Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Mayan Ruins & Cenotes
Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Mayan Ruins & Cenotes
$2999
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, where ancient Mayan history meets natural wonders. Begin your adventure in Playa del Carmen, then marvel at the iconic pyramid of Chichen Itzá and explore the colonial charm of Valladolid. Experience the traditional life at a working hacienda, savoring local delicacies like Cochinita Pibil. Cycle through the jungle to discover hidden cenotes, and choose between exploring the ruins of Uxmal or kayaking in the Celestún Biosphere. In Tulum, wander the seaside archaeological site and immerse yourself in the stunning Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, where you can float through mangrove forests and spot diverse wildlife. With a mix of guided tours and free time, this small group tour offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Playa del Carmen: Welcome to the Yucatan Peninsula
Location: Playa del Carmen
Accommodation: Hotel Thompson
Accommodation Name: Hotel Thompson
Meals Included: Dinner
Sitting on a stretch of white sand beach along the Mayan Riviera, Playa del Carmen bursts with energy and international travellers. Strolling the pedestrian Quinta Avenida takes you past seemingly endless shops, bars and restaurants with the beach and blue sea just beyond. We welcome you to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, and invite you to embrace the landscapes, history and incredible food that this region has to offer. ...more ...less
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.
TRANSPORT: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
ACTIVITY: EVENING Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Valladolid: Visit Chichen Itzá
Location: Chichen Itzá, Valladolid
Accommodation: Le Muuch Hotel
Accommodation Name: Le Muuch Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
At the first glimpse of the massive pyramid at Chichen Itzá, you'll see why photos can't properly do it justice as you appreciate the sheer size and craftsmanship. Duck between the shade of trees to escape the blazing sun and explore what was a massive Mayan city, one of the most important in the region in its heyday. Jungle surrounds the site along with giant sinkholes in the limestone called cenotes, leading to the vast network of underground rivers, all of which played an important part in the cosmology and daily lives of the Maya inhabitants.
Travel inland for a guided tour of Chichen Itzá archaeological site before enjoying a delicious typical lunch nearby. Continue to the town of Valladolid and set off on a CEO-led orientation walk before enjoying a free evening.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: EVENING Marvel at Valladolid’s colonial buildings, which includes a 16th-century convent of San Bernardino of Siena, and the San Gervasio Cathedral. Walk through the streets of town with your CEO and smell the delicious aromas from the street food vendors. Opt to sample some delicious treats and get to know this vibrant Mayan town.
ACTIVITY: Join up with a local expert and learn about the history of Chichén Itzá and the beliefs and rituals that defined this ancient Mayan civilization. This dramatic site includes a 30m (98 ft) high temple, known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan, famous for its balustrade of 91 stairs up each of the four sides, a ball court with a grandstand, and towering walls. Visit the highlights of the site including the famous Castillo, the ball court, the cenote, and the Nunnery and then transfer to nearby Pisté for lunch at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Mérida hacienda: A Living Ranch
Location: Yucatan Peninsula
Accommodation Name: Hacienda Sotuta de Peón
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In many ways life at a working ranch (hacienda) mirrors what it would have been like hundreds of years ago, using traditional techniques in agriculture and raising livestock. The harvesting of henequen, a type of agave plant known locally as "green gold" is important in all sorts of practical ways as the fibres are used to make ropes, twine and even local spirits.
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.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Learn all about the traditional techniques of the preparation of cochinita pibil, one of the region's most beloved and delicious dishes. The method involves marinating pork in citruc and adding annatto seed which gives it a deep red colour, before then wrapping it in a banana leaf and slow-roasting it underground beneath a hot fire. Not into pork or meat? No problem, there are plenty of other delicious local delicacies available.
ACTIVITY: Wander the hacienda grounds on a private tour with the staff. Sip on a welcome drink, learn the history of the ranch, see all of the work being done to keep everything running smoothly, visit the rope making factory, and a nearby cenote for some optional swimming.
FREE TIME: Spend the remainder of the afternoon on your own at the hacienda enjoying the amenities and the beautiful natural surroundings.
