Yucatan Peninsula in family
Yucatan Peninsula in family
Yucatan Peninsula in family
14 Days Starting and ending in Cancun, Mexico
Visiting: Cancun, Valladolid, Río Lagartos, Mérida, Uxmal, Bacalar, Tulum, Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Coba
Tour operator:
Tour code:
12568
Group Type:
Independent
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure through Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, exploring historical and natural wonders. Begin your journey in Cancun, then traverse the region to discover the ancient ruins of Ek Balam, the serene town of Valladolid, and the vibrant wildlife of Rio Lagartos. Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, and immerse yourself in the colonial charm of Merida. Relax by the stunning seven-colored lagoon in Bacalar, and experience the breathtaking coastal beauty of Tulum. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and the Punta Laguna nature reserve, before returning to Cancun. Enjoy the convenience of included accommodations, a rental SUV, and 24-hour assistance throughout your trip.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Welcome To Mexico!
Location: Cancun
Accommodation Name: Adhara
Meals Included: Breakfast
Welcome to Mexico! Upon arrival at Cancun airport, your driver will take you to the rental agency to pick up your vehicle. Drive to your hotel.
Trajet en voiture : Cancun aéroport - Cancun 20km (30min)
Day 2 : Ek Balam And Cenote Site
Location: Valladolid
Accommodation Name: Meson Del Marques
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departure for Ek Balam or "black jaguar" in Mayan, an ancient religious centre of great importance in the region and comprising about 40 structures. All the temples are accessible to visitors and allow you to get a good view of the city and the surrounding jungle. Ek Balam does not have the fame of Chichen Itza, yet it is a city full of serenity and mystery at the same time. There are few visitors and this is what makes it so charming. The Xcanche cenote is located about 1500 metres from the town. To get there, you can rent bicycles or go on foot. There is an abseiling trail, hammocks and a zip line to keep you entertained. Lunch is available at the cenote ecotourism centre, surrounded by jungle. You will then head to Valladolid, a charming little town, typically Yucatecan. Visit the Zocalo and its white cathedral. You will then lose yourself in the colonial streets of the city centre, passing by the municipal bazaar and the San Bernardino convent.
Driving directions: Cancun - Ek Balam 175km (2h10) / Ek Balam - Valladolid 30km (30min)
Day 3 : Rio Lagartos And Crocodile Reserve
Location: Río Lagartos
Accommodation Name: Meson Del Marques
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departure for Rio Lagartos. About 100 km north of Valladolid, this small fishing village is the gateway to the national park reserve of the same name. A real paradise for nature lovers. It is an ideal place to discover the Yucatán "differently". You can embark on a "lancha" - a small motor boat - and go for a ride in the mangrove. Then head to the famous pink lagoon called "Las Coloradas". Return to Valladolid at the end of the day.
Driving directions : Valladolid - Rio Lagartos 110km (1h30)
Day 4 : Magic Village Of Valladolid
Location: Valladolid
Accommodation Name: Meson Del Marques
Meals Included: Breakfast
Free day in Valladolid. You will take time to discover this colonial city and will start with a visit to the Zocalo and its cathedral. You will then take the Calzada de los Frailes street with its pastel facades to reach the San Bernardino convent, one of the first in the country. Valladolid has many museums that are not very touristy and off the beaten track, such as the cocoa museum, the Mayapan distillery, the Xkopek beekeeping centre, the Casa venado and the Murem, which presents the ethnic clothing of Mexico. Of course, you can also take a refreshing dip in the semi-open Zacà cenote, just a few blocks from the central square, which offers a unique bathing and spiritual experience, or in the cenotes of Dzitnup, which are completely enclosed in caves.
Day 5 : Seventh Wonder Of The World And Magic Village
Location: Mérida
Accommodation Name: La casona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, you will discover the marvellous archaeological site of Chichen Itza, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, and considered since 2007 as one of the "new wonders of the world". You will be immersed in the majesty of this site and the echo of its past glory. Continue to the "magic village" of Izamal. You will visit the Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua, whose atrium is second in size only to that of the Vatican. You can also climb the Kinich Pyramid for a breathtaking view of this yellow city. Departure for Mérida, the cultural capital of Yucatán. City of one million inhabitants, it is famous for its cathedral and its paseo Montejo lined with the sumptuous residences of the old masters of henequen. Walking through the colonial streets of the white city, you will feel the romantic and provincial atmosphere, bearing witness to a past rich in history and legends. Although it has modernised over time, Mérida has retained its colonial "toque", characterised by its lights and colours. At night, it is transformed for the pleasure of passers-by. Several activities are possible: sitting at a café terrace, attending a street performance of dance, music or theatre, which make this city a wonderful cultural crossroads.
