We Love —
- Exploring exciting treasures of ancient civilizations past on your Mayan culture tour.
- Setting off at your own pace thanks to included car rental.
- Finishing your stay with a glorious beachside getaway in Playa del Carmen!
Welcome to Mexico! —
Our offers:
5-night Yucatán Tour & 3 nights at Barcelo Maya Caribe 5*
5-night Yucatán Tour & 5 nights at Barcelo Maya Caribe 5*
5-night Yucatán Tour & 7 nights at Barcelo Maya Caribe 5*
Your Itinerary In Brief —
Day 1: Cancun
Day 2: Valladolid
Day 3: Rio Lagartos - Las Coloradas - Ek Balam
Day 4: Pueblo Magico de Izamal - Merida
Day 5: Uxmal
Day 6: Merida - Chichen Itza - Playa del Carmen
Your Itinerary In Detail —
Day 1: Cancun
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be given all the necessary instructions to safely exit and return to your vehicle. You will then be taken to your hotel for the night. Cancún, a Mexican city on the Yucatán Peninsula bordering the Caribbean Sea, is famous for its beaches, numerous resorts and nightlife. It is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico.
Day 2: Valladolid
In the morning, we will leave for a visit of the centre of Valladolid, located 160 km from Cancún (about 2 hours 10). Visit the Zocalo and its cathedral, the market, the colourful Calzada de los Frailes street and the San Bernardino convent.
At the end of the morning, you can visit the Xkopek beekeeping centre (visit not included in the price). Accompanied by a local guide, learn about the unusual properties of Mayan bees, which are totally harmless as they have no sting. To finish, take part in an included honey tasting.
In the afternoon, relaxation and swimming are on the agenda as you discover several of the most beautiful cenotes in this region! The two cenotes in Dzitnup (X'keken and Samulah) are entirely enclosed in caves, making them great examples to explore.
Then, 'come to the surface' to discover the Zací cenote, in the heart of the historic centre of Valladolid, which is semi-open. You will enjoy its colours and the magic of the place (the entrance fees to the cenotes are not included in the price).
Included : Breakfast + Night at the Hotel Saastah
To be paid on the spot: Visit of the beekeeping centre + Entrance to the cenotes
Day 3: Rio Lagartos - Las Coloradas - Ek Balam
Departure for Río Lagartos. A hundred kilometres north of Valladolid, this small fishing village is the gateway to the Rio Lagartos National Park Reserve. It's a real paradise for nature lovers, with over 200 species of birds. It is an ideal place to discover the Yucatán in a whole new light. If you wish, take a boat trip through the mangrove and visit the surrounding area.
Then head to the famous pink lagoon of Las Coloradas which owes its name to the salinity of the water which gives it an incredible pink colour!
In the afternoon, drive to Ek Balam, a little known but absolutely beautiful Mayan site. Why not treat yourself to a visit to this site?
Includes : Overnight stay at Saastah Hotel + Breakfast
Optional: Boat trip to Rio Lagartos
To be paid on site: Entrance to Ek Balam
Day 4: Pueblo Magico de Izamal - Merida
Today, discover the marvellous site of Chichen Itza, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, and considered since 2007 as one of the "new wonders of the world". Marvel at the majesty of this site and the echo of its past glory.
Reach the Yokdznonot cenote and refresh yourself in its clear waters.
Afterwards, head to Izamal, a charming colonial "magic village", and visit the Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua, whose atrium is second in size only to the Vatican. You can also climb the Kinich Pyramid for a breathtaking view of this yellow city.
Includes: Night at Merida Hotel + Breakfast
Optional: Guided tour of Chichen Itza + Entrance and cooking class at Yokdzonot cenote
Day 5: Uxmal
After breakfast, head to Uxmal, a major site on the "Ruta Puuc", with monuments renowned for their traditional architecture such as the nuns' quadrangle or the governor's palace.
Why not ride from cenote to cenote on a bike? Enjoy lunch in a hacienda to taste the Yucatecan cuisine.
