Pre-Columbian Experience in Guatemala and Mexico | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Pre-Columbian Experience in Guatemala and Mexico

PRIVATE TOUR - 13 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 7468

Private Tour Highlights

  • City tour of Antigua, once the seat of the Spanish military in much of Central America
  • Cover the architectural and historical highlights of the colonial city of Antigua
  • Behind-the-scenes look at many ruined churches, convents and cathedrals
  • Flexible- If there are any specific places that one wishes to see, just let Yampu know!
  • Scenic boat ride across the lake, passing by three impressive volcanoes
  • See local shamans performing rituals for local people
  • Hire the services of a shaman for a personal ceremony
  • See markets and learn about the distinctive textiles and the area’s famous primitive art
  • Visit the impressive and mystical Maya city of Tikal and hear the sounds of the rainforest
  • Walk through the same paths as the great Mayan Lords
  • Feel the charm and mystery of the great Mayan culture
  • Tour of the Native villages with their own distinctive highland dress
  • The enormous Sumidero Canyon where travelers will enjoy a boat ride down the Grijalva River
  • Climb the Oracle’s Pyramid with spectacular views of the entire ancient city of Uxmal
  • The ancient archeological site of the famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

This trip will take you to Guatemala where we will see Lake Atitlán, the deepest lake in Central America and the Mayan towns of the surrounding area. Then to Tikal, the largest site of remaining Mayan ruins set deep in the Guatemalan rainforest. We then travel to Mexico to visit Palenque, where Mayan lords once ruled the land. Then, follow winding jungle roads to the highlands to visit San Cristobal de las Casas. Afterwards, we head north to Uxmal and the pyramids of Chichen-Itza.

Inclusions
Price includes domestic airfare from Guatemala City to Flores and Tuxtla Gutierrez to Mérida, hotel accommodation with daily continental breakfast, guided tours in English, meals where specified, entrance fees, transportation between hotels, transfers between airport and hotel, naturalist guides and taxes. Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at the time of ticketing are already included in the quote (if airfare has been included in the quote)
Best Time to Travel
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JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

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Package Price: From £$ 7468

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

Antigua- Guatemala

Upon arrival in Guatemala City, private transfer to the selected hotel in Antigua Guatemala (commonly referred to as La Antigua or just Antigua).

Upon arrival in Guatemala City, private transfer to the selected hotel in Antigua Guatemala (commonly referred to as La Antigua or just Antigua).

antigua-guatemela-church
Day
2

Morning private tour of Antigua

For more than 200 years, Antigua was the seat of the Spanish military in much of Central America. Be met at the hotel at 9 a.m. by the private guide to begin a half-day walking tour of Antigua. This tour will cover the architectural and historical highlights of this colonial city with a behind-the-scenes look at some of its many ruined churches, convents and cathedrals. Entrance fees are included to the Iglesia San Francisco, the Cathedral, Central Park and La Merced Church. This tour is flexible, and if anyone has specific places that they wish to see, please let Yampu know. At the end of the tour, transfer to the hotel in Lake Atitlan. ...read less

LandingPage-Guatemala-Antigua
Day
3

Santiago Atitlan

Be picked up from your hotel for a scenic boat ride across the lake, passing by the three impressive volcanoes of Toliman, Atitlan and San Pedro. Upon arrival in Santiago, you will walk with your guide to find the house where the Maya God Maximon is said to reside. Each year a different “brotherhood” has the privilege of taking care of their God, so his location changes. Once with Maximon, you may see local shamans performing rituals for local people. If you wish, you can ask your guide to help you hire the services of a shaman for you to have a personal ceremony performed. Next you will visit the local church and learn about the history of this very traditional town, and also see the market and learn about the distinctive textiles and the area’s famous primitive art. Take a ride in the back of a “flete” (a pickup truck in which people stand in the bed and are taken around town, often at high rates of speed) to get to Hotel Posada Santiago for lunch. After lunch, transfer to Antigua for overnight. ...read less

Lake-Aititlan-Guatemala
Day
4

Guatemala City- Flores

Early morning, transfer to Guatemala City airport to take the flight to Flores. Upon arrival, visit the impressive and mystical Maya city of Tikal. One of its largest buildings is the Temple of the Two-headed Serpent, which measures up to 70 meters high. From its peak, one can hear the sounds of the rainforest with more than 300 species of birds, howler monkeys, ocelots, and jaguars. Due to its immense value, Tikal was declared a World Heritage Center by UNESCO in 1979. Overnight in Peten. Lunch included.

