Private Tour Highlights
- Enjoying a laidback stroll along colonial streets of Merida, dipping into museums like the MACAY Gallery and perusing the Lucas de Galvez market.
- Climbing the towering ancient temples of Teotihuacan, whose grandeur is awe-inspiring and panoramic views unforgettable.
- Gazing up in wonder at the craggy rock faces of the towering Sumidero Canyon as you sail along the Grijalva River.
- Observing the traditions of the highland villages in Chiapas, including the distinctive dress, colorful markets and festivals.
- Wander along trails lacing their way through Palenque, an ancient Mayan ceremonial center in the heart of the lowland jungle.
- Going for a dip in the pools of the Agua Azul waterfalls, named so for the inviting waters’ effervescent hues.
Tour Overview
On the Maya Trail in Mexico, begin in Mexico City and includes unforgettable stops in Chichen-Itza, San Cristobal de las Casas and Palenque. You will also spend time in Cancun, Uxmal, Kabah and other fabulous archeological sites. There is Sumidero Canyon and don’t forget the Indian villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan. Take your choice of 3-, 4-, 5-star and Deluxe accommodations, including The Four Seasons in Mexico City, The Lodge in Chichen-Itza and The Villa in Mérida.
Enjoy a tour through one of the world’s largest metropolises, Mexico City, also the oldest urban center in the Western Hemisphere. From Mexico City, continue to Mérida, the social and economic center, as well as the capital, of the state of Yucatán. It makes a good base from which to explore the Mayan archeological sites of Chichen-Itza and Uxmal. After a short stop in Cancun, continue to San Cristobal de las Casas, a characteristically indigenous Chiapaneca town nestled in the heart of the jungle highlands. From San Cristobal de las Casas, continue to the city of Palenque and the ruins.
This trip can be customized to fit your individual travel dates and any specific requests you may have. Your travel consultant will prepare a customized itinerary for you. Yampu offers a choice of 3-, 4-, 5-star and Deluxe accommodations.
Inclusions
Air transportation from Mexico City to Mérida, Mérida to Tuxtla Gutierrez and Villahermosa to Mexico City, Hotel accommodation including continental or buffet breakfast, All transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling, Guided tours (in English) including all entrance fees, Meals where specified, Local airport taxes that are payable in the country of destination are not included. Taxes and security fees that can be paid at time of ticketing are already included.
Note: Museums closed on Monday. Prices include private day tours and transfers in this itinerary. Yampu Tours believes this is the best way to experience the destination but if you are interested in group/shared tours please consult with your Yampu Tours Tour Consultant.
Package Price: From £$ 3865
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
Mexico City
Upon arrival in Mexico City transfer to the hotel. Afternoon of leisure or choose from optional excursions.
Upon arrival in Mexico City transfer to the hotel. Afternoon of leisure or choose from optional excursions.
Teotihuacan Site – Mexico City Walking Tour
In read more...
In the morning depart the city, heading to the breathtaking archeological site of Teotihuacan. By the afternoon, after a tour of the ruins, return to Mexico City to visit the first quarter—el Zocalo. Mexico City is also known as the Ciudad de los Palacios (City of Palaces). The tour continues in the main square, where one will visit some colonial palaces like the Palacio Nacional, the Metropolitan Cathedral and other beautiful architectural jewels, and walk through the main streets. Continue to the Paseo de la Reforma to admire its monuments and buildings. ...read less
Merida
Transfer to the airport to take a flight to Merida, the “white city.” Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Transfer to the airport to take a flight to Merida, the “white city.” Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Uxmal and Kabah
Enjoy read more...
Enjoy today’s incredible excursion to the wonderful archeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah. Uxmal was built around 700 A.D. The rich, green, fertile land provides a perfect setting for some of the most magnificent ancient pyramids, buildings and temples of the ancient Mayan world. One can sense the history here while walking around and gazing at the stunning architecture and majestic layout of this ancient 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 ancient city. Kabah is located south of Uxmal connecting both archeological sites 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 one will be able to discover and enjoy thoroughly. ...read less
Chichen-Itza
After read more...