By car: Valladolid - Chichen Itza 45km (45min) / Chichen Itza - Izamal 75km (1h10) / Izamal - Merida 70km (1h10)
Day 6 : Uxmal And Cenotes
Location: Uxmal
Accommodation Name: La casona
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you will visit Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Located in the middle of the Yucatecan jungle, Uxmal means "three times built" in Maya. The architecture of this site is particularly faithful to the "Puuc" style with its geometric forms, its mosaics and its representations of the god Chaac, god of rain and thunder. In the afternoon, you will go for a swim in the wonderful cenotes of San Antonio Mulix: X'batún y Dzombakal. There is a community centre in the village that manages the entrance to the cenotes as well as mountain bike rental for a more complete experience. Return to Merida at the end of the day.
Driving directions: Merida - Uxmal 85km (1h10) / Uxmal - San Antonio Mulix 50km (45min) / San Antonio Mulix - Merida 50km (55min)
Day 7 : Colonial City Of Merida
Location: Mérida
Accommodation Name: La casona
Meals Included: Breakfast
Free day in Merida. Its location is perfect and there are plenty of activities for the whole family to do outside the city. For those who want to relax and enjoy the sun, you can choose between the Costa Esmeralda, north of Merida, from Chuburna to Dzilam de Bravo, or to the west, the Gulf of Mexico with the fishing villages of Sisal or Celestun. For Mayan culture enthusiasts, you can explore two minor sites, not very touristy, but almost intact: Mayapan in the south and Dzibichaltun in the north, a few kilometres from Mérida, or visit the Great Mayan Museum, north of the city, with a collection of more than 1,000 pieces reflecting the daily life of the Maya. Looking for adventure? You will discover what makes the peninsula unique, its cenotes, located in the south. Finally, you can take a leap in time with the hacienda Sotuta de Peon, the last hacienda that still uses henequen fibre and transforms it. An unusual visit of the installations in a vehicle that is somewhat unusual as it is a truck, a cart pulled by a horse on rails.
Day 8 : Direction To The 7 Colours Lagoon
Location: Bacalar
Accommodation Name: Aires
Meals Included: Breakfast
Early departure for Bacalar. Famous for its seven-coloured lagoon, Bacalar is a pearl of the Caribbean, close to the Belizean border, in the south of the Yucatán peninsula. Bacalar is a small town known for its history and natural riches. The lagoon is made up of seven different cenotes, which gave it its name, and is about 42km long and 2km wide. Bacalar was an important commercial crossroads for the Maya, a real place of exchange between Central America and the Yucatán peninsula. Walk around the city centre and visit Fort San Felipe, built in 1729, an example of the military architecture of New Spain, which saw various battles and conflicts.
Driving time: Merida - Bacalar 350km (4h25)
Day 9 : Bacalar
Location: Bacalar
Accommodation Name: Aires
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day trip to Bacalar. Famous for its seven-coloured lagoon, it is possible to discover it through various activities, such as boat or kayak excursions. It is also possible to visit Fort San Felipe, built in 1729, an example of the military architecture of New Spain, which experienced various battles and conflicts. If you want to learn more about the Mayan culture, you can visit the Kohunlich site, 1 hour from Bacalar and belonging to the Ruta Rio Bec. There you will discover the incredible Temple of the Masks, 5 of which have been restored.
Day 10 : Bacalar
Location: Bacalar
Accommodation Name: Aires
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day trip to Bacalar. Famous for its seven-coloured lagoon, it is possible to discover it through various activities, such as boat or kayak excursions. It is also possible to visit Fort San Felipe, built in 1729, an example of the military architecture of New Spain, which experienced various battles and conflicts. If you want to learn more about the Mayan culture, you can visit the Kohunlich site, 1 hour from Bacalar and belonging to the Ruta Rio Bec. There you will discover the incredible Temple of the Masks, 5 of which have been restored.
