Magical Mexico Adventure 17D/16N
Magical Mexico Adventure 17D/16N
Magical Mexico Adventure 17D/16N
17 Days Starting in Mexico City, Mexico and ending in Cancún, Mexico
Visiting: Mexico City, Teotihuacan, Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, San Cristobal de las Casas, Palenque, Yaxchilan, Merida, Chichen Itza, Cancun
Tour operator:
Tour code:
39359
Guide Type:
Partially Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Magical Mexico Adventure 17D/16N" and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and natural wonders of Mexico. This 17-day journey takes you from the bustling streets of Mexico City to the serene beaches of Cancun, with stops at iconic sites like Teotihuacan, Monte Alban, and Chichen Itza. Climb ancient pyramids, explore indigenous villages, and marvel at the stunning landscapes of Hierve El Agua and Sumidero Canyon. Enjoy guided tours, local experiences, and free days to explore at your own pace. With 16 nights of accommodation, various transport options, and select meals included, this adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of Mexico's heritage and beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Mexico City, Mexico
Location: Mexico City
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Mexico City Airport Transfer
Type: Shuttle (Arrival)
Transfer from Mexico City to Mexico City
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Mexico City, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 2: Mexico City, Mexico
Location: Teotihuacan
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour
Departure Time: 6:20 hrs
Duration: 8 hrs
Embark on a mystical journey to the "City of the Gods," Teotihuacan, before the tour groups from Mexico City arrive. Explore the impressive archaeological site in peace and tranquility as you visit its different structures, squares, and murals, surrounded by a magical and mystical atmosphere.
Your experience is enhanced by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories, history, and updates on the latest discoveries at the site. Immerse yourself in the culture of ancient Mexico with a stop at a local Teotihuacan family's obsidian workshop, where you'll sample cactus-based liqueurs and traditional Mexican spirits like tequila, mezcal, and pulque.
Cap off your day with a delightful lunch experience (not included), where you can savor a variety of traditional Mexican dishes and flavors.
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 3: Mexico City - Oaxaca, Mexico
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Mexico City to Oaxaca
Type: Bus
Times: 00:10, 09:00, 10:00, 23:00
Duration: 7 hours
Transfer from Mexico City to Oaxaca
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Oaxaca.
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 4: Oaxaca, Mexico
Location: Oaxaca
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Hierve El Agua, Mitla & Tule Day Trip
Departure Time: 08:00 hrs
Duration: 11 hrs
Take this amazing tour and explore the petrified waterfall of Hierve el Agua and the majestic nature surrounding it (closed in rainy season). Also, see a gigantic 2,000 year-old tree in Tule and then gaze at the beautiful stone carvings at the Zapotec ruins of Mitla. Visit a local village to learn the process of making woolen rugs from hand. Round off the tour visiting a Mezcal factory and learn how this popular Mexican drink is made.
Hierve el Agua
Due to the variety and high concentrations of mineral salts, a pre hispanic irrigation system and various waterfalls are now petrified. A series of small natural pools have been excavated to form an esplanade called "the amphitheater", from which you can admire the amazing scenery. There are two distinct levels: in the lower level there are springs and the irrigation system, and in the upper level there are facilities for visitors.
Mitla
Its name in Nahuatl means "Place of the Dead", while the Zapotecs called it lyobaa, meaning "Place of burials" Mitla was a place of residence for the Zapotec priestly class. It was inhabited from the classic period of Monte Albán (100 to 650 AD), and reached its peak in the post-classical period (750 to 1521 AD). The layout of the city was probably planned with structures grouped in five sets, currently called the Columns, the Church, the Stream, the Adobes and the South.
Santa María El Tule
Among the natural beauties of this town is the huge, ahuehuete cypress called "El Árbol del Tule". The tree is a wonderful example of Oaxacan flora, 40 meters high with a diameter of 52.58 meters, it weighs around 509 tons and is approximately 2000 years old. We suggest you visit the handcraft market of the community and to sample the wide variety of local foods.
