Ruta Maya

Experience the most fascinating cultural treasures of the Maya, breathtaking natural landscapes and colonial cities in three Central American countries on our 22-day round trip.

Days
22
Destinations
12
Type of journey
Group
Activities
9

Overview from the travel specialist

Hi, I'm Ignacio: The Ruta Maya is one of our most impressive round trips - it combines the fascinating world of the Maya with colonial charm and breathtaking nature. What I particularly appreciate is the perfect balance between culture and relaxation. If you want to discover Central America in all its diversity, this is the perfect trip for you."

Highlights

of your Central America round trip

Encounters with the vibrant indigenous culture in the highlands of Mexico
Fascinating reliefs and the longest hieroglyphic staircase in the Mayan world
Colonial city of Antigua with colourful alleyways, historic churches and views of the volcano
The "El Castillo" pyramid in Chichén Itzá - one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
Hike up the Pacaya volcano - surreal lava fields and sweeping views


Journey of discovery on your Central America holiday - three countries, boundless adventure

Discover the fascinating world of the Maya and the cultural diversity of Central America on this 22-day round trip. From the legendary ruins of Chichén Itzá to colonial cities such as Mérida, Campeche and Antigua to the impressive temples of Copán and Tikal - this trip is a real feast for history and culture enthusiasts.

In addition to the archaeological highlights, you will also experience breathtaking nature: from the turquoise-coloured Bacalar Lagoon to the mighty Sumidero Canyon and the mystical jungles of Guatemala. Boat tours, volcano hikes and colourful markets make for unforgettable impressions.

The route takes you through Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras - including comfortable accommodation, experienced tour guides and carefully selected activities. An ideal combination of adventure, culture and relaxation awaits you.

Day 1: Cancún

After your arrival in Cancún, you will be warmly welcomed by our tour guide. A comfortable transfer will then take you to our carefully selected hotel, where you can arrive in peace, recover from your journey and relax and get in the mood for the start of your round trip. Use the time to savour your first impressions of Mexico, perhaps on a walk along the beautiful Caribbean beach or with a refreshing drink by the pool.

Services: Overnight stay in Cancún, airport transfer

Day 2: Cancún - Chichén Itza - Mérida

Today we visit the impressive ruins of Chichén Itzá - one of the new seven wonders of the world and a masterpiece of Mayan culture. In the centre rises the famous El Castillo pyramid, an architectural symbol of the Mayan calendar.
After an extensive tour, you will have the opportunity to experience the special atmosphere of a nearby cenote. Treat yourself to a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water of the underground limestone spring.
In the afternoon, we continue our journey towards Mérida, the charming colonial city and cultural capital of the Yucatán region. Look forward to lively squares, colonial architecture and the authentic joie de vivre of this city steeped in tradition.

Services: Overnight stay in Mérida, breakfast and lunch, visit to the ruins of Chichén Itzá and a cenote

Day 3: Mérida - Celestún (optional)

Mérida inspires with its colonial charm, lively music and deeply rooted culture - especially around the picturesque Plaza Mayor, where traditional sounds and dance performances often fill the streets in the evening.
Immerse yourself in the authentic lifestyle of the Yucatán capital, which is known for its warm atmosphere, rich history and colourful architecture.

If you want to experience even more nature, you can take part in an optional excursion to the Celestún National Park. This protected natural paradise on the Gulf coast is famous for its large flamingo colonies and offers breathtaking boat trips through mangrove landscapes.

Services: Overnight stay in Mérida

Optional: Visit to the Celestún National Park

Day 4: Mérida - Uxmal - Campeche

Today's programme includes a visit to Uxmal - one of the most beautiful and best-preserved Mayan sites in Mexico. The city impresses with its harmonious Puuc-style architecture, ornately decorated facades and mystical atmosphere. The Pyramid of the Magician, with its oval shape and steep structure, is particularly fascinating and unique among the buildings of the Mayan culture.

In the afternoon we reach Campeche, a charming colonial town on the Gulf of Mexico. Colourful house facades, cobbled streets and mighty fortifications, which were once built to protect against pirates, give the town a very special flair.

Services: Overnight stay in Campeche, visit to the Uxmal ruins

Day 5: Campeche - Palenque

Today our journey takes us southwards, across the vast, tropical lowlands of the Yucatán peninsula to the state of Chiapas. During the journey, which takes around six hours, you will experience the changing landscape - from flat karst landscape to the densely forested foothills of the Sierra Madre.

