Mayan Ruins Tour: Discover Caribbean Beaches, Cenotes and Ruins (10 Days)

Day 1: Playa del Carmen

Get ready for the Mayan Ruins Tour! Arrive at any time and transfer to your accommodation in Playa del Carmen, a charming town just 50 km from Cancun International Airport, well-connected by taxis and buses. Nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen offers pristine white sands and beautiful blue-green waters. Relax in a hammock under the sun or choose from exciting water activities like windsurfing, jet skiing, kayaking, or diving at the famous Mayan coral reef.

On Saturday evening, meet your group and Tour Leader for an informational welcome meeting followed by dinner. Afterward, join an optional get-together at one of the town’s inviting local restaurants to start your adventure with new friends

• Transportation: walking
• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Playa del Carmen
• Meals Included: dinner
• Activities Included: welcome meeting

Day 2: Playa del Carmen

Enjoy a free day to relax and unwind on the beach with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Choose from a variety of outdoor activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, parasailing, or ATV riding. Alternatively, embark on a day trip to explore nearby natural attractions or ancient Mayan ruins for a deeper cultural experience.

In the evening, gather with your group for an optional dinner and get-together at a local restaurant, sharing stories and making memories as you wind down after an exciting day.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Playa del Carmen
• Meals Included: breakfast

Day 3: Playa del Carmen - Tulum - Valladolid

Start your morning exploring the unique Mayan ruins of Tulum, the only site in Mexico situated right on the beach. Learn about its fascinating history as you walk through various areas of the archaeological site, taking in stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

In the afternoon, arrive in Valladolid, once known as the Sultana of the East. This charming Yucatán city is celebrated for its peaceful streets and colorful pastel buildings. After check-in, enjoy an orientation walk through the historic downtown. In the evening, join the group for an optional dinner and get-together at a local restaurant, soaking up the city’s relaxed atmosphere.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Valladolid
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to Tulum Archeological Zone, orientation walk in Valladolid

Day 4: Valladolid - Cenote Ik Kil - Chichen Itza - Celestun

Begin your morning at Ik Kil, one of Mexico’s most stunning cenotes. Revered by the Mayans as a sacred site, it was once the location for human sacrifices to their rain god, adding to its mystical allure.

Next, explore the iconic Chichen Itza, the most famous and best-preserved Mayan site on the Yucatán Peninsula. Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, its intricate design reveals many secrets of the Maya astronomical calendar, especially in its ‘time temples.’

In the evening, arrive at your accommodation in Celestun, a charming beach town near the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve. After check-in, relax and consider joining an optional dinner and get-together with your group to share the day’s experiences.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Celestun
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to Chichen Itza Archeological Zone, entrance to Ik Kil cenote

Day 5: Celestun - Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve - Campeche

Start your morning with a flamingo-watching boat tour and a visit to a cenote within the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve. This UNESCO-listed sanctuary is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and offers the chance to see pink flamingos alongside a diverse array of bird species thriving in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, arrive in Campeche and check into your accommodation. Take a guided walking tour of the historic center, a true historical fairyland with its UNESCO-listed colonial district featuring restored pastel buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and well-preserved mansions. Enjoy some free time afterward to explore at your leisure.

In the evening, join the group for an optional dinner and get-together at one of the local restaurants, perfect for sharing your day’s experiences and relaxing in this charming city.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Campeche
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: entrance and boat tour in Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve, walking tour in Campeche

Day 6: Campeche - Miguel Colorado Cenotes - Palenque

In the afternoon, visit the 19th-century Fort of San Miguel located in the suburbs of Campeche. Then, head to Miguel Colorado Cenotes, where two large scenic limestone sinkholes offer excellent opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and zip-lining. You can also enjoy hiking along hilly, rocky trails while spotting spider and howler monkeys.

Afterward, transfer to your final destination of the day—the charming “Magical Town” of Palenque. Later, join your Tour Leader for an orientation walk through the city’s downtown. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner and get-together with the group at a local restaurant.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Palenque
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to Miguel Colorado Cenotes (kayaking, swimming, zip-lining, monkey watching); orientation walk of Palenque.