Teotitlán del Valle
This town is where woolen rugs are made on domestic looms. The artisans here use natural dyes such as indigo, moss and grana cochinilla. We will take you to an artisan house to see the process of making a rug.
Mezcal Factory
Perhaps the most famous drink to come out of Mexico is one made from the agave plant: tequila. But there’s another drink derived from the agave, one less known but just as potent: Mezcal. And lately, it is moving on up among the hip and the chic, not only in Mexico but also abroad. The New York Times recently published an article about this spirit beverage newfound fame in New York and beyond. We will take you down to a mezcal distillery where you will be able to discover all about Mezcal. You've gotta try it, Mezcal is the new tequila! As the old saying goes: "Para todo mal, mezcal, y para todo bien, también" (for any harm, mezcal, for every charm, as well).
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 5: Oaxaca - Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Location: Oaxaca
Monte Alban & Indigenous Villages Day Tour
Departure Time: 09:00 hrs
Duration: 9 hrs
This adventure begins at 9 a.m. when we pick you up at the hostel of your choice. You will visit the Monte Alban ruins, the greatest ancient capital built by the Zapotec culture and the most important archaeological site in Oaxaca.
Then, you will continue to Arrazola to visit a famous wood-carving village, where Alebrijes are made. Alebrijes are brightly coloured Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures.
Following this, you will visit Cuilapan de Guerrero, a 16th century Dominican ex-monastery. Lastly, you will stop in San Bartolo Coyotepec to visit the home of the popular regional black clay pottery.
Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido
Type: Bus (Overnight)
Times: 22:30
Duration: 10.5 hours
Transfer from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Puerto Escondido.
Day 6: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Location: Puerto Escondido
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Free Day
Enjoy a free day to experience on your own
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 7: Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Location: Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal
Type: Bus (Overnight)
Times: 20:00, 21:30
Duration: 13 hours
Transfer from Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal de las Casas
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to San Cristobal.
Day 8: San Cristobal De Las Casas, Mexico
Location: San Cristobal de las Casas
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Free Day
Enjoy a free day to experience on your own
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 9: San Cristobal De Las Casas, Mexico
Location: San Cristobal de las Casas
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Sumidero Canyon Experience
Departure Time: 09:00 hrs
Duration: 6 hrs
This tour starts in the morning when we pick you up from your hostel and drive you 45 minutes from San Cristobal through the mountains along the scenic highway towards Tuxtla Gutierrez. Keep an eye out on the beautiful panoramic views as you drive through the clouds to reach the canyon. You will arrive at the colonial town of Chiapa de Corzo, from where you will embark on a boat trip that will take you on a 2-hour ride down the river, where the steep walls of the canyon tower overhead. Look out for stunning waterfalls, caves and the dramatic cliffs. You may have the chance to glimpse a crocodile and tons of other natural wildlife, especially birds. Take your last photos as we make our way back to the dock where we will meet our van again.
From here we will make the return trip to San Cristobal passing along the curvy mountain roads to reach the colonial town of San Cristobal. You will be dropped off in the city center so you can continue your day of sightseeing, shopping or popping into a local cafe for a fulfilling lunch on your own. From the city center, you can easy walk to your hotel.
WHAT TO BRING: Take a hat and if you will be wearing shorts please remember to use sunscreen for your legs, because you will be on a boat cruising by the immense walls of this amazing canyon. Do not worry about wearing your swimsuit as swimming is not allowed (due to the crocodiles!).
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 10: San Cristobal De Las Casas, Mexico
Location: San Cristobal de las Casas
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Indigenous Communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Day Tour
Departure Time: 09:30 hrs
Duration: 5 hrs
We will pick you up at your accommodation at 09:30am and will take you to visit the local indigenous communities of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan where you will have plenty of time to wander around the local artisan markets and peek inside the beautifully preserved churches. A local guide will explain the history of the region as you drive through the beautiful and peaceful countryside to reach these remote towns. Discover firsthand the ancient native traditions and ways of life. Observe how ancient Mayan traditions are now intertwined with modern day Catholic practices. Please bring extra money for souvenirs and snacks along the way. Remember to be respectful of the local people as they are usually very shy and don't like having their picture taken. Ask politely or have your guide ask for you.
