Mayan Explorer

Mexico and Guatemala - Mayan Explorer

Mayan ruins, colonial cities, colourful markets and waterfalls in Guatemala and Mexico accent this varied 16 day journey through the land of the ancient Ruta Maya.

We will explore this historical and culturally fascinating region in style, travelling by private van and first-class buses and staying in comfortable, charming hotels.

    16 day journey through the land of the ancient Maya

    HIGHLIGHTS:
  • Guided tour of Chichén Itzá Ruins
  • Guided tour of Palenque Ruins
  • Guided tour of Tikal Ruins & National Park
  • Tour of San Cristóbal de Las Casas area
  • Tour of villages at Lake Atitlan (boat)
  • City tour of Antigua
  • Visit to Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls
  • Visit to the Chichicastenango Market

Summary
Is is for me?: This is a relatively undemanding tour. There are a couple of long travel days. Emphasis on ruins and culture with plenty of time to pursue your own interests.
Accommodation and Meals: 15 nights comfortable hotels. Daily breakfasts.
Transportation: Private van, flight, boat and first-class buses. Airport arrival transfer prior to tour is included.
Group size: Max. 15 G.A.P leader throughout, local guides while visiting ruins.
Budgeting: Allow USD $320 for meals not included. There is a local payment of $250 USD.


Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Cancún On arrival in Cancún, you will be transferred to our hotel. The day is free for you to spend at your leisure.
Days 2-3: Chichén Itzá / Mérida We begin the day with a tour of the beautifully restored stepped pyramids of Chichén Itzá. By early evening we arrive at the colonial city of Mérida for a city tour and a 2 night stay.
Day 4: Palenque A mini-van takes us to the town of Palenque. The nearby Palenque archeological site is one of the most significant ruins in the whole Mundo Maya. The jungle setting is as impressive as the ruins themselves.
Days 5-7: San Cristóbal de las Casas The drive to the Chiapas highlands includes the spectacular Misol-Ha and Agua Azul waterfalls. The rich history and alluring architecture of San Cristóbal de Las Casas are highlights of our stay, along with a guided tour of nearby indigenous communities. A visit to Sumidero Canyon, horseback riding, biking, and shopping in the local markets are available optional activities.
Days 8-9: Guatemalan Highlands-Panajachel A day of travel ends with a quiet evening on the shores of Guatemala's beautiful Lake Atitlán. Volcanoes and small indigenous villages surround this pristine lake. Two nights in the town of Panajachel provide an excellent base to explore this fascinating region. Take the chance to visit some of the villages boardering the Lake on an included boat tour.
Days 10-11: Antigua The Sunday market of Chichicastenango is an event not to be missed! Our final stop in the Guatemalan highlands is the colonial town of Antigua, where we have a free day to explore. Climbing a volcano, mountain biking or just relaxing in a pleasant street-side café are several of the available options.
Days 12-13: Flores / Tikal From the nation's capital we take a bus north to visit the charming town of Flores, with time to explore, shop or swim in Lake Petén Itzá. The highlight of the stay is a visit to the famous ruins of Tikal and the surrounding National Park.
Days 14-15: Playa del Carmen We travel back to Mexico to end our adventure with a final night in Playa del Carmen, on the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean. From here you can visit Tulum or Cozumel, should you wish.
Day 16: Depart Playa del Carmen. (Playa del Carmen is located 45 minutes south from Cancun airport so you can head directly there without returning to Cancun).

 

Tour Code: CEM
Tour Departure Dates:
In 2007 and 2008 - departs three times per month on a Friday, year round.
Please contact us for exact dates.
Tour cost: £925 sterling

 

Note: This tour is run by G.A.P. adventures.

 

Please note: there is a local payment of $250 USD
International flights not included, please call the office for guideline: 0870 499 0683

 

Last Updated: Tuesday May 13 2008