Early morning, transfer to Guatemala City airport to take the flight to Flores. Upon arrival, visit the impressive and mystical Maya city of Tikal. One of its largest buildings is the Temple of the Two-headed Serpent, which measures up to 70 meters high. From its peak, one can hear the sounds of the rainforest with more than 300 species of birds, howler monkeys, ocelots, and jaguars. Due to its immense value, Tikal was declared a World Heritage Center by UNESCO in 1979. Overnight in Peten. Lunch included.

Day
5

Day of Leisure in Flores

Optional guided canopy tour to Ixpanpajul and sunset tour to Yaxha.

Optional guided canopy tour to Ixpanpajul and sunset tour to Yaxha.

Hotel-Peten-Sunset
Day
6

Palenque

Transfer to Palenque and overnight there. Ground transfer from Flores to Palenque takes about 8 to 9 hours.

Transfer to Palenque and overnight there. Ground transfer from Flores to Palenque takes about 8 to 9 hours.

Mexico_Ruins_jungle_Palenque
Day
7

Archeological site of Palenque

Walk through the same paths as the great Mayan Lords, and feel the charm and mystery of this culture. The Mayan site of Palenque is located northwest of the Maya lowlands in Chiapas, Mexico. Surrounded by the jungle, it is among the most important archeological sites of Mesoamerica, a ceremonial center and home to a number of Mayan Lords. There are religious temples, plazas, open courts and a ball court, but most of the structures are palaces. Artifacts discovered at this site tell us about the Mayan Lords and in particular of Pacal, one of the best-known Lords of the Mayan civilization. Overnight in Palenque. ...read less

Day
8

San Cristobal de las Casas

Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes to San Cristobal de las Casas. On the way, visit the Agua Azul waterfalls.

Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes to San Cristobal de las Casas. On the way, visit the Agua Azul waterfalls.

agua-azul-Mexico
Day
9

Native Villages

Today, enjoy a half-day tour of the Native villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Each village has its own distinctive highland dress as well as a weekly market and numerous festivals honoring patron saints and other special religious days. Afterwards, walk through the colonial streets of San Cristobal de las Casas, a jewel right in the heart of the Chiapas highlands. The indigenous soul of the town coexists harmoniously with its colonial charm, making it an enchanting place to visit.

Today, enjoy a half-day tour of the Native villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Each village has its own distinctive highland dress as well as a weekly market and numerous festivals honoring patron saints and other special religious days. Afterwards, walk through the colonial streets of San Cristobal de las Casas, a jewel right in the heart of the Chiapas highlands. The indigenous soul of the town coexists harmoniously with its colonial charm, making it an enchanting place to visit.

Mexico-dance
Day
10

Sumidero Canyon

Depart San Cristobal de las Casas toward the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport. On the way, there is a visit to the enormous Sumidero Canyon where travelers will enjoy a boat ride. Have an unforgettable experience sailing down the Grijalva River, across a geological fault formed millions of years ago, with dramatic cliffs up to one kilometer high and the river’s depth of 100 meters. Arrive at the airport for a flight to Merida. Upon arrival in the “white city,” transfer to the hotel.

