Mexico & Guatemala Explorer

11 days - from $2095

Travel from the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea to the lush green of the Guatemalan Highlands Travel from the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea to the lush green of the Guatemalan Highlands, and along the way discover the sites of the ancient Mayan civilisation.

Leaving lively Cancun behind your first introduction to the once great Mayan civilisation will come at Tulum where ancient ruins stand atop a bluff facing the rising sun. This amazing setting is in total contrast to the larger Tikal Mayan ruins which lie deep in the heart of the steaming Guatemalan jungle. Further on is the small town of Antigua de Guatemala, once Spain's capital in the America's and spectacularly back-dropped by three perfectly shaped volcanoes. To end your holiday you'll visit the truly beautiful Guatemalan Highlands where you will have an opportunity to shop at the colourful and lively Sunday market in Chichicastenango or "Chichi" as the locals like to call it.

Highlights

• Buy colourful local textiles from the vibrant traders of Chichicastenango
• Drink fine coffee in Antigua Guatemala
• Eat sweet and savory tamales on the tiny island town of Flores
• Evenings dancing the Punta
• Meet with magnificent Mesoamerica at the Tikal Mayan Ruins
• The friendly welcome of the indigenous people of Lake Atitlan and Panajachel
• Relax on Playa del Carmen, beyond the resort bustle of Cancun
• Sunrise over the sea at Tulum Ruins

Itinerary:

Day 1: (Fri) Arrive in Cancun and transfer to hotel.2: Free time to enjoy Cancun or the nearby beach of Playa del Carmen.3-4: Visit Mayan ruins of Tulum on the Caribbean. Continue via Chetumal to Flores in Guatemala.5: Explore stunning Tikal ruins deep in the Guatemalan jungle.6-8: Drive to Antigua de Guatemala and explore one of Central America's most beautiful towns.9: Discover Lake Atitlan and Panajachel in the Guatemalan Highlands.10: Return to Antigua via the Sunday market at Chichicastenango.11: Trips ends in Antigua after breakfast (Mon).
Included: Local tour leader, local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees.
Not Included: Airport departure tax, visas where required, meals not included in the itinerary, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 10 breakfasts
Valid From: 01 Sep 09
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico to Antigua
Trip Reference: PSMG