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Experience Overview
Vibrant in every way, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula features turquoise waters, pastel-hued buildings and traditional culture that’s still alive and kicking. Soak up the region’s best on an eight-day Premium adventure, from the bountiful coastline of Riviera Maya to the colourful city of Valladolid, the historic town of Merida and the white sand beaches of Tulum. Learn the ancient secrets of the Maya during visits to Chichen Itza – one of the Seven Wonders of the World – and the Muyil, Uxmal and Tulum archaeological sites. Swim in the underground Cenote Zazil under the soft glow of candlelight and learn the secrets of traditional Maya craftmanship. Travelling with an expert local leader, you’ll meet local Maya families, conservationists and historians to uncover a side of the country most don’t get to see.
Highlights
- Experience the old-world charm of your Feature Stay hotel in Merida – a converted 17th-century mansion with elegant decor and traditional touches.
- Visit the spectacular ruins of Chichen Itza (one of the new Seven Wonders of the World), Muyil, Uxmal and Tulum, where your local leader and expert guides will bring thousands of years of Maya history to life.
- Gain a deeper understanding of local life during an Exclusive Experience in the secluded Laguna Chabela Maya community, where you’ll learn how modern Maya people preserve the traditions of their ancestors and try your hand at making a tortilla before a delicious feast in the jungle.
- Enjoy an Exclusive Experience at the Celestun Bird Sanctuary and Biosphere Reserve – a bird-lover’s dream. Learn about conservation efforts while looking out for colourful flora and fauna on a boat ride and see the natural springs before stopping by the Gulf of Mexico for a swim.
- Swim in a cenote, float down the Muyil canals created by the Maya over 1000 years ago, take a guided tour of a traditional, family-run ceramics workshop and visit a laid-back beach club in Tulum to make the most of the Yucatan peninsula.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2421
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle, Boat
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Explorer, Budget
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: QBPN
Starts: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Finishes: Tulum, Mexico
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (3), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel (4 nights), Feature Stay (3 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5395 ($674 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Mexico. Your adventure begins in Playa del Carmen – a coastal resort town on the Yucatan Peninsula, known for its turquoise waters and nightlife. You’ll be met at Cancun International Airport and transferred to your hotel. Here, you’ll meet your local leader and fellow group members at your welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, you might like to stroll along Quinta Avenida while perusing handmade hammocks, jewellery and crafts. After your meeting, head into town for your first dinner in Mexico at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Playa del Carmen - Welcome Dinner
Accommodation:
- Hotel Indigo or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, depart Playa del Carmen and head to the secluded Laguna Chabela to meet a local Maya family who have lived here for generations. Gain a deeper understanding of their way of life as you walk through the low jungle full of medicinal plants, see what they grow and learn how they live off the land. Watch a demonstration on how to make delicious tortillas in the Coba style with the family matriarch, then sit down to a traditional lunch prepared using a 1000-year-old mortar and pestle found in the nearby ruins. You’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time, with stones from ancient Maya structures emerging from the jungle and the sounds of birds as your backdrop. In the afternoon, continue to the city of Valladolid, known for its pastel-coloured buildings. Set on the city’s main square, your hotel was converted from a 16th-century house and offers a perfect base for your explorations. This evening, you’ll visit the atmospheric Cenote Zazil, which lies 20 m underground. Cenotes (limestone sinkholes) were viewed by the Maya as doorways to the underworld. Gaze up at the stalactites covering the ceiling (including the largest stalactite in all of Yucatan!), take in the natural surroundings illuminated by candlelight and perhaps go for a swim.
Included Activities:
- Valladolid - Home-cooked lunch
- Valladolid - Tortilla making demonstration
- Valladolid - Mayan homestead visit
- Valladolid - Cenote night visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel El Meson del Marques or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning will be spent exploring the complex of Chichen Itza. Named as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is considered the most important archaeological vestige of the Maya-Toltec civilisation in Yucatan by UNESCO. Meet with a local guide for a tour to uncover the secrets of what is perhaps the most famous Maya site, dominated by the Temple of Kukulkan, or El Castillo – a Mesoamerican step-pyramid. After, you’ll have a home-cooked lunch with a local family in the town of Piste. Tuck into a traditional Pibil feast – a Maya style of cooking that involves barbecuing underground, which the family have perfected over generations. After lunch, visit a local cenote for a swim. Continue to Merida – founded in 1542, this city is the Yucatan capital and retains much of its old-world charm. Your Feature Stay accommodation for the next three evenings is in the historic Hotel Casa Lucia. Spacious rooms feature traditional touches, surrounding a courtyard that features a swimming pool. Join your leader for a stroll to get acquainted with Merida and make a stop to try marquesitas (a traditional dessert of crispy, rolled crepes filled with cheese, chocolate or caramel).