Day 4: Mérida Hacienda: Cenotes
Location: Mérida
Accommodation: Hacienda Sotuta de Peón
Accommodation Name: Hacienda Sotuta de Peón
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pedaling through the jungle, you'll approach a giant hole in the earth filled with clear blue water that beckons you to take a break from the heat in the cool, fresh water. This part of the Yucatán is littered with these iconic landmarks that were so sacred to the Maya and serve as the perfect way to cool off and swim. The nearby city of Merida serves as the capital city of the Yucatán and embodies a unique cultural heritage of the indigenous cultures and the Spanish who settled here in the 1500s.
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.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle as you travel from the hacienda to the Santa Barbara Cenote Complex.
ACTIVITY: Head out in the morning from the hacienda into the jungle to a state reserve that is full of cenotes, natural sinkholes in the earth that were sacred to the ancient Maya. Cycle between 3 of them and swim in the crystal clear water to cool off from the heat before a delicious lunch, then continue to Mérida in the afternoon.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle as you travel back to Merida from your cenotes excursion for your city tour with a local guide.
ACTIVITY: This afternoon you will embark on a short city tour of Mérida with a local guide. This vibrant capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán is rich in Mayan and colonial influences. See the city's focal point Plaza de la Independencia, the fortresslike Mérida Cathedral, and the white limestone Iglesia de la Tercera Orden as you learn the layout of the city.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 5: Mérida hacienda: Your OMG Day
Location: Uxmal, Celestún Biosphere
Accommodation: Hacienda Sotuta de Peón
Accommodation Name: Hacienda Sotuta de Peón
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Mayan ruins of Uxmal may not be as well-known as Chichen Itzá but they are similarly spectacular and with less visitors. If you're looking for something more active, then perhaps a kayaking trip in the Celestún Biosphere may hold more interest, the choice is yours. Flexibility is the order of the day for you to experience the Yucatan on your own terms.
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.
ACTIVITY: Option 1: Visit the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, almost as spectacular as Chichen Itzá, but far less well-known. Enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site, see the Pyramid of the Magician, and visit nearby Kabah, one of three neighbouring sites.
Option 2: Dip those paddles in the water and Kayak in the Celestún Biosphere. This wetland happens to be the winter home of flocks of flamingos and other bird species that migrate here. The biosphere is also the hatching ground for endangered sea turtles.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Once your morning activities come to an end, you will return to the hacienda and enjoy free time on the grounds to relax or cool off in the pool.
Day 6: Tulum: Seaside Coastal Ruins
Location: Tulum
Accommodation: Nomade Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kimpton Aluna Tulum
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
What was once a small unknown town on the Mayan Riviera has now become the next big thing. The ruins themselves are one of the very few Mayan site lying along the coast, and in its day Tulum was an important outpost for trade and for strategic positioning. The azure blue water and white sand beaches make it one of the most beautiful places you have ever seen.
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.
ACTIVITY: The Maya built the ancient seaport of Tulúm in the late 13th century. Located some 130 km (80 mi) south of Cancun, this picturesque site features a number of limestone structures protected on three sides by a 7m (23 ft) thick wall. Visit the ruins and admire the impressive array of structures in a picturesque setting overlooking the aquamarine waters.
FREE TIME: After checking into the hotel in Tulum, you will have free time to relax and grab some dinner on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 7: Tulum: Explore the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Location: Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Accommodation: Nomade Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kimpton Aluna Tulum
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meaning "The Place Where the Sky is Born," the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is one of the most beautiful places along Mexico's Caribbean coast, designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site for its vast biodiversity and wetlands. Explore by boat along a network of canals dug out by the Mayans and search for wildlife like monkeys, crocodiles and tropical birds. Cool off in the the crystal clear water of one of the canals as you float past Mayan ruins and mangrove forests.
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.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is one of Mexico’s most important protected areas due to its diversity in bird and animal species. The Reserve uses ecologically responsible technologies, including systems for wetland waste management, rainwater collection, and solar and wind energy generation to protect the environment. Visit the reserve and take a boat ride across the lagoon before hopping into the crystal clear water of one of the canals. Next, enjoy nature's lazy river as you float past Mayan ruins and mangrove forests, letting the current slowly bring you down stream.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, return to the hotel and spend free time on your own before dinner this evening with the group.