After breakfast, transfer from Merida 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.” One will find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of drama, religious and political significance. Overnight in Merida. ...read less
San Cristobal de Las Casas
Early read more...
Early morning transfer to the airport for a flight to Tuxtla Gutierrez. Upon arrival, be greeted for airport reception and transfer to San Cristobal de las Casas. On the way, visit the enormous Sumidero Canyon to enjoy a boat ride. Live an unforgettable experience sailing throughout the Grijalva River all across a geological fault formed millions of years ago with dramatic cliffs of up to one-kilometer-high and the river's depth of up to 100 meters deep; the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon is located near San Cristobal de las Casas in the state of Chiapas. Wild monkeys and iguanas inhabit the area, among other different wild animals. ...read less
Juan Chamula –Zinacantan –San Cristobal
Today, read more...
Today, enjoy a half-day tour of the Indian 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 their patron saint and other special religious days. Afterwards, walk through the colonial streets of San Cristobal de las Casas. San Cristobal de las Casas is a colonial jewel right in the heart of the Chiapas highlands. It is the indigenous soul of the town, coexisting harmoniously with its colonial charm, making it such an enchanting place to visit. ...read less
Agua Azul - Palenque
Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes, to the small town of Palenque. On the way, feel the powers of the mystical “Agua Azul” waterfalls.
Get back on the road, winding along mountain lanes, to the small town of Palenque. On the way, feel the powers of the mystical “Agua Azul” waterfalls.
Palenque – Villahermosa
Enjoy read more...
Enjoy a visit to the archaeological site of Palenque. Walk through the same paths as the great Mayan Lords and feel the charm and mystery of this culture while discovering the Mayan site of Palenque, located in the northwest of the Maya lowlands in Chiapas, Mexico. Surrounded by the jungle, it is considered one of 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 Lord Pacal, one of the best-known Lords of Mayan civilization. Continue to Villahermosa for the night. ...read less
Flight Home
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Mexico City and connect with the flight home.
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Mexico City and connect with the flight home.
Mexico City, Mexico
Merida, Mexico
San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico
Palenque, Mexico
Villahermosa, Mexico
Places You'll See
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Mexico City
From the bustling nightlife, to the massive collection of museums, Mexico City appeals to all. Bring the family to Six Flags Mexico, or the Chapultepec Park and Zoo. Sports fans can enjoy the Estadio Azteca, the biggest soccer stadium in the world, or the Arena Mexico to watch the famous Lucha Libre. Or simply stroll the streets and visit different restaurants and shops.
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Villahermosa
Villahermosa is an important business center for Mexican oil companies, rich in farming and agriculture, and the capital city of the Mexican state of Tabasco. Visit La Venta, an archeological site consisting of pieces from the Olmec civilization, the first major civilization in Mexico.
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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.
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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.
Media Gallery
Hotel Options
3 Star Properties
Mexico City : Hotel NH Centro Historico
Hotel NH Centro Historico
Mexico City , MEXICO
When it comes to location, the NH Mexico City Centro Histórico hotel is hard to beat. Guests find it in the heart of Mexico City’s historic center, footsteps from the City Museum, the ‘Templo Mayor’ archaeological area and the main square with its imposing Gothic cathedral. The hotel features modern, stylish interiors, and the rooms are comfortable and contemporary. They are decorated in soothing neutrals and vibrant reds, and are equipped with TVs and Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers a well-equipped fitness center, an open air terrace for drinks, and a restaurant serving Mexican and international dishes.
