Yucatán Round Trip

Day 1: Arrival in Cancún

Welcome to the heart of the Mexican Caribbean. After landing in Cancún, collect your luggage and head to the airport exit, where our representative will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name. A comfortable transfer takes you to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and enjoy the warm evening air. In the coming days, you’ll immerse yourself in the fascinating history, stunning nature and vibrant gastronomy of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Day 2: Chichén Itzá & Yokdzonot

Today, you step into the world of the ancient Maya. Visit Chichén Itzá, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Only about thirty of the many buildings once swallowed by the jungle have been excavated and restored. The imposing El Castillo pyramid, rising 30 metres high, stands proudly at the heart of the site. Nearby, El Caracol, a spiral-shaped observatory, reveals how the Maya studied the movements of Venus.

After this cultural discovery, enjoy a refreshing dip in the Yokdzonot cenote, a spectacular natural pool surrounded by mangrove roots and 18-metre-high limestone walls. Restored by a local women’s cooperative, it’s an idyllic place to relax. For the adventurous, a zipline offers a thrilling glide above the water. Round off the visit with a meal of authentic Maya dishes, lovingly prepared by the women of the village.

Day 3: Izamal & Mérida

Today begins in Izamal, known as the “city of hills” and one of the oldest settlements in Yucatán. Once a major Maya religious centre, the town exudes a timeless atmosphere. The Kinich Kakmó pyramid, dedicated to the sun god, rises above the town’s signature yellow houses. At its heart stands the San Antonio de Padua convent, built on the ruins of a Maya temple. With its vast courtyard, it’s one of the largest religious complexes in Mexico and a fascinating symbol of cultural convergence.

You then continue to Mérida, Yucatán’s lively colonial capital. Founded in 1542, Mérida remains the cultural and economic hub of the region. Stroll through elegant streets lined with colonial mansions, admire the romantic horse-drawn carriages and notice the Spanish and French influences throughout the city, the Paseo de Montejo was modelled after the Champs-Élysées. A guided tour takes you to the city’s highlights, including the grand cathedral, the Palacio Municipal, and the Casa de Montejo, the home of Mérida’s founder.

Day 4: Mérida & Celestún

The day begins with a unique culinary adventure in one of Mérida’s lively markets. From Parque Santa Lucía, you head to a local market hall where a culinary expert introduces you to the distinctive flavours of Yucatán: fiery habanero chillies, chaya leaves, fragrant citrus fruits and the traditional Milpa Maya. Taste, smell and discover the ingredients that define this vibrant cuisine.

In the afternoon, you’ll travel to the fishing village of Celestún, on Yucatán’s northwestern coast. Here, you board a boat for a scenic trip through the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve, a true haven for nature lovers. As you glide through the mangroves, you’ll spot pink flamingos and many other bird species in their natural habitat. The excursion ends at two crystal-clear freshwater springs, the perfect spot for a refreshing swim surrounded by nature.

Day 5: Yaxcopoil & Uxmal

Today, step back in time to explore Yucatán’s colonial and pre-Columbian past. Your first stop is the beautiful Hacienda Yaxcopoil, founded in the 17th century. This historic estate tells the story of three key periods: the Maya civilisation, Spanish colonisation and the golden age of the sisal industry. Once one of the most powerful haciendas in Yucatán, it still exudes old-world grandeur through its salons, machinery and courtyards.

Next, delve into the world of the ancient Maya at Uxmal, one of the most remarkable cities of the Late Classic period. Its name means “built three times” and refers to the successive construction phases between 600 and 950 AD. The site impresses with its richly decorated façades, vast terraces, elegant columns and grand plazas. As you wander through Uxmal, you can feel the mystical aura of a civilisation whose secrets are still being uncovered.

End the day with a visit to the Ecomuseum of Cacao, where you’ll learn about the fascinating history of cacao and its spiritual significance in Maya culture. Amid lush gardens filled with plantations, orchids and local wildlife, you’ll discover traditional methods of cultivating and processing cacao. Don’t miss the chance to taste the traditional Maya cacao drink, a sweet and spicy experience known as “black gold.”

Day 6: Ek’ Balam

Today takes you to Ek’ Balam, meaning “Black Jaguar” in Maya, a lesser-known yet truly captivating archaeological site. Excavations began in 1997, revealing 45 structures across 12 km². Discoveries of jade, bone and marine materials highlight the city’s former wealth and influence. Its impressive Acropolis and intricate stucco reliefs provide a unique insight into Maya art and architecture.

A short distance away, the Xcanché cenote awaits. Hidden deep in the jungle, this 50-metre-wide natural pool can be reached via steep wooden stairs descending 15 metres, or for the adventurous, by abseiling down. As tropical birds fly overhead and fish dart through the clear waters, you’ll experience a moment of pure tranquillity. Finish the day at an authentic local restaurant for a simple, flavourful meal at fair prices.

Day 7: Río Lagartos & Valladolid

Today is all about nature and colonial charm. You’ll explore the spectacular Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, protected since 1979 and considered one of Yucatán’s natural treasures. This vast ecosystem of coastal lagoons, mangroves, marshes and salt flats is home to an incredible variety of wildlife: brine shrimp, crocodiles, sea turtles and countless birds, from herons and ospreys to pelicans and the famous pink flamingos.

A boat trip with a local Maya community takes you through mysterious mangrove channels and past the striking pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas, their unique colour created by a microalga. For a special experience, indulge in a mineral-rich mud bath, a natural wellness ritual that refreshes body and mind.

In the afternoon, you’ll discover the colonial town of Valladolid, a charming city steeped in history. Strolling through its lively streets and around the zócalo, you’ll feel the authentic soul of eastern Yucatán. Perfectly located between Cancún and Chichén Itzá, Valladolid is renowned for its churches and Franciscan convents from the 16th century, majestic witnesses to its rich heritage.

Day 8: Tulum

Your journey culminates at one of Mexico’s most iconic sites: Tulum. This ancient walled Maya city sits dramatically on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, where its ruins contrast beautifully with white sand and turquoise waters. Once a thriving port, Tulum still tells its story through remarkably preserved temples such as the Templo del Dios Descendente and the Templo de los Frescos, famed for their ancient murals.

The magic of Tulum lies in the seamless blend of history and nature, a fitting finale to your exploration of Yucatán.

Days 9 to 13: Beach Extension

Extend your trip with a relaxing stay on the Caribbean coast, where turquoise waters and white sand set the scene. You’ll stay in a carefully selected boutique hotel with direct beach access, the perfect setting to unwind and soak up the laid-back Mexican coastal vibe. It’s the ideal way to reflect and relax after an enriching journey through Yucatán’s cultural and natural wonders.

What to expect in terms of budget

The total price for this 13-day journey starts from €12,000 for two people. This includes international flights, all accommodation with breakfast, private transfers, and excursions led by an English-speaking guide. All mentioned activities and entrance fees are also included in the price.