Included Activities:
- Chichen Itza - Cenote swim stop
- Chichen Itza - Home-cooked pibil lunch
- Chichen Itza - Archaeological site with local guide
- Merida - Marquesitas stop
Accommodation:
- Hotel Casa Lucia (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, join a local guide for a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uxmal ruins. This is considered one of the most important ancient Maya sites in Mexico, showcasing Puuc architecture. See the highlights like the Pyramid of the Soothsayer, the Governor's Palace and the House of the Tortoises while your expert guide points out the typical features of Puuc design like the references to Chaac (the Maya god of rain) and decorative friezes. Have some traditional regional cuisine for lunch at a nearby restaurant, then visit the Los Ceibos ceramics workshop. At this family-run workshop, you’ll be welcomed by one of the family’s artisans – Patricia Morales, who paints the sculptures. Patricia will take you on a guided tour of the workshop, explaining the pigments she uses and demonstrating the carving techniques used in sculpting process. Patricia has been crafting these sculptures for more than 40 years and has made a significant contribution to preserving traditional Maya ceramic techniques. Learn about how these techniques and cultural traditions have been passed down through generations, then you’ll have some free time this afternoon for you to make your own discoveries. You might like to relax in the green and shady Plaza Grande or browse the outdoor market selling Maya replicas. Regroup for dinner at Teya Santa Lucia – a local restaurant serving up Yucatan specialties with a contemporary twist, located in Merida’s historic centre.
Included Activities:
- Merida - Ceramics workshop visit
- Uxmal - Archaeological site guide tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel Casa Lucia (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, you’ll head out for another Exclusive Experience at the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve and Bird Sanctuary. One of the first places migratory birds arrive for the winter, the reserve offers a birdwatching experience like no other. Tour the area by small boat while you learn about its unique flora and fauna. Look out for the Yucatan woodpecker, Mexican sheartail, tropical mockingbird and depending on the season (usually December to March), you might witness the thousands of flamingos streaking across the landscape. Hop off the boat for a quick walk to see bubbling springs, then cruise back through the mangrove canals. Stop in a fishing town where you’ll have some time for lunch – maybe grab some fresh seafood and eat it on the sand. Take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico before returning to Merida for a free afternoon.
Included Activities:
- Merida - Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel Casa Lucia (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Merida this morning and head towards Muyil, stopping for lunch in the village of Coba. Continue to the lesser-known Muyil archaeological site – this ancient Maya trading post is one of the oldest formerly-inhabited sites in the country, with a history stretching back to 350 BC. Explore the ruins with your leader who will explain what life here once looked like. Next, head to the banks of the Maya River and board a small boat to explore the canals and lagoons of the Sian Ka'an biosphere. One of the largest protected areas in Mexico, this UNESCO World Heritage site covers more than 400,000 hectares of land, lagoon and marine areas, including countless flora and fauna. You’ll be joined by guides from the local community who will help you get the most out of this experience. Admire the ruins on the riverbanks before disembarking in the waters of the ancient Mayan mangrove canals, where you’ll experience a natural ‘lazy river’ and float through the peaceful canals in a slow but steady current. After, carry on to Tulum.
Included Activities:
- Tulum - Muyil river float
- Tulum - Muyil archaeological site with local guide
Accommodation:
- Motto Hotel Tulum or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, head to the Tulum archaeological site to learn about the history of the ruins and take in views of the ocean. This was one of the last cities built by the Maya, and your leader will paint a picture of how life played out here as you explore the complex against the ocean backdrop. Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun at a beach club, where you can swim in the Caribbean Sea or nap in a comfortable lounge chair. Tonight, dine at one of Tulum’s best restaurants. With laid-back vibes and fresh local produce and seafood, this final dinner with your newfound friends will certainly be one to remember.
Included Activities:
- Tulum - Archaeological site visit
- Tulum - Farewell Dinner
- Tulum – Beach Club Visit
Accommodation:
- Motto Hotel Tulum or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you would like to spend some more time in Tulum, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Rebecca - Traveled, April 2024
I had a wonderful time on the tour of the Yucatán. Susana is very warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2024
Carolyn - Traveled, April 2024
I loved this trip. A great mix of historical sites and cities, natural attractions, culture and delicious food. Susana our tour leader was knowledgeable, efficient, helpful and ensured we had a fantastic trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Emma - Traveled, March 2024
We really enjoyed this trip. It was a good mix of seeing things, interacting with the local community, and relaxing on the beach or by the pool. We found this part of Mexico beautiful but expensive, so it was definitely beneficial to book this trip which had lots of great activities (and meals) included!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/01/2024
Colleen - Traveled, February 2024
Out trip was well-planned with activities and where to stay, our guide was super fantastic! She was very knowlegeable and approachable and a great resource through the whole trip. I loved it! Mexico is definitely worth many visits and the Yucatan was really special being able to see the surrounding water, jungle, as well as city sites.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/06/2024
Shane - Traveled, February 2024
As I learnt more and more from Susana our tour guide, I was able to imagine when walking throughout the fascinating sites of Chichén Itzá, Tulum and numerous other ancient Mayan archaeological, cultural and beautiful environmental sites. Those ancient Mayans flourishing in what is now Yucatán in Mexico. Plus, the ancient Mayans and their descendants contributing toward Yucatan having its own unique culture today.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/05/2024
