Discovery of the Yucatan Peninsula:
Easy Cancellation Trip to Mexico

Welcome to the Mexican Caribbean! Upon your arrival in Cancun, a english-speaking guide will be waiting for you at the rental agency counter to help you collect your vehicle. You can then settle into your accommodation and get ready to discover Mexico differently.

Overnight in a hotel in Cancun.

Departure for Ek Balam. Recently explored, Ek Balam remains the major discovery in Maya archaeology from the late 20th century. You will enjoy being able to climb the steps of the pyramids to take in a breathtaking view over the surrounding jungle.

After your lunch break, depart by bicycle from the entrance to the site (1.5 km, 20 minutes) towards X’canche cenote. If luck is on your side, you may catch a glimpse of the famous Maya “Toh” bird with its shimmering colours.

Arrival in Valladolid.

On the way back from Ek Balam, drive towards Valladolid, an authentic Mexican town that is pleasant to stroll around. Enjoy the pretty pastel-coloured houses while tasting a few local dishes. We recommend longaniza, a smoked pork sausage, and having an ice cream.

Overnight in a hotel in Valladolid.

The Pink Flamingos of Rio Lagartos

Head due north to discover Rio Lagartos, a reserve with unique wildlife, featuring pink saltwater ponds — Las Coloradas — and rivers lined with mangroves, home in particular to the most spectacular colony of pink flamingos in Mexico. Set off by lancha for a photo safari, with the chance to see pelicans, ibis, cormorants, ospreys, egrets, crocodiles, and horseshoe crabs.

Overnight in a hotel in Valladolid.

This morning, depart for Uxmal, one of the major archaeological sites of the Puuc region. The site is generally visited in a quieter atmosphere than other sites in the Yucatán, allowing you to take the time to observe the details of its architecture.

Uxmal means “built three times” in Maya, although the city is thought to have gone through several phases of construction. In this drier region of the peninsula, representations of Chac, the rain god, are particularly present on the façades.

The afternoon will be dedicated to the discovery of two more secluded cenotes, located in the heart of nature. These freshwater pools offer a pleasant break after the morning visit. Depending on the time of day and the light, the sun’s rays illuminate the clear water and rocky walls, creating a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for swimming and relaxing.

Overnight in a hotel in Mérida.

After breakfast, you will set off for Campeche, a port city on the Gulf of Mexico known for its pastel-coloured façades, orderly streets, and well-preserved colonial atmosphere.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, Campeche is considered a remarkable example of fortified colonial urban planning. The city is pleasantly explored on foot, taking the time to admire its colourful houses, quiet squares, and the remains of its old city walls.

You can stroll through the historic centre, head down to the seafront malecón, and visit one of the forts that once protected the city.

Overnight in a hotel in Campeche.

Nestled in the heart of the tropical forest, Palenque offers a different approach to the great Maya sites of the Yucatán. Its architecture, lighter and more delicate, is gradually revealed among the trees, in a setting where nature is very present.

You will then take the road south, through a region where water flows down from the mountains and forms beautiful series of waterfalls, such as Misol-Ha or Agua Azul. Depending on local conditions, you may be able to enjoy a swim in one of the natural pools formed by the falls.

Overnight in a hotel in Palenque.

Early departure towards the Calakmul region, located in the state of Campeche.

Before reaching your accommodation, a stop may be planned at the small archaeological site of Balamkú. Less known than the region’s major sites, it is appreciated for its remarkably well-preserved stucco frieze, housed inside the main pyramid. This visit offers a first immersion into the Maya world of this more secluded area in the south of the peninsula.

Overnight in a hotel in Calakmul.

Early departure towards the site of Calakmul, whose name means “the two twin mountains” in Maya. Located in the heart of a vast biosphere reserve, this ancient city is explored in a very well-preserved setting, far from the most frequented routes.

The visit allows you to approach one of the major sites of the Maya world. At its peak, Calakmul was one of the great political centres of the region and the direct rival of Tikal, in Guatemala. The structures gradually appear in the middle of the forest, in a calm atmosphere where nature remains very present.

As in Tikal, wildlife is part of the experience. It is not uncommon to spot birds, monkeys, or other wild animals moving freely around the site.

After discovering Calakmul, you will take the road again towards Bacalar. Arrival at the end of the day and check-in at your accommodation, on the shores of the famous lagoon with its shades of blue.

Overnight in a hotel in Bacalar.

This day is dedicated to discovering Bacalar Lagoon during a boat tour of around 3 hours. Stretching for around fifty kilometres and bordered by mangroves, the lagoon is known for its different shades of blue, which have earned it the nickname “the lagoon of seven colours”.

On board a small boat, you will set off to explore several emblematic spots on the lagoon. The excursion notably allows you to discover three cenotes, Bird Island, as well as the canal once used by pirates during their incursions towards Bacalar.

Overnight in a hotel in Bacalar.

The morning is free in Bacalar, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lagoon one last time. You can take the time to rest, walk along the water’s edge, or simply appreciate the changing shades of the lagoon in the morning light.

You will then take the road north, towards Tulum.

Overnight in a hotel in Tulum.

This day is free to enjoy Tulum at your own pace. You can stroll along the main street, discover the small shops, stop at a café, or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this coastal town. Depending on your wishes, the day can also be spent on the beach, swimming in the Caribbean waters and relaxing on the sand.

Tulum is also a pleasant stop to taste seafood and enjoy a more seaside setting towards the end of the tour.

We recommend dedicating part of the day to visiting the archaeological site of Tulum. Set on a cliff facing the Caribbean Sea, this ancient Maya city occupies a remarkable location. Today, access is through Parque del Jaguar, a protected area that helps preserve local biodiversity. A former trading port, Tulum held a strategic position in exchanges between the Yucatán Peninsula and the rest of Mesoamerica. Its ruins, still facing the sea, continue to bear witness to the importance the city once had.

Overnight in a hotel in Tulum.