Del Gobernador
Merida , MEXICO
Enjoy a pleasant stay, near the most important historical sites in the beautiful city of Merida. Hotel Del Gobernador, located in the historic city center, just 300 meters from the down town, is ideal for business or pleasure. Hotel Del Gobernador offers 86 comfortable rooms to enjoy a relaxing stay, all equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, Cable TV, and private bathrooms. The hotel features an outdoor pool with lounge area, as well as a spa offering a variety of massage and facial treatments. There is also a restaurant and bar offering delicious Yucatecan, Mexican and international dishes, as well as domestic and international drinks.
Gamma by Fiesta Inn
Merida , MEXICO
Located at the historic center of Merida, the Gamma by Fiesta Inn Hotel, whose 10 floors and 153 rooms, presents an architecture that combines the colonial and modern style; inside, details and decor, invite guests to spend some time relaxing, taking a break from modern life. The spacious rooms will make one feel relaxed, no matter whether these leisure or business making the perfect place to stay. The most representative cultural and architectural richness of Merida is in its historic center. A few steps from Gamma Fiesta Inn, guests can admire the architectural, cultural and gastronomic richness that both identifies it.
Mision Palenque
Palenque , MEXICO
Hotel Mision Palenque offers upscale accommodations in a place surrounded by waterfalls, majestic Mayan vestiges of past and wild landscapes. The hotel offers 210 spacious guestrooms with modern design and convenient amenities, including air conditioning, Cable TV, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The hotel also features a lovely outdoor pool with poolside bar, a fitness center, outdoor tennis courts, and a full service spa featuring a sauna and massage treatments. There is also a wonderful onsite restaurant and bar.
4 Star Properties
Mision de Fray Diego
Merida , MEXICO
This is an unexpected place, where a stay is not just a simple stopover in the city, but a true experience, full of careful details in the rooms, delicate and delicious flavors, and personalized service which surpasses all expectations. This hotel will delight guests with its comfortable rooms, all equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, and private bathrooms. The hotel also features a swimming pool, massages, and Wireless Internet. There is also a restaurant bar offering an international, regional, and Spanish menu.
Palenque : Chan-kah Resort Village
Chan-kah Resort Village
Palenque , MEXICO
Discover the wonders of the jungle and enjoy an adventure surrounded by the natural beauty of Palenque, Chiapas at Chan- Kah Resort Village. Chan- Kah Resort Village has 76 independent casita style rooms and master suites of unique design, beautifully decorated with typical Mexican style that gives them an air of greater comfort, and are equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, private bathrooms, and private balconies. Cool off and have a good time in the stunning pool that resembles a Mayan cenote, taste delicious dishes and drinks at the bar of the hotel, and relax at the full-service spa.
Palenque : Villa Mercedes Palenque
Villa Mercedes Palenque
Palenque , MEXICO
A modern retreat inspired in the tropical forest, Villa Mercedes Hotel has an exceptional location 5 minutes from the legendary Archaeological Site and a few miles from spectacular landscapes, lakes and waterfalls. Surrounded by the most exotic natural beauty and gorgeous gardens, Villa Mercedes Palenque Hotel has been designed for families and business travelers. The hotel features 92 comfortable accommodations for guests to enjoy a pleasant experience and facilities that include a pool, temazcal, spa and restaurant, among many other elements that make Villa Mercedes a unique choice among hotels in Palenque, Chiapas.
5 Star Properties
Mexico City : Presidente InterContinental (Polanco View)
Presidente InterContinental (Polanco View)
Mexico City , MEXICO
Forty-two stories high, this cosmopolitan Mexico City hotel puts the city at your feet. Presidente InterContinental Mexico City is an award-winning hotel in Polanco, one of the capital’s most dynamic cultural, business and shopping areas. All 661 rooms are spacious and stylish, and are equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, and a private bathroom. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a full service spa offering hydro therapy, a steam bath, and a variety of massage treatments. Presidente InterContinental Mexico City also has 6 onsite restaurants for guests to choose from.