Ellen - Traveled, February 2024
Our leader's love for her country was infectious and her competence unmatched! With the details taken care of, my partner and I could relax and simply enjoy learning and adventuring together. Its hard to decide which activity was most magical, we'll definitely come back to Mexico.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/05/2024
Paula - Traveled, November 2023
Our intrepid trip premium trip was fantastic in relation to amazing activities & experiences however not premium in relation to hotels which was a shame , hotels were safe & well located however needs improvement, Our tour guide was fantastic Thankyou
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Jane - Traveled, October 2023
A wonderful holiday, so many inclusions, knowledgeable tour leader and great local guides. Truely an unforgettable experience!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/28/2023
Alan - Traveled, September 2023
A great experience to a new country. A good balance between history and ruins, and natural features such as bird sanctuary, Mayan canals Cenote and beach clubs.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Clazina ( Claartje) - Traveled, September 2023
This trip was a great introduction to this area of Mexico. A good mix of ruins and water activities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/09/2023
Rachael - Traveled, June 2023
Our Intrepid tour in Mexico was one that I'll remember for a lifetime. An unbeatable itinerary, a great group and leader, and inclusions that you just couldn't do elsewhere! Review submitted 01 Jul 2023
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/01/2023
Thu Trang - Traveled, June 2023
Very well curated tour and thoroughly enjoyable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2023
Taylor - Traveled, May 2023
This trip has a very chill slow pace with lots of free time. There are some really cool parts. The accommodation is nice but not a huge step up from basic. Also the food and drinks are not necessarily cheap especially in Tulum.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2023
Christine - Traveled, February 2023
A great tour of the Yucatan with our excellent leader Alex. We had a great variety of experiences and thoroughly enjoyed it all. The only downside were the two very poor hotels at Puerto Morelos and Tulum which were definitely not 'Premium' and need addressing by Intrepid. Otherwise we would highly recommend this week as a second leg of a tour of Mexico after the Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca week.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/03/2023
Wafaa - Traveled, December 2022
The itinerary of this trip was excellent and varied and is the main reason why this trip is recommended . We got to visit mainly Merida and Tulum , 3 great archeological sites including Chichén Itzá , swim in a beautiful cenote , swim at a beach club in Tulum and do a Muyil River float (one of the many highlights of the trip). The hotels were not bad but were average and certainly less than what is expected of a premium trip. The hotel in Tulum had a distant very inconvenient location from downtown/ the beach. The van used for transport was modern and clean but not very comfortable as the seats were narrow and there was little legroom. The tour leader was enthusiastic, friendly and accommodating.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2022
Peter - Traveled, September 2022
Whilst the knowledge of the tour guides and the itineraries are excellent be aware of the accommodation it is not of the premium standard advertised
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2022
Anamika - Traveled, July 2022
Had an amazing time in Mexico and our lovely Guide Karla and Driver Gil made all the difference to it with their knowledge and love! They treated us like family and shared their culture so candidly! On an improvement side… an intrepid fan, but would like to see more out of the PREMIUM marketed tours, especially accommodation level and facilities in hotels. They felt more like the comfort tours that I have done in the past - Experiences during the tour were premium though :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/04/2022
Taylor - Traveled, May 2023
This is a chill little trip. Accomodations are nice but not a huge step up from basic. The food is delicious, its pretty slow paced, my group only had 2 people, and the food & drinks are not cheap.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/07/2023
Gordon - Traveled, April 2023
Wonderful trip leader with a great agenda. Lodging was terrible for the cost of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/03/2023
Linda - Traveled, April 2023
Here are the events of our trip to Mexico. When we arrived at Puerto Morelos we were to be met by our tour Guide. When we arrived the Hotel only had one person at the desk who spoke no English we had a hard time checking in and they had no staff to support the hotel. The bathroom windows in our room were broken the room was dirty and no towels. The grounds were dirty and you couldn’t use the patio furniture because they had bird droppings all over them. The restaurant was closed we were informed by the one person there. It was so far from town and no way to make contact to make other arrangements. There was no internet service or phone service available. Days 2 through 5 went off without a hitch. Day 6: upon arrival again the hotel was far from town without internet service. The gates were locked and no one was at the property. Our Guide Karla was so surprised and made some calls and someone came and opened the gates and assigned our group rooms. Again the rooms were dirty with lots of dust everywhere no towels stains on the bed sheets water glasses were dirty. We were to have meals at the hotel which had appliances all wrapped in plastic wrap. Pool was dirty the grounds were covered in debris including a dead snake outside of our room. It looked as tho the property was completely abandoned. It was suppose to be a Wyndham property but the sign was taken down and laying on the main desk. Our tour guide Karla made serval calls to arrange for meals in town. Had there been an emergency we would have been in trouble. We couldn’t even check in for our return flights due to no internet. We had to go to a restaurant so we could do so. Our tour guide Karla Zenteno was a champ in making the best of everything. The group sat in the lobby the night before our departures discussing our problems during the trip an how very unprofessional the accommodations were. I’ve traveled to Mexico many times using other tour operators and never encountered these types of accommodations. Therefore, we are requesting compensation for these 3 nights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/03/2023