In the afternoon, we finally reach Palenque - a small town at the foot of the Chiapas Mountains, which is known for its proximity to one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mayan world. Here we check into our hotel for two nights and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this place - surrounded by jungle, history and mysticism.

Services: Overnight stay in Palenque

Day 6: Palenque

In the morning, you will explore the ruins of Palenque in detail, which are famous for their ornate architecture and mysterious atmosphere. Particularly impressive are the Temple of the Inscriptions, where the tomb of the great ruler Pakal was discovered, and the Temple of the Sun with its striking rooftop.

In the afternoon, we offer you the opportunity to take an optional excursion to the Roberto Barrios waterfalls. Crystal-clear pools, rushing cascades and the opportunity for a refreshing swim await you here - perfect for a relaxing end to the day's experiences.

Services: Overnight stay in Palenque, visit to the ruins of Palenque

Day 7: Palenque - Sumidero Canyon - San Cristóbal de las Casas

We set off early and drive through beautiful landscapes. After around five hours, we stop at the impressive Sumidero Canyon. A boat tour through the narrow rocky gorges of the canyon, whose walls rise up to 1,000 metres above the water, awaits you here.

We then continue our journey and reach San Cristóbal de las Casas in the late afternoon. In this charming town at an altitude of over 2,000 metres, we check into our hotel with its colonial ambience, which perfectly reflects the special character of this traditional town.

Services: Overnight stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas, boat tour in the Sumidero Canyon

Day 8: San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas enchants visitors with its narrow streets, colourful houses and a very special atmosphere at an altitude of over 2,000 metres. The town is considered the cultural heart of Chiapas and is an ideal place to experience life in the high altitudes of Mexico in an authentic way. Visit the lively local market, where traders from the region offer handmade textiles, spices, handicrafts and fresh specialities - a feast for the senses and a wonderful insight into everyday culture.

Optionally, you have the opportunity to get to know two indigenous communities in the area: San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán. These villages are known for their deeply rooted traditions, impressive ceremonies and colourful costumes.

Services: Overnight stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas

Optional: Visit to communities in the surrounding area

Day 9: San Cristóbal - Mesilla - Lake Atitlán

Today our journey continues to Guatemala - to the picturesque Lake Atitlán, one of the most beautiful lakes in Latin America. Surrounded by three majestic volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages, this natural paradise offers a unique backdrop.

We spend two nights in the charming village of Panajachel, right on the shores of the lake - ideal for enjoying the tranquillity of nature and soaking up the special atmosphere of the region.

Services: Overnight stay in Panajachel

Day 10: Panajachel

Today you have a whole day at your disposal to discover the fascinating Lake Atitlán and its picturesque lakeside villages.

You have the option of exploring various places around the lake by boat or on foot - each place has its own character, traditional crafts and authentic insight into the life of the indigenous communities.

Services: Overnight stay in Panajachel

Day 11: Chichicastenango market - Antigua

Today we visit the famous market of Chichicastenango - a veritable sea of colour and one of the most impressive markets in Central America. Between hand-woven textiles, wood carvings, flowers and traditional masks, you will experience the vibrant Mayan culture at first hand.

We then travel on to Antigua, one of the most beautiful colonial towns in Guatemala, where we stay for two nights. The cobbled streets, baroque churches and marvellous courtyards make this UNESCO World Heritage Site a very special experience.

Services: Overnight stay in Antigua

Day 12: Pacaya volcano

An unforgettable nature experience awaits you today: a hike up the active Pacaya volcano.

The ascent leads through impressive volcanic landscapes up to the solidified lava fields, from where, with a bit of luck, you can catch a glimpse of glowing masses of rock. Once at the top, you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and volcanoes - an impressive spectacle of nature.

Services: Overnight stay in Antigua, hike up the Pacaya volcano

Day 13: Copán

Our journey today takes us to Copán in Honduras - one of the most important Mayan sites in Central America, known for its exceptionally finely crafted sculptures and impressive hieroglyphic staircases.

The archaeological site delights visitors with its elaborate stelae, temples and palaces, which offer deep insights into the world of the Maya. We spend two nights in Copán and have plenty of time to experience the fascinating atmosphere of this historic site.

Services: Overnight stay in Copán

Day 14: Copán

Today we devote ourselves entirely to exploring the ruins of Copán - a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its intricate reliefs and the longest known Mayan inscription.

