Unveil the Mayan Mysteries in Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Uncover the rich tapestry of the Maya civilisation, from beliefs to architecture and from trading to cuisine. Journey across Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, exploring ancient archaeological sites, tranquil lakes, and vibrant culture.
Begin in Valladolid, a hidden gem in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, before delving into Maya history in Mérida and Tulum. Discover Guatemala's picturesque Lake Atitlán, characterful Antigua, and the majestic Tikal. End your adventure in Belize, exploring archaeological wonders, tranquil rivers, and the idyllic coastal town of Hopkins. With a blend of history, nature, and culture, this holiday promises an unforgettable experience.
Visit Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
See details in itinerary below
16 breakfasts and 4 lunches
Transfers and domestic flights as per itinerary
Our holidays are ATOL Protected
We will help you plan your holiday
Customers rate us highly on Trustpilot
Highlights
- Stand atop Xunantunich for panoramic views of Guatemala and Belize
- Swim in the refreshing waters of Selva Maya Cenote
- Discover important and fascinating Maya sites such as Tikal and Chichén Itzá
- Explore the villages of picturesque Lake Atitlán by private boat tour
- Learn the fascinating Maya history beneath the city of Mérida
- Relax on beaches in Mexico and Belize
What's Included
International and domestic flights
16 nights’ accommodation
20 meals: 16 breakfasts, 4 lunches
Private Mayan site tours, Ek Balam, Chichén Itzá, Tulum, Tikal, Xunantunich, Caracol
Private boat tour of Lake Atitlán and villages
Private tour of Chichicastenango Market and Mayan Ceremony
Private city tours Mérida and Valladolid
Private Mérida Street Food Tour
Various lodge activities such as water sports and hiking
Transfers as per itinerary
Prices from £8,149pp
Excludes:
Meals not indicated in your itinerary
Local departure taxes payable locally
Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc
Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary)
Camera or video fees at any sites
Quick Itinerary
Route of the Maya 18-day Itinerary
Day 1 UK - Cancun - Valladolid, Mexico
Today you will depart the UK on your international flight to Cancun Mexico and transfer to the historic city of Valladolid, something of a hidden gem in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.
Days 2-4 Mérida, Mexico
Explore Ek Balam's Mayan site with its impressive main temple and striking monster mouth. Swim in Selva Maya cenote, then discover colonial Valladolid's historic churches. Continue to Mérida where a city tour reveals the fascinating Maya history and a walking street food tour shares its culinary secrets.
Days 5-6 Tulum, Mexico
Explore the best-preserved Mayan site on the Yucatan, Chichén Itzá! Continue to Tulum on the Caribbean coast to enjoy beach time and water activities. A tour of Tulum archaeological site reveals the cliffside ancient castle with spectacular sea views, perfectly aligned with the summer solstice sun.
Days 7-8 Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Lake Atitlán is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, surrounded by spectacular volcanic views and colourful Mayan villages. Enjoy a glorious stay at Hotel Atitlán, perfectly positioned on the lakeside, and explore the villages of San Juan La Laguna, Santiago Atitlán and San Antonio Palopo on a private boat tour.
Days 9-10 Antigua, Guatemala
From Lake Atitlan, visit Chichicastenango, one of the largest trading centres of the Mayas. It still holds the largest open market in the America’s (Thurs & Sun). Afterwards a private Maya ceremony awaits, performed by a spiritual guide “shaman” of the Quiche Mayas of Chichicastenango. Continue to Antigua, where the cobbled streets and colourful buildings set to a volcanic backdrop make it a pleasure to discover.
If you would like to add our Copan extension, please ask your Travel Specialist.
Days 11-12 Tikal & El Peten, Guatemala
Fly to Flores, the gateway to Peten and home to Tikal, one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the Mayan civilisation. Hosting a wealth of architectural and artistic expression, a private tour of the site and the Sylvanus Morley Museum gives a fascinating insight into the ingenuity of the Maya.
Days 13-14 Cayo District, Belize
Travel by road across the Guatemala-Belize border to Xunantunich archaeological site, reached by a hand-cranked platform across the Mopan River. This tranquil site offers bird and monkey sightings and spectacular views from El Castillo.
The next day, visit Caracol in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, with panoramic views of a once vast empire. From your lodge’s 400-acre private nature reserve, you’ll have access to canoeing on the Macal River, guided bird watching and the Ruta Maya trail system.
Days 15-16 Hopkins, Belize
Finally, transfer to the relaxed coastal town of Hopkins, where the Caribbean waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, the nearby Mayflower Bocawina National Park is a must-see for its stunning waterfalls, caves and rainforest hikes and the laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals and vibrant culture ensure a perfect end to this holiday.
Days 17-18 Dangriga - Belize City - UK
Today you’ll fly from Dangriga to Belize International and connect with your onward flights to the UK.
Why Book Our Route of the Maya Holiday?
Truly Individual and Trusted
- Truly individual holidays – every holiday we create is designed around you, the places you want to see and the things that are important to you.
- Dedicated Travel Specialists – your dedicated Specialist will have firsthand knowledge of the destinations and experiences we offer, enabling us to make perfect recommendations.
- First-class service – all our excursions and transport partners have been hand-selected to ensure they provide the best quality, experience and value.
- 100% financial protection – our holidays are ATOL protected and we’re an assured member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO).
- My Routes Rewards programme – as a thank you for being our trusted customer, we offer one of the most generous and flexible reward programmes in the industry.
What makes our Route of the Maya holiday Truly Individual?
Award winning UK tour operator
An award-winning and leading UK tour operator providing Truly Individual holidays across Latin America
Every holiday we create is designed around you, the places you want to see and the things that are important to you.
Our passionate team of knowledgeable Latin America Travel Specialists are ready to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
We consistently achieve 5-star ratings on Trustpilot, reflecting our first-class service and premium holiday experiences.
What Our Clients Say About Us
Speak to a dedicated Latin America Holiday Specialist
All our Latin America itineraries can be tailored to your unique requirements. Enquire about our Route of the Maya holiday and let us plan your perfect Latin American adventure.