Unveil the Mayan Mysteries in Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Uncover the rich tapestry of Maya civilisation as you journey through Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. This immersive holiday explores ancient archaeological sites, tranquil lakes and vibrant local culture, revealing how beliefs, architecture, trade and cuisine shaped one of the most influential civilisations of the Americas.
Begin in Valladolid on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, a welcoming town known for its colourful streets and relaxed atmosphere. Continue to Mérida and Tulum to delve deeper into Maya history, then travel south to Guatemala to experience the serenity of Lake Atitlán, the charm of Antigua and the remarkable temples of Tikal rising above the rainforest canopy.
End your adventure in Belize, where riverside landscapes, impressive archaeological sites and the laid back coastal town of Hopkins offer a gentle change of pace. Blending history, nature and culture, this journey provides a rich and rewarding exploration of the Maya world across three fascinating countries.
Visit Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Accommodation detailed in itinerary
See details in itinerary below
16 breakfasts and 4 lunches
What you'll experience
- Stand at the top Xunantunich for panoramic views of Guatemala and Belize: Climb the impressive El Castillo pyramid and look out across forested hills and distant villages that span both countries.
- Swim in the refreshing waters of Selva Maya Cenote: Take a dip in this crystal clear natural sinkhole surrounded by limestone walls and tropical greenery.
- Discover important and fascinating Maya sites such as Tikal and Chichén Itzá: Explore towering temples, jungle filled plazas and intricate carvings that reveal centuries of Maya history and cultural brilliance.
- Explore the villages of picturesque Lake Atitlán on a private boat tour: Cruise between lakeside communities, each with its own traditions, crafts and character, set beneath volcanic peaks.
- Learn the fascinating Maya history beneath the city of Mérida: Uncover stories of ancient civilisations and colonial influence while exploring the Yucatán’s atmospheric capital.
- Relax on beaches in Mexico and Belize: Unwind on soft sands, warm turquoise waters and laid back coastal towns that offer the perfect end to your journey.
What's included in the Route of the Maya holiday?
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 £7,699
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.
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.What Makes a Latin Routes Holiday Truly Unforgettable?
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We design every trip around you: your interests, your must-sees, your perfect holiday.
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