Mexico, Belize and Guatemala Experience

Mexico, Belize and Guatemala Experience

8 Views
11 Days From

$3275

$2809

Mexico, Belize and Guatemala Experience

11 Days Starting in Cancun, Mexico and ending in Antigua, Guatemala

Visiting: Cancun, Chichen Itza, Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Caye Caulker, Belize City, Tikal, Flores, Antigua, Antigua Guatemala

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

MEXCB20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Activities:

Snorkeling

From: $3275 $2809 (USD) Barrhead discount: -$466 -14%

NB: Prices correct on 20-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala, starting in the vibrant city of Cancun. Dive into adventure with activities like ziplining, exploring Mayan ruins, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Experience the charm of Playa del Carmen's sun-kissed shores before heading to the tropical paradise of Caye Caulker, where reggae rhythms and seafood delights await. Discover the wonders of Guatemala, from the lush Peten forests to the ancient ruins of Tikal. Conclude your adventure in the colonial beauty of Antigua, nestled beneath towering volcanoes. With guided tours, local cuisine, and free time to explore, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and relaxation.

Highlights

  • Cancun's stunning white sand beaches and hidden waters in the tropical jungle.

  • Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza with a local guide.

  • Retail therapy and seaside dining in Playa del Carmen.

  • Snorkeling and relaxing on the sandy streets of Caye Caulker, Belize.

  • Discover the spectacular Barrier Reef in Belize.

  • Explore the Mayan 'lost city' of Tikal in the Guatemalan jungle.

  • Tour the colonial architecture and vibrant culture of Antigua, Guatemala.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Cancun

Location: Cancun

Accommodation Name: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)

There’s no time for mucking around… we’ve got exploring to do. Traveller, welcome to Cancun where you'll be letting the good times roll - and the good times start now. Fun is the name of the game today in this stunning white sand beach spot. Thrill seekers could take a trip to some hidden waters deep in the tropical jungle. A bit of rural island hopping, ziplining a stint at Garrafon Natural Reef Park, a visit to some ancient Mayan ruins and finally some more swimming is all on offer. Explore the offshore coral reefs and caves while the sunshine ripples through the crystal clear water. Then back to Cancun where you can grab seafood by the seashore with the crew.

Day 2: Cancun

Location: Cancun, Chichen Itza

Accommodation Name: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Yes, Yes. We just arrived. But we're saying goodbye to bright & buzzing Cancun (only for a bit!) to check out an epic historical hotspot.The most famous ancient ruins in Mayan history. With our Local Guide leading the charge, we’ll learn all about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country, and the worlds that came before us. Afterwards, we’ll take a dip in a cenote – which is the best way to beat the Mexican heat.You've got the entire day tomorrow to spend soaking up the Cancun sun. So, rest up!

Day 3: Cancun

Location: Cancun

Accommodation Name: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Cancun is a hub of fiery entertainment… known for way more than party vibes. Powdery beaches, endlessly swimmable waters and laid-back taco joints (basically all you need, no matter your mood.) Your Trip Manager knows this place like the back of their hand too, so you're guaranteed to be in the know on all the best spots to head for the evening.

Day 4: Cancun To Playa Del Carmen

Location: Cancún, Playa del Carmen

Accommodation Name: Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Get ready for your next adventure this morning as we're heading to the beautiful shores of Playa del Carmen. A bit of retail therapy never hurt anyone, so how about a stroll down Paseo del Carmen shopping centre to spend some pesos? You'll fall head over heels for this sun-kissed seashore town. For the food addicts amongst you, a plethora of seaside bars and restaurants are here to blow your mind with their delicious cocktails and local recipes.

