Route of the Maya

Discover Ancient Mayan Sites, Spectacular Scenery & Deep Routed Culture On A Mesmerising Journey Through 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 Yucatan Peninsula, before delving into Maya history in Mérida and Tulum. Discover Guatemala's picturesque Lake Atitlan, 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.

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 Chichen Itza
• Explore the villages of picturesque Lake Atitlan by private boat tour
• Learn the fascinating Maya history beneath the city of Merida
• Relax on beaches in Mexico and Belize

Quick Itinerary

Day 1 - Depart the UK and arrive in Valladolid, Mexico

Days 2 – 4 - Merida, Mexico

Days 5 & 6 - Tulum, Mexico

Days 7 & 8 - Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Days 9 & 10 - La Antigua, Guatemala

Days 11 & 12 - Tikal & El Peten, Guatemala

Days 13 & 14 - Cayo District, Belize

Days 15 & 16 - Hopkins, Belize

Day 17 - Depart Belize

Day 18 - Arrive back in the UK

Truly Individual Holiday

Any element of this holiday can be made truly individual to your requirements, including the places you want to see and the things that are important to you. Just contact one of our Travel Specialists today.

Days 1 - 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 Yucatan Peninsula.

Days 2 – 4 - Merida, 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, Chichen-Itza! 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 Atitlan, Guatemala

Lake Atitlan 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 Atitlan, perfectly positioned on the lakeside, and explore the villages of San Juan La Laguna, Santiago Atitlan 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 Mayan 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.

Day 17 - Depart Belize

Today you’ll fly from Dangriga to Belize International and connect with your onward flights to the UK.

Day 18 - Arrive back in the UK

Today you will land back in the UK.

Price from £7,399 per person

(2024 departures, based on 2 people sharing a room)

Includes:

• International and domestic flights

• 16 nights’ accommodation

• 20 meals: 16 breakfasts, 4 lunches

• Private Mayan site tours, Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Tikal, Xunantunich, Caracol

• Private boat tour of Lake Atitlan and villages

• Private tour of Chichicastenango Market and Mayan Ceremony

• Private city tours Merida and Valladolid

• Private Merida Street Food Tour

• Various lodge activities such as water sports and hiking

• Transfers as per itinerary

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