Mexico City : Hyatt Regency Mexico City
Hyatt Regency Mexico City
Mexico City , MEXICO
Elegance, distinction and functionality define Hyatt Regency Mexico City, a stylish landmark hotel. For guests looking for comfortable and elegant Mexico City hotels, Hyatt Regency Mexico City provides 755 elegant and modern guestrooms, all equipped with Cable TV, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center with tennis courts, a sauna and a steam room, and a variety of massage and facial treatments. There are also a variety of dining options such as Rulfo offering Latin cuisine, Yoshimi offering traditional Japanese delicacies, and the Teppan Gril.
Hacienda Merida
Merida , MEXICO
Located in the heart of charming colonial center of the city, the Hotel Hacienda Merida Yucatan is the ultimate high-class boutique hotel and self-contained destination. It is an amazing haven of relaxation in the middle of one of Mexico`s most vibrant cities. The rooms are set around the courtyard, and each one is individually designed and decorated with an appealing blend of traditional furnishings and modern facilities. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, and a spa offering a variety of treatments. There is also a bar offering refined alcohols, cocktails, and wines.
Casa del Balam Hotel
Merida , MEXICO
Casa del Balam is one of the oldest and most distinguished hotels in Merida and the Yucatan Peninsula, it’s also one of the few original Mexican Art Deco houses left in the city. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and are equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, and private bathrooms. The hotel features an outdoor pool, a lovely garden and terrace, and the 57 Restaurant specializing in fusion cuisine, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can also enjoy a drink at the bar.
Palenque : Quinta Cha Nab Nal (standard)
Quinta Cha Nab Nal (standard)
Palenque , MEXICO
A short distance from the archaeological site of Palenque, this luxury resort evokes a Mayan palace complex of the Classic Period. The architectural complex has two Junior Suites, five Deluxe Suites and one Presidential Suite. Amidst luxuriant jungle flora the swimming pools recall the typical waterfalls found in the ruins of Palenque. The vision is to recreate an exquisite Pre-Hispanic atmosphere based on historic and archaeological data, allowing guests to live the Maya World without sacrificing any modern luxury. Unique for its combination of culture, art, archaeological knowledge, tradition and elegance, Boutique Hotel Quinta Cha Nab Nal offers an incomparable experience in Palenque.
Luxury Properties
St. Regis
Mexico City , MEXICO
The St. Regis Mexico City is located at Paseo de la Reforma, a key financial and business district as well as a center for social life in the Mexican capital. From legendary St. Regis Signature Butler Service to plush bathrobes and slippers, guest rooms offer both pampering and comfort. They are equipped with modern technology and amenities such as large flat screen TVs, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and beautiful private bathrooms. Find pampering and revitalization in the spacious Remède Spa or well-equipped Exercise Room. Enjoy the celebration of a daily Tea Ritual and a Champagne Ritual or allow the concierge to plan a guided wine tour at one of the country’s finest vineyards.
Four Seasons
Mexico City , MEXICO
Leave behind the busy capital and step into the exclusive world of Four Seasons Hotel Mexico, D.F. – a meeting place for international travelers and Mexico City’s elite. Set around a magnificent garden courtyard, the 240 deluxe rooms and luxury suites offer a cool update on colonial style. Connect with the vibrant local social scene in the onsite restaurants and bars. Then find tranquility in the sunny rooftop Wellness Area with a full service spa, fitness area and outdoor swimming pool. It’s like a staying in a Mexican home – warm and intimate – with a team of Four Seasons experts always ready to assist.
Casa Lecanda
Merida , MEXICO
Casa Lecanda is a small luxury boutique hotel located within the historical center of Mérida, Yucatán. Built in a completely restored traditional Yucatecan home, the hotel has been designed to retain the original Meridian style with points of European luxury so prevalent in the golden age of Merida’s Sisal barons. Painstaking attention to detail, architecture, and landscaping provides guests with a uniquely local experience and a sanctuary within the city; a refuge of serenity, privacy and relaxation. A place that guests can call home as they reach out and discover all the beauty and magnificence that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer.