Day 7: Palenque - Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls - San Cristobal de las Casas

In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Palenque Archaeological Zone, a remarkable Mayan sanctuary from the classical period that flourished between AD 500 and 700. This site’s influence extended throughout the Usumacinta River basin, and its well-preserved temples and sculptures offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient Mayan culture.

Later, visit the stunning natural waterfalls of Agua Azul, known for their vibrant turquoise waters cascading over limestone terraces. Take a refreshing swim in the mineral-rich pool beneath the 35-meter-tall Misol-Ha waterfall, surrounded by lush jungle scenery.

After this rejuvenating experience, continue to the charming colonial town of San Cristobal de las Casas. Check in to your accommodation and join a guided walking tour of the historic center, exploring its colorful streets, traditional markets, and colonial architecture. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner and get-together with your group to share the day’s adventures.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in San Cristobal de las Casas
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to Palenque ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha waterfalls; walking tour in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Day 8: San Cristóbal de las Casas - San Juan Chamula - Canyon Sumidero - Chiapa de Corzo

In the morning, visit San Juan Chamula, the heart of the independent Tzotzil ethnic group, renowned for its unique and fascinating religious practices that blend indigenous traditions with Catholicism. Experience the vibrant local culture and spiritual rituals that make this community so distinctive.

Later, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Sumidero Canyon on a scenic boat trip. Marvel at the towering waterfalls, explore mystical caves, and witness the dramatic cliff where Chiapanec warriors chose suicide over surrender to the Spanish Conquistadores, a poignant symbol of resistance and history.

After this awe-inspiring journey, continue your Mayan Ruins Tour in Chiapa de Corzo, one of Chiapas’ most charming towns. Known for its picturesque location on the Grijalva River, warm hospitality, and colorful Renaissance architecture, this town offers a perfect blend of culture and history. Settle into your accommodation, take an orientation walk through the historic center, and enjoy an optional dinner and get-together with your group to reflect on the day’s experiences.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Chiapa de Corzo
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: boat tour of Sumidero Canyon, walking tour in San Juan Chamula & orientation walk in Chiapa de Corzo

Day 9: Chiapa de Corzo - Puerto Arista

In the morning, head to Puerto Arista, a tranquil regional beach town known for its long stretches of golden sand and peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy the day, soaking up the sun or exploring the natural beauty of the coastline.

Once there, take an exciting ATV ride along the beach, feeling the breeze and admiring the stunning coastal views. As the day winds down, watch a breathtaking sunset over the ocean, a perfect moment to relax and take in the serene surroundings.

In the evening, gather with your group for an optional dinner at one of the local restaurants. Share stories and experiences from the day while enjoying delicious regional cuisine and the warm hospitality of this charming beach town.

• Transportation: private vehicle
• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guest house in Puerto Arista
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: ATV ride on the beach in Puerto Arista

Day 10: Puerto Arista - Mitla

Enjoy a relaxing morning by the sea, soaking up the sun and the gentle ocean breeze. Afterward, set out for Mitla, stopping along the way to visit an artisanal mezcal factory. Discover the craftsmanship behind this traditional spirit, taste some of the finest mezcal, and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Continue your journey to the nearby “Magical Town” of Mitla, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant traditions. Upon arrival, take an orientation walk through the town’s charming center to get acquainted with its unique atmosphere. After checking in to your accommodation, unwind and prepare for an optional dinner.

In the evening, join your group for a get-together at one of Mitla’s local restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious regional dishes and share stories from the day in a warm, welcoming setting.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mitla
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: orientation walk in Mitla; guided visit to an artisanal mezcal factory

Day 11: Mitla - Hierve el Agua - Monte Alban - Oaxaca

In the morning, after enjoying breakfast, transfer to Hierve el Agua, a stunning location famous for its breathtaking mineral springs that have become a favorite subject for many “Top posts” on Instagram. Set amidst spectacular landscapes, it’s the perfect spot to relax and take in unforgettable views, especially at sunset.

