Overview
Mayan ruins peeking out from verdant jungle, street vendors hawking their wares on colonial streets, pristine white-sand beaches sparkling under the Caribbean sun — now this is the real Yucatán. On this unique 15-day journey, you'll tour the ruins at Chichén Itzá and Palenque, and head deep into the jungle of Guatemala to experience the ruins of Tikal. You're free to choose your own adventure! So escape the resort packages and witness all the incredible wilderness, wildlife, and Mayan culture — past and present — that you can imagine.
Trip Length
15 Days
Trip Starts
Playa del Carmen
Trip Ends
Playa del Carmen
Departures
Oct 2026 to Dec 2027
Trip Style
Classic
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
12-99 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
CMMD
Itinerary
Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities before an evening welcome meeting.
Accommodation:
Hotel Casa de las Flores
Included Experiences
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Travel to Mérida, stopping en route for a guided tour of Chichén Itzá. Enjoy an orientation walk of Mérida. Stop for a guided tour of the popular Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. Explore this famous site, known for its huge stepped pyramids and elaborate stone carvings. Continue on to Mérida, the capital of the Yucatán State. Follow your CEO on an orientation walk to get the lay of the land.
Accommodation:
Hotel Santa Lucia by Kavia
Included Experiences
- Chichen Itzá Guided Tour: Join up with a local expert and learn about the history of Chichén Itzá and the beliefs and rituals that defined this ancient Mayan civilization. This dramatic site includes a 30m (98 ft) high temple, known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan, famous for its balustrade of 91 stairs up each of the four sides, a ball court with a grandstand, and towering walls. Visit the highlights of the site including the famous Castillo, the ball court, the cenote, and the Nunnery.
- Orientation With CEO: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Explore Experiences
Chichén Itzá
Opt to visit the ruins of Uxmal or swim in cenotes (underground pools) in the Yucatán. Opt to visit ruins of Uxmal, ride the PUUC Route, hit the beach in Progreso, visit cenotes in the nearby town of Cuzamá, or walk around town and soak in all of the history this city has to offer.
Accommodation:
Hotel Santa Lucia by Kavia
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Head out and explore.
Optional Experiences
- Day Trip to Progreso Beach : Roughly an hour drive from Meridá, Progreso is a perfect spot for relaxing on the beach or strolling along the boardwalk. Stop along the way at the Dzibichaltun archaeological site.
- Cenote Visit: Swim in crystal-blue mineral underground swimming holes that are formed as sinkholes when porous limestone bedrock collapses. Come prepared with your swimsuit so you can dive in and enjoy. The clarity of the water and depth of cenotes makes swimming a unique experience. (60-70 USD per person)
- Uxmal Ruins Visit: Founded in 700 AD, magical Uxmal was once home to as many as 25,000 Mayans. Located 62km (38 mi) south of Merida, in Yucatán’s Puuc ("hill" or "chain of low mountains") region, this UNESCO World Heritage Centre represents the pinnacle of late Maya art and architecture. Wander the site, see the Pyramid of the Magician, and visit nearby Kabah, one of three neighbouring sites. (70-110 USD per person)
Sit back and relax on a travel to Palenque in the lush jungle of Chiapas.
Accommodation:
Hotel Maya Tulipanes
Included Experiences
- First-class Bus: Ride on in style. This sure isn't your grandmother's public bus.
Enjoy a guided tour of the Mayan ruins of Palenque. Take a guided tour of the ruins of Palenque. Later, choose from one of the many optional activities in the area.
Accommodation:
Hotel Maya Tulipanes
Included Experiences
- Palenque Ruins Guided Tour: Experience the elegant jungle site of Palenque on a guided tour. See the highlights -- the Temple of the Cross Group, Temple of Inscriptions and the Grand Palace. Howler monkeys sound in the distance as the fog rolls in and out of this mystical site, one of the most important centres for trade and culture during the end of the Classic Maya period.
- Free Time: Don't waste a minute, get out and explore.
Optional Experiences
- Jungle Trail Hike: Only two percent of the ruins in the Mayan capital of Palenque are out in the open. Follow a local guide into the jungle along a trail, visit ruins that are now overgrown with moss and vines. Learn about the wildlife and different medicinal trees and plants that grow in and around the Usumancinta River of this mountainous forest area of Chiapas.