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 11: San Cristobal De Las Casas - Palenque, Mexico
Location: Palenque
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls (San Cristobal to Palenque)
Departure Time: 04:00 hrs
Duration: 11 hrs
You will be picked up early in the morning and transferred to Agua Azul where you will have 1 hour and 30 minutes to freely explore this beautiful area. Then you will be transferred to Misol-ha where you will spend 30 minutes. The last stop will be at Palenque ruins. You will have 2 hours to visit these beautiful ruins hidden in the jungle on your own. After visiting Palenque, you will be taken to Palenque and dropped off at the City Center.
Palenque Ruins
The ancient Mayan city of Palenque is one of Mexico's most breath-taking archaeological parks surrounded by lush tropical forest and jungle. This site has a serene, mystical atmosphere. From the moment you enter, you feel engulfed by a sense of history, timelessness and awe. Explore the site on foot and climb up the pyramids for great views of the ancient city and the jungle. (approx. 2 hours)
Agua Azul Waterfalls:
Rio Xumul-Ha (meaning River of Blue Water, or in Spanish, Agua Azul) features a series of torrential cascades and fast flowing waters rolling down a limestone ridge to form pools and small streams. Take a one-hour walk next to the falls in the breath-taking green valley and swim in one of the calm parts of the refreshing blue river. (approx. 60 - 90 minutes)
Misol-Ha Waterfall:
River Misol-Ha (meaning "Streaming Water"), in the "Chol Maya" tribe area of Chiapas, creates one of the state's most wonderful natural sights as the river glides off the edge of a cliff and 40 meters down into a deep pool of water surrounded by lush vegetation. Swim in the deliciously refreshing water and be impressed by the sight of the fall from below. A small walkway will take you behind the water curtain created by the waterfall where you can walk inside the caves. (approx. 30 - 45 minutes)
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 12: Yaxchilan, Mexico
Location: Yaxchilan
Accommodation Name: Rustic Jungle Cabins
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bonampak & Yaxchilan
Departure Time: 05:30 hrs
Duration: 2 days
Depart Palenque-Yaxchilan & Bonampak Ruins Visit (B/L/D)
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Palenque early in the morning to head towards the incredible ruins of Yaxchilan. We will have a stop on our way for breakfast before continuing to Corozal border where we will take off in a boat and navigate the Usumacinta river (1 hour) to Yaxchilan. We will have 2 hours to visit the impressive Yaxchilan Archaeological Site buried deep in the Lacandon Jungle. Here you will have a few hours to discover this secluded site with plenty of time to take photos and relax listening to the sounds of nature. We will then return to the border where you will enjoy a tasty lunch before having a 1-hour visit to the Bonampak Ruins where you will have the chance to explore the magical archaeological site and see ancient frescoes firsthand. From Bonampak, you will be taken to rustic jungle cabins where you will have dinner and spend the night.
NOTE: Local guide during the jungle walk can be arranged on site for an extra cost paying locally.
Day 13: Palenque, Mexico
Location: Palenque
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Palenque to Merida
Type: Bus
Times: 08:30, 20:45, 22:00
Duration: 9 hours
Transfer from Palenque to Merida
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Merida.
Bonampak & Yaxchilan 2D/1N - Day 2 of 2
Hike in the Lacandon jungle-Return to Palenque (B/L)
After having breakfast on the second day, you will take a 4-hour jungle hike through the Lacandon jungle with the chance to see local flora & fauna plus a visit to beautiful virgin waterfalls and the incredible ruins of Lacanja. Returning from the hike, you will have lunch, and then we will continue back to your accommodation in Palenque where the trip will come to an end.
