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15 Day itinerary in Mexico, North America

Deep Chiapas jungle and Yucatán peninsula

Explore Jungle and Beaches on this 15-day tour through Southern Mexico. Located on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula, Quintana Roo offers the beautiful waters of the Caribbean Sea, top-notch tourist resorts, white-sand beaches, marvelous ecological reserves and ancient Mayan ruins. Here you ... Read More

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Overview

Physical Difficulty

Light
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Recommended Age

Everyone

Operated in

English

GUIDANCE

Driver

starting point

Chiapa de Corzo

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Cycling

Kayaking

Hiking

Rafting

Snorkeling/Diving

Skiing/Snowboarding

Outdoors & Nature

Adventure

Start

Night

End

Highlights

1

Explore Romantic Pueblo Magico of San Cristobal de las Casas

2

Boat trip on the river Tzendales

3

Explore the Majestic Yaxchilan

4

Visit Agua Azul and Misol-Ha

Itinerary

Mid-range expand_more

Day 1

place Tuxtla Gutiérrez- Canyon del Sumidero- San Cristobal de las Casas

Trip through Natural Wonders After breakfast, leave for Chiapa de Corzo, one of many Magic Towns in Chiapas, know for its Renaissance structures, warm people and impressive natural wonders. There, you will take a boat and travel through the Canyon del Sumidero, a deep natural canyon on the Rio Chiapas. You will see the 'Christmas tree falls', a rock wall eroded by 800 m/2,625 ft high waterfalls. The Canyon is home to a great variety of wildlife including: herons, vultures, spider monkeys and crocodiles... Note : This is a 2-3 hour shared boat tour, we recommend taking a hat! Romantic Pueblo Magico of San Cristobal de las Casas In the afternoon, arrive in San Cristobal de las Casas, a beautiful city located at the center of an indigenous population area, and is the birthplace of the Zapatist movement, developed under the leadership of Subcomandante Marcos for the protection of the indigenous rights. Every morning, the Tzotzil people sell their products at the market. It is truly one of the most romantic Pueblos Magicos in the state of Chiapas. Explore the narrow, cobblestone streets of the traditional neighborhoods and and admire the houses painted in bright colors that are homes to quaint shops and markets. Admire the beautiful embroidery and the jewelry made from amber and wood pieces that are on display in the windows and on the shelves of the local shops.

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Hotel Diego De Mazariegos
Day 2

place San Cristobal de las Casas - San Juan Chamula - Zinacatan

Romantic Pueblo Magico of San Cristobal de las Casas In the morning, take a guided tour of San Cristobal de las Casas. It is truly one of the most romantic Pueblos Magicos in the state of Chiapas. Explore the narrow, cobblestone streets of the traditional neighborhoods and and appreciate the houses painted in bright colors that are homes to quaint shops and markets. Admire the beautiful embroidery and the jewelry made from amber and wood pieces that are on display in the windows and on the shelves of the local shops. Syncretism in Tzotzil Community After, head to the village of San Juan de Chamula where the inhabitants practice a form of syncretism: a mixture of Christian beliefs and ancestral rituals. Then, you can visit Zinacantan where a Tzotzil family invites you into their house and shares with you their customs and traditions (weaving), as well as a glass of pox (corn-based liquor) and handmade tortillas. Head back to San Cristobal at the end of the day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Hotel Diego De Mazariegos
Day 3

place San Cristobal de las Casas - Montebello Lagoons - Las Nubes

The Many Lakes of Laguna de Montebello This morning, head to the Montebello Lakes. The temperate pine and oak forest along the Guatemalan border east of Chinkultic is very picturesque, peaceful and, after the steamy heat of the nearby jungles, beautifully cool and refreshing. Here, it's possible to take a short one-hour hike around the Lagunas de Montebello: there are 59 little lakes in total, all of a different colour, including purple, turquoise and emerald green. Spectacle of Las Nubes In the afternoon arrive to the shores of the waterfalls of Las Nubes. Take a walk along the trails that border the Santo Domingo river and discover the amazing waterfalls with a local guide. It is also possible to rent kayaks or go rafting. Walk guided by a local guide on a jungle trail, under the moonlight, and discover the wonders of the rainforest.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Causas Verdes
Day 4

place Look for Guacamayas in Las Guacamayas

Visit the ecotourism centre in the late afternoon and take a walk with a local guide to learn about the project here to protect the endangered Guacamayas. These are large parrots with bright colors which make fascinating loud noises. Observe the nesting area and watch these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: AraMacao Las Guacamayas
Day 5

place Boat trip on the river Tzendales

Day of leisure in the Guacamayas nature reserve. You can take the opportunity to walk around the lodge: tropical plants, howler monkeys, macaws and iguanas. The charming ecolodge Las Guacamayas, nestled in the heart of a luxuriant jungle, participates in a programme to protect the endangered red macaw (family of the perroquents). The best time to observe them is from December to June. Tour to the Montes Azules reserve to observe crocodiles, howler monkeys, toucans, etc. (Preferably activity to be planned early in the morning or late afternoon to observe more animals).