Day 5: Playa Del Carmen To Caye Caulker

Location: Playa del Carmen, Caye Caulker

Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Mexico, you've stolen a slice of our hearts forever but with Belize & the Caribbean Island of Caye Caulker on the horizon, we're not feeling too sad... Hello heaven. Rub your eyes, blink and blink again - yes this pinch-yourself tropical paradise truly is real, This evening is all about enjoying the last dregs of sunshine, sampling fresh seafood and getting down to some reggae rhythms... **PLEASE NOTE: this day may be replaced with another night in Playa del Carmen when the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled. Caye Caulker activities will be rescheduled so all inclusions and optional experiences are still offered as per itinerary. A Free Time Add On Activity of ATV riding may also be offered by the Trip Manager when the itinerary has 2 nights in Playa del Carmen.

Day 6: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

You’ll need a big breakfast today because you're free to do whatever you want, which could mean a whole lot of exploring. Belize has a spectacular Barrier Reef that's just begging to be discovered, so grab a snorkel and get out there. Back on land, it's all about sandy streets flanked by palm trees and dotted with cafes and bars lined with colourful hammocks, painted tables and the most laid-back vibes we know. You'll be begging to stay longer. And your wish is our command.

Day 7: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Accommodation Name: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Another free day to soak up the vibes of this beautiful city, and spend some more time in the water. Snorkel, siesta, or sip something sweet as you watch the golden sunset over the shimmering waters. Bliss.

Day 8: Caye Caulker To Tikal

Location: Caye Caulker, Belize City, Tikal

Accommodation Name: Hotel Tikal Inn (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Water taxis will whizz us back to the mainland across the glorious underwater playground you've become so well acquainted with over the last few days, landing us back in the arms of Belize City. It’s a super swift passing by of the beloved Belize City before we take to the road to journey across the border into yet another stunning country: Guatemala. This leg of the trip will see you travel overland through Guatemala’s Peten forests. This afternoon before we drop anchor at our hotel, you could zoom around the treetops like a monkey but securely attached on a zipline of course! Later on you will doze off to the tranquil sounds of the nature all around you, but in a comfy bed with all the amenities you need.

Day 9: Tikal To Antigua

Location: Tikal, Flores, Antigua

Accommodation Name: Hotel Las Farolas

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rise early today to watch the sun stretch over the the top of the Mayan ruin Templo IV. Not a bad way to start the day, hey? We'll then take a guided tour of the crumbling ruins before a trip to the island of Flores, where we'll have lunch and time for shopping before flying this afternoon to Guatemala's capital city and then on to beautiful Antigua. This place isn't just about the dreamy scenery - there's plenty of history to soak up too. You'll notice colorful rooftop gardens dotted amongst the crumbling colonial buildings and you'll hear the clip clop of the horse drawn carriages that are still a favoured form of transport today. You'll be glad to know there are two peaceful nights planned here in the old colonial town set right beneath two massive volcanoes.

Day 10: Antigua Guatemala

Location: Antigua Guatemala

Accommodation Name: Hotel Las Farolas

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Start with a tour with our guide to learn about the local architecture, tiny squares, and fountains. Don your explorers cap this afternoon and head off for some ME time. Being able to choose your own adventure could take you up Pacaya Volcano on a guided hike. If you’d rather produce those endorphins by making (and eating) your own chocolate, then that is also a rather delicious option where you'll learn about the process from start to end and take home the results of your efforts. Guatemalan delights tonight? Yes please. We'll get local over chiles rellenos (or peppers stuffed to the brim with vegetables, meat and sauces). You're sure to hear a collective mmmm.

Day 11: Antigua

Location: Antigua

Meals Included: Breakfast

Morning global roamers, we came, we saw, we sizzled. We'll fuel up on one last breakfast together, then it's time to wipe away the tears and do those final friend requests because today you're homeward bound with firm plans in full steam for a Contiki 2.0 reunion in Asia. See you next time!

What's Included

  • Guided Tour of Chichen Itza

    Take a guided tour of the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, soaking up the history and hearing the myths and legends.

  • Cenote Experience

    Cool off in the emerald waters of a cenote, a natural sinkhole, during your visit to Chichen Itza.

