A varied exploration of the highlands, Mayan ruins and tropical lowlands of Guatemala, Belize and Mexico

The Mayan Empire once stretched across this whole region, and left behind a legacy of impressive cities, temples and pyramids. On this trip we cycle to the stunning jungle-cloaked ruins of Tikal, explore the "New Seventh Wonder" of Chichen Itza, and stay near the attractive clifftop ruins of Tulum. We also ride through traditional Mayan Indian villages close to Lake Atitlan, discovering a way of life that has remained virtually unchanged for hundreds of years, and cycle along Mexico's Caribbean coast. As well as lots of interesting cycling, we also find time to climb an active volcano, shop for textiles and handicrafts in the colourful local markets of Guatemala and relax on the pristine beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Antigua. 2 To Chichicastenango market; transfer to Lake Atitlan for warm-up ride. 3 Explore Lake Atitlan by boat and bike, visiting several small villages. 4 Ride past Atitlan and Toliman volcanoes towards the Pacific coast, visiting a coffee farm; transfer to Antigua. 5 Cycle through the villages surrounding colonial Antigua; transfer to Rio Dulce on Caribbean coast. 6 Drive to San Andres Peten and ride along the shores of Lake Peten Itza and towards Mayan temples at Tikal. 7 Cycle to Mayan ruins of Uaxactun and return by bike to Tikal. 8 Ride back to Lake Peten Itza; enjoy a refreshing dip then drive to Belize border; cycle to Xunantunich ruins and along back roads to San Ignacio. 9 Ride along quiet logging roads in the cloud forest, stopping at waterfalls and quiet swimming holes. 10 Cycle past small villages and through farmland to Belmopan; transfer to Corozal. 11 Ride to the Mexican border and drive to the beautiful beach at Tulum. 12 Explore the Yucatan back country and visit a cenote; afternoon free to visit clifftop Mayan city or relax on the beach. 13 Free day in Tulum. 14 Drive from Tulum to colonial Merida with a stop at impressive Chichen Itza ruins. 15 End Merida.

Mode of travel: Average daily distance: 55km (34 miles)No. of days cycling: 11 (plus 1 optional)Vehicle support: 100% vehicle support.Terrain and route: surface: 90% tarmac, 10% groomed dirt road. Some moderate climbs in highlands. Route follows mainly quiet roads.
Group size: Min. 6, max. 14, plus leader and driver.
Accommodation: 14 nights hotels.
Food: All breakfasts and 8 lunches included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $340.20
Trip Reference: MUG
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an "R" in the dates and prices table below.