Epic Mexico, Belize & Guatemala

Epic Mexico, Belize & Guatemala

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29 Days From

$3055

$2597

Epic Mexico, Belize & Guatemala

29 Days Starting in Mexico City and ending in Antigua

Visiting: Mexico City, Oaxaca, Oaxaca / Overnight bus , San Cristobal de las Casas, Lacanja River, Palenque, Merida, Merida , Chichen Itza / Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Caye Caulker, San Ignacio, Tikal National Park, Rio Dulce, Antigua, Chichicastenango / Lake Atitlan, Lake Atitlan

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

QBYYC

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

18-35 years

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $3055 $2597 Operator discount: -$458 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

On this 29-day adventure through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala, take a Central American history lesson, eat some delicious local food and soak up the Caribbean sun with a group of likeminded travellers. Taste tacos on a street food experience in Mexico City, pick up traditional handicrafts in Oaxaca and Merida, delve into island life and discover the underwater worlds in Belize. Sleep on the shores of Guatemala’s Lake Atitlan and stroll the cobbled lanes of colonial Antigua. These three colourful countries have all you need to have an epic journey, from the jungle to one of the Seven Wonders of the World!

Highlights

  • Head deep into the jungle and experience the lush wilderness and cultural significance of Palenque and Lacanja – a real Indiana Jones moment.

  • Visit the historic site of Chichen Itza to understand why these ancient Maya ruins are one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

  • Extended time in Caye Caulker and Antigua offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy laidback island vibes as well as buzzing colonial city life.

  • There's nothing quite like eating with a local family to really experience a place. At San Juan La Laguna, you'll be experiencing traditional Guatemalan hospitality while improving your Spanish with the locals.

  • You've never seen true colour until you've been to a Mexican market. Practice your bargaining skills, snap some photos and pick up traditional handicrafts in Oaxaca and Merida.

  • Extended time in Caye Caulker and Antigua offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy laidback island vibes as well as buzzing city life.

  • Indulge in some delicious Mexican cuisine, with an included taco crawl and marquesitas tasting and some optional cooking classes (not to mention the huge range of fresh seafood, hot street food and everything corn!)

  • Head deep into the jungle to the lush wilderness of Lacanja River during your stay at an eco-lodge, which supports the local indigenous community in the forest of the Lacandon area. Maybe opt to raft through the waterfalls and backwaters or take a guided hike.

  • Tour the historic site of Chichen Itza – one of the new Seven Wonders of the World – and learn why these ancient Maya ruins are the most important in all of Mexico.

  • Enjoy traditional Guatemalan hospitality with a homecooked lunch in a local home in San Juan La Laguna, after visiting a local midwife, walking through medicinal gardens and experiencing a weaving and dying workshop.

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Mexico City

Location: Mexico City

Accommodation: Hotel

Bienvenidos! Your adventure starts in Mexico City – one of the world's largest urban centres – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, Mexico City has plenty of museums, galleries and walkable streets to keep you busy. Maybe check out the Chapultepec area with its many museums, hop on one of the colourfully painted boats that cruise through the canal district of Xochimilco or head to the National Palace to see the murals of Diego Rivera. After your meeting tonight, you might want to seek out some tacos for dinner (try to place your order in Spanish)! If you want to explore the vibrant nightlife tonight, your trip leader will have the best recommendations.

Optional Activities:
-Mexico City - Diego Rivera Murals in the Mural Museum (Entrance Fee)
-Mexico City - Boat ride through Floating Gardens of Xochimilco (Approx. per boat per hour)
-Mexico City - Chapultepec National History Museum

Day 2: Mexico City

Location: Mexico City

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

Maybe grab some chilaquiles (a type of breakfast nachos) this morning, then join your leader for an orientation walk around the historic centre of the city. Mexico City can feel overwhelming due to its sheer size and volume of people, but your leader will know where to go. Along the way, visit our Intrepid Foundation partner, Gastromotiva - an organisation tackling food scarcity and homelessness while promoting a sustainable food movement in Mexico. Walking makes you hungry, so it’s time to head on an included taco crawl and sample a couple of tacos from local street food vendors. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy – if you like art, the Frida Kahlo Museum is a must-see, and for all museum lovers, there's also the Museum of Anthropology or the Palace of Fine Art. Don’t forget to snack your way around the city too, munching on tostadas, tortas, and chicharrones.