- Roberto Barrios Waterfalls: Visit the Zapatista community of Roberto Barrios and swim in stunning turquoise cascade waterfalls. Then, join an agroecological experience at the Pej'Pem Center you will support local entrepreneurship and the sustainable transformation of communities in Chiapas.
Explore Experiences
Palenque
Enjoy a free day to explore Palenque and surroundings. Opt to visit the Roberto Barrios Waterfalls or go for a jungle hike to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings.
Accommodation:
Hotel Maya Tulipanes
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Do as much or as little as you like in and around the jungle of Palenque.
Optional Experiences
- Jungle Trail Hike: Only two percent of the ruins in the Mayan capital of Palenque are out in the open. Follow a local guide into the jungle along a trail, visit ruins that are now overgrown with moss and vines. Learn about the wildlife and different medicinal trees and plants that grow in and around the Usumancinta River of this mountainous forest area of Chiapas.
- Roberto Barrios Waterfalls: Visit the Zapatista community of Roberto Barrios and swim in stunning turquoise cascade waterfalls. Then, join an agroecological experience at the Pej'Pem Center you will support local entrepreneurship and the sustainable transformation of communities in Chiapas.
Journey through the jungle by private vehicle, crossing into Guatemala and continuing on to Flores. Explore Lake Petén Itzá and the island of Flores.
Accommodation:
Hotel Casa Turquesa
Included Experiences
- Border Crossing (Mexico - Guatemala): Pay the Mexican exit fee, then go to the immigration and customs booth in Guatemala. Pay the entrance fee there and continue on to a new country.
Learn about Mayan culture and history on a guided tour of Tikal archaeological site. Relax on Lake Petén Itzá and go for a swim.
Accommodation:
Hotel Casa Turquesa
Included Experiences
- Tikal Ruins Guided Tour: Put on your walking shoes and prepare for a tiring but memorable day walking through history at the impressive site of Tikal. The Mayan site is set in the heart of the jungle, in Tikal National Park, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Along with our bilingual guide, see some of the temples, plazas, carved stone monuments and public squares, more than 3,000 buildings in all, dating from as far back as 600 BC. Climb to the top of Temple IV, catch your breath, take photos, and then sit and contemplate the magnificence of the site and the tropical rainforest beyond. Look for monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, and deer, as well as macaws and eagles, snakes, and spiders.
- Free Time: Enjoy the area around the lake.
Optional Experiences
- Swimming: Grab your bathing suit and go for a refreshing swim.
Explore Experiences
Tikal
Cross the border into Belize and travel to San Ignacio. Enjoy an included pottery demonstration and local lunch at a G Adventures-supported women's pottery cooperative. Continue on to Belize, a country with a decidedly Caribbean flavour. The relaxed atmosphere of San Ignacio allows for options including horseback riding, canoeing, caving, or exploring the Mountain Pine Ridge area.
Accommodation:
Venus Hotel
Included Meals:
Lunch
Included Experiences
- Border Crossing (Guatemala - Belize): Pay the Guatemalan exit fee and walk on over to Belize.
- San Antonio Women's Pottery Cooperative and Local Lunch: Like in many places around the world, education for women in the village of San Antonio isn’t prioritized. Girls don’t typically attend school beyond primary levels. So a women’s cooperative was founded here, as a way for underprivileged women to earn income, learn new skills, and share centuries-old Mayan techniques and knowledge. Visit the pottery workshop, which is newly expanded with an investment from G Adventures. Meet some of the women who’ve found community within its walls and gain insight into the tradition of throwing pots. Afterward, enjoy lunch together with these inspiring and unforgettable women, sampling traditional foods of the Cayo region.
- Free Time: Get familiar with the district of Cayo.
Optional Experiences
- Xunantunich Visit: Hike to the top of this impressive 9th-century Maya centre, set high on a natural limestone ridge, and admire the view of the Mopan River, Cayo District and neighbouring Guatemalan countryside. The tallest temple, El Castillo, is partially excavated and explored and there’s a unique stucco frieze on the east side of the structure. Discover why Xunantunich is Belize’s most visited site with intricately carved stellae, 25 temples, and well-preserved palaces.