In the afternoon, swim in one of the cenotes of the region. The more adventurous can enjoy the surrounding villages and haciendas during a bike ride through the bush. Return to Merida at the end of the day and enjoy the lively Zocalo in the heart of the Yucatecan capital.
Included : Night at Merida Hotel + Breakfast
Optional: Guided tour of Uxmal + Bike ride in the cenotes
Day 6: Merida - Chichen Itza - Playa del Carmen
In the morning, leave early for Coba. Once you arrive at the archaeological site, you can rent bicycles to get around more easily. You will reach the main and highest pyramid of the region, from where you will enjoy an exceptional view of the jungle.
Continue to another important site: Tulum, one of the jewels of the Riviera Maya and the only Mayan port known as such, which saw the arrival of the first conquistadors a few centuries ago. Tulum means "wall" in the Mayan language, and it is indeed the case since it has one of the most beautiful vestiges of this civilization.
Leave for the Caribbean to the famous 'Playa del Carmen', a small touristic city on the seaside. Stroll along its famous 5th Avenue or finish with a late afternoon at the beach to perfect your tan.
Stay for 3, 5 or 7 nights at the Barcelo Maye Caribe hotel before your transfer back to the airport on the last day of your stay.
Included : Breakfast + return of the vehicle
Optional : Snorkeling with turtles
Not included : Entrance to Coba and Tulum
Your Hotels —
HAND-PICKED JUST FOR YOU
Throughout your tour, you'll be accommodated in the following hotels (or similar):
Cancun: Ambiance Suites (or similar)
Valladolid: Hotel Saastah 4* (or similar)
Merida: Hotel Merida (or similar)
Your Dining Choices
This offer is based on a Bed and Breakfast stay.
Car Hire: —
Discover the Yucatán in complete freedom thanks to your included car rental!
Your Optional Excursions —
Isla Mujeres & Isla Contoy Full Day Guided Tour
Don't miss out on a chance to snorkel off the incredible coast of Cancún! Let the warm Caribbean sun dry you as your boat heads for Isla Contoy, an untouched paradise of captivating natural beauty. Follow your guide on an informative walk and catch a glimpse of the fascinating flora and fauna that call this island their home. After a buffet lunch, head to your second island destination of Isla Mujeres, world-renowned for its spectacular coral reefs and native wildlife.
Nature Pack (1 person)
Go for the Nature pack which includes a boat trip to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas, exploring the cenotes (Santa Barbara, Cascabel, Chaksikin and Xoch') and finally a visit to Cenote Yokdzonot with a cooking class!
Boat trip to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas:
You will leave for San Felipe, a small fishing village which is the gateway to the reserve of the Río Lagartos National Park. A true paradise for nature lovers. You will board a "lancha" - small motorboat - and set off for a tour in the mangroves to discover the flamingos. Then head to the famous pink lagoon called "Las Coloradas" - breathtaking landscapes guaranteed. (duration 3 hours)
Explore the cenotes:
Cenote of Santa Barbara around Merida
You will visit three of Homun's main cenotes (Cascabel, Chaksikin and Xoch'). You will board a truck to reach each cenote. (duration 3 hours)
Cenote Yokdzonot with a cooking class:
An excursion to Yokdzonot will allow you to swim in a pretty cenote. The cenotes are freshwater resurgences that dot the peninsula. They are the only access points to fresh water and are at the origin of the development of the Mayan civilization. You will attend a cooking class to learn all the secrets of Yucatec recipes. (duration 2 hours)
Pack Nature (from 2 people)
Go for the Nature pack which includes a boat trip to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas, exploring the cenotes (Santa Barbara, Cascabel, Chaksikin and Xoch') and finally a visit to Cenote Yokdzonot with a cooking class!
