Maya Encounter
< View Other Tours
Tour Overview
Dive into a 13-day adventure through Central America, from the calming sea breezes of Playa del Carmen's beaches to the magnificent Mayan ruins of Tikal. On this journey to Mexico, Guatemala and Belize, amble down the coast to the island paradise of Caye Caulker, cut inland to the lush jungle around San Ignacio, cruise to the vast Rio Dulce, watch a pottery demonstration using ancient Maya techniques and finish under the volcano in Antigua. On this trip, you’ll get the right balance of local-led experiences and independent exploration in a whole load of incredible places ready to be discovered.
Trip Code: QBSA
Start
Playa del Carmen
End
Antigua
Destination
Guatemala
Meals
5 breakfasts, 0 dinners
Transport
Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi, Shared Boat, Ferry
Accommodation
Hotel (10 nights), Lodge (2 nights)
Days
13
Max Group Size
Min 1 - Max 16
Min Age
15
Style
Originali
Physical
2i
Trip Highlights
Why you'll love this trip
- •
Spend three days exploring the island paradise of Caye Caulker – munch on barbecued lobster, snorkel around a coral reef, nap under palm trees, go kayaking or just kick back with a couple of worry-free beach days.
- •
Dig deeper into Maya history, opting to visit lesser-known ruins and a mystical Maya cave complex around San Ignacio – a vibrant market town near the Belize-Guatemala border.
- •
See some of the most significant remnants of the ancient Maya civilisation – plus an array of local wildlife, including coatis and howler monkeys – during a guided tour of Tikal National Park.
- •
Cruise up the Rio Dulce to your waterfront jungle lodge, a serene escape where the sounds of nature fill the air.
- •
Float along the river to Livingston, where the local culture is heavily influenced by the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna population. After a scenic boat ride, you’ll walk around the colourful town, watch the fishermen by the docks and join the locals for a dance class.
Day by Day Itinerary
Itinerary
What's Included
Inclusions and activities
Meals
5 breakfasts, 0 dinners
Transport
Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi, Shared Boat, Ferry
Accommodation
Hotel (10 nights), Lodge (2 nights)
Included activities
- Playa del Carmen - Cenote Azul visit
- Bacalar - Beach club entry
- Caye Caulker - Leader-led orientation walk
- Caye Caulker - Cooking Class
- San Ignacio - Leader-led orientation walk
Optional activities
Is This Trip Right for You?
Is this trip right for you?
- •
There are some long travelling days on this trip, but it’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.
- •
This trip requires a moderate level of fitness as it involves some walking and swimming, allowing you to really get among nature. Please bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit and comfortable clothing.
- •
Multiple activities on this trip are subject to weather and water conditions and on occasion, may be cancelled for safety or operational reasons. In the case of cancellation, we will endeavour to find a suitable replacement activity.
Photo Gallery
No Images Available
Images for this tour are currently being updated.
Book this trip
Select a departure date and we'll lock in your spot with our travel team.
QBSA · 13 days
Choose your departure
0 dates · Mexico → Guatemala
No departures match
Try another year or month
Booking
Pick a date
Select a departure on the left to continue.
Questions About This Tour?
Our travel experts are here to help you plan the perfect adventure. Get in touch for personalized advice and recommendations.