Included Activities:
-Mexico City - Leader-led Taco Crawl
-Mexico City - Leader-led orientation walk
-Mexico City - Gastromotiva (The Intrepid Foundation partner) visit

Optional Activities:
-Mexico City - National Museum of Anthropology (entrance fee) (Closed Mondays)
-Mexico City - Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) (entrance fee) (Closed Mondays)
-Mexico City - Frida Kahlo Museum (entrance fee)

Day 3: Oaxaca

Location: Oaxaca

Accommodation: Hotel

Take a public bus to the smaller but no less beautiful city of Oaxaca (pronounced ‘wuh-haa-ka’). This colourful town in the south is full of colonial buildings, colourful arcades and busy markets. You’ll head out on a leader-led orientation walk to get your bearings when you arrive. With two full days here, you’ll have heaps of time to explore the narrow, cobbled streets in the city, as well as the culture and natural beauty of the surrounding area. Indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec selling colourful woven blankets and shawls populate the markets – a great place to shop for textiles, as well as margarita flavours. Here, you’ll also find some tasty regional food specialties – everything from cactus fruit to spicy baked chilli and lime grasshoppers. Make sure you pick up a tejate (a maize and cinnamon-flavoured chocolate drink served cold).

Included Activities:
-Oaxaca - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 4: Oaxaca

Location: Oaxaca

Accommodation: Hotel

The city (and state) of Oaxaca is yours to explore on this free day. Perhaps head to the mountaintop temples of Monte Alban just outside the city. Monte Alban was inhabited for 1500 years by the Olmec, Zapotec and Mixtec peoples and is an outstanding example of a pre-Columbian ceremonial centre. The settlement's terraces, dams, canals and pyramids were carved out of the mountain. You’d better have your camera ready because up here you can get a fantastic view across the three legs of the valley of Oaxaca. Alternatively, you could take a day tour of the nearby Mitla Ruins. Mitla (the Nahuatl word for ‘underworld’) is an important Zapotec archaeological site and was the main religious centre for the Zapotec people. For something more relaxing, drop by the springs of Hierve el Agua – a series of mineral pools and calcified waterfalls dotted on top of a mountain, providing sweeping views of the Mexican countryside.

Optional Activities:
-Oaxaca - Monte Alban archaeological site (entrance fee)
-Oaxaca - Santo Domingo Cultural Centre (entrance fee)
-Mitla - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)
-Oaxaca - Tule Tree, Teotitlan weaving town, mescal distillery

Day 5: Oaxaca / Overnight Bus

Location: Oaxaca / Overnight bus

Accommodation: Overnight bus

Today is another free day in Oaxaca, but you’ll board an overnight bus later tonight to the mountain-top village of San Cristobal de las Casas. You’ve got today to bask in the colour and sights of Oaxaca, so why not test out your culinary skills at a cooking class. Otherwise, check out the artisan stores in the markets and around town, or head to the historic Templo de Santo Domingo – a grand stone church with a large forecourt.

Optional Activities:
-Oaxaca - Cooking class

Day 6: San Cristobal De Las Casas

Location: San Cristobal de las Casas

Accommodation: Hotel

This afternoon, say ‘hola’ to San Cristobal, your pastel-hued highland home for the next two days. Your leader will point out the main things to know on a leader-led orientation walk this morning. With its winding cobblestone streets snuggled in the Chiapas highlands, San Cristobal de las Casas has an old-world feel mixed with strong pre-Hispanic roots. After your walk, you’ll head to the colourful Santo Domingo textile market with your group – one of the best spots to shop for jewellery and clothing. After, maybe wander to a local cafe and check out their baked goods or try some pox (a traditional corn-based liquor, often flavoured with other ingredients).

Included Activities:
-San Cristobal de Las Casas - Leader-led Orientation Walk
-San Cristobal - Santo Domingo Market Visit

Optional Activities:
-San Cristobal de las Casas - Jade Museum

Day 7: San Cristobal De Las Casas

Location: San Cristobal de las Casas

Accommodation: Hotel

There’s no alarm clock needed this morning as today is yours to explore San Cristobal de las Casas at your own leisure. Maybe take in the cobblestone streets and architecture, soaking up the old-world feel that’s mixed with strong, pre-Hispanic roots. If you're in the mood for adventure, maybe take a trip to Sumidero Canyon, where you can take a boat down the mighty Rio Grijalva. Or you might like to get things pumping with further exploration of the villages by mountain bike.


