11 Days
Cancún
Cancún
11 Days / 10 Nights – Valladolid • Mérida • Campeche • Calakmul • Bacalar • Tulum
Experience a curated journey through the Yucatán Peninsula, where past and present blend seamlessly. From colonial cities and World Heritage Sites to immersive arts encounters, archaeological wonders, and the Caribbean coast, this 11-day cultural itinerary takes you into the living traditions and vibrant creativity of the Maya world. Visit stunning cenotes, iconic museums, ancient ruins like Uxmal and Calakmul, and the colorful towns of Valladolid, Mérida and Campeche. Delight in artisan crafts, modern galleries, and tropical beach escapes. A key part of cultural expression is food, and this itinerary includes special experiences related to gastronomy and local ingredients—from traditional Maya cooking to tasting regional specialties such as cacao-based drinks.
Arrive at Cancún Airport and transfer to Valladolid, one of Mexico’s most charming pueblos mágicos. Settle into this colonial town rich in history, colors, and traditions. In the evening, take a guided walk to explore the iconic Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, the historic Church of San Servacio, and the picturesque Calzada de los Frailes, a cobblestone avenue lined with artisan shops and vibrant façades. End the day with a visit to Casa de los Venados, a private home and museum featuring one of the largest collections of Mexican folk art in the country. The beautifully restored colonial mansion houses over 3,000 pieces of vibrant, expressive artwork representing the diverse traditions and creativity of Mexico’s regions.
Begin the day with a visit to the majestic archaeological site of Ek Balam, a lesser-known treasure of the Maya world. Climb its impressive Acropolis for sweeping views of the jungle canopy and admire its finely detailed stucco carvings, including the iconic winged figure believed to represent a shaman or ruler. Continue to Zazil Tunich, an extraordinary cenote located inside a cavern, where a curated light and sound experience highlights the natural beauty and sacred atmosphere of this underground space. After the cenote visit, head to the nearby Aldea X-Batún for a unique gastronomic encounter. Learn about traditional Yucatecan cooking methods, local ingredients, and ancestral flavors in a hands-on culinary experience, followed by a delicious tasting of the dishes prepared. Return to Valladolid in the early evening.
Leave early and travel west towards Mérida, Yucatán’s vibrant capital, but before getting there you will be treated to a visit to one of the seven wonders of the modern world: Chichen Itza’s archeological site. Arriving in Merida we will stop at the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya to learn about the deep history of Maya civilization. We will then arrive downtown for a walking tour of its colonial avenues, street art, and its famed cathedral of San Ildefonso, the second oldest in the American continent, and Casa de Montejo (dating from 1542). We will close our day visiting contemporary craft shops or the new museo del pueblo, right in the site of the old Ateneo Peninsular.
Begin the day early with a visit to Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, one of the few remaining 'living haciendas' in Yucatán. Explore its beautiful grounds and learn about the history and process of henequén production—the 'green gold' that fueled Yucatán’s economy from the late 19th to mid-20th century. Ride a mule-drawn truck through agave fields and refresh yourself in the hacienda’s private cenote. In the afternoon, continue to the spectacular archaeological zone of Uxmal, one of the most important Maya cities in the Puuc region. Admire its ornate palaces, towering pyramids like the Pyramid of the Magician, and the intricate carvings of the Governor’s Palace and Nunnery Quadrangle. End the day at Choco-Story, the chocolate museum next to Uxmal, where you’ll learn about cacao’s historical and present role in Maya culture through engaging exhibits and cacao-related activities. Return to Mérida for the night.
Depart for Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mexico’s most beautiful colonial cities. Campeche is famous for its impressive city walls, originally built in the 17th century to defend against pirate attacks from the Gulf of Mexico. Walk along the fortified ramparts and visit the bastions, now transformed into small museums and cultural spaces. Explore the San Miguel and San José el Alto forts, perched on nearby hills, both offering panoramic views and fascinating exhibits on Maya and colonial history. Stroll through the city’s colorful historic center, with its pastel façades, narrow streets, and romantic atmosphere. Visit Campeche’s Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, which houses the revered Black Christ—according to legend, this dark wooden image arrived from Spain and survived a pirate attack at sea, becoming a symbol of protection and devotion for the people of Campeche.
Begin the day with a visit to Edzná, one of the most significant Maya sites in the region. Admire its elevated temples, grand central plaza, and unique architectural features like the Temple of the Five Stories. This ancient ceremonial center reflects the sophistication of Maya engineering and urban planning. After exploring Edzná, embark on a scenic drive south through the lush interior of Campeche. The route to Calakmul is rich in biodiversity, passing through dense jungle teeming with tropical flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for toucans, monkeys, and even the elusive jaguar as you approach the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. Arrive at your jungle lodge and enjoy a peaceful evening immersed in nature.
Start the day early with an expedition into the heart of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve to reach one of the most powerful and expansive cities of the ancient Maya world—Calakmul. Hidden deep in the jungle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the rival of Tikal and governed vast territories across the lowlands. Visitors are rewarded with a truly immersive experience: monumental structures emerging from dense vegetation, wildlife sounds all around, and panoramic views from atop pyramids rising above the forest canopy. A full guided tour offers insight into Calakmul’s urban complexity, political history, and artistic legacy. After returning from the site, visit a nearby archaeological zone such as Balamkú, known for its impressive frieze depicting Maya mythology, or Xpujil, with its unique Río Bec-style architecture. Return to your jungle lodge for a quiet evening under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.
Travel east to Bacalar, a magical town nestled beside the breathtaking Lagoon of Seven Colors—named for the remarkable range of blues created by its crystal-clear, shallow waters. Upon arrival, embark on a boat or paddleboard tour of the lagoon, exploring its most iconic areas, including the Canal de los Piratas, once used by real buccaneers and now a popular swimming spot framed by lush mangroves. Take in the beauty of this tropical paradise and enjoy its tranquil vibe. In the evening, admire the spectacular night view of the lagoon, a serene and unforgettable sight under the stars.
Wake up to the peaceful sunrise over the Lagoon of Seven Colors. Begin the day with a visit to the San Felipe Fort and its museum, which offers historical insights and panoramic views of the lagoon. Stroll through Bacalar’s murals, cafés, and artisan shops, or relax in nearby cenotes like Cenote Azul or Los Cocalitos. Around midday, depart for Tulum. Upon arrival, head to the iconic sculpture “Ven a la Luz”, a monumental artwork that has become a symbol of modern art in the Mexican Caribbean and has become one of the most photographed spots in the Riviera Maya. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure in this vibrant coastal town.
Begin your day with a visit to the spectacular archaeological site of Tulum, the only major Maya city built on the coast. Perched on cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Tulum’s ancient temples and fortified walls speak to its importance as a trade and ceremonial center. After exploring the site with your guide, continue to Parque Nacional del Jaguar, a protected natural area that preserves the region’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. Walk through interpretive trails surrounded by tropical flora, learn about local conservation efforts, and enjoy scenic views of the coastline. Then head to the stunning Playa Paraíso, one of the most iconic beaches in the Riviera Maya, where you can relax, swim, or soak in the Caribbean sun. In the afternoon, discover Tulum’s vibrant art scene by visiting contemporary art spaces, artisan shops, and boutique galleries that reflect the town’s creative energy and ecological values.
Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Tulum’s contemporary art scene, artisan galleries, or concept cafés. Depending on your flight, transfer back to Cancún for departure.
This itinerary can be tailored to your group’s pace and interests. Whether you want more archaeological depth, hands-on workshops, or time for swimming in cenotes and beaches, Adventures Mexico will craft an experience that’s both inspiring and seamless.