Depart San Cristobal de las Casas toward the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport. On the way, there is a visit to the enormous Sumidero Canyon where travelers will enjoy a boat ride. Have an unforgettable experience sailing down the Grijalva River, across a geological fault formed millions of years ago, with dramatic cliffs up to one kilometer high and the river’s depth of 100 meters. Arrive at the airport for a flight to Merida. Upon arrival in the “white city,” transfer to the hotel.

sumidero-canyon-mexico
Day
11

Uxmal and Kabah

Enjoy today’s excursion to the wonderful archeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah. Uxmal was probably built around 700 A.D. The rich, green, fertile land provides a perfect setting for some of the most magnificent pyramids, buildings and temples of the ancient Mayan world. Travelers can sense history here while walking around and gaze at the stunning architecture and layout of this old city. The Piramide del Adivino (the Oracle’s Pyramid) stands majestically above other buildings, and a climb to its summit will reward with spectacular views of the entire half-square-mile ancient city. Kabah is located south of Uxmal as both archaeological sites are connected by a grand 18-kilometer-long pedestrian causeway with monumental arches at each end. Kabah is the second largest ruin of the Puuc region, after Uxmal. The most famous structure at the Kabah ruins is the Palacio de las Mascaras (the Palace of the Masks), its facade decorated with hundreds of stone masks of the long-nosed rain god Chaac. The site also has a number of other palaces, low stone buildings, and step-pyramid temples to discover and enjoy. ...read less

Mexico_Uxmal_temple_ turtles
Day
12

Chichen-Itza

After breakfast, leave Merida on the way to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Find the large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Transfer to Cancun hotel.

After breakfast, leave Merida on the way to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Find the large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Transfer to Cancun hotel.

chichen-itza-mexico
Day
13

Flight Home

Transfer to the Cancun airport for your flight back home or stay a few nights in a hotel in Cancun or the Riviera Maya.

Transfer to the Cancun airport for your flight back home or stay a few nights in a hotel in Cancun or the Riviera Maya.

Chichén Itzá, Tinum, Mexico

Merida, Mexico

San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico

Palenque, Mexico

Tikal, Peten, Guatemala

Lake Atitlán, Solola, Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepequez, Guatemala

Places You'll See

  • chichen-itza-pyramid-mexico

    Chichen-Itza

    Once one of the largest Mayan cities, the ruins of Chichen-Itza has much to offer. Visit the Kukulkan Pyramid, known as “El Castillo”. Visit at sunrise or sunset during either the spring or fall equinox, and see the shadow of Kukulkan, a feathered serpent god, as it appears to slither down the pyramid steps. Also visit the Temple of Warriors and the Great Ball Court.

  • Merida-Mexico

    Merida

    Take in the Colonial architecture while visiting the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatan. Merida is a bustling city overflowing with culture and history. Explore the art scene with some stops at local museums including the MACAY Gallery. Find souvenirs and other fun things at the bustling and colorful Lucas de Galvez market, and learn about ancient Maya culture at The Great Museum of the Maya World.

  • Palenque-pyramid-Mexico

    Palenque

    Containing some of the finest architecture, Palenque was once a Maya city state that had been abandoned to be swallowed by the Mexican jungle. Now partially excavated, eight temples and other structures stand today. It is believed that this is only ten percent of the entire Maya City that is still mostly consumed by nature. Enjoy a guided tour and learn what there is of this ancient city.

  • Tikal_Peten

    Peten

    Dotted with many Mayan Archaeological sites the area of Peten, once the hub of Mayan civilization, is full of history and ancient mysteries. Deep in the rainforests of Peten is the ancient city of Tikal, among other lost Mayan cities that have begun restoration.

  • Lake_Atitlan_Guatemala_boarwalk

    Lake Atitlan

    Surrounded by several volcanoes and with a once volcanic basin, Lake Atitlan is Central America’s largest and deepest lake. The villages around the edges of this gigantic body of water offer many places to enjoy eating as well as activities. From hiking the volcanoes and kayaking along the massive body of water to culture and coffee tours, there are many activities to take in.