Day 14: Merida, Mexico
Location: Merida
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Uxmal & Cenotes Day Tour
Departure Time: 08:40 hrs
Duration: 8 hrs
Pick-up will be around 8:40am from your Merida accommodation. On this exciting tour you will explore unique cenotes (sinkholes) and several Spanish-style estates known as "Haciendas" that are representative of the "Henequen Golden Age".
We will first make a stop at Hacienda Yaxcopoil. The name of this hacienda means in the Mayan language “the place of the green Alamo tree” and dates back to the XVII century. There we are going to learn about three main pages of our history; pre-Colombian, Spanish colony and the splendor of the sisal fiber industry during the XIX and the early XX century. The walking tour consists in visiting the main house with its high ceilings and large windows and other rooms where there are Mayan artifacts found in the surroundings.
Afterwards, see the Adivino pyramid, The Nunnery Quadrangle, and The Governor's Palace.
Next, continue to the municipality of Peba, located only 15 minutes from Yaxcopoil Hacienda, where there is a Cenote surrounded by a wide variety of flora and fauna still used for the Mayan traditional medicine. The shallow and transparent water of this cenote is great for kids and adults.
Once today’s adventures have concluded, you’ll return to the white city of Merida.
(Note: We suggest passengers to bring a bathing suit, towel and money for snacks or a box lunch).
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 15: Merida - Tulum, Mexico
Location: Chichen Itza
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Chichen Itza Day Trip (from Merida to Tulum)
Departure Time: 08:00, 08:10, 08:15, 08:20 hrs
Duration: 11.5 hrs
Chichen Itza is one of the most well-preserved Maya archaeological sites in the country and once stood as a mighty citadel of the Maya civilization in the 9th and 10th centuries A.D., serving as its political and economic center. One of its most legendary structures is the Kukulkan pyramid, also known as El Castillo, which is a giant Maya calendar with exactly 365 steps divided among 4 staircases and the pyramid’s highest platform. During both equinoxes (around March 21st; September 21st) the sun’s shadow cast on this pyramid at a perfect angle creates the illusion of a serpent creeping its way along the structure’s northern staircase.
Don’t miss the Gran Juego de Pelota, in which ancient Maya warriors battled to the death in this ceremonial game. Check out the acoustics of the structure by holding a conversation with someone standing 135 meters away at the opposite end of the field and the stone carvings of players in action. Feel the spirit of the Maya world by standing here admiring this unique and majestic construction that was once of monumental importance to the former inhabitants here.
Other impressive structures you can’t miss are the Plataforma de los Craneos (Skull Platform) and the Cenote Sagrado (Sacred Cave). Check out the impressive stone carvings on other pyramids and temples of jaguars, flowers, birds, trees, eagles and among the more gruesome, human sacrifices and human hearts in the clutches of bird claws. The observatory, El Caracol, named The Snail for its spiral staircase, was once an important point from which priests determined important dates for ceremonies and rituals.
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 16: Tulum - Cancun, Mexico
Location: Cancun
Accommodation Name: Hostel Dorm
Tulum to Cancun
Type: Bus
Times: 10:20, 11:31, 12:20, 13:00, 15:30, 16:00, 17:35, 18:20, 19:20, 20:00, 20:20, 22:20
Duration: 3 hours
Transfer from Tulum to Cancun
Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Cancun.
Accomodation Type: Hostel Dorm
Day 17: Cancun, Mexico
Location: Cancun
Cancun Airport Transfer (Shared)
Type: Shuttle (Departure)
Times: 00:00, 06:00, 08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, 18:00, 20:00, 22:00
Duration: 0.5 hours
Transfer from Cancun to Cancun
You will be picked up at your accommodation/meeting point for your shuttle transfer to Cancun, where you’ll be dropped off at your next accommodation/meeting point.