Casa Azul Hotel
Merida , MEXICO
Casa Azul Hotel is a beautiful and bright house, located a few steps away from the most important avenue, Paseo de Montejo. The wide corridors surround the inner courtyard adorned with a beautiful Mayan stone fountain. All the rooms are spacious and elegantly styled, and equipped with climate control, Wi-Fi, a plasma TV, and beautiful private bathrooms. The hotel features an intimate outdoor pool, a beautiful garden, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy the complimentary breakfast served daily, as well as the onsite restaurant offering a variety of culinary options.
San Cristobal de las Casas : Hotel Bo (Ik suite)
Hotel Bo (Ik suite)
San Cristobal de las Casas , MEXICO
b¨o is a luxury boutique hotel whose roots are born in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas Chiapas, where stands to renew their traditions surrounded by stunning scenery, colonial streets and a world of art, textiles and culture to discover. It’s a cozy, authentic and with architecture that blends with the region, differing with great originality and character of the typical space, which makes it a destination in itself.
Palenque : Quinta Cha Nab Nal (deluxe Suite)
Quinta Cha Nab Nal (deluxe Suite)
Palenque , MEXICO
A short distance from the archaeological site of Palenque, this luxury resort evokes a Mayan palace complex of the Classic Period. The architectural complex has two Junior Suites, five Deluxe Suites and one Presidential Suite. Amidst luxuriant jungle flora the swimming pools recall the typical waterfalls found in the ruins of Palenque. The vision is to recreate an exquisite Pre-Hispanic atmosphere based on historic and archaeological data, allowing guests to live the Maya World without sacrificing any modern luxury. Unique for its combination of culture, art, archaeological knowledge, tradition and elegance, Boutique Hotel Quinta Cha Nab Nal offers an incomparable experience in Palenque.
Testimonials
Jeanette S.
Traveled June, 2013
and I absolutely loved it
Thank you for a great trip! Merida is definitely a must see! A beautiful city! I felt completely safe and even went out in the evening to see the beautiful folkloric show at the town center. The central location of the Hotel del Gobernador was a really good choice! Everybody was very friendly , punctual and knowledgable. I really enjoyed Celestun and the tour into the estuary, the guide stopped for me in little towns along the way to Celestun to show me real life in villages in Yucatan. The tour through the swamp was interesting and super fun, because my guide had a very good knowledge about the wildlife and nature there. My Hotel in Cancun was sweet, very clean and friendly and the food in the Palapa was pretty good. I wanted a beach view so I decided to upgrade and it was well worth it. It is a great Hotel for familys with little kids so next time I probably would have picked a bigger Hotel like the Iberostar since I traveled by myself. However there was nothing wrong with The Kin Ha Beachscape , it is just more for familys and couples,good location for shopping. As always you guys were great in organizing everything for me and I felt very safe and well taken care of! Everybody was so surprised that I decided to go to Mexico by myself but I had full confidence in your company to make everything go smooth for me . I love that your company takes pride in making trips unique and knows how to customize . I went to Brazil with Yampu Tours a few years ago and my friend and I absolutely loved it! Keep up the good work and your customers have no other choice than to fall in love with the people and the countries they travel to!
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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Tonya
Traveled August, 2008
Great beaches and fantastic nightlife
We had a wonderful time, thank you! We loved Mexico City and the City tour. Teotihuacan, Uxmal, & Kabah were amazing. By the time we went to Chichen Itza we were a little tired of archaeological sites! But, I was glad to see them. Cancun was very touristy. We did go down to Playa Del Carmen and had a wonderful time there. I would recommend anyone to visit Playa Del Carmen. Great beaches and fantastic nightlife! All in all we had a very pleasant time. We both agreed we would go back to Playa Del Carmen since it’s only 2 hours from Miami. Thank you for all your help!
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