  • antigua-guatemala-volcano-through-arch

    Antigua

    Founded by the Spanish in the 17th century, Antigua city follows traditional layout and Spanish Baroque Style architecture. Enjoy chocolate making classes as you learn about the culture of the area or, For the more adventurous, there is the option to hike up several active volcanos in the region. With a walking coffee tour, one can learn about the process of picking and roasting one’s own coffee.

Hotel Options

3 Star Properties

Antigua : Posada de Don Rodrigo

Antigua : Hotel Meson de Maria

Antigua : D’Leyenda

Lake Atitlan : Bambu Santiago Atitla

Lake Atitlan : La Casa del Mundo (Jaibalito)

Peten : Hotel Peten

Palenque : Mision Palenque

San Cristobal de las Casas : Ciudad Real Centro Historico

San Cristobal de las Casas : Diego de Mazariegos

Merida : Gamma by Fiesta Inn

Merida : Del Gobernador

Chichen-Itza : Hotel Chichen-Itza

4 Star Properties

Antigua : El Convento Boutique Hotel

Antigua : Casa Encantada

Lake Atitlan : Lomas de Tzununa (Santa Cruz La Laguna)

Lake Atitlan : Posada de Don Rodrigo (Panajachel)

Peten : Villa Maya

Peten : Camino Real Tikal

Palenque : Chan-kah Resort Village

Palenque : Villa Mercedes Palenque

San Cristobal de las Casas : Villa Mercedes San Cristobal

Merida : Mision de Fray Diego

Chichen-Itza : Hotel Mayaland & Bungalows (superior room)

Chichen-Itza : Villas Arqueologicas

5 Star Properties

Antigua : Camino Real Antigua

Antigua : Meson Panza Verde

Antigua : Palacio de Dona Leonor

Lake Atitlan : Hotel Atitlan (Panajachel)

Peten : Camino Real Tikal (Club Room)

Peten : La Lancha (Rainforest Casita)

Palenque : Quinta Cha Nab Nal (standard)

San Cristobal de las Casas : Casa del Alma Boutique Hotel

Merida : Hacienda Merida

Merida : Casa del Balam Hotel

Chichen-Itza : Hotel The Lodge at Chichen-Itza

Luxury Properties

Antigua : Posada del Angel

Lake Atitlan : Casa Palopo (Santa Catarina Palopo)

Lake Atitlan Area : Laguna Lodge

Peten : La Lancha (Lakeview Casitas)

Palenque : Quinta Cha Nab Nal (deluxe Suite)

San Cristobal de las Casas : Hotel Bo (Ik suite)

San Cristobal de las Casas : Parador San Juan de Dios (Master suite)

Merida : Casa Lecanda

Merida : Casa Azul Hotel

Tixkokob : Hacienda San Jose at Tixkokob

Testimonials

Greg B., United Kingdom

Traveled February, 2013

When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly

After working with Yampu to provide me with my second holiday to the America’s, I am delighted to say it has been another success. We have now travelled to Peru, Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras with routes dictated by my needs to see sites that may not be on other people standard routes. Yampu have twice worked with local providers to make my unique routes possible. When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly. I am already thinking ahead to my next trip with Yampu.

Mary and Dave

Traveled January, 2007

It was especially nice having our own private tour

We had a wonderful time in Guatemala. It was especially nice having our own private tour. The tour guides were all excellent, and we appreciated the promptness of the driver or guide each morning. The hotels were good too.

Traveled To

Reinhard

Traveled March, 2010

Everything went very smoothly on our private tour

Everything went very smoothly on our private tour, many thanks. We were able to see many different regions and aspects of Mexico making it a simply fascinating experience. We had a great time in Mexico City and Taxko (sadly Puebla was flooded and had to be taken out of the itinerary), and were able to take in the Aztek culture and Spanish colonial architecture. Then in the north, Copper Canyon (bigger than the Grand Canyon in the US) and the amazing train journey. The trip at the end to Baja California we managed to see the grey whales and the Yucatan and beautiful Maya ruins. The exposure to these very different areas in a short time made this a truly memorable journey.

Traveled To

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