Itinerary Highlights
- Visit the world renowned archaeological site of Chichen Itza
- Learn the rich Mayan and colonial heritage in Merida
- Enjoy the crystal clear waters on the beaches of the Mayan Riviera
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- International Flights
Densely forested in thick tropical jungle, the limestone peninsula of the Yucatan is home to some of the ancient Mayans’ most mighty cities, Spanish colonial towns, exotic cuisine and stunning beaches. Made up of three Mexican states; Quintana Roo, Campeche and Yucatan, this relatively flat peninsula draws travellers in with its sunny climes, laid-back vibes and traces of the ancient Mayan civilization at every corner.
Starting the adventure at the world renowned archaeological site of Chichen Itza, this wonderfully preserved archaeological site is unmissable. Discover the Yucatan’s capital of Merida, a centre of rich Mayan and colonial heritage. With cobblestoned streets, colourful painted buildings and picturesque plazas, the city is best explored on foot. Home to some of the best regional cuisine, many ingredients found in this area are unique to the peninsula. Nearby archaeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah are well worth a visit when in Merida. Dotted with mystical cenotes, pools of crystal clear water within deep caves or surrounded by lush jungle, are the perfect place to cool off.
End this Mexican adventure on the Caribbean beaches of the Mayan Riviera, famed for their dazzling white sands and crystal-clear waters. At the Zoetry Paraiso, unwind and enjoy the tranquillity and romance of this luxurious hideaway.
Our Travel Specialists can advise you on the many different excursions options available in the Yucatan, its highlights, offer insiders tips and help create an ideal itinerary suited to your needs.
Itinerary
Day 1 UK – Cancun – Chichen Itza
Board your flight from the UK bound for Cancun. Arriving in the afternoon, you will be met and driven (approximately two hours) to your hotel next to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza. With an inviting swimming pool, lush tropical gardens and traditional Mayan style bungalows, this will be your base to relax and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Chichen Itza.
Day 2 Chichen Itza
Today enter the Chichen Itza archaeological site from the hotel’s private entrance with a private guide. We recommend visiting either at sunrise or sunset, avoiding the heat of the sun and the crowds. Considered one of the most important ancient cities of the Mayan Culture, the 1500-year-old site is made up of towering pyramids, enormous ball courts, temples and sculptures. You'll also visit a cenote, where you can take a swim, and enjoy a buffet lunch.
Day 3 Chichen Itza - Merida
Day 4 Merida
Day 5 Merida – Mayan Riviera
Transfer by road to the Mayan Riviera and spend the next four nights at the Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. This luxurious, adults only resort sits on its own private beach and is considered one of Mexico’s most exceptional boutique resorts. The next few days are at leisure. For adventure seekers, popular day trips include visits to the clifftop Mayan ruins of Tulum or the jungle-clad ruins of Coba.
Day 6 Mayan Riviera
A unique experience is snorkelling or diving in a cenote (underground sink hole). This limestone peninsula sits upon an enormous network of turquoise pools of mineral-rich waters in magical caves or under a jungle-framed sky. Formed by the collapse of porous rock, a subterranean world is revealed. They were used as water wells by the Mayans, who also considered them to be portals to speak with the gods.
Day 7 Mayan Riviera
For those keen on wildlife, the nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve makes for a fantastic full day. Abundant with wildlife, its inhabitants include monkeys, tapir, ocelots, jaguar and many bird species. The area embraces a mangrove, tropical forest and an offshore marine reserve. Also, visits to Playa Akumal allow for those lucky snorkelers to share the water with many sea turtles.
Day 8 Mayan Riviera
At the resort, there is a variety of activities on offer, including yoga, tai-chi, sailing, snorkelling and windsurfing to keep you busy. Alternatively, for the sun worshippers, relax by the stunning pool or on the isolated stretch of white sand overlooking the sparkling waters of the Caribbean. A luxurious haven for relaxation and wellbeing, the Zoetry Paraiso boasts an award winning Thalasso Spa.
Day 9 Mayan Riviera – UK
This morning is at leisure, before taking an afternoon transfer to the airport for your return overnight flight back to the UK.
Nick
Yucatan Peninsula Explorer
1/17 - UK – Cancun – Chichen Itza
2/17 - The Lodge at Chichen Itza
3/17 - Buffet restaurant at The Lodge at Chichen Itza
4/17 - Sarah Brightman Suite at The Lodge at Chichen Itza
5/17 - Mayan Temple Gardens at The Lodge at Chichen Itza
6/17 - Chichen Itza, Meixco
7/17 - Chichen Itza - Merida, Mexico
8/17 - Merida, Mexico
9/17 - Merida – Mayan Riviera, Mexico
10/17 - Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita
11/17 - Ocean Front One Bedroom Suite with Terrace at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, Riviera Maya, Mexico
12/17 - Romance Ocean Front One Bedroom Suite with Plunge Pool at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, Riviera Maya, Mexico
13/17 - Chiringuito Restaurant at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita, Riviera Maya, Mexico
14/17 - Mayan Riviera, Mexico
15/17 - Mayan Riviera, Mexico
16/17 - Mayan Riviera, Mexico
17/17 - Mayan Riviera – UK
