Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Mayan Ruins & Cenotes - 8 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female50%
- Male50%
Average age
Start / End
- Playa del Carmen
- Tulum
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
18Highlights
- Unveil Ancient Mayan Wonders: Journey inland to the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Chichen Itzá, where ancient pyramids and temples whisper tales of a bygone civilization. Later, discover the charming colonial town of Valladolid with a guided orientation walk.
- Immerse in Authentic Hacienda Life: Experience the soul of Yucatán with a stay at a historic, working agave hacienda. Indulge in traditional Yucatecan cuisine, including the renowned Cochinita Pibil, and delve into the fascinating history of henequen production.
- Discover the Crystal-Clear Cenotes: Embark on an exhilarating full-day excursion, cycling through lush jungle paths to hidden freshwater cenotes. Dive into these sacred sinkholes for a refreshing swim, a truly unique natural wonder.
- Explore the Cultural Heart of Mérida: Enjoy a captivating city tour of Mérida, soaking in its vibrant colonial architecture and rich history, before returning to your serene hacienda retreat.
- Coastal Majesty at Tulum: Witness the breathtaking fusion of history and natural beauty at Tulum. Explore the iconic Mayan ruins perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities.
- Venture into Sian Ka'an's Pristine Ecosystem: Embark on a full-day boat tour of the stunning Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, discovering its rich biodiversity and untouched natural beauty.
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Summary
Go way beyond the Mayan Riviera on this active adventure through Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. Visit the iconic site of Chichen Itzá and bike between freshwater sinkholes in the jungle to swim and cool off from the heat. Stay at a working agave hacienda and venture into the stunning scenery of Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve to explore by boat and on foot. Experience the Yucatecan traditions through it's delicious regional cuisine and friendly people. Bookended by beachside Playa del Carmen and Tulum, discover a different side of Mexico's incredible natural and cultural beauty.
Itinerary
Day 1
Playa del Carmen: Welcome to the Yucatan Peninsula
Arrive to Cancún airport at any time and transfer to the hotel. Meet your fellow group members at the welcome meeting in the evening and get all the important information about the adventure ahead. Afterwards, head to a nearby restaurant for a delicious welcome dinner with new friends.
Day 2
Valladolid: Visit Chichen Itzá
Travel inland for a guided tour of the Chichen Itzá archaeological site before enjoying a delicious the tour operator-supported typical community lunch nearby. Continue to the town of Valladolid and set off on a CEO-led orientation walk before enjoying a free evening.
Day 3
Mérida hacienda: A Living Ranch
Head east across the Yucatan Peninsula to a living hacienda, our base for the next few days. Dig into a traditional and delicious local meal of Cochinita Pibil and other regional delicacies before taking a tour of the facilities. On the walk, learn about the history of henequen production and its uses before some free time to relax before dinner.
Day 4
Mérida Hacienda: Cenotes
Full day excursion to the cenotes, cycling between them and swimming with lunch. Take a short city tour of Merida en route back to the hacienda in the evening.
Day 5
Mérida hacienda: Your OMG Day
Choice of guided tour in the morning, both options with lunch. Return to the hacienda in the afternoon with time to relax and enjoy the surroundings on your own.
Day 6
Tulum: Seaside Coastal Ruins
Travel across the Yucatan from Mérida to Tulum and take a guided tour of the ruins. Enjoy a free evening to choose from one of the many great restaurants or join the CEO at their local favourite.
Day 7
Tulum: Explore the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Full-day tour of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere reserve by boat. Return to the hotel in the afternoon and enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening and final night out with the group.
Day 8
Tulum
The adventure finishes today, and you can depart at any time.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (4 nts), Historic Working Hacienda (3 nts).
Meals
Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 6, Dinners: 5
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Airport Transfers
Arrival OnlyAn airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Nov 25
from £2,207Dec 25
from £2,448Jan 26
from £2,448Feb 26
from £2,880Mar 26
from £2,596Apr 26
from £2,596May 26
from £2,351Jul 26
from £2,351Aug 26
from £2,351Sep 26
from £2,351Oct 26
from £2,351Nov 26
from £2,596Dec 26
from £2,880Jan 27
from £2,351Feb 27
from £2,351Mar 27
from £2,351Apr 27
from £2,351May 27
from £2,351Jun 27
from £2,351Jul 27
from £2,351Aug 27
from £2,351Sep 27
from £2,351Oct 27
from £2,351Dec 27
from £2,351
- Save 2%Sat 15 Nov 2025 > Sat 22 Nov 2025Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 left£2,649£2,596
- Save 17%Sat 29 Nov 2025 > Sat 6 Dec 2025Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 left£2,649Best offer£2,207
Customer reviews & ratings
It was a remarkable trip. I loved having the opportunity to learn about an area of Mexico I was unfamiliar with and enjoyed the range and depth of experiences offered. Every day was magical and unforgettable. I think this style of travel appeals to a broad range of travellers and I could see my friends and family enjoying it as much as I did -- like me, they are looking for diverse, fulfilling experiences and would also appreciate the commitment to involving and supporting local communities.
Sydney May, 2024 VerifiedIt was a fantastic experience. For me as a journalist the comparison between Tulum and all the other places was interesting but i'm not sure if i would want to experience this as a "private traveller" with this itinerary. it was SO WELL organised! I had the best time
Lisa-Marie Apr, 2024 Verified
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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