Private Tour Highlights
- Strolling through the cobblestone colonial town of Antigua, with its many ruined churches, convents and cathedrals rubbing shoulders with brightly-colored facades.
- Crossing the shimmering Lake Atitlan by boat, gazing up at the imposing volcanoes of Toliman, San Pedro and Atitlan.
- Climbing to the summit of the Two-headed Serpent, a temple at Tikal which is 70m high and offers sublime views above the jungle canopy.
- Reveling in the majesty of Xunantunich, an important Maya ceremonial center with spellbinding views from the El Castillo complex.
- Swimming to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and snorkeling the famous ‘Shark Ray Alley’.
- Staring in awe at the iconic Mayan-Toltec pyramids of Chichen-Itza, which dates back around 1,000 years and is an emblem of Mexico’s heritage.
- Picturing life as a Mayan noble while stepping through the regal ruins at Tulum, perched dramatically on the cliffs above the Caribbean Sea.
Tour Overview
Make fond memories with Yampu’s Family Vacation in Central America! Yampu travelers will visit the beaches and Mayan ruins of Guatemala, Belize and Mexico. Start in colonial Antigua before traveling by boat to Lake Atitlán. Explore Tikal, the largest remaining ancient Mayan ruins site. In Belize we will visit the ruins of Xunantunich and Altun Ha, and the beaches of San Pedro. We will travel overland to Mexico and relax on the Riviera Maya in Mexico visiting the Mayan ruins of Chichen-Itza and Tulum.
Inclusions
Package Price: From £$ 7266
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
Guatemala City
Upon arrival in Guatemala City, private transfer to the hotel in La Antigua Guatemala (commonly referred to as just Antigua or La Antigua).
Upon arrival in Guatemala City, private transfer to the hotel in La Antigua Guatemala (commonly referred to as just Antigua or La Antigua).
Antigua
Morning, read more...
Morning, private tour of Antigua. for two centuries the capital city of the Spanish military in Central America. Be met at the hotel reception at 9 a.m. by a private guide to begin the half-day walking tour of Antigua. The tour will cover the architectural and historical highlights of this colonial city with a behind-the-scenes look at some of the 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 there are any have specific sites that one would wish to see please let Yampu know. At the end of the tour, transfer privately to the hotel in Lake Atitlan. ...read less
Santiago Atitilan
Half-day read more...
Half-day tour to Santiago Atitlan Be picked up from the 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, walk with the guide to find the house where the Maya God Maximon is living. Each year a different “brotherhood” has the privilege of taking care of their God, so his location changes. Once with Maximon, travelers may see local shaman performing rituals for local people and if one so wishes, travelers can ask the guide to help hire the services of a shaman to have a personal ceremony performed. Next, 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 primitive art for which the area is famous. Take a ride in a local “flete”—a pickup truck in which passengers stand in the bed—to get to Hotel Posada Santiago for lunch. After lunch, private transfer to Antigua and stay overnight. ...read less
City of Tikal
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, listen to the sounds of the rain forest with more than 300 species of birds, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars and toucans. Due to its immense value, Tikal was declared a World Heritage site 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, listen to the sounds of the rain forest with more than 300 species of birds, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars and toucans. Due to its immense value, Tikal was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1979. Overnight in Peten. Lunch included.
Morning at Leisure
Private transfer to the town of San Ignacio in Belize. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Private transfer to the town of San Ignacio in Belize. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Xunantunich Maya site
Morning read more...
Morning visit to the Xunantunich Maya site. Arrive at the village of San Jose Succotz where a hand-cranked ferry carries vehicles and passengers to the other side of the Mopan River. One more mile will bring the visitor to Xunantunich (Maiden of the Rock). A major ceremonial center, and one of the country’s larger excavated sites, the view from the largest pyramid—El Castillo—is remarkable. This trip continues with a visit to the Belize Zoo, some 40 minutes from Belize City. Only indigenous species are housed at the zoo, all of which have been either rescued or donated from owners who could not take care of the animals properly. The “guests” (birds, cats, crocodiles, monkeys, etc.). are housed in large compounds containing what would be their natural habitats. This is a great opportunity to view and photograph these creatures of the rainforest not easily seen in the wild. Transfer to Belize City, and transfer to the hotel. ...read less
Altun Ha Maya Site
Morning tour of Altun Ha Maya site. Located 35 miles from Belize City on the Old Northern Highway, Altun Ha (Rock Stone Water) is a great example of a Maya ceremonial and trading site. It was here that Dr. David Pendergast uncovered a very precious Mayan artifact—the Jade Head representing Kinich Ahau, the Sun God. Air transfer from Belize City to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Overnight in San Pedro Hotel.