Day 11 : Tulum And Caribbean
Location: Tulum
Accommodation Name: Casa Don Diego
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you leave Bacalar and head north along the coast. Discover Tulum, one of the jewels of the Riviera Maya. Tulum means "wall" in the Mayan language, and it is indeed the case since it has one of the most beautiful vestiges of this civilization. You will discover this ancient city perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, like an ancient fortress. A breathtaking panorama of the ParaÃso and Maya beaches awaits you, as much for its contrasting colours as for its proximity to the jungle, the sea and the city. Afterwards, you can go to one of the beaches below and enjoy a moment of idleness. Tulum combines beach paradise with historical sites, making it a popular destination for travellers.
Driving directions: Bacalar - Tulum 215km (2h40)
Day 12 : Sian Ka'an Reserve
Location: Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Accommodation Name: Casa Don Diego
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning you will head to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest in Mexico and located near Tulum. The reserve includes rainforests, mangroves and swamps, as well as a vast marine area with a coral reef running through it. It has an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, including jaguars, manatees, turtles, birds and dolphins. To get there, you will pass through Muyil where the entrance to the site is located. There, you can take a boat with a local guide who will accompany you through the lagoons. You will reach the canals created by the Mayans where you will put on your life jacket and let yourself be carried by the current sitting in the water. In the late afternoon you return to Tulum. You are now free to stay in the city or to enjoy the sandy beach.
Drive: Tulum - Muyil 30km (40min)
Day 13 : Coba And Punta Laguna Reserve
Location: Coba
Accommodation Name: Casa Don Diego
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departure this morning for Coba. Once you arrive at the archaeological site, you can rent bicycles to get around more easily. You will reach the main and highest pyramid of the region, from where you will enjoy an exceptional view of the jungle. Then you will continue your journey to the nature reserve of Punta Laguna. Here you can take a walk through the Yucatecan jungle and with a bit of luck come across spider or howler monkeys, kayak on the lagoon or explore a cenote with a local guide. Return to Tulum at the end of the day.
Driving directions: Tulum - Coba 55km (1h) / Coba - Punta Laguna 20km (20min) / Punta Laguna - Tulum 70km (1h)
Day 14 : Hasta Luego Mexico
Location: Cancun
Meals Included: Breakfast
Perhaps it's time to say goodbye to Mexico and its beaches? Your stay is coming to an end. Leave the hotel for Cancun airport for your return flight.
Driving time: Tulum - Cancun airport 125km (1h45)
What's Included
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Accommodation and breakfast
Accommodation and breakfast included from day 1 to day 13 in the establishments below or similar.
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Private transfer
Private transfer on day 1 from the airport to the rental agency.
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Car rental
Car rental from day 1 to day 14 SUV type Nissan Xtrail or similar.
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Full insurance and unlimited mileage
Full insurance and unlimited mileage (1 driver).
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Pick Up & Drop Off
Pick Up & Drop Off: Cancun airport.
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English-speaking assistance
English-speaking assistance when picking up the vehicle.
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24-hour assistance
24-hour assistance from the agency on site.
What's Not Included
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International flights
International flights are not included.
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Domestic flights
Domestic flights unless mentioned in included are not included.
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Personal equipment
Personal equipment is not included.
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Insurance
Cancellation and health and repatriation insurance are not included.
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Meals and drinks
Meals and drinks unless mentioned in included are not included.
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Tips
Tips in restaurants or with guides are not included.
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Environmental taxes
Environmental taxes in some hotels in the Riviera Maya are not included.
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Personal purchases
Personal purchases are not included.
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Car-related costs
GPS, petrol, tolls, parking, and other costs related to the use of the rental car are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with a private transfer from the airport to the rental agency on day 1, and a rental SUV with full insurance and unlimited mileage from day 1 to day 14. Pick-up and drop-off at Cancun airport.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays at various charming hotels including Adhara in Cancun, Meson Del Marques in Valladolid, La Casona in Merida, Aires in Bacalar, and Casa Don Diego in Tulum, with breakfast included from day 1 to day 13.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of vehicle will we have during the tour?
You will have a car rental from day 1 to day 14, specifically an SUV type like a Nissan Xtrail or similar, with full insurance and unlimited mileage for one driver.
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Is there any assistance available if we encounter issues with the vehicle?
Yes, there is 24-hour assistance from the agency on site, and English-speaking assistance when picking up the vehicle.
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What activities are available at the Xcanche cenote near Ek Balam?
At the Xcanche cenote, you can rent bicycles or walk to get there. There are activities like abseiling, hammocks, and a zip line to keep you entertained.
