More than sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts, Mexico is a country with a history as deep as it is diverse. The Legacy of the Maya in the South has left an impression that can still be seen in the faces of the people and within the culture they maintain to this day. The region holds 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Join us as we take a step back in time to a period where the Maya civilization built the architectural wonders of Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Edzna. Explore modern cities with Colonial origins in Merida and Campeche plus small villages which have retained their strong Maya influence. Immerse yourself into the vibrant culture of the region and the ancient and colonial legacies which have influenced it.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 - Hometown to Cancún & Playa del Carmen
Bienvenidos!
Welcome to Mexico. You will be met today at the airport by one of our local hosts and provided a private transfer to your hotel for the evening. This afternoon, enjoy a welcome drink and attend a briefing at the hotel conducted by your Tour Manager.
Overnight: Allegro Playacar or similar
Included meals: Dinner
Day 2 - Playa del Carmen to Sotuta de Peón
Our journey of exploration begins as we depart for Tulum, and the renowned coastal archaeological site of the same name. The site offers a glimpse into the impressive culture of the Maya. From here, continue to Hacienda Selva Maya for lunch and the opportunity to see one of the many Cenotes (sinkholes). Found throughout the lush jungle landscape of the Yucatán Peninsula, Cenotes were more than just natural sources of groundwater. The Maya also believed them to be gateways to the afterlife. Late afternoon arrival at our hotel and time to relax before this evening’s dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Hacienda Sotuta de Peón
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3 - Sotuta de Peón to Campeche
In the late 1800s to early 1900s Haciendas, Henequeneras (Henequen Estates) thrived throughout the region, and Sotuta de Peon remains as one of the few continuously operating Haciendas. This morning we will tour the Hacienda for a look back at the era of “Green Gold.” After lunch on the Hacienda, we will continue to the “Historic Fortified City of Campeche.” The evening is yours to explore the vibrant port town, rich with culture and cuisine.
Overnight:
Included meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4 - Campeche / Edzna
This morning we continue on the Ruta Puuc as we depart for the Edzna archaeological site. Edzna was already inhabited as early as 400 BC, far pre-dating many other more notorious sites. Furthermore, the architectural style of this site shows signs of the Puuc style, even though it is far from the Puuc Hills sites. The decline and eventual abandonment of Edzna remains a mystery today. Afterward, return to Campeche in time for lunch. This afternoon join your Tour Manager for a walking tour of the “Historic Fortified City of Campeche,” founded in 1540 and recognized as a World Heritage Site. Campeche was under persistent pirate attacks and raids until it’s fortified walls, a modern-day model of 17th and 18th Century military architecture, were erected and sustained to this day. Visit the main plaza with its traditional homes of Andalusian and Caribbean influence. Meander the narrow cobblestone streets from Puerta de Tierra to Puerta del Mar, once the two main entrances to the walled city. Later, the evening is yours to continue exploring the city or enjoy one of the many distinctive locally-owned restaurants and cafes.
Overnight:
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 5 - Campeche to Uxmal
This morning we turn back to Uxmal. While the region has many archaeological sites, few are as impressive as Uxmal, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose pyramids and temples rise above the dense surrounding jungle. Undoubtedly, Uxmal contains what many consider to be the finest examples of the Puuc architectural style, especially its massive, terraced Governor’s Palace. More than 20,000 intricately carved stones on its exterior create the look of fine lacework. Lunch will be at the hotel. Afterward, we visit the village of Santa Elena and the humble Mayan home of Don Hernan and Doña Azaria to learn more about the Mayan traditions and way of living. This afternoon visit the nearby Chocolate Museum and discover the origins and history of this modern-day indulgence. The evening is at your leisure.
Overnight: Hacienda Uxmal
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6 - Uxmal to Celestún / Mérida
First, an early departure this morning for Celestún. We will venture through the mangroves on small boats to experience the Biological Preserves diverse wildlife, highlighted by an abundance of flamingos. Lunch on your own today on the beaches of Celestún. Arrive this afternoon to Merida “The White City” and have the evening on your own to explore the cultural center of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Overnight:
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7 - Mérida
Join your Tour Manager for a morning tour of the Colonial City of Mérida. Explore some of the city’s most captivating neighborhoods before arriving in the zocalo where Meridians meet, socialize, and conduct business. In the heart of the zocalo is the Palacio de Gobierno or Government State Building. Step inside, and you’ll see the stunning Pacheco murals, depicting the conquest of the Yucatán in what can only be described as an unvarnished manner. Next, we make a visit to the stately Casa de Montejo, the 16th-century home of the father and son who brought the peninsula under colonial control. Although it was converted to a bank some 25 years ago, its exquisite, French-style architectural details remain untouched. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Mérida. Later, return to our hotel for an afternoon at your leisure to rest or continue exploring the city.
Overnight:
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 8 – Mérida to Izamal / Chichén Itzá
Today we continue to the charming colonial town of Izamal one of Mexico’s “Pueblos Magicos.” With cobblestone streets and vibrant yellow Colonial buildings, Izamal is a jewel of the Yucatan. This afternoon we head to the famous Mayan-Toltec ruins of Chichén Itzá, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entire site is dominated by the Temple of Kukulcan, the plumed snake god that led the Toltec on their migration to Yucatán. At the foot of its stairs lurks a large, carved snakehead. During the spring and fall equinox, it casts a shadow as if Kukulcan were slithering out of the temple and down the pyramid. In addition, you’ll also see the Sacred Well, Caracol Observatory, the Court of Columns, and the impressive ball court which is the largest in Central America. Dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Mayaland Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 9 – Chichén Itzá to Cancún
Returning to Cancún today, travel through the charming colonial town of Valladolid, another of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos. Following lunch, continue to Cancún where the afternoon is your to relax. Farewell dinner this evening.
Overnight: Occidental Tucancun
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 10 – Cancún to Hometown
Breakfast at the hotel this morning. Then, get ready for your flight back home. All day transfers to Cancún International Airport.
Meals included: Breakfast
Dates & Prices
2024 Tour Dates
- March 13*
2021 Price Per Person
- Single – $2,711
- Double – $2,045
* = All seats have been reserved by a custom group or agency. For availability on exclusive departures, please call our office at (602) 938-0951
2025 Tour Dates
Custom departures available for groups of 10 or more.
2022 Price Per Person
Prices will vary, please contact us for further information.
