Highlights
Marvel at Mayan ruins - From Palenque to Tikal, get closer to Latin Americas mysterious heritage at these iconic sites. Soak up colonial charm - Visit idyllic cities like Oaxaca and San Cristobal, soaking up local life in the Zocalos and dipping into artisanal markets. See the Sumidero Canyon - Take to the water on a boat trip through this towering gorge, spotting wildlife along the way. Please note that from 2027, we will spend one less night in Mexico City, replacing it with an overnight stay in the beautiful colonial city of Puebla.
Itinerary
From the bustling heart of Mexico City to the turquoise shores of Belize, the "Contrasts of Mexico" tour package is a 15-day moderate adventure that brings Latin America’s ancient and modern worlds to life. Designed for experienced travelers, this journey takes you through the legendary ruins of Palenque and Tikal, the colonial gems of Oaxaca and San Cristobal, and the wild beauty of Sumidero Canyon.
Along the way, you’ll experience vibrant markets, taste local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of everyday life—culminating in the lively streets of Belize City. This tour is also timed to offer special Day of the Dead departures, allowing you to witness Mexico’s most iconic festival in all its colorful glory.
What makes this trip unique is its seamless blend of archaeological marvels, colonial charm, and natural wonders—all with accommodations, meals, and transport expertly arranged. For those eager to explore Latin America’s rich tapestry, this tour package delivers unforgettable contrasts in every sense.
day 1Join tour in Mexico City
Our tour starts today in Mexico City, the capital of Mexico and the bustling heart and soul of the country. CDMX, as the city is also known, gives 'metropolis' a whole new meaning with a new landmark, museum or gallery at every turn, not to mention the countless colourful markets, cosmopolitan eateries and leafy parks. Due to the number of evening flights into the international airport, our tour leader will meet you on the morning of day two for a welcome meeting. Look out for a message in the hotel reception with timings and other details for the day. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to arrive at any time. If you'd like to receive an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Mexico City International Airport (MEX) which is around a 30-minute to one-hour drive from the hotel. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, you might like to have a stroll around Alameda Central, Mexico City's oldest municipal park, or visit the Templo Mayor Museum, which is known for its exhibits relating to the Aztec civilization.
day 2Tour of Mexico City, including Museum of Anthropology
day 3Visit the Teotihuacan Pyramids and the Basilica de Guadalupe
day 4Journey to Oaxaca; Day of the Dead celebrations
day 5Visit the pyramids of Monte Alban, free afternoon in Oaxaca
day 6Journey to Tehuantepec via Teotitlan del Valle and the Mitla ruins
day 7Sumidero Canyon boat trip then head to San Cristobal
day 8Discover the indigenous villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan
day 9Travel to Palenque
day 10Explore the Maya site of Palenque
day 11Cross the border into Guatemala and continue on to Flores
day 12Day trip to Yaxha ruins. Optional boat trip on Lake Peten Itza
day 13Explore Tikal, Guatemala
day 14Travel to San Ignacio, Belize
day 15Drive to Belize City Airport where tour ends
What's Included
Customer Reviews
Ana did a fantastic job. Knowledgeable, good with the logistics. I learned do much and had a great time!
I wish I had known about the extension before I went, and would have done it.
I thoroughly enjoyed this trip through Southern Mexico, Guatemala and into Belize Undoubtedly the main focus are the amazing archaeological sites, ranging from well before the Mayans up to the Aztecs. The sites were all interesting but quite different. Tikal which is surrounded by jungle was just stunning. In contrast Mexico City buzzes with life with fabulous museums, galleries colonial buildings and street vendors. I particularly enjoyed the much smaller towns of Oaxaca, San Cristobal de las Casas and Flores which were less frantic but full of colour and character. I also thoroughly enjoyed the motor boat trip up the Sumidero Canyon as well as the visits to the indigenous towns. The road trips were long as indicated by the trip notes but necessary in order to cover the distance. Some seats were less comfortable but as the rule is to rotate no one was stuck in one seat for longer than one journey. The whole trip was made even better by our wonderful guide Joshua Flores who was very knowledgeable, well organised and enthusiastic with a great sense of humour. He was always polite and charming to all, whether they were members of the group, hotel staff, drivers or waiters. Being vegetarian in Mexico is not easy but Joshua always made sure there were things I could eat or could be adapted. I also very much appreciated his advice, kindness and awareness of my possible limitations with a steadying hand or quietly asking if I was ok.
This was a great linear road trip across Mexico (Inc 3 nights Guatemala and a night in Belize) taking in a lot of major ruined Mayan sites. It was hot, and some (optimal) climbs were strenuous interspersed with long bus journey days. Our guide Joshua Flores was one of the best leaders I've had in over 30 years of traveling with Explore. He was experienced, knowledgeable, organised, fluent and able to join in any banter, as well as kind, friendly, thoughtful and an excellent time keeper. He is a real asset to the organisation!
Shame not to have more suppers together. More local craft people visit.
Monthly Price Comparison
Good to Know
Do you need help from our trip consultants?
If you have any question about this tour or need help with planning a trip, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Our travel experts are ready to help.
Why Book with Bookmundi
No credit card or booking fees.
Best price guaranteed.
Carbon neutral tours.
25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
What are customers saying about Bookmundi