Optional Activities:
-Sumidero Canyon - Boat Excursion (entrance and transport)

Day 8-9: Lacanja River

Location: Lacanja River

Accommodation: Cabins (Multi-share)

Today, you’ll travel along a windy road by private vehicle to Lacanja River, stopping at Agua Azul (blue water) waterfall on the way (providing road conditions allow). Here, you'll have the option to swim in the cascading pools. Then, brush up on your Spanish during the drive with an informal leader-led Spanish lesson. When you arrive, the afternoon and tomorrow are free to relax or explore. A few optional activities are on offer, including a rafting experience over Lacanja River waterfalls and backwaters and to the nearby archaeological site, then travelling back through the jungle and past the waterfalls of Moctuniha. There are also some excellent guided hikes available – just ask your leader. During your time here, you’ll see another side to Mexico, staying right in the middle of the jungle in an eco-cabana, which supports the local community.

Included Activities:
-Agua Azul - Waterfall Visit
-Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
-Lacanja River - Jungle Camp

Optional Activities:
-Lacanja - Half-day Rafting, Waterfalls & Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport) (Minimum 4 people)

Day 10: Palenque

Location: Palenque

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, drive to Palenque. When you arrive, you’ll head to the archaeological zone and visit the ruins of Palenque. Sitting on a hilltop surrounded by thick trees, the ruins date back to AD 600 and are some of the most impressive Maya relics in Mexico. As you take a self-guided walk among the temples, listen out for the eerie calls of howler monkeys and screeching parrots echoing from the jungle. There are many ruins that are still un-excavated and remain concealed in the forest. You can opt to take a guided tour of the ruins or through the surrounding jungle to a hidden waterfall (at an extra fee). The area gives you a great idea of what the Spanish invaders must have seen when they arrived.

Included Activities:
-Palenque - Archaeological site (Entrance fee & Transport)

Day 11: Merida

Location: Merida

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, head north on a local bus to the old-world Merida – founded in 1542, this city has a large Indigenous population, with approximately 60% of Merida residents of Maya background. Head out on an orientation walk with your leader and wander through the Old Town, checking out some museums and the city streets, alive with art and culture. Hang out in the green, shady Plaza Grande, with the 16th-century cathedral on one side and City Hall, State Government Palace and Casa Montejo on the other. Along the way, you’ll get to taste a marquesita (a crepe rolled like a taco and filled with cajeta, condensed milk, jam, chocolate or edam cheese). After, enjoy a free afternoon. For a taste of Merida's 19th-century glory, maybe walk along the mansion-lined Paseo de Montejo. When you get hungry again, there's a bicycle cart on almost every corner selling elotes (corn on the cob) doused in salt, chilli, cheese, lemon juice or other toppings. If you haven’t noticed already, this place really likes corn!

Included Activities:
-Merida – Marquesitas Snack
-Merida - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 12: Merida

Location: Merida

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you’re free to explore Merida – the gateway to the Maya ruins of Uxmal. Maybe a tour of the ruins is on the cards, including a guide and shared transport. Little is known about the site’s origins, but it’s thought that the city was founded around AD 500. Much of the site is decorated with masks of the rain god Chac. You can also visit a nearby bird sanctuary or hunt down one of the hidden cenotes (stunning natural sinkholes filled with water) and take a dip in the crystal-clear fresh water. If you decide to stay in the city, why not throw yourself into the dancing culture. Every Sunday, the town's streets are transformed into an open-air dance floor, with salsa and merengue bands providing the music. There are also some great local speakeasy bars to hang out in, blasting salsa music and serving good vibes.

Optional Activities:
-Merida - Celestun Bird Sanctuary (entrance and transport)
-Merida - Uxmal Ruins tour (inc. shared transport and guide)

Day 13: Chichen Itza / Playa Del Carmen

Location: Chichen Itza / Playa del Carmen

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

This morning, head to the Yokdzonot cenote for a refreshing swim in the blue waters and a laze in the sun. Surrounded by hanging vines and lush greenery, the cenote was developed by a group of local Mayan women as a sustainable and communally owned source of employment for people in their local community. After your dip in the cenote, tick one of the new Seven Wonders of the World off you bucket list - Chichen Itza. This site is considered the most important example of the fusion of Maya and Toltec traditions in Yucatan. See the Caracol (a circular stellar observatory), the Great Ball Court (the largest field in Mesoamerica), the main sight in El Castillo (a step pyramid dominating the centre of the site) and many more historic ruins (don’t forget your camera!). For lunch, you will get to know a local family over a special meal in the town of Piste. Here you will enjoy a pibil feast, a traditional Maya style of cooking that involves wrapping food in banana leaves and barbecuing it underground. Later, you’ll continue to Playa del Carmen. Blessed with clear waters and gorgeous beaches, you can spend your time snorkelling among the mangroves or in underground caverns or strolling along the white sands of the playa (beach). Your leader will take you on an orientation walk around the city when you arrive. Tonight, maybe feast on seafood, kick back with your group and watch the waves with a margarita in hand.