- Horseback Riding: Choose from one of the 45 horses at Hannah's Stables and ride over farm trails and forested paths, all the way along the river to the Mayan site of Xunantunich. Enjoy a short guided tour of the site before taking a different trail back to the stables. Watch for native birds, including toucans and parrots, listen for howler monkeys, admire orchids and fruit trees and breathe in the fresh air of the Belize countryside.
Enjoy free time to visit the sacred Mayan cave, Actun Tunichil Muknal, explore the Mountain Pine Ridge area or see the lesser-known Mayan ruins of Xunantunich or Caracol. Optional acitivities abound around San Ignacio. Choose to see the Mountain Pine Ridge area or take a day trip to the astounding Actun Tunichil Muknal cave. Explore the cave’s water systems using a helmet and headlamp. An experienced local guide will provide insight into the fascinating practices of the ancient Maya. Alternatively, opt for a trip to the impressive Maya ceremonial centre of Xunantunich. Getting there includes crossing a narrow river by a hand-cranked ferry.
Accommodation:
Venus Hotel
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Don't waste time—get exploring.
Optional Experiences
- Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve Visit: The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve covers almost 500 square km (310 square miles) and only controlled logging is allowed. Interesting stops include Hidden Valley Falls, a spectacular waterfall dropping more than 300m (984 ft) over the granite edge of the jungle. Further along, you will cross the Rio On and a climb over an assortment of worn boulders and rocks that will bring you to a delightful site with waterfalls and several warm water pools. The area is also renowned for its system of caves, the biggest and most famous being the Rio Frio Cave. With its enormous arched entryway into the kilometre-long cave, this river cave is the largest in Belize. A day trip to the ridge can easily be arranged in San Ignacio.
- Barton Creek Cave Canoeing: Strap on a headlamp, step in the canoe and paddle along an ancient Mayan waterway inside the Barton Creek Cave. Bring your camera to take memorable photos of cathedral rock chambers, stalactites and stalagmites. Upon return, opt to swim at Big Rock Falls.
- Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave Visit: The Actun Tunichil Muknal cave has only been open to the public since 1998. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to see up to 1400 artifacts, including pottery, tools and vessels used by the Maya for a thousand years. Hike 45 minutes to the cave entrance, wade/swim through deep pools, past calcite formations, to explore this damp, dark place of ritual and sacrifice. With a helmet and headlamp, see the skeleton of the “Crystal Maiden,” a young girl whose bones have calcified over the past 1,100 years, making them appear to sparkle.
- Horseback Riding: Choose from one of the 45 horses at Hannah's Stables and ride over farm trails and forested paths, all the way along the river to the Mayan site of Xunantunich. Enjoy a short guided tour of the site before taking a different trail back to the stables. Watch for native birds, including toucans and parrots, listen for howler monkeys, admire orchids and fruit trees and breathe in the fresh air of the Belize countryside.
- Caracol Ruins Tour: Set within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, prepare to be wowed by Caracol. It’s the largest known Maya site in Belize and was once home to an estimated 180,000 people. The site was discovered in the 1920's by a logger looking for mahogany. One of its pyramids, Canaa or “Sky Place”, built in 800 AD and standing 43m (143 ft), continues to be the tallest man-made structure in the country. Bring your walking shoes, water and a sunhat because there’s lots to see here. Tombs, temples, altars, carved stelae and other stone monuments – it’s well worth the effort and easy to be impressed.
- Cave Tubing: Hike through the lush subtropical forest to the entrances of remarkable limestone caves within the mountains. Jump into crystal blue waters, tube down stream, enjoy a cool swim in refreshing therapeutic cave waters in a natural pool formed between two cave entrances, float through some rapids, view sparkling cave formations and learn of cave geology and Maya history during the tour.
- Xunantunich Visit: Hike to the top of this impressive 9th-century Maya centre, set high on a natural limestone ridge, and admire the view of the Mopan River, Cayo District and neighbouring Guatemalan countryside. The tallest temple, El Castillo, is partially excavated and explored and there’s a unique stucco frieze on the east side of the structure. Discover why Xunantunich is Belize’s most visited site with intricately carved stellae, 25 temples, and well-preserved palaces.