What's Included
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Accommodation
16 nights Accommodation
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Transport
Mexico City Airport Transfer, Mexico City to Oaxaca, Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, Puerto Escondido to San Cristobal, Palenque to Merida, Tulum to Cancun, Cancun Airport Transfer (Shared)
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Meals
2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinner
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Guides
Some of the activities
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Extras
Nature active adventure, Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour, Hierve El Agua, Mitla & Tule Day Trip, Monte Alban & Indigenous Villages Day Tour, Sumidero Canyon Experience, Indigenous Communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Day Tour, Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls (San Cristobal to Palenque), Uxmal & Cenotes Day Tour, Chichen Itza Day Trip (from Merida to Tulum), Bonampak & Yaxchilan ruins visit, Lacandon jungle hike
What's Not Included
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Guide throughout the trip
A guide is not provided for the entire duration of the trip.
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Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Any meals not specifically listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Tips
Tips for guides, drivers, and other service providers are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and additional activities are not included.
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Accommodation pick-up drop-off from Bus Stations
Transfers to and from bus stations to accommodations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with airport transfers, shuttle services, and bus rides between key destinations including Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, San Cristobal, Palenque, Merida, Tulum, and Cancun.
Accommodation
Enjoy 16 nights of comfortable accommodation in hostel dorms, providing a social and budget-friendly environment throughout your adventure in Mexico.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides 16 nights of accommodation, typically in hostel dorms.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Is there a guide available throughout the trip?
A guide is available for some of the activities, but not throughout the entire trip.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes various transportation options such as airport transfers, shuttle services, and bus rides between cities.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as the Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour, Hierve El Agua, Mitla & Tule Day Trip, Monte Alban & Indigenous Villages Day Tour, Sumidero Canyon Experience, Indigenous Communities of San Juan Chamula & Zinacantan Day Tour, Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls, Uxmal & Cenotes Day Tour, Chichen Itza Day Trip, and a visit to Bonampak & Yaxchilan ruins.
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Are there any free days during the tour?
Yes, there are free days in Puerto Escondido and San Cristobal de las Casas for you to explore on your own.
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What should I bring for the Sumidero Canyon Experience?
You should bring a hat and sunscreen for your legs if you are wearing shorts. Swimming is not allowed due to crocodiles, so you don't need a swimsuit.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package.
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Are tips and personal expenses included in the tour package?
No, tips and personal expenses are not included in the tour package.
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What is the departure time for the Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour?
The departure time for the Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour is 6:20 AM.
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What is the duration of the Hierve El Agua, Mitla & Tule Day Trip?
The Hierve El Agua, Mitla & Tule Day Trip lasts for 11 hours.
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What is the duration of the bus ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca?
The bus ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca takes approximately 7 hours.
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What is the departure time for the Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls tour?
The departure time for the Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls tour is 4:00 AM.
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What is the duration of the Chichen Itza Day Trip?
The Chichen Itza Day Trip lasts for approximately 11.5 hours.
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What is the type of accommodation provided in Palenque during the Bonampak & Yaxchilan tour?
During the Bonampak & Yaxchilan tour, you will stay in rustic jungle cabins.
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Is there an age limit?
No! Most of our bamba travellers fall between the ages of 18 - 35, but everyone is young at heart and welcome to come experience the world with us! If you are between the ages of 18 and 118, we invite you to travel with bamba and have the time of your life! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Most of our trips cater to the adventurous independent traveller. In fact, many of our travellers arrive on their own and quickly find that they easily meet like-minded people along the way at their hostels, on transportation, or during activities.
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Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip, especially when travelling in developing countries. Bamba does not include travel insurance of any type.Your current medical insurance may cover part of your trip, so it is important for you to become familiar with your current coverage. We recommend purchasing additional travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and repatriation, lost or stolen items and unforeseen cancellations. If you plan to participate in activities such as white-water rafting, trekking, sand-buggy rides, etc please make sure they are included in your policy.
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Free Date Changes
Bamba Travel allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Bamba Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bamba travel, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Bamba Travel requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bamba travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.