Sustainable tourism in Mexico : a 16 day tour in Yucatan

Welcome to Mexico! Upon arrival at Cancún Airport, a French-speaking representative will meet you at the car rental counter and assist you with collecting your vehicle.

You will also receive a local SIM card to make getting around easier and stay connected throughout your trip.

Overnight at a hotel in Cancún.

Cette excursion d’une journée vous invite à explorer les trois grandes zones écologiques de la réserve de Biosphère de Sian Ka’an, un joyau naturel classé au Patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO depuis 1987. L’aventure débute par une immersion dans la forêt tropicale humide, où vous découvrirez une riche biodiversité tout au long du parcours. Ce site exclusif, loin des foules, offre une expérience intime et privilégiée au cœur de cet écosystème complexe et fascinant
En chemin, plusieurs cenotes se dévoilent.

Nuit dans un hôtel à Tulum

After breakfast, you set off for a self-guided visit to the Tulum archaeological site, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It witnessed the arrival of the first Spanish settlers in 1518, when Juan de Grijalva, a Spanish conquistador, dropped anchor on the beach before the astonished eyes of the Batab (the Mayan governor at the time). Explore this ancient port (the only known one), built in 1200 and abandoned at the end of the 16th century.

After your visit, continue south to Bacalar, famous for its Lagoon of Seven Colors, where the shades of blue change with the light.

Overnight at a hotel in Bacalar.

Stretching 50 kilometers in length and just 2 kilometers in width, the lagoon is surrounded by a beautiful mangrove forest. Its incredible variations in shades of blue have earned it the nickname “Lagoon of Seven Colors.”

After one hour of kayaking, you enter the mangroves of the hidden lagoon. Surrounded by peace and quiet, you can observe various species of birds and, if you’re lucky, snakes, tapirs, or even crocodiles. You paddle through the canal before returning to Bacalar Lagoon.

Overnight at a hotel in Bacalar.

Today, you head towards the Calakmul region, home to numerous outstanding archaeological sites. You stop in the village of 20 de Noviembre, whose population is almost entirely of Peninsular Mayan origin.

You will visit several craft workshops or take part in activities such as stone carving, woodworking, hammock weaving, or embroidery. A wonderful opportunity to exchange and connect with the local community!

Overnight at a hotel in Chicanna.

Early departure for the Calakmul archaeological site, located in the state of Campeche, within a biosphere reserve home to a large number of jaguars. Still relatively unknown to the general public, this site is one of the treasures of Mayan culture and, at its peak, was a direct rival of Tikal in Guatemala. As in Tikal, it is possible to observe wild animals roaming freely around the site (toucans, monkeys, and ocellated turkeys). Jaguars are more likely to appear at night, but you never know!

After this immersion in history and nature, you head towards Isla Aguada, on the Gulf of Mexico coast.

Overnight at a hotel in Isla Aguada.

Your experience will immerse you in enchanting surroundings during a two-hour boat excursion. This adventure will take you to three exceptional sites. First, you will have the opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat, the Términos Lagoon. You will then continue to Bird Island, a fascinating place for nature lovers. Finally, you will end your excursion on a small white sand island, isolated in the middle of the lagoon, where you can relax before returning to the village.

Overnight at a hotel in Campeche.

You head towards Uxmal via Kabah, part of the famous Ruta Puuc, which includes the sites of Kabah, Labná, Sayil, and Uxmal. In the Yucatec Mayan language, the word Puuc means “mountain” and refers to a series of low hills that stretch across the region. These sites are all the more enjoyable because they attract very few visitors.

Then continue to Santa Elena.

Overnight at a hotel in Santa Elena.

Departure for the Uxmal archaeological site. The site is peaceful and rarely crowded… you’re sure to love it! Uxmal means “Built Three Times” in Mayan, but it was actually built five times. The region is very dry, and images of the rain god, Chac, are everywhere.

After visiting Uxmal, you head to Gladys’ home in the village of Santa Elena for an introduction to traditional Yucatecan cooking.

You will learn the secrets behind the best recipes and, of course, make your own tortillas by hand.

Overnight at a hotel in Santa Elena.

Visit Mérida, the capital of Yucatan. Despite its rapid economic development, the city has retained its enchanting colonial charm and strong personality. Its many historical monuments are beautifully preserved, while its pleasant little squares invite you to enjoy a drink to the sound of a marimba orchestra.

Its handicraft market offers a wide range of souvenirs: the famous huipiles, colorful embroidered women’s tunics, an authentic Panama hat, or a traditional Yucatecan hammock made from pure cotton.

Then head towards Izamal, where you will spend the night.

Overnight at a hotel in Izamal.

Swimming at Yokdzonot Cenote

After breakfast, set off to visit Yokdzonot Cenote, off the beaten track, where swimming is possible. This natural pool offers a pleasant setting for a refreshing swim.

Chichen Itza, a Mayan Wonder

Built by the Mayans and later modified by the Toltecs, Chichen Itza symbolizes the unification of the two religious cultures. At its peak, the largest archaeological site in Yucatan was the peninsula’s main religious center.

Then head east towards Valladolid.

Overnight at a hotel in Valladolid.

Spend the day in the Xocen community, where you will learn about the traditions and way of life of Mayan descendants.

You will have the opportunity to meet several artisans from the village. You will be accompanied by an English/Spanish-speaking guide who will translate for you, as all the inhabitants here speak Mayan.

You will observe and learn how traditional handicrafts are made, including embroidery, cotton spinning, and wood carving, among others. We will also take a walk along the Xocen trail to discover traditional Yucatecan medicinal plants. Finally, you will enjoy a delicious traditional dish from the community.

In the early afternoon, you will set off again to visit one or more cenotes on the way to Valladolid, such as Xkeken or Samula.

Overnight at a hotel in Valladolid.

Today, discover the hidden charm of San Felipe, Yucatan, a picturesque fishing village surrounded by the beauty of the Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. Its colorful wooden houses, fascinating mangroves, and abundant wildlife make this place a tourist gem worth exploring.

Boat Tour in the Rio Lagartos Reserve

Enjoy a boat trip through the reserve to a submerged trail in the mangrove forest, where you can admire the ecosystem’s biodiversity. You will then visit the archaeological remains of Isla Cerritos, which now serve as a habitat for the region’s birds. Finally, you can relax at Punta Nichili, an island located less than one kilometer from the town, whose limited access provides an ideal natural setting for enjoying the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Then head to the small paradise-like village of El Cuyo.

Overnight at a hotel in El Cuyo.

A Peaceful haven called El Cuyo

Enjoy the beautiful beaches of El Cuyo, a little corner of paradise still largely unknown to the general public.

The village is a favorite destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts, offering the perfect opportunity to try an introductory lesson!

Overnight at a hotel in El Cuyo.

After these 16 days of discovering Mayan sites, natural areas, and meeting local people, you head back towards Cancún.

Return your rental car at the airport, allowing enough time before your return flight.

¡Hasta pronto, México!