Explore Experiences
Xunantunich
Travel to Caye Caulker and enjoy this tropical paradise. Rent a bike and organize activities for the next day. Caye Caulker is a relaxed and easy going island with friendly and welcoming local residents. Snorkel boats leave daily for full- or half-day outings to the reef, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and for manatee spotting tours. Try your hand fishing and be rewarded with a fresh catch, then barbecue it on the beach.
Accommodation:
Enjoy Hotel
Included Experiences
- Transport: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
- Boat: Climb aboard and get your float on.
- Free Time: Start exploring paradise.
Optional Experiences
- Bike with Purpose Rental: Rent a bike from the G Adventures-supported Bike with Purpose project on Caye Caulker and cycle around the island out to the split and back. It's a great way to get some exercise and see the sights on this laid-back island. Don't forget to bring water and wear lots of sunscreen. (1-30 USD per person)
Explore Experiences
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Spend the day exploring Caye Caulker and the marine life in the area. Opt to snorkel with stingrays, nurse sharks, and green turtles at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, rent a bike, or just chill out, Belizean style.
Accommodation:
Enjoy Hotel
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Get active or get lazy—the choice is yours.
Optional Experiences
- Hol Chan Marine Reserve Day Tour: Explore the oldest marine reserve in Belize with a full-day tour filled with snorkelling and sightseeing. The tour includes stops at three popular snorkelling destinations – the Hol Chan Channel, Shark and Ray Alley, and Coral Gardens. Stop at two additional viewing spots to marvel at tarpon and manatees. Expect to see an abundance of angelfish, blue-stripped grunts, schoolmaster snappers, and hundreds of other varieties of species in their natural surroundings. Keep your eyes peeled to see green moray eels poking out from their tiny caves. Tour Includes: snorkeling mask, fins/flippers, lunch, assortment of tropical fruit, water, and other snacks.
- Fishing: Cast a line and see what you can reel in. Fish for snapper, barracuda, horse-eye jack and more. Bring your catch to any local restaurant and have them gut and grill it just for you. Buy the rest of dinner and some drinks and enjoy! It doesn’t get any fresher than this. (250-450 USD per person)
- Bike with Purpose Rental: Rent a bike from the G Adventures-supported Bike with Purpose project on Caye Caulker and cycle around the island out to the split and back. It's a great way to get some exercise and see the sights on this laid-back island. Don't forget to bring water and wear lots of sunscreen. (1-30 USD per person)
- Sunset Sailing Boat Tour: Set sail just before sunset. Relax with reggae music and rum punch, snack on shrimp ceviche and snap a few photos as you sail around the island as the sun sets to the west of Caye Caulker.
Full travel day to reach Playa del Carmen, the last stop of the adventure. Head to Playa del Carmen, located on the beach just a 45-minute drive south of Cancún. Enjoy some nightlife, buy last minute souvenirs and relax and swim in the Caribbean. Just off the coast is the island of Cozumel. Take the ferry from Playa del Carmen (30-75 mins depending on the boat) across the turquoise waters and explore the towns and the reefs of the island. For a final dose of ruins, Tulúm is just a 45-minute drive south of Playa.
Accommodation:
Hotel Casa de las Flores
Included Experiences
- Water Taxi: Jump in and cross the water to the next stop.
- Border Crossing (Belize - Mexico): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
- Local Bus: Climb aboard and enjoy travel as the locals do.
Explore Experiences
Tulum
Enjoy a free day in Playa del Carmen. Explore the Mayan ruins of Tulúm on your own or book an optional tour. Opt to visit a cenote or reserve a canal float in Sian Ka'an, one of Mexico’s most important protected areas. Later, enjoy dinner at a G Adventures-supported community restaurant with a youth-focused art program.
Accommodation:
Hotel Casa de las Flores
Included Meals:
Dinner
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Do as much or as little as you want.
- El Hongo Mexican Community Restaurant & Youth Art Program: El Hongo (which means 'The Mushroom') is a volunteer-run restaurant started as a means to create income to support a youth art program in the 'real' Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Across the highway from the commercial beach strip is where most locals live – cross onto the unpaved roads and enjoy a delicious home-style meal at the restaurant, while learning more about this much-needed program for the community.