Included Activities:
-Playa del Carmen - Leader-led Orientation Walk
-Chichen Itza - Archaeological site
-Yokdnozot Cenote – Visit and Swim
-Piste - Home-cooked Lunch

Day 14: Playa Del Carmen

Location: Playa del Carmen

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Today is a free day to explore at your own pace. Maybe go snorkelling in one of the cenotes, walk along the beach or take the ferry across to Cozumel – this island is famous for its reef diving! You’ll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet the new travellers joining you. After, why not head out for dinner or stroll down Calle Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) as night falls.

Included Activities:
-Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson

Optional Activities:
-Playa del Carmen - Bicycle Rental (per day)

Day 15: Tulum

Location: Tulum

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, you’ll hop on a local bus and travel along the Caribbean coast to Tulum, where it's all about that laidback life on the white sands of the Yucatan Peninsula. Head out on a leader-led orientation walk around Tulum and maybe visit one of the best-looking Maya sites – the Temple of the Frescoes. See how this pre-Columbian walled ruin city clings to a clifftop overlooking the ocean and grab some cool photos before heading for an optional swim in the archaeological zone. Tonight, maybe kick back and watch the waves roll in at a beachside bar with a margarita.

Included Activities:
-Tulum - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:
-Tulum - Archaeological Site (incl. entrance & national park fee - no guide)
-Tulum- Bike rental

Day 16: Tulum

Location: Tulum

Accommodation: Hotel

With a free day to relax in Tulum, you can settle into the laidback Mexican vibe. Maybe rent a bike and cruise around the area on two wheels. The town is heaving with hip cafes and restaurants with many vegetarian and vegan options. There are also plenty of places to relax the mind and the body with yoga and meditation. Maybe you’d like to explore Dos Ojos (two eyes) – one of the area's most famous cenotes (freshwater rock pools) and an underwater world full of stalagmites and stalactites. Tonight, explore the vibrant nightlife of Tulum with your fellow travellers.

Optional Activities:
-Tulum - Cenote Adventure
-Tulum - Jungle Adventure
-Tulum - Jungle Bike tour
-Tulum - Maya Inland Expedition
-Tulum - Sian Ka'an Adventure
-Tulum - World Wonder Discovery
-Tulum - Sian Ka'an Muyil

Day 17: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Accommodation: Hotel

Say adios to Mexico and hello to Belize. You’ll have a long travel day today, so make sure you grab a window seat if you can or get stuck into a good book. This is also the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers a bit better! Drive by local bus to the border, then carry on to Belize City. Let the wind and the sea wash the travel sweat away with a 1-hour speedboat ride when you arrive – to the palm-fringed island of Caye Caulker.

Included Activities:
-Caye Caulker - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 18: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Accommodation: Hotel

Your time in Caye Caulker is all about taking it easy. It’s said that the pace of life is so slow here that it's almost backwards! If being underwater is your thing, maybe head out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the world's second-longest barrier reef. Snorkel among the colourful corals and see tropical fish, sharks and manta rays. You can also take day trips to other Cayes nearby as each island has its own Caribbean charm. Belize is the only English-speaking country in Central America, which makes chatting with locals much easier here.

Optional Activities:
-Caye Caulker - Sunset Sailing
-Caye Caulker - Full-day Guided Snorkelling Trip (gear, guide and transport included)

Day 19: Caye Caulker

Location: Caye Caulker

Accommodation: Hotel

Today is another free day to take up any other optional activities you like, or to simply pull up a towel and relax on the beach with a book, a cocktail or some friends. If you’ve already been snorkelling, maybe continue the marine exploration with a manatee tour. Get more active with sea kayaks and stand-up paddle boards or go the other way and just chill out. The island's also great for food – famed for its lobster and super tasty meals cooked on the side of the road. How about some grilled shrimp and a rum and coke made with the local fire water.