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: AraMacao Las Guacamayas
Day 6

place Explore the Majestic Yaxchilan

Explore the Majestic Yaxchilan In the morning embark on a trip to the archeological site of Yaxchilan. In the Maya language it menas 'Place of the Green Stones' and is a site of amazing temples, plazas and sculptures. Sitting on the banks of the river Usumancinta (on the border with Guatemala), Yaxchilan has been almost completely swallowed by the jungle where the ceiba and gum trees host howler monkeys and toucans. Reach the site by paddling down the Usumacinta River on a pirogue (45 minutes). Discover the site in a “first exploration” atmosphere, among many howler monkeys and toucans. Here you can take a walk between the many Mayan temples. Admire Colorful Bonampak This morning, visit Bonampak, another archeological site along the river Usumancinta. Re-discovered in the 1940s but not excavated until the 1990s, Bonampak is famous for the Temple of Murals where the vibrant turquoise, yellows and rust colors clearly depict royal life. At the end of the day arrive at Lacanja.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Campamento Río Lacanjá
Day 7

place Strolling in the luxuriant forest of the Lacandon Mayas

Strolling in the luxuriant forest of the Lacandon Mayas Early this morning we meet our local guide Maya Lacandon who will guide us through the forest to share its beauty with us. The path takes us through traditional cultures, gigantic hundreds-year-old trees (mahogany, cedars), waterfalls and crystal clear streams. After a refreshing break in the Moctuniha waterfalls, we reach the buried archaeological site of Lacanja. This site, unknown to the general public and considered sacred (or cursed for others) by the inhabitants of the village, is still used for some ceremonies. Strictly follow the guide's instructions, stay close to him and do not pick up the stones and ceramic fragments that still litter the site: you are in a religious site. Approximate duration: 3 hours. In the afternoon, we will make a refreshing stop in the magnificent waterfalls of Roberto Barrios. This complex of numerous waterfalls is similar to its twin sister Agua Azul, minus the tourist groups. You will be able to venture on the many trails that lead from one waterfall to another through the thick jungle of Chiapas, a unique experience!

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Hotel la Aldea del Halach Huinic
Day 8

place Explore the Maya City of Palenque

Explore the Maya City of Palenque In the morning, visit the archaeological site of Palenque. It might well be the most magical site of Mexico. The majesty and mystery of its ceremonial centers still echoes from the past. At the heart of the Inscriptions Temple stands the crypt of King Pakal, discovered in 1952. It still contains the remains of the powerful monarch, covered with jewels and a mortuary mask made of jade mosaic. The surrounding jungle and the buried ruins create an awe-inspiring scenery and it's easy to imagine the magnificence of the place, back when the temples and the palace stood in their full glory, adorned with richly animated esplanades, columns and ceilings. Agua Azul and Misol-Ha All year long, water comes down from the mountains and eventually creates magnificent waterfalls like Misol Ha or Agua Azul. This is the perfect place to try some grilled fish for lunch. You can sit near the water while enjoying a beautiful view. You will also have plenty of time to go swimming in one of the many pools shaped by the waterfalls

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Hotel la Aldea del Halach Huinic
Day 9

place Explore the Forts of Campeche

Explore the Forts of Campeche Arrive at the end of the day in the city of Campeche. UNESCO named it as a model of a colonial baroque city planning and it has also been declared a World Heritage Site in 1999. Campeche oozes charm on every corner. Take some time to stroll through the beautiful colonial port, visit various Mayan ceremonial centers, wander down the 'malecon' (boulevard) and explore the fort. Here you can gaze out to see and imagine the assaults the pirates of the Caribbean launched on the town during colonization. We spend the night in Campeche.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Hotel Lopez Campeche
Day 10