Next, visit the Monte Albán Archaeological Zone, once the capital of the Zapotec civilization. This illustrious ruin was for over a thousand years the second-largest ceremonial center in Mesoamerica after Teotihuacán. Wander among its ancient structures and learn about the rich history that shaped this remarkable site.

In the afternoon, continue your “Tour Mayan Ruins” in Oaxaca, a vibrant cultural hub known for its rich history, diverse gastronomy, and vivid indigenous traditions. The city’s majestic churches and elegant plazas have earned it a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage designation. Settle into your accommodation, enjoy a guided walking tour of the city, and choose to join an optional dinner and get-together with the group in one of Oaxaca’s welcoming local restaurants in the evening.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Oaxaca
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to Hierve el Agua, guided visit to Monte Alban ruins, walking tour in Oaxaca

Day 12: Oaxaca - Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve - Puebla

After breakfast, visit the UNESCO-listed Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve, nestled within a complex network of mountain ranges and valleys that support rich biodiversity and diverse ecosystems. This region holds significant importance in the history of agriculture in Mesoamerica. Later, enjoy stunning views of an artisanal salt mine and learn about the traditional processes involved in salt production.

In the afternoon, continue to Puebla, a city that was once a stronghold of conservatism and tradition. Puebla proudly preserves its well-maintained UNESCO-listed historic center, featuring a magnificent cathedral and numerous beautiful churches that showcase its rich architectural heritage.

After settling into your accommodation, join a guided walking tour of Puebla’s charming historic center. In the evening, opt to enjoy dinner and a get-together with the group at one of the local restaurants, immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant culture and flavors.

Accommodation: conveniently located hotel/B&B in Puebla

• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to the Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve, walking tour in Puebla

Day 13: Puebla - Teotihuacán - Grutas de Tolantongo

In the morning, continue our “Tour Mayan Ruins” by visiting the nearby “Magical Town” of Cholula. Known as the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Americas, Cholula proudly sits at the foot of the smoking Popocatépetl Volcano. Explore the former Franciscan convent of San Gabriel, one of the oldest in America, and visit the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios. This beautiful church, built by the Spaniards in the 16th century, is uniquely perched atop the Great Pyramid of Cholula—the largest pyramid in the world by volume.

Afterward, our journey continues to Teotihuacán, a stunning UNESCO-listed archaeological site. Once Mexico’s largest ancient city and the capital of its greatest pre-Hispanic empire, Teotihuacán is home to the iconic Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Mesoamerican civilization.

Later, venture to the hidden Mexican gem, Grutas de Tolantongo. This magical natural retreat invites you to unwind in its turquoise hot springs surrounded by breathtaking nature, providing the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Grutas de Tolantongo
• Meals Included: breakfast, lunch
• Activities Included: guided visits to 2x archaeological zones – Teotihuacán & Cholula; walking tour in Cholula

Day 14: Grutas de Tolantongo - Mexico City

Join your Tour Leader to begin the day exploring the enchanting caves and tunnels of Grutas de Tolantongo, a natural wonder known for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations. After this immersive experience, return to Mexico City to visit its UNESCO-listed historic center, where centuries of history come alive through vibrant streets and magnificent architecture. Discover key landmarks and soak up the cultural atmosphere before heading to the renowned National Museum of Anthropology, home to extraordinary artifacts that reveal Mexico’s rich indigenous heritage.

Later in the day, enjoy free time to explore the city on your own. Your Tour Leader will be available to offer personalized recommendations to make the most of your afternoon, whether you choose to visit additional sites, enjoy local cuisine, or relax in a charming café.

In the evening, come together with the group for an optional dinner and get-together at one of the city’s excellent restaurants, where you can share stories and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

• Transportation: walking, public transportation
• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mexico City
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: guided visit to Grutas de Tolantongo; walking tour of the Historic Center of Mexico City; guided visit to the National Museum of Anthropology

Day 15: Mexico City

Last day of our “Tour Mayan Ruins”: a free program. Choose whether to leave the same day, stay longer, or even join one of our next adventures!

• Meals Included: breakfast