WELCOME TO MEXICO

Adding a little extra spice to this exciting Yucatan expedition, we first explore Tikal, the breathtaking ancient Guatemalan city built by the Mayan civilisation. Constructed as a ceremonial centre, Tikal's temples, pyramids and majestic stone monuments were designed with an aim to inspire awe in visitors and after two millennia, they still do so today. Our education into the ways and practices of the ancient world continues as we visit Chichen Itza in Mexico, a splendid archaeological site that incorporates the legacies and ruins both of the Maya and of the later-arriving Toltecs, and Uxmal, an ancient Mayan city of temple-pyramids, palaces, sacrificial tombs and ballcourts. Deep into the heart of the Yucatan jungle, we travel to Coba through untamed nature, where we find temple ruins overgrown with trees and foliage. Perched atop a pyramid overlooking vast ocean on our visit to Tulum truly is an experience never forgotten.

ITINERARY IN BRIEF
For detailed itinerary (PDF), click here
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Day 1 • Arrive in Guatemala City.

Day 2 • Fly to Flores and embark on a guided tour to experience the mystique of Tikal, possibly the most magnificent of all Mayan sites.

Day 3 • Fly from Flores, Guatemala to Cancun, Mexico. Balance of the day at leisure.

Day 4 • Travel by road to Chichen Itza, a wonderful archaeological site incorporating the ruins of two different cultures, the Maya and the Toltecs.

Day 5 • To Merida, probably the most beautiful town in the Yucatan peninsula. Afternoon carriage ride.

Day 6 • To Uxmal, Kabah and Labna. Overnight at Uxmal.

Day 7 • Continue to Coba—ancient temples surrounded by the thick Yucatan jungle. Explore by mountain bike and watch the sunset from the highest pyramid.

Day 8 • Early start for Tulum (to beat the crowds and the heat!)—afternoon on the beach.

Day 9 • Transfer back to Cancun airport for homeward flights, or extend at your favourite resort.

INCLUSIONS Accommodation Internal transportation Breakfasts and most dinners Sightseeing and entrance fees Tips for hotel, porters, drivers Transfers (Land/Air) Services of a Tour Leader

EXCLUSIONS Lunches and some dinners Drinks Items of a personal nature Air departure taxes/fuel surcharges Visa fees (if applicable) Transfers (if early/late) Transfers (if Land Only) Tour Leader gratuities

 

OUT FACTOR

The Latin/Catholic influence has limited the development of a gay community in Mexico, even though gay activity flourishes in a less acknowledged way. While the Yucatan is much more low-key than resorts on the Pacific coast, towns like Merida have long been known for their tolerance. The city has a strong Catholic influence, but its history of trade with Europe is believed to have led to its generally progressive attitude. That said, most locals are not particularly comfortable with in-your-face public displays of affection, gay or straight. Most of the organized gay life in Guatemala takes place around Guatemala City—our time here is short, but our guides will show us an interesting time.

PLEASE NOTE

This itinerary is correct at time of publishing. For a more detailed itinerary, download a PDF here. We reserve the right to make changes as necessary due to reasons beyond our control. For booking terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Terms.