place Conquer the City of Uxmal

Hat Weaving in Becal This morning, depart for the village of Becal, where the inhabitants here make their living weaving jipijapas, as the soft, pliable hats are known locally. Spend some time exploring the center of the town and browse the local workshops which display the best of the local panama hats, the typical hat of Yucatan. Conquer the City of Uxmal The archaeological site is peaceful and not widely visited by tourists... You will love it! Uxmal, in Mayan language, means “Thrice Built”, but in reality the city was constructed five times. One of the best preserved sites on the peninsula, this massive complex includes The Great Pyramid, House of the Turtles, a vast ballgame court and the Governor's Palace. The water is really scarce in the region which explains the omnipresence of representations of the rain god Chac-Mool. The White City of Merida At the end of the afternoon, arrive in Merida, the capital city of Yucatan. Merida has maintained its captivating colonial charm and strong personality while enjoying great economical growth in recent years. You will find many historical monuments, churches and restaurants with both local and international food. The city is dotted with pleasant little squares which are perfect to relax in, have a drink and listen to a marimba-playing band. Spend the evening exploring the handicrafts market which offers numerous souvenirs like the renowned huipils (very colorful embroidered woman tunics), the authentic "Panama" hats, the true Yucatecan all-cotton hammocks and many more.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: CASA LUCIA
Day 11

place The Yellow Town of Izamal

The Yellow Town of Izamal In the morning, journey to the gorgeous colonial town of Izamal, entirely painted in bright yellow. The Franciscan convent San Antonio de Padua was built on top of a Mayan ceremonial center, and is the continent’s largest cloister. Swim in Cenote Yokdzonot Cool down this afternoon in the beautiful cenote Yokdzonot which sits off the beaten track of the tourist trails. This is a crystal clear water basin in which it is pleasant to swim in a natural environment. We suggest you stop for lunch in a restaurant just next to the cenote.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Hotel Okaan
Day 12

place Bacalar; Lagoon of Seven Colours

Chichen Itza, Mayan Wonder After breakfast, head to Chichen Itza, one the seven wonders of the modern world. Built by the Maya, and then reorganized by the Toltecs, Chichen Itza symbolizes the unification of both religious cultures. The site, which at its height was the most important religious center of the peninsula, is the largest archaeological site in Yucatan. Bacalar; Lagoon of Seven Colours In the late afternoon, arrive in Bacalar. The Laguna Bacalar is a 50-km (31-miles) long and 2-km (1.25-miles) wide lagoon, surrounded by a beautiful mangrove forest. It earned the nickname ‘the lake of seven colours’ for its incredible water color variations.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Rancho Encantado
Day 13

place Bacalar boat tour

Boat Tour on the Bacalar Lagoon (3 hour shared tour) Today, take a trip on a small boat and discover the beautiful lagoon of Bacalar, as well as the canal which was used by the pirates to access to the lagoon and the town during their repeated assaults to plunder Bacalar. You can swim all morning in the multi-colored water and even a cenote. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Rancho Encantado
Day 14

place Akumal snorkelling experience

Let’s head north for a visit to the archaeological site of Tulum, in front of the Caribbean Sea. It bears witness to the arrival of the first settlers in 1518, when Juan de Grijalva, the Spanish conquistador, threw his moorings on the beach before the astonished eyes of Batab (Mayan governor at the time). Visit this old port (the only one known) built in 1200 and which disappeared at the end of the 16th century. Then we leave for the village of Akumal where we will enjoy snorkelling at the Caleta de Yal-ku. This is a beautiful lagoon in the middle of the sea, with a great variety of fish and coral. Note: Equipment not included unless otherwise stated. Afternoon relaxation on the beach.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-range: Las Villas Akumal
Day 15

place Hasta Luego Mexico

Depart from the hotel in private transportation to Cancun Airport at least 3 hours before your flight is due to take-off.

What’s Included

Accommodation expand_less

  • Hotel la Aldea del Halach Huinic
  • Hotel Diego De Mazariegos
  • Causas Verdes
  • AraMacao Las Guacamayas
  • Campamento Río Lacanjá
  • Hotel Lopez Campeche
  • CASA LUCIA
  • Hotel Okaan
  • Rancho Encantado
  • Las Villas Akumal

Meals expand_less

  • Breakfast (13)
  • Lunch (1)

Transport expand_less

  • All private transfers with a Spanish speaking driver

Activities expand_less

  • Night Jungle Tour
  • Hike to Las Nubes Waterfalls
  • Boat trip on the river Tzendales
  • Strolling in the luxuriant forest of the Lacandon Mayas
  • Explore the Maya City of Palenque
  • Conquer the City of Uxmal
  • Chichen Itza, Mayan Wonder
  • Boat Tour on the Bacalar Lagoon

Extras expand_less

  • Entrance fees to all the listed activities & sites
  • Hotel and touristic prestations taxes
  • English speaking assistance of our team 24/7

Not Included expand_less

  • International flight & airport taxes
  • Travel Insurance
  • Lunch and dinners not mentioned
  • Drinks
  • Tips
  • Personal Expenses

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FROM PRICE PER TRAVELER

$3,465.00 USD