Boat trip to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas:
You will leave for San Felipe, a small fishing village which is the gateway to the reserve of the Río Lagartos National Park. A true paradise for nature lovers. You will board a "lancha" - small motorboat - and set off for a tour in the mangroves to discover the flamingos. Then head to the famous pink lagoon called "Las Coloradas" - breathtaking landscapes guaranteed. (duration 3 hours)
Explore the cenotes:
Cenote of Santa Barbara around Merida
You will visit three of Homun's main cenotes (Cascabel, Chaksikin and Xoch'). You will board a truck to reach each cenote. (duration 3 hours)
Cenote Yokdzonot with a cooking class:
An excursion to Yokdzonot will allow you to swim in a pretty cenote. The cenotes are freshwater resurgences that dot the peninsula. They are the only access points to fresh water and are at the origin of the development of the Mayan civilization. You will attend a cooking class to learn all the secrets of Yucatec recipes. (duration 2 hours)
Cultural Discovery Pack (1 person)
Opt for the Cultural Pack to immerse yourself in the history of the Mayan civilization. It includes your entrance to the site and a local English-speaking guide to the sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal.
Chichen Itza:
The pre-Hispanic city of Chichen Itza is the most important and remarkable city of Mayan culture. Your English-speaking guide will immerse you in the history of the Maya and Mexico by telling you multiple phases of the past and anecdotes. Marvel at Chichen Itza, which is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most impressive archaeological site in the Americas. Your guide will take the opportunity to tell you more about its construction and purpose. (duration 3 hours)
Uxmal:
Discover an authentic Mayan city. It was one of the most important cities economically and politically, as your guide will explain. You will be able to admire the architectural details still well preserved to appreciate its ancient beauty. (duration 2 hours)
Cultural Discovery Pack (from 2 people)
Opt for the Cultural Pack to immerse yourself in the history of the Mayan civilization. It includes your entrance to the site and a local English-speaking guide to the sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal.
Chichen Itza:
The pre-Hispanic city of Chichen Itza is the most important and remarkable city of Mayan culture. Your English-speaking guide will immerse you in the history of the Maya and Mexico by telling you multiple phases of the past and anecdotes. Marvel at Chichen Itza, which is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most impressive archaeological site in the Americas. Your guide will take the opportunity to tell you more about its construction and purpose. (duration 3 hours)
Uxmal:
Discover an authentic Mayan city. It was one of the most important cities economically and politically, as your guide will explain. You will be able to admire the architectural details still well preserved to appreciate its ancient beauty. (duration 2 hours)
Complete Pack of Excursions (1 person)
If you don't want to miss anything in Mexico, choose the complete pack which includes the Nature pack and the Cultural pack and in addition a snorkelling excursion in Akumal!
Equipped with a mask and snorkel, you will go to meet the turtles which abound there all year long to feed. It is also in Akumal that hundreds of turtles arrive each year to make their way onto the beach during the summer months. The area is also known for its vast and exotic coral reef that surrounds Akumal Bay (duration 3.5 hours, boat trip included)
Complete Excursion Pack (from 2 people)
If you don't want to miss anything in Mexico, choose the complete pack which includes the Nature pack and the Cultural pack and in addition a snorkelling excursion in Akumal!
Equipped with a mask and snorkel, you will go to meet the turtles which abound there all year long to feed. It is also in Akumal that hundreds of turtles arrive each year to make their way onto the beach during the summer months. The area is also known for its vast and exotic coral reef that surrounds Akumal Bay (duration 3.5 hours, boat trip included)
Barcelo Maya Caribe 5* —
The Barcelo Maya Caribe 5* immerses you in the heart of a beautiful 50-hectare park bordered by one of the most beautiful beaches on the Riviera Maya. Conveniently located near Tulum, this resort is perfectly nestled between tropical nature and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. In addition to its enchanting setting, the hotel offers ultimate hospitality, modern facilities and contemporary decor.
Your Room —
This offer is based on a Superior Room.
Superior Room (39 m²)
These rooms boast a large, bright space where guests can enjoy stunning views of the hotel's gardens.