Morning tour of Altun Ha Maya site. Located 35 miles from Belize City on the Old Northern Highway, Altun Ha (Rock Stone Water) is a great example of a Maya ceremonial and trading site. It was here that Dr. David Pendergast uncovered a very precious Mayan artifact—the Jade Head representing Kinich Ahau, the Sun God. Air transfer from Belize City to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Overnight in San Pedro Hotel.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Half-day snorkel trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in San Pedro Hotel.
Half-day snorkel trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in San Pedro Hotel.
Day at Leisure
Overnight in San Pedro Hotel.
Overnight in San Pedro Hotel.
Scenic overland transfer to Riviera Maya
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Ground transfer from Belize to Cancun takes about 10 hours.
Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Ground transfer from Belize to Cancun takes about 10 hours.
Chichen-Itza
In the morning head 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.” Travelers will find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.
In the morning head 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.” Travelers will find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.
Tulum
In read more...
In the morning, head to the archaeological site of Tulum. Mounted on the edge of a cliff, this abandoned city towers above the deep turquoise of the Caribbean and a beautiful white sandy beach. Although the site dates back to earlier times, Tulum reached its peak in the Post-classic period between 1,000 and 1,600 AD. Originally called Zama or City of the Dawn, the sun rises from the sea above the city walls and for the ancient Maya, begins her dance across the sky. The city within the walls was only inhabited by the nobles, high priests and esteemed citizens such as astronomers whereas the lower classes lived in simple wood and thatch huts beyond. The buildings in the city were originally covered with brilliant paintings and carvings – stark white, deep red or vibrant blue, but only faint remnants of these now remain. ...read less
Day at Leisure
Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on your own or add additional optional activities.
Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on your own or add additional optional activities.
Flight Home
Transfer to the Cancun airport for your flight home or overlap with the add-on of choice.
Transfer to the Cancun airport for your flight home or overlap with the add-on of choice.
Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepequez, Guatemala
Lake Atitlán, Solola, Guatemala
Tikal, Peten, Guatemala
San Ignacio, Belize
Belize City, Belize
Ambergris Caye, Corozal, Belize
Cancún, Mexico
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Places You'll See
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Playa del Carmen
With a distinctive European touch, Playa del Carmen is a relaxed coastal resort town that can be enjoyed in many ways. Enjoy snorkeling and diving while learning about the local aquatic creatures including the kind sunfish, chasing sardines or maybe glimpse the peaceful manatee. Aside from the aquatics, one can walk the cobblestone streets and enjoy the nightlife and shopping offered as well.
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Cancun
From historical relics of Mayan civilization, to sandy beaches, Cancun has it all. Visit El Meco, a substantial archeological site on the mainland, or The Interactive Aquarium of Cancun where you can get acquainted with all sorts of aquatic life, and even swim with dolphins. If an aquarium isn’t exciting enough, dive into the sea with some of Cancun’s best scuba diving instructors.
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Ambergris Caye
Take in the striking white sands and blue waters at Ambergris Caye, the largest Island of Belize. With so many options for entertainment and adventure, one will never grow bored! Take on the Mayan Underworld, a series of caves that one can experience through tubing. Enjoy the wildlife with birding or scuba diving, or just relax in the soft snow-white sands.
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Belize City
The largest city in its country of the same name, Belize is the commercial center of the country. Be sure to take in the Colonial architecture and enjoy walking and horse-and-buggy tours of this magnificent beach city. Enjoy the ocean breeze and visit the local zoo with a chance to see Lucky Boy, the Zoo’s beloved rescued Jaguar.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Testimonials
Liz K
Traveled February, 2012
Thank you again for everything
The trip went off without a hitch due to your excellent planning, awesome tour guides and drivers and wonderful accommodations. I had an incredible time, the Mayan sites were indeed magic and the scenery in Honduras, Guatemala and Belize is something not to be missed. I wanted to mention my driver, Gustavo Morales, who drove me from the Lake Atitlan hotel to the Guatemala Airport (for my flight to Flores). Gustavo should as far as I am concerned be nominated for the Tourist Driver of the Year Award. If such an award doesn’t exist, one should be created for him. On the day he was to drive me to the airport, there was a massive two-large truck collision in the middle of the main highway to the Airport. In addition, the teachers had gone on strike and were blocking the roads. Gustavo thought that we would not make it to the airport in time, but said he would try his best. He backtracked almost as far as Antigua and took all the back roads through Guatemala City to circle the city and come back to the airport from the other direction. Not only did he give me the Drive of a Lifetime, but he did get me to the airport in plenty of time for the flight. It was nothing short of a miracle and I would like to pass along my thanks and also, my admiration for his driving skills. He is a wonderful guy and I wish him all the best of luck for the future. Thank you again for everything I will definitely recommend Yampu to anyone who wishes a fantastic, personally tailored vacation.
Traveled To
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.
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.
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