Discover the ruins, rainforest, Indian villages and beaches of the Mayan heartland

The Mayans forged a powerful and mysterious empire across southern Mexico, Guatemala and Belize and we visit several of their magnificent jungle-cloaked temples, cities and pyramids on this fascinating trip. Their legacy is also apparent in the customs, language and dress of the Indian towns and villages we pass through on our journey. As well as exploring the Mayan world, we discover lively colonial towns, active volcanoes, palm-fringed Caribbean beaches and the stunning Lake Atitlan. Episodes Newsletter - Andrew Appleyard, Exodus' International Sales Manager, writes about A Mayan Adventure (June 2009).

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Antigua. 2 Morning tour of the beautiful colonial city; afternoon drive to lakeside town of Panajachel. 3 Free day by the lake or optional boat trip. 4 Drive into Mexico; to San Cristobal de las Casas. 5 Explore the colourful city and nearby traditional Indian villages. 6 Visit Agua Azul Waterfalls; to Palenque. 7 Tour of Mayan pyramids and temples, partially hidden in the jungle; afternoon drive to Campeche. 8 Drive via impressive Mayan ruins of Uxmal to colonial Merida; afternoon walking tour of the city. 9 Visit Mexico's most famous Mayan site at Chichen Itza; continue to Tulum. 10 Visit Tulum ruins; free time on beach then drive to Bacalar. 11 Drive to Belize City then ferry to Caye Caulker. 12 Free day for relaxation or optional activities. 13 Fly to Belize City; drive to Flores in Guatemala via ruins of Xunantunich. 14 Visit impressive Tikal Mayan site; fly to Guatemala City. 15 End Guatemala City.

Mode of travel: Travel by private minibus, local ferry and internal flight.
Group size: Min. 6, max. 15, plus leader.
Accommodation: 14 nights hotels.
Food: All breakfasts included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $557.55
Trip Reference: AUR
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an "R" in the dates and prices table below.