  • Dinner in Cancun

    Enjoy a Margarita and dinner with the group in Cancun, while gazing at the golden skies.

  • Sunset in Caye Caulker

    Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker.

  • Overnight in Tikal Rainforest

    Spend the night in the rainforest of Tikal, walking in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans and meeting monkeys and toucans.

  • Explore Tikal

    Explore the epic Mayan 'lost city' of Tikal in the heart of the jungle with a local expert.

  • Antigua Guatemala Tour

    Tour the ancient part of Antigua Guatemala, originally built by Spanish colonists, with a native guide.

  • Guatemalan Cuisine

    Fill up on tostadas, enchiladas, and other spiced dishes in Antigua Guatemala.

What's Not Included

Belize Ferry Schedule ChangesThe itinerary may change if the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled, potentially replacing a day in Caye Caulker with another night in Playa del Carmen.

Mode of Transport

Travel through Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala using a combination of water taxis, overland journeys, and flights, ensuring a seamless and scenic exploration of these vibrant countries.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at Ocean View Arenas Cancun, Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen, Tropical Paradise Hotel, Hotel Tikal Inn, and Hotel Las Farolas, or similar accommodations, offering a mix of beachfront views, tropical settings, and colonial charm throughout your journey.

Dining Summary

  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Dinner (D)

FAQs

  • Lima: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.

Included Experience

  • Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.
  • Chichen Itza: It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!
  • Cancun: Get the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes.
  • Caye Caulker: Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker. This is how we roll.
  • Tikal: Spend the night in the rainforest. Your chance to walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans. And meet monkeys and toucans.
  • Tikal: Explore this epic Mayan ‘lost city’ in the heart of the jungle. And hear historic tales from a local expert. #bucketlist moment.
  • Tikal: Ah, Guatemala! A rainbow-coloured fiesta of Insta ops and the official 'birthplace of chocolate’. Heaven on earth.
  • Antigua Guatemala: Antigua is a ‘tale of two cities’. Here we’ll tour the ancient part (originally built by Spanish colonists) with a native guide.
  • Antigua Guatemala: Fill up on tostadas, enchiladas and all the other spiced dishes of your foodie dreams.

Check out our Q&As

  • What activities are available in Cancun on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day in Cancun, you can enjoy activities such as rural island hopping, ziplining, visiting Garrafon Natural Reef Park, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, and swimming. You can also explore offshore coral reefs and caves.

  • What can I expect to learn during the visit to Chichen Itza?

    During the visit to Chichen Itza, you will learn about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country, and the worlds that came before us, all guided by a Local Guide.

  • What is the itinerary for the day in Playa Del Carmen?

    In Playa Del Carmen, you can enjoy a stroll down Paseo del Carmen shopping centre for some retail therapy, and indulge in delicious cocktails and local recipes at seaside bars and restaurants.

  • What happens if the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled?

    If the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled, the day may be replaced with another night in Playa del Carmen. Caye Caulker activities will be rescheduled, and all inclusions and optional experiences will still be offered as per the itinerary. A Free Time Add On Activity of ATV riding may also be offered.

  • What can I do during my free day in Caye Caulker?

    During your free day in Caye Caulker, you can explore the Belize Barrier Reef by snorkeling, enjoy the sandy streets flanked by palm trees, and relax in cafes and bars with colorful hammocks and laid-back vibes.

  • What is the experience like in Tikal?

    In Tikal, you will rise early to watch the sunrise over the Mayan ruin Templo IV, take a guided tour of the crumbling ruins, and have the opportunity to explore the island of Flores for lunch and shopping before flying to Guatemala's capital city.

  • What are the options for activities in Antigua Guatemala?

    In Antigua Guatemala, you can take a guided tour to learn about the local architecture, squares, and fountains. You can also choose to hike up Pacaya Volcano or participate in a chocolate-making experience where you learn about the process and take home your creations.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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