Optional Activities:
-Caye Caulker - Stand-up paddleboard hire (per hour)

Day 20: San Ignacio

Location: San Ignacio

Accommodation: Hotel

Leave island paradise behind today and return to Belize City by boat, before taking a local bus to San Ignacio via Belize’s capital, Belmopan. The local buses here are a little more basic than in Mexico, but this is a great opportunity to mix with Belizeans and get a feel for local life. Arrive in San Ignacio – a lively town surrounded by fast-flowing rivers, waterfalls and Mayan ruins, making it the best base for exploring the region. Your afternoon is free, so maybe visit the Chaa Creek butterfly garden, or try one of the barbeque street stalls for a char-grilled chicken leg for dinner.

Included Activities:
-San Ignacio - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 21: San Ignacio

Location: San Ignacio

Accommodation: Hotel

There is heaps to do in San Ignacio, so your free day has endless possibilities. The cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal is a living museum of Maya relics and you can wade through its waters until you reach a bunch of spooky 1400-year-old crystallised skeletons. You could take a day tour to the Mountain Pine Ridge area to visit waterfalls and swimming holes or go down the Macal River in canoes or tubes. If you prefer a slower pace, maybe take a trip to Xunantunich – an impressive Maya ceremonial centre with panoramic views. Getting to the site is half the fun, as you'll need to take a hand-cranked boat down the river. Belizeans are super friendly, so tonight, maybe walk down Burns Avenue and join the locals for a chat in one of the many restaurants or streetside stalls.

Optional Activities:
-San Ignacio - Actun Tunichil Muknal Caves (Incl. entry, guide, transport & lunch)
-San Ignacio - Cave tubing (incl. entrance, guide & transport)
-San Ignacio - Butterfly Farm (incl. transport)
-San Ignacio - Cahal Pech Ruins entry
-San Ignacio - Iguana Conservation Project (entrance fee)
-San Ignacio - Xunantunich Ruins entry

Day 22: Tikal National Park

Location: Tikal National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Today you’ll leave San Ignacio, cross the border and get dropped off at Tikal National Park – often referred to as the Maya forest. Check-in at your hotel before exploring the Maya ruins of Tikal. Pass through the lush jungle vegetation, and if you've got the energy, climb Temple IV to take in the epic canopy views. While here, there's also the option to check out more of the area with a guided tour or to fly through the canopies like a toucan with a zipline.

Included Activities:
-Tikal National Park - Archaeological Site Tour (Entrance fee & Transport)

Optional Activities:
-Tikal National Park - Guide for Ruins (per person, min 5 participants)

Day 23: Rio Dulce

Location: Rio Dulce

Accommodation: Lodge (Multishare)

Head from the jungle to the lakeside town of Flores this morning. Here, there's time to grab some lunch and quickly explore the town. Then it's back to the private vehicle to Rio Dulce. When you arrive, you’ll transfer to the hotel by boat. The easiest way to get back into town is also by boat, which can be organised through the hotel – or you can take a short walk through the jungle. Take some time to absorb the atmosphere of this laidback Caribbean town, which feels quite different from the inland communities. A highlight for many guests is the 'Casa Natural' – an open-air accommodation with screened-in rooms, shared bathrooms and a lounge looking out to the surrounding jungle.

Day 24: Rio Dulce

Location: Rio Dulce

Accommodation: Lodge (Multishare)

There is a load of kick-ass activities to choose from in Rio Dulce today. Take a scenic boat trip down the river to Livingston – a laidback town on the Caribbean coast that offers the unique experience of local Garifuna culture. Go boating on the lake, relax in the thermal hot springs or explore the nearby San Felipe fort in Livingston. You could also hike through the dense forest of the surrounding Chocon-Machacas Natural Reserve and spot the protected manatees of the area.

Optional Activities:
-Rio Dulce - Boat trip to Livingston (Price dependent on boat available & passengers)
-Rio Dulce - Natural Hot Springs (entrance fee and transport)
-Rio Dulce - San Felipe Fort (entrance fee)
-Rio Dulce - Quirigua Ruins (entrance fee)

Day 25: Antigua

Location: Antigua

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning you’ll travel to Antigua, where you’ll spend the night before heading to Lake Atitlan. When you arrive, maybe stroll around the city and tuck into some tasty tamales (a local dish served in a corn leaf) or pepian (a spicy meat stew of chicken, beef and pork in a dark sauce). You'll find the best value food in the square next to the La Merced Church.