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What can we expect to see at the Rio Lagartos and Crocodile Reserve?
At Rio Lagartos, you can embark on a 'lancha' (a small motor boat) and go for a ride in the mangrove. You will also visit the famous pink lagoon called 'Las Coloradas'.
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What are some of the unique museums we can visit in Valladolid?
In Valladolid, you can visit several unique museums such as the cocoa museum, the Mayapan distillery, the Xkopek beekeeping centre, the Casa venado, and the Murem, which presents the ethnic clothing of Mexico.
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What makes the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve special?
The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is one of the largest in Mexico and includes rainforests, mangroves, swamps, and a vast marine area with a coral reef. It has a diverse range of flora and fauna, including jaguars, manatees, turtles, birds, and dolphins.
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What activities are available in Bacalar?
In Bacalar, you can enjoy various activities such as boat or kayak excursions on the seven-coloured lagoon. You can also visit Fort San Felipe, built in 1729, and the Kohunlich site, which features the incredible Temple of the Masks.
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What can we do in the Punta Laguna Reserve?
In the Punta Laguna Reserve, you can take a walk through the Yucatecan jungle, kayak on the lagoon, or explore a cenote with a local guide. You might also come across spider or howler monkeys.
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What is special about the archaeological site of Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered one of the 'new wonders of the world'. It is known for its majestic ruins and historical significance.
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What can we expect to see in Tulum?
In Tulum, you will discover an ancient city perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offering a breathtaking panorama of the ParaÃso and Maya beaches. You can also enjoy the sandy beaches below.
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How does Today Voyages work?
We are an Online Travel Agency, specialized in Group Vacations and Private Vacations. We have been in business for over 30 years through our sister company Go West Tours and, throughout the years, have developed an extensive network of trusted professionals around the world and a structured methodology to screen our suppliers. Today Voyages offers a selection of tours that are designed, managed and operated by our network of trusted Tour Operators and DMCs. Our database is connected with our partners so that when you make a booking with us this will immediately be received and processed by the Tour Operator.
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Where should I buy the flights to reach my destination?
Today Voyages does not sell flights directly. None of our tours come with flights included. Why? Because we prefer to give full flexibility to our valued customers to select the airlines and the booking platform they prefer. As soon as your flight is booked and confirmed, we invite you to update your flight plan within your Today Voyages booking confirmation page by entering your flight number, departure and arrival times, as well as your Passport information (if needed). None of these fields are mandatory but we highly encourage you to provide as much information as possible. This will allow us to provide you with the excellent service you are looking for.
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What is an additional excursion or tour optional?
Certain tours might show a selection of additional excursions/optional activities that you may want to add to our standard itinerary. These services are priced separately and can be added to the cart before completing the booking. We believe these optional services to contribute to making your vacation unforgettable; however, you are in no way obliged to purchase them. All our tours are awesome with our without optional services!
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What is the difference between Group Vacations and Private Vacations?
If you purchase one of our Group vacation packages, you will be escorted by a professional tour guide and will be traveling with other like-minded travelers you may not know. The group size depends on the tour you select. If you purchase one of our Private vacation packages, you will be traveling only within your group of friends. You may or may not be escorted by a professional tour guide; this depends on the type of private tour you are interested in.
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When and how will I receive the travel documents (vouchers)?
If you book one of our Group or Private tours, you will receive your travel documents via email approximately 20 days prior to travel date. If you reserve one of our Vacation Rentals, you will hear back from the property manager via email a few days prior to checking-in. We recommend checking your emails on a regular basis as this is our most reliable method of communication. If you have questions or need additional support, you can always chat with us or email us directly.
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What happens if a Group tour does not get confirmed?
It is very simple... you will be offered an alternative departure date or be refunded the full amount you pre-paid. No questions asked!
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What happens after I book?
The majority of our tours are confirmed at the time of booking. This means that, after submitting the payment online, you will receive an order confirmation email; make sure to save this email and to note down your confirmation number for any future communication with us. Some tours may be sold on a 'on request' basis. This means that for these tours we reserve the right to check the availability of your spot(s) with the Tour Operator before confirming the tour to you. As soon as you submit the payment online for a 'on request' tour you will receive an email notification that confirms your order request. Within 72 hours, you will receive either a confirmation email or a denial email. Do not worry... we will do everything we can to confirm your tour!
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Free Date Changes
Today Voyages allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 65 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Today Voyages requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of today voyages charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.