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Operated by G Adventures

Mayan Encounter

From

CAD 1,469

Duration

12 days

Countries

Guatemala, Belize, Mexico

Activity

easy

The adventure

Trek through jungles to Mayan ruins and relax on white-sand beaches. Get an authentic taste of Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico with an adventure that combines the mystery of ancient ruins with the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. Shop for treasures along colonial Antigua's cobblestone streets and get to know the locals from communities where life sometimes moves at a reggae pace. Explore the ruins of Tikal, snorkel with stingrays, lounge in gorgeous Caye Caulker, and finish up in bustling Playa del Carmen. With accommodation and transport arranged by a Chief Experience Officer, this trip offers the perfect way to discover this region’s unique vibe.

At a glance

Duration

12 days

Route

Antigua Guatemala → Playa del Carmen

Countries

Guatemala, Belize, Mexico

Activity level

easy

Style

Beach & Islands, Culture & History, Cycling, Multi-Country / Grand Tour, Sailing & Marine, Trekking & Hiking

Group size

Ask

Flights

Not included

Solo travellers

Welcome

Where you'll go

Day by day

Stunning aerial shot of Lake Atitlán and a nearby town nestled among lush mountains.

Your journey through

Guatemala, Belize & Mexico

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalThere are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting. We recommend booking pre-accommodation to fully experience this charming city.

There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting. We recommend booking pre-accommodation to fully experience this charming city.

Day 2Travel to Rio Dulce and enjoy free time to explore

Travel to Rio Dulce and enjoy free time to explore.

Day 3Travel to the Caribbean town of Livingston by…

Travel to the Caribbean town of Livingston by scenic boat ride from Rio Dulce. Enjoy a visit to the G Adventures–supported El Manglar Restaurant for an explanation of the women-led community initiative project here. Then, walk around the grounds before a sit-down lunch of delicious local flavours. Continue on to Flores. Located on Lake Petén Itzá, this is an excellent home base for exploring nearby Tikal.

Day 4Enjoy a guided tour of the nearby Mayan…

Enjoy a guided tour of the nearby Mayan ruins of Tikal. In the afternoon, opt to relax on the lake or hang out at a café in town.

Day 5Cross the border to Belize

Cross the border to Belize. Opt to visit the sacred Mayan cave Actun Tunichil Muknal, explore the Mountain Pine Ridge area, or see the lesser-known Mayan ruins of Xunantunich.

Day 6Enjoy a free day to explore

Enjoy a free day to explore. Opt to check out nearby caves, some more Mayan sites or a local conservation project.

Day 7Travel to Belize City and catch a high-speed…Caye Caulker is a relaxed and easy going island with friendly and welcoming local residents. There are dozens of activities around the island and surrounding coral reefs. Try your hand at fishing and barbecue your catch on the beach.

Caye Caulker is a relaxed and easy going island with friendly and welcoming local residents. There are dozens of activities around the island and surrounding coral reefs. Try your hand at fishing and barbecue your catch on the beach.

Day 8Spend time enjoying this island paradise

Spend time enjoying this island paradise. Opt to go on a sailing trip to snorkel with stingrays, nurse sharks and green turtles at Hol Chan Marine Reserve. If the boats aren't your thing, just relax, Belizean-style.

Day 9Jump for joy that you get another full…

Jump for joy that you get another full day to explore Caye Caulker! Do what you didn't get to yesterday or take the day to just lay on the beach!

Day 10Say farewell to BelizePlaya del Carmen

Playa del Carmen

Say farewell to Belize, and travel by boat and private vehicle from Caye Caulker to Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Day 11Enjoy a free day to explore the Mayan…

Enjoy a free day to explore the Mayan ruins of Tulúm, or visit one of the many cenotes. Enjoy dinner at a G Adventures-supported community restaurant with a youth-focused art program.

Day 12Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time.

Depart at any time.

Traveller reviews

“The tour was excellent. I was able to do activities and visit places that I was both looking forward to and in some cases knew little about.”

“I was very impressed with my recent (first) G Adventure. Our group leaders, went completely out of their way to accommodate our needs and questions. They maintained a high level or professionalism, but didn't separate themselves from group. so it felt like they were our friends.…”