Day 8: Tulum
Location: Tulum
Meals Included: Breakfast
The adventure finishes today, and you can depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (4 nts), Historic Working Hacienda (3 nts). -
Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group upon arrival.
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Traditional Cochinita Pibil Meal Experience
Enjoy a traditional Cochinita Pibil meal in Sotuta de Peón.
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Visit Uxmal or Kayak in the Celestún Biosphere
Choose between a visit to Uxmal or a kayaking experience in the Celestún Biosphere.
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Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Receive a complimentary transfer from the airport upon arrival.
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Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a welcome dinner with your group.
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Guided Tour of Chichen Itzá
Participate in a guided tour of the Chichen Itzá archaeological site.
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CEO-led Orientation Walk in Valladolid
Join a CEO-led orientation walk in Valladolid.
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Tour of a Working Agave Hacienda
Experience a tour of a working agave hacienda.
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Excursion to Cycle Between and Swim in Cenotes
Take part in an excursion to cycle between and swim in cenotes.
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City Tour of Mérida
Enjoy a city tour of Mérida.
What's Not Included
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Quintana Roo Tourist Tax
An approximately $45 USD tourist tax at Cancún International Airport may apply, usually included in international tickets.
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Meals Not Included
Meals are generally not included when there is a choice of eating options to provide flexibility.
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Personal Spending
Personal spending on drinks, shopping, and tipping is not included.
Accommodation
Enjoy a comfortable stay in hotels for 4 nights and experience the charm of a historic working hacienda for 3 nights, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional Mexican hospitality.
Transport
Private vehicle, boat, walking.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. On truck trips in Africa, aboard the expedition ship Explorer or our Galapagos yachts, while trekking in remote regions etc. food is included, plentiful and made of fresh local ingredients. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with private vehicles, explore the serene waters by boat, and enjoy leisurely walks, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey throughout the Yucatán Peninsula.
Important Notes
ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
QUINTANA ROO TOURIST TAX
Please note there may be an approximately $45 USD tourist tax at Cancún International Airport, however it is usually included in international tickets. Please verify with your airline if the departure tax is included in your airfare.
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Group Leader
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEOs), a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What is the significance of the cenotes in the Yucatán Peninsula?
Cenotes are natural sinkholes in the earth that were sacred to the ancient Maya. They serve as a perfect way to cool off and swim, and are part of a vast network of underground rivers that played an important part in the cosmology and daily lives of the Maya inhabitants.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve?
During the visit to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, you will explore by boat along a network of canals dug out by the Mayans. You can search for wildlife like monkeys, crocodiles, and tropical birds, and cool off in the crystal clear water of one of the canals as you float past Mayan ruins and mangrove forests. ...more ...less
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What activities are included in the visit to the hacienda in Mérida?
At the hacienda in Mérida, you will have a traditional meal of Cochinita Pibil, take a tour of the facilities to learn about the history of henequen production, and have free time to relax. You can also enjoy a private tour of the hacienda grounds, visit the rope making factory, and swim in a nearby cenote. ...more ...less
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What are the options for the 'OMG Day' in Mérida?
On the 'OMG Day' in Mérida, you have the option to either visit the Mayan ruins of Uxmal for a guided tour or go kayaking in the Celestún Biosphere, which is home to flocks of flamingos and other bird species, as well as being a hatching ground for endangered sea turtles.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) during the tour?
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) accompanies the group trips to take the hassle out of your travels and help you have the best trip possible. They provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. They have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. ...more ...less
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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May 31, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula: Mayan Ruins & Cenotes
8 Days Starting in Playa del Carmen, Mexico and ending in Tulum, Mexico
Visiting: Playa del Carmen, Chichen Itzá, Valladolid, Yucatan Peninsula, Mérida, Uxmal, Celestún Biosphere, Tulum, Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25956
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 16
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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