Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights
🔹 Discover Chichén Itzá, Tikal & Palenque
🔹 Hands-on excavation experience
🔹 Stay in eco-lodges deep in the jungle
Embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Maya civilization. The Lost Cities of the Maya tour will take you through the ancient cities of Mexico and Guatemala, where you’ll uncover the mysteries of the Maya, their culture, and their monumental achievements. From the world-renowned ruins of Chichén Itzá to the jungle-clad temples of Tikal and Palenque, you’ll experience these awe-inspiring sites up close, with opportunities for hands-on excavation and exploration. Stay in eco-lodges deep in the jungle, where nature and history combine to offer a truly unique adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Cancun, Mexico
Arrive at Cancun International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Evening at leisure to rest and prepare for your adventure.
Overnight in Cancun.
Day 2: Chichén Itzá – Maya Mysteries
After breakfast, depart for a full-day exploration of Chichén Itzá, one of the most famous Maya sites.
Explore the majestic El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), the Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors, among other structures.
Learn about the Maya civilization and their advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture.
Return to Cancun for overnight accommodation.
Day 3: Cancun to Palenque
Early morning flight to Villahermosa, then transfer to Palenque in Chiapas.
Arrive and check into your eco-lodge located in the heart of the jungle.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Palenque Archaeological Site, famous for its beautifully preserved temples, including the Temple of Inscriptions and the Palace.
Enjoy a sunset walk through the lush rainforest surrounding the ruins.
Overnight at the eco-lodge.
Day 4: Palenque – Hidden Ruins of the Jungle
Continue your exploration of Palenque’s hidden temples and tombs in the surrounding jungle.
Visit the nearby Maya site of Yaxchilan (via boat), accessible through the Usumacinta River.
Learn about the excavation and conservation efforts of these ancient sites.
Return to your eco-lodge for a peaceful night surrounded by nature.
Overnight at the eco-lodge.
Day 5: Travel to Guatemala – Flores & Tikal
Travel from Palenque to Flores, Guatemala, a charming town near the Tikal ruins.
Check into your eco-lodge nestled deep in the jungle, near Tikal National Park.
Enjoy an introductory evening about the Maya and their culture.
Overnight in Flores.
Day 6: Tikal – The Jewel of the Maya World
Full-day exploration of Tikal, one of the most important and well-preserved Maya cities.
Climb the towering Temple IV, which offers panoramic views of the jungle and ruins.
Visit the Grand Plaza, Temple of the Great Jaguar, and Temple of the Mask while learning about the history and significance of Tikal.
Enjoy the sounds of the jungle and wildlife as you explore these ancient structures.
Overnight in Flores.
Day 7: Tikal – Hands-on Excavation
Today, you will join an exclusive hands-on excavation experience at a nearby site with professional archaeologists.
Learn the techniques of excavation, cataloging artifacts, and understanding the process of uncovering ancient Maya remains.
The experience provides an in-depth view of archaeological work in progress, giving you a rare opportunity to contribute to the understanding of this ancient civilization.
Return to your eco-lodge for an evening of relaxation.
Overnight in Flores.
Day 8: Travel to Lake Petén Itzá – Maya Traditions
Travel to the beautiful Lake Petén Itzá for a relaxing day amidst the natural beauty of the area.
Learn about the traditions and daily life of the contemporary Maya people, including their handicrafts and agricultural practices.
Visit a local village and enjoy a traditional Maya meal.
Overnight at a lakeside eco-lodge.
Day 9: Return to Cancun
After breakfast, take a morning flight from Flores back to Cancun.
Spend your final afternoon in Mexico exploring the local culture, shopping for souvenirs, or relaxing by the beach.
Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight in Cancun.
Day 10: Departure from Cancun
Depending on your flight time, you’ll have a few hours to explore Cancun before your transfer to the airport for your departure.
The Maya civilization flourished in present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador for over 3,000 years, reaching its peak during the Classic Period (250–900 AD). The Maya were known for their advanced knowledge of mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. They built impressive cities in the heart of the jungle, creating monumental structures, such as towering pyramids, palaces, and temples that still stand today.
Chichén Itzá, Palenque, and Tikal are some of the most iconic and well-preserved sites of the ancient Maya civilization. Chichén Itzá, known for its pyramid of Kukulcán, was a major religious and political center. Palenque, surrounded by dense rainforest, is famous for its intricate architecture and beautiful bas-reliefs. Tikal, located in the Petén jungle of Guatemala, is one of the largest and most significant Maya cities, with temples rising above the canopy of the jungle.
The region is also rich in biodiversity, with lush rainforests teeming with wildlife. Eco-lodges provide a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region while staying in sustainable accommodations.
Climate: Tropical climate with hot and humid weather. The rainy season is from May to October, so it’s best to travel from November to April for optimal conditions.
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN) in Mexico and Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ) in Guatemala.
Language: Spanish in both countries, although many indigenous Maya languages are also spoken.
Time Zone: Central Standard Time (CST) in both Mexico and Guatemala.