The artistically designed temples, altars and the famous hieroglyphic staircase make this site a highlight of any Mayan tour.

Optionally, you can end the day with a relaxing visit to the nearby thermal springs - a soothing experience in the midst of tropical nature.

Services: Overnight stay in Copán, visit to the Copán ruins

Day 15: Río Dulce

Today we continue towards the Caribbean - we drive to Río Dulce, idyllically situated on the river of the same name near Lake Izabal.

Our accommodation invites you to linger in its relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, this is the perfect place to unwind and recharge your batteries.

Services: Overnight stay in Río Dulce

Day 16: Boat trip to Livingston (optional)

Today you have the opportunity to take part in a boat tour to Livingston - a culturally unique place with Caribbean-African influences from the Garifuna community.

Alternatively, there are other optional activities available to you, such as kayaking on the Río Dulce or hiking through the tropical surroundings. If you want to take it easy, you can spend the day relaxing by the hotel pool.

Services: Overnight stay in Río Dulce

Optional: Boat trip to Livingston

Day 17: Flores

Our journey continues to Flores, one of the most famous and picturesque places in Guatemala, located on a small island in Lake Petén-Itzá - surrounded by the lush jungle of the El Petén region.

On arrival, you will have time to stroll through the charming alleyways of the old town, admire the colonial architecture and enjoy the relaxed everyday life on the lakeshore.

Services: Overnight stay in Flores

Day 18: Tikal

Early in the morning, we visit the legendary Mayan site of Tikal - a magical moment when the Gran Plaza is shrouded in morning mist and the imposing temples slowly emerge from the jungle.

A special highlight is the ascent to Temple IV, from the top of which a breathtaking view opens up over the endless canopy of the rainforest - an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Mayan world.

Services: Overnight stay in Flores, visit to the Tikal ruins

Day 19: Tikal - Bacalar

Today we return to Mexico via Belize and travel on to Bacalar - a charming little town that is famous for its beautiful lagoon of seven colours. The water here shimmers in fascinating shades of blue and turquoise, depending on the depth and sunlight.

We spend the night in a cosy hotel right by the lagoon - the perfect place to enjoy the tranquillity and take in the natural beauty of this special region.

Services: Overnight stay in Bacalar

Day 20: Bacalar

Today you have a relaxing day at the beautiful lagoon of Bacalar at your disposal.

If you wish, you can take part in optional activities such as kayaking, swimming or visiting the nearby cenotes - crystal-clear freshwater springs that invite you to explore and cool off. Or you can simply enjoy the tranquillity of the water and take in the colours of the lagoon.

Services: Overnight stay in Bacalar

Day 21: Bacalar - Tulum - Playa del Carmen

On the way to Playa del Carmen, we stop at the impressive Mayan site of Tulum - uniquely situated on a cliff directly above the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea. The combination of archaeological significance and fantastic views makes this place one of the most beautiful photo opportunities in Mexico.

We then continue to Playa del Carmen, the last stop on our round trip. The lively coastal town invites you to relax, stroll around and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere.

Services: Overnight stay in Playa del Carmen, visit to the Tulum ruins and the Jaguar Park

Day 22: Goodbye, Mexico!

Enjoy your last morning in Mexico in Playa del Carmen - perhaps with a leisurely stroll along the beach or a last coffee with a view of the sea.

You will then be transferred in comfort to the airport in Cancún, where you will start your return journey - with unforgettable impressions and experiences of a fascinating round trip through Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras in your luggage.

Services: Airport transfer


What is included in your round trip?

Transfer

In air-conditioned vehicles

Tour guide

Accompanied by a qualified English-speaking guide

24/7 availability

We are available around the clock if you have any questions!

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner as indicated

Accommodation

In selected, comfortable hotels

Included

Sightseeing tours in the specified cities including transfers

Plan your dream holiday

Don't miss the chance to make your dream trip a reality! Contact our experienced travel consultants now and let them inspire and advise you for your trip.

Your travel expert

Exclusive additions

  • International flights
  • Entry visa
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions and services
  • Travel insurance
  • Return transfer

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All important travel information

Visit our travel information page and discover everything you need to know for your upcoming trips to Central America. Here you will find details on the best time to travel, information on time changes and recommendations for important health precautions you should take before you leave.

We have compiled all the necessary information for you to ensure that your stay in Central America is pleasant and smooth. You can also find out more about local customs, safety advice and tips for an authentic and unforgettable stay.

Travel information Central America