12 Days
Cancún
Villahermosa
12 Days / 11 Nights | Quintana Roo • Yucatán • Campeche • Chiapas • Tabasco
Explore the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations, colonial heritage, and living traditions of southern Mexico. From mystical cenotes and majestic pyramids to bee sanctuaries and jungle-covered temples, this immersive journey is designed for curious travelers seeking cultural depth and natural wonder. Perfectly curated for groups passionate about archaeology, indigenous heritage, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Your cultural journey begins with your arrival in Cancún. Enjoy a smooth private transfer to your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax after your flight. Dinner on your own or explore local restaurants. Prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Begin your immersive experience with a visit to the archaeological site of Cobá, home to one of the tallest pyramids in the Yucatán Peninsula. After exploring its jungle-covered ruins, continue to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve for a guided experience that includes canoeing, a short zipline, and the chance to observe spider monkeys in their natural habitat. Continue to Valladolid for overnight.
Spend the morning walking the colonial streets of Valladolid, then head to the impressive site of Ek Balam, renowned for its detailed stucco friezes and peaceful atmosphere. End the day with a refreshing swim in a nearby mystical cenote—an enchanting underground world of turquoise waters and ancient energy. Evening at leisure in Valladolid to enjoy local cuisine.
Early morning visit to Chichén Itzá to beat the crowds and heat. Learn about its astronomical significance and admire the grandeur of El Castillo. En route to Mérida, stop in Izamal, the “Yellow City,” known for its colonial charm and Mayan pyramid at its center. Arrive in Mérida by evening.
Enjoy a peaceful day visiting one of Yucatán’s restored henequen haciendas, where you’ll learn about its history and admire colonial-era architecture. Afterward, take a swim in a secluded, mystical cenote—its cool, clear waters surrounded by limestone and legend. Return to Mérida for the evening.
Head to the small town of Sinanché to engage with a local Melipona bee sanctuary and learn about this sacred stingless species. Enjoy a hands-on demonstration and tasting. Return to Mérida for a visit to the Museo del Mundo Maya, one of the most modern and comprehensive museums dedicated to Mayan culture.
Explore the majestic ruins of Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique Puuc-style architecture. Continue to the interactive Choco-Story Museum for an immersive experience in cacao history and Mayan cosmology. In the afternoon, transfer to the Maxcanú station to board the Tren Maya for a scenic ride to San Francisco de Campeche for a scenic transfer to San Francisco de Campeche. Upon arrival, enjoy a short panoramic tour of its fortified colonial city.
Visit the archaeological zone of Edzná, a hidden gem featuring a five-level temple and impressive hydraulic systems. Then head deeper into the jungle toward the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. Enjoy dinner and rest near the reserve.
Venture into the heart of the jungle to discover Calakmul, an awe-inspiring ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in dense forest. Later, begin the scenic transfer to Palenque with photo stops in nature. Evening at leisure.
Explore the mystical ruins of Palenque, known for their elegant architecture and lush setting. Then cool off with visits to the stunning Misol-Ha and Roberto Barrios waterfalls, both surrounded by dense jungle and natural pools. Free time in the afternoon.
Travel early to Frontera Corozal for a scenic boat ride along the Usumacinta River to reach Yaxchilán, one of the most atmospheric ruins in Mexico. Continue to Bonampak, known for its vivid murals depicting Mayan rituals. Return to Palenque.
Depart for Villahermosa in the morning. Before your flight, visit the renowned La Venta Museum-Park, home to the mysterious Olmec colossal heads and tropical wildlife. Transfer to airport for international departures.
This itinerary is a perfect balance of heritage, archaeology, and immersive culture, but we believe every traveler deserves a tailor-made experience. At Adventures Mexico, we specialize in designing personalized journeys led by passionate experts. Whether you want to slow the pace, go deeper into a topic, or add hands-on workshops, we’re here to make it happen.