Day 26: Chichicastenango / Lake Atitlan

Location: Chichicastenango / Lake Atitlan

Accommodation: Hotel (Multishare)

Meals Included: dinner

Travel by private vehicle to the famous market in Chichicastenango (nicknamed Chichi market). This is the most colourful market in the country, where on Thursdays and Sundays, locals come from the surrounding villages to sell their wares and the streets are lined with stalls where you can stock up on cool trinkets. After visiting Chichi, head to Panajachel on Lake Atitlan, where you'll check in to your hotel. Tonight, you’ll join your group for dinner at a local pupuseria.

Included Activities:
-Chichicastenango - Market Visit

Day 27: Lake Atitlan

Location: Lake Atitlan

Accommodation: Hotel (Multishare)

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning, make a trip to San Juan La Laguna to immerse yourself in Mayan village life. Visit a local midwife to learn about this traditional and sacred art. Then visit the village's medicinal garden before a hands-on workshop where you'll learn about Mayan textile weaving and dyeing techniques. Hungry yet? Settle in for a homestyle lunch with your hosts and chat about life in the village. This is the perfect way to really immerse yourself in local culture and get off the beaten track. In the afternoon, you’ll return to Panajachel and soak up the views of deep blue Lake Atitlan with a free evening.

Included Activities:
-San Juan La Laguna - Weaving & Dyeing experience
-San Juan La Laguna - Midwife home visit
-San Juan La Laguna - Medicinal Garden

Optional Activities:
-Panajachel - Bicycle rental (per day)

Day 28: Antigua

Location: Antigua

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast, hit the road back to Antigua – three nearby volcanoes dominate the horizon, creating a truly unique landscape. Join your leader on a walk to orientate yourself around the World Heritage-listed city full of cobblestones, leafy town squares and ornate churches. There are hushed museums and lively Indigenous markets to explore here, or you can cycle the countryside and chase amazing views of mountain peaks and deep valleys. If you're into salsa dancing or if you'd just like to learn some moves, Antigua is the place to be! Many dancing schools offer hourly lessons, so maybe sign up and move your hips. Tonight, why not bring your freshly learned dance moves, shout a round of mojitos and dance the night away.

Included Activities:
-Antigua - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:
-Antigua - Chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo
-Antigua - Half Day Pacaya Volcano with lunch
-Antigua - Acatenango Volcano Overnight Adventure
-Antigua - City Tour with lunch
-Antigua - Half Day local towns, coffee and craft beer tour

Day 29: Antigua

Location: Antigua

While there are no activities planned for today, Antigua has a lot to offer, from its vibrant colonial-style buildings and curved archways to the puffing volcanoes of Pacaya, Agua and Jumaytepeque. The number one stop for any chocoholic should be the ChocoMuseo, where you’ll get a history lesson and, more excitingly, participate in a chocolate-making workshop. For those more interested in the other famous Central American bean, you can go on a coffee tour, visit the plantations, do some tastings and even buy some to take home. If you’d like to spend more time in Antigua, just speak to your booking agent.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (21 nights), Overnight public bus (1 night), Cabin (2 nights), Multishare lodge (2 nights), Multishare Hotel (2 nights)

  • Mexico City - Leader-led Taco Crawl

  • Mexico City - Leader-led orientation walk

  • Oaxaca - Leader-led orientation walk

  • San Cristobal de Las Casas - Leader-led Orientation Walk

  • San Cristobal - Santo Domingo Market Visit

  • Agua Azul - Waterfall Visit

  • Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson

  • Lacanja River - Jungle Camp

  • Palenque - Archaeological site (Entrance fee & Transport)

  • Merida – Marquesitas Snack

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What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

Included Activities

  • Mexico City - Leader-led City Tour of Historic Center
  • Mexico City - Leader-led Taco Crawl
  • Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
  • Oaxaca - Leader-led Orientation Walk
  • San Cristobal de Las Casas - Leader-led City Tour
  • San Juan Chamula - Maya Church (entrance fee)
  • Zinacantan - Maya Church (entrance fee)
  • Agua Azul - Waterfall Visit (entrance fee)
  • Palenque - Archaeological site (Entrance fee & Transport)
  • Merida - Leader-led Orientation Walk
  • Izamal - Leader-led walking tour
  • Izamal - Convento de San Antonio de Padua (Entrance)
  • Playa del Carmen - Leader-led Orientation Walk
  • Playa del Carmen - Paleteria visit (Mexican Ice-cream store)
  • Leader-led Informal Spanish Lesson
  • Playa del Carmen - Taco dinner at a local Taquisa
  • Tulum - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Caye Caulker - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Tikal National Park - Archaeological Site Tour (Entrance fee, Transport & Guide)
  • Chichicastenango Market
  • San Jorge La Laguna - Dinner at Traditional Maya Family Home
  • Santa Cruz La Laguna - Guatemalan Family style dinner with unlimited beer
  • Antigua - Leader-led walking tour

