellow-painted architecture, cobblestone streets, and blend of pre-Hispanic and colonial history. Things to do in Izamal: The Convent of San Antonio de Padua: Built on a Mayan pyramid, with the largest atrium in Latin America. John Paul II visited in 1993, the Kinich Kakmó Pyramid: You can climb it for a panoramic view of the city. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride: A charming way to explore the center, visit the Municipal Market: Ideal for trying lime soup, chaya sopes, or a corn drink like pozol. A tip: Izamal is excellent for buying local handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, hammocks, and pottery. Traditional lunch in Izamal (optional) Recommendations: Kinich Izamal: Yucatecan cuisine with an open-air colonial atmosphere. Try the panuchos, stuffed Black, or pibinales (baked tamales).

In the afternoon, arrive in Valladolid – “The Sultana of the East,” located 1.5 hours from Izamal. Valladolid is a vibrant and colorful city with colonial and Mayan influences, famous for its hospitality, architecture, and proximity to cenotes. What to see and do in Valladolid: Walk through the historic center: Plaza Francisco Cantón, San Servacio Church, and Calle de los Frailes, the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena. Beautiful at sunset, swim in Cenote Zací (in the city center): ideal for cooling off if time permits.

In the evening, optional dinner in Valladolid. Typical dishes you can try: Cochinita Pibil (cooked underground with achiote), Longaniza de Valladolid, Poc chuc (marinated and roasted pork), or the delicious Chaya Sopes with queso de bola (ball cheese). End your day with a traditional dinner at one of these cozy places: Recommendations:

• El Mesón del Marqués (in the hotel of the same name): Regional cuisine overlooking the plaza.
• Taberna de los Frailes: Steps from the convent, ideal for a quiet, elegant dinner.
• Yerbabuena del Sisal: A more casual option with a bohemian atmosphere and vegetarian dishes also available.

Accommodation in Valladolid – Standard 4-star hotel. After dinner, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the city center or a stroll under the colonial lights. Many boutique hotels offer charming terraces and interior patios.

Today is one of the most spectacular days of your trip through Mexico! Two ancient Mayan cities await you: Cobá, surrounded by the jungle, and Tulum, facing the dazzling Caribbean Sea. Combined with an afternoon at the beach, this will be a day to remember. Today's Itinerary: Valladolid – Cobá – Tulum. Breakfast in Valladolid, and in the morning, depart for the Cobá Ruins, located 1 hour 15 minutes south of Valladolid. Cobá was one of the largest Mayan cities of its time, with an extensive network of elevated walkways (sacbés) and surrounded by jungle. A must-see in Cobá: the Nohoch Mul Pyramid, the tallest on the peninsula (42 m). Although the climb may currently be restricted for conservation reasons, when open, it offers unparalleled views of the jungle, the Sacbés (white paths) network: You can explore it by bike or tricycle with a local guide, and Lake Macanxoc: A picturesque spot near the ruins. Tip: Bring biodegradable repellent, water, a hat, and comfortable shoes. The site is spacious and often warm. Lunch (optional, near Cobá)

In the afternoon, visit the Tulum ruins + beach. The town of Tulum is located 45 minutes southeast of Cobá. The Tulum Archaeological Site, an ancient Mayan port, is famous for its spectacular oceanfront location. What to see on site: the Temple of the Wind God, the Temple of Frescoes, and El Castillo: Perched on the cliff, with dramatic views of the Caribbean. Tip: Arrive before 4:00 p.m. to take full advantage of daylight and avoid closure.

After the archaeological visit, enjoy the nearby beaches and relax on Tulum beach: Playa Paraíso: Steps from the archaeological site, ideal for swimming or relaxing, or Playa Pescadores: Quieter and with small fishing boats.

Accommodation in Tulum – 3-star Standard Hotel. Check-in at your hotel. Many accommodations in Tulum town or the hotel zone have a bohemian, eco-chic, or boutique style, perfect for a relaxing evening.

Dinner Recommendations for Tulum Night:

• Hartwood Restaurant: Signature cuisine with local ingredients, wood-fired. High-demand location: if you can, book in advance.
• Taquería Honorio: Traditional cochinita, suckling pig, or relleno negro tacos. Authentic, affordable, and delicious.
• Kitchen Table Restaurant: Open-air dining in the jungle, immersive dining experience, and creative menu.

Today your trip continues with the best of the Mexican Caribbean: Mayan history, turquoise beaches, and the vibrant coastal life of Playa del Carmen! It's an ideal day to connect with history and close with a relaxed pace and sunset views. Day Itinerary: Tulum – Tulum Ruins + Beach – Playa del Carmen. Breakfast at your hotel in Tulum. Start the day with a tropical breakfast to energize you. Typical options include fresh fruit, natural juice, eggs any style, or chilaquiles. In the morning, visit the Tulum ruins. If you didn't explore them yesterday, this is the perfect time to visit one of the most photogenic archaeological sites in the world. The archaeological zone of Tulum. What to see: El Castillo, the Temple of the Descending God, and the ancient walls overlooking the sea with direct access to the archaeological site's beach, if open. The suggested time is to arrive before 9:00 a.m. to avoid the heat and crowds. Tip: Bring biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, and water. Wear comfortable shoes for walking among stones and sand.