Optional Experiences
- Cenote Visit: Pack your swimsuit, hail a shared van (colectivo) and ask for directions to one of Yucatan’s many cenotes. These natural swimming holes were formed thousands of years ago, when the peninsula's porous limestone collapsed to reveal fresh water pools fed by underground systems of canals and rivers. Dive into the turquoise waters surrounded by cave walls or tropical foliage, watch fish dart in and out of the shafts of sunlight and realize why the Maya called cenotes “sacred wells”. (40-60 USD per person)
- Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve Canal Float: Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is one of Mexico’s most important protected areas due to its diversity in bird and animal species. The Reserve uses ecologically responsible technologies, including systems for wetland waste management, rainwater collection, and solar and wind energy generation to protect the environment. Visit the reserve and take a boat ride across the lagoon before hopping into the crystal clear water of one of the canals. Next, enjoy nature's lazy river as you float past Mayan ruins and mangrove forests, letting the current slowly bring you down stream. It's just you, the sound of chirping birds, and the fish swimming around your feet - pure paradise!
- Tequila Tasting: Mexico is the birthplace of tequila, and there is nowhere better to learn about the iconic drink. Join a certified sommelier to learn about the history of tequila and the production process, before the main highlight – a tasting session. Sip, don't shoot! (850-1100 MXN per person)
- Coco Bongo Disco and Show: Coco Bongo lives up to its name. Visitors describe it as “insane”, “exciting” and “amazing”. This Vegas-style disco and show features a range of high energy acts including Elvis, Lady Gaga, Moulin Rouge and more. The price includes all your drinks and the show is cheaper on weekdays. Go wild!
- Tulum Ruins Visit: The Maya built the ancient seaport of Tulúm in the late 13th century. Located some 130 km (80 mi) south of Cancun, this picturesque site features a number of limestone structures protected on three sides by a 7m (23 ft) thick wall. Visit “El Castillo” (the castle), overlooking the Caribbean coast, and the Temple of Frescoes, then head down to the beach. Dive into the warm aquamarine waters and imagine spotting ancient vessels laden with turquoise and jade.
Depart at any time.
Playa del Carmen is located just south of Cancún airport (45 mins) so you can head directly there without returning to Cancún.
Playa del Carmen is located just south of Cancún airport (45 mins) so you can head directly there without returning to Cancún.
Trip Inclusions
- Explore Mayan temples.
- Spot monkeys in the jungle.
- Chill out on a Belizean island.
- Stare out into the Caribbean blue from a Mayan Riviera beach.
- Your G for Good Moment: San Antonio Women's Pottery Cooperative and Local Lunch, San Ignacio
- Your G for Good Moment: El Hongo Mexican Community Restaurant & Youth Art Program, Playa del Carmen
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Discover Moment: Mérida
- Your Discover Moment: San Ignacio
- Your Discover Moment: Caye Caulker
- Your Discover Moment: Playa del Carmen
- Chichén Itzá guided tour
- Mérida orientation walk
- Palenque guided tour
- Tikal guided tour
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Public bus, private vehicle, water taxi, taxi, walking
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides
- Hotels (14 Nights)
- 1 lunch, 1 dinner
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, more giving you meaningful experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: Classic
Get the best of both worlds with G's Classic trips as your knowledgeable CEO (Chief Experience Officer) leads you to iconic highlights and hidden gems, while ample free time lets you discover what excites you most. Enjoy included meals showcasing local flavours, plus opportunities to dive deeper into the food scene independently. Stay in comfortable hotels, authentic homestays, and unique accommodations that capture the spirit of each destination.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
Saturday
18 Jul 2026
18 Jul 26
Playa del Carmen
Saturday
01 Aug 2026
01 Aug 26
Playa del Carmen
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
A$2,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Saturday
25 Jul 2026
25 Jul 26
Playa del Carmen
Saturday
08 Aug 2026
08 Aug 26
Playa del Carmen
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
A$2,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Similar Tours
14 Days Mexico City Playa del Carmen
Operated By: G Adventures
From
3,115
Save
624
16 Days Playa del Carmen Antigua
Operated By: G Adventures
From
2,248
Save
487
16 Days Playa del Carmen Antigua
Operated By: G Adventures
From
2,106
Save
501