Transport

  • Private vehicle , Public bus , Local bus , Taxi , Shared boat , Ferry

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 5 (Overnight bus), Days 8 & 9 (Cabin), Days 23 & 24 (Rio Dulce) and Days 26 & 27 (Lake Atitlan) where you will be in shared accommodation. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. This tour includes accommodation in multi-share rooms (triple and quad). This means travelers on the same booking may be split between rooms due to single gender allocation.
  • 3. Please be careful when booking flights from Antigua; make sure you fly out of Guatemala City Airport [GUA]. Guatemala City Airport is the closest airport to Antigua. Please do not book flights from Antigua & Barbuda Airport [ANU] as this is an island in the Caribbean.

Mode of Transport

  • Private vehicle , Public bus , Local bus , Taxi , Shared boat , Ferry

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle and public bus with your group, including an overnight bus journey. Space can be tight, but it’s all part of the adventure and is a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.

    You’ll be crossing the borders between three countries on this trip. While it's usually straightforward, you may need to be patient. Make sure you’ve got your best car game ready if there are any delays!

    Central America can get really hot and humid. Carry plenty of water as hydration is key, especially when walking a lot.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

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

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 13, 2024 - Dec 11, 2024
$3355 $3187

Operator discount: -$168

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 20, 2024 - Dec 18, 2024
$3520

Wednesday - Wednesday

Dec 25, 2024 - Jan 22, 2025
$3055 $2597

Operator discount: -$458

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 01, 2025 - Jan 29, 2025
$3840

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 08, 2025 - Feb 05, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

Feb 05, 2025 - Mar 05, 2025
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Feb 19, 2025 - Mar 19, 2025
$3275

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 05, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
$3275 $3111

Operator discount: -$164

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 19, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 02, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 09, 2025 - May 07, 2025
$3765 $3577

Operator discount: -$188

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 23, 2025 - May 21, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

May 14, 2025 - Jun 11, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

May 28, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 11, 2025 - Jul 09, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 02, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 16, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
$3765

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 30, 2025 - Aug 27, 2025
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 13, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025
$3275

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 27, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
$3275

Wednesday - Wednesday

Sep 10, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
$3275

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 08, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$3275

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 22, 2025 - Nov 19, 2025
$3275

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 29, 2025 - Nov 26, 2025
$3275

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 05, 2025 - Dec 03, 2025
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 12, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 19, 2025 - Dec 17, 2025
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 26, 2025 - Dec 24, 2025
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Dec 10, 2025 - Jan 07, 2026
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Dec 17, 2025 - Jan 14, 2026
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Dec 31, 2025 - Jan 28, 2026
$3535

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jan 21, 2026 - Feb 18, 2026
$3955

Wednesday - Wednesday

Feb 04, 2026 - Mar 04, 2026
$3710

Wednesday - Wednesday

Feb 18, 2026 - Mar 18, 2026
$3440

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 04, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$3710

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 08, 2026 - May 06, 2026
$3955

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 22, 2026 - May 20, 2026
$3955

Wednesday - Wednesday

May 13, 2026 - Jun 10, 2026
$3955

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 10, 2026 - Jul 08, 2026
$3955

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 01, 2026 - Jul 29, 2026
$3955

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 15, 2026 - Aug 12, 2026
$3710

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 12, 2026 - Sep 09, 2026
$3440

Wednesday - Wednesday

Sep 09, 2026 - Oct 07, 2026
$3440

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 07, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
$3440

Wednesday - Wednesday

Oct 21, 2026 - Nov 18, 2026
$3440

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 04, 2026 - Dec 02, 2026
$3440

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 11, 2026 - Dec 09, 2026
$3710

Wednesday - Wednesday

Nov 18, 2026 - Dec 16, 2026
$3710

Wednesday - Wednesday

Dec 16, 2026 - Jan 13, 2027
$3710

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

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

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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