At noon: Beach and relaxation. After the ruins, take some time to rest and swim at one of the nearby beaches. Recommended options: Playa Paraíso: Ideal for relaxing with spectacular views. There are beachside lounge chairs and restaurants. Playa Pescadores: A little quieter and perfect for photos or basic snorkeling. You can have lunch oceanfront at recommended spots such as Villa Pescadores (fresh seafood) or Mezzanine Thai (elegant yet casual Thai food with ocean views).

Afternoon: Transfer to Playa del Carmen, approximately 1 hour via Federal Highway 307. Arrival and check-in at your standard 3-star hotel in Playa del Carmen.

Evening: Dinner and bars at sunset. Playa del Carmen has a diverse food scene and a lively nightlife. Start with dinner by the ocean, then move on to a bar with music or cocktails. Our top dinner suggestions:

• Zenzi Beach Bar (also recommended as a bar): Oceanfront dining, ideal for watching the sunset with your toes in the sand.
• La Cueva del Chango: Creative Mexican cuisine in a jungle setting within the city.
• Trattoria Romana Playa: If you want a break from the spicy food, this is a good Italian option.

Bar tips to end the night: Recommended bars:

• La Vaquita: Party-oriented, with a young atmosphere and loud music, ideal if you're looking for a lively night.
• Zenzi Beach Bar: For a relaxed experience with live music and tropical cocktails.
• The Roof at The Fives Downtown: Terrace with an infinity pool, DJ, and excellent nighttime views.
• El Patio 5ta Avenida: Quieter, ideal for a craft beer or mezcal.

You've reached your last day in paradise! Today is all about enjoying yourself without rushing, whether with your toes in the sand, a margarita in hand, or strolling the colorful streets of Playa del Carmen. Here's a light and flexible guide to close your trip with a flourish: Enjoy your last day in Playa del Carmen at your leisure, and optionally: Relax, shop, and eat well. Morning: Beach, rest, and the Caribbean Sea. Bring your book, sunglasses, and enjoy the crystal-clear water one last time. Start your day calmly at one of the beaches near your hotel, such as:

• Playa Mamitas: lively, with music and lounge chairs
• Playacar Beach: quieter, ideal if you're looking for peace and quiet
• Calle 38 Norte: access to more local and less crowded beaches

At noon: Time for shopping and souvenirs on 5th Avenue. Stroll down the famous 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida), a pedestrian street lined with shops, galleries, and handicrafts. Shopping ideas: Hammocks, embroidered textiles or boho clothing, artisanal chocolate or Mexican coffee, Mayan crafts, silver jewelry or obsidian figurines, and tequila, mezcal, or natural vanilla (choose authentic products!). One last tip: Haggle politely in small shops. Bring cash, although many accept cards.

Light lunch (optional). Our top picks:

• Aldea Corazón Restaurant: Hidden garden with Yucatecan cuisine
• Bio-Organicos Restaurant: Healthy options and smoothies
• Frutiyogurt Restaurant: If you want something quick, tropical, and fresh

In the free afternoon, you can: Return to the beach to relax, enjoy the hotel pool, sip a cocktail by the sea, or take a last walk along the boardwalk or bike ride.

Evening: Optional Mexican dinner to bid farewell to Mexico. Recommended options:

• Axiote Restaurant: Regional cuisine with a modern twist. Excellent for an authentic last supper.
• La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Mezcal Store Restaurant: Traditional dishes and an extensive mezcal menu.
• Don Sirloin Restaurant: If you're craving something more casual (the tacos al pastor are delicious!).

To round off your vacation with a flourish: (Optional): Treat yourself to a final toast and a night of partying:

• Coco Bongo (if you want to end with a Las Vegas-style party)
• Zenzi or The Roof (for stargazing with a cocktail in hand)

The end of this wonderful trip through Cuba and Mexico has arrived! After days of history, culture, paradisiacal beaches, and authentic flavors, today is the time to close the chapter peacefully and, if you wish, with a smile on the beach once again. Your last day has arrived – Playa del Carmen ➝ Cancún International Airport. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. This can be a good time to review your souvenirs or postcards, do some quick shopping near the hotel, or take final photos of the surroundings or the sea. Airport transfer (optional at the client's expense) with a journey to Cancún Airport of approximately 1 hour. (Recommended departure time: at least 3 hours before your flight). The transfer service can be private, shared, or booked through the hotel (ask at reception if it's not included).

Do you have extra time or want to extend your trip? If you decide to stay longer, here are some ideas to explore on your own:

• Nature and adventure: Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
• Cenotes like Dos Ojos, Azul, or Jardín del Edén
• Day trip to Cozumel by ferry from Playa del Carmen
• Extra relaxation: Stay a few more days on Isla Mujeres or Holbox
• Book a night at a beachfront boutique eco-hotel in Tulum

Final travel tip: Before you leave: Check your documentation (passport, tickets, reservations), confirm departure time and flight number, and make sure you have fragile or valuable souvenirs in your carry-on luggage.

Thank you for traveling with us! Safe travels home... or on to your next adventure! You'll take with you:

• The history of Cuba
• The Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, Cobá, and Tulum
• The turquoise beaches of the Mexican Caribbean
• And, above all, unique experiences you won't forget

End of program.