These vibrant rooms feature pleasant furnishings and cheerful tones, and are well-appointed for guests' every need.
Your Dining Choices
This offer is based on an All Inclusive stay (breakfast, lunch and evening meal with a selection of snacks and drinks).
Please note: some dining outlets/menu items/drinks may not be included and may be available at selected times only.
There are several restaurants across the Tropical, Colonial, Beach and Caribe sections of the hotel alongside plenty of bars spread across the resort. The All Inclusive programme includes breakfast, lunch and dinner, all served buffet style in the main restaurant. Locally produced alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, beer, wine and soft drinks are served throughout the day.
Your Time
Make a splash in one of the hotel's 8 pools or at the Barcy Water Park, where you can enjoy slides, waterfalls and terrace areas with sun loungers adorning the water's edge. You have a variety of facilities to make use of including a gym, professional football pitch, multipurpose courts, tennis courts, 18-hole miniature golf course, non-motorised water sports, and so much more.
Take some time to yourself and let your mind, body and soul relax and unwind. Visit the U-Spa, a 3000m2 space, dedicated to pampering you. Offering saunas, steam rooms, tropical and bi-thermal showers, dynamic pool and immersion pools, in addition to massages and beauty treatments, it will be hard not to leave here feeling blissfully at peace. Even the kids get a chance for some chill-out time, at the U-Kids Spa.
Your Optional Excursions —
Chichen Itza Collection
Chichen Itza, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the wonders of the world. Join a guided tour to learn about the fascinating world of the Mayan culture.
After visiting this incredible city, head to the Mayan village of Yaxaal, a small Mayan town. After the village, travel to a nearby location for lunch. In the afternoon, head to a stunning natural freshwater spring, known as a cenote, to swim and admire its incredible geological formation.
Sian Kaan Full Day Guided Tour
Jump at the opportunity to meet crocodiles, dolphins, turtles, manatees, and many kinds of birds! Located on the East Coast of the Yucatán peninsula, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to thousands of native species amidst stunning natural beauty. Take two tranquil boat trips and enjoy your guide's commentary on this unique natural attraction, information about its protected status, and fascinating facts about the endangered species who call this sublime habitat their home.
Your Journey —
Flights:
You may choose from Economy, Premium or Business class flights on sectors that they operate, at the next stage of the booking process. The flights included are with either a scheduled or no-frills airline and are subject to live availability and prices can change. You can choose your preferred departure times during the booking process. Please select your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ.
Your Destinations —
Riviera Maya
In Mexico, the Yucatán Peninsula's Caribbean Coast stretches from Cancún to the border of Belize. The 80-mile slice from Tulum to the Punta Allen peninsula is known as the Riviera Maya. This tourist corridor of white-sand beaches, scenic ruins and fun-filled cenotes, was made for road-tripping, but you'd be remiss not to set aside time to explore the ancient remnants of the region's Mayan civilizations, too.
Cancun
Cancun offers something for everyone, promising the best of the country's sun-soaked beaches, opulent all-inclusive resorts and dazzling turquoise waters, alongside fascinating Mayan ruins, quintessential Mexican culture and authentic cuisine.
By day, Cancun offers its visitors first-class service and total relaxation, as the sprawling hotels showcase endless entertainment, delicious dining opportunities, blissful wellness facilities and contemporary furnishings, all nestled on a stretch of unspoiled sand. By night, entertainment beckons as the legendary clubs open up their doors and the party begins!
For those hoping for a sense of tradition and culture during their stay on the Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun also offers up ancient treasures, where towering stone temples and astounding cities that date back centuries lay nestled in verdant surroundings. From the dramatic coastal setting of Tulum to the jungle scenery and magical lagoons of Coba and the iconic Es Castillo pyramid of Chichen Itza, Cancun's surrounding ruins provide an incredible day trip in total, sun-kissed paradise.
Please note, Mexico’s coastline is susceptible to large amounts of Sargassum seaweed and can be extreme quantities at times.