Pure Destinations | Holiday Builder, Trips, Resorts

Depart from the UK to Mexico. Your first night on the Mayan Explorer Tour includes a stay at Fiesta Inn Playa de Carmen (or similar). Playa del Carmen is a stunning coastal resort town with white palm fringe beaches and is known for its coral reefs.

In the morning you will discover Mayan archaeological sites; Temple of the Frescoes, Temple of the Descending God and El Castillo – three of the most famous structures in the area. You’ll also see smaller ruins, gateways and remains of the city wall! Afterwards, continue onto the city of Chetumal, which is situated close to the border between Mexico and Belize – here you will visit the Museum of Mayan culture in which you will learn all about the history. During the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and a chance to mingle with your fellow travellers!

Cross the border from Chetumal into Belize then travel through this small nation’s interior onwards to Guatemala – here you’ll visit the Mayan site of Xunantunich – another incredible ruin to tick off your list! Afterwards, venture across the Mopan River by a hand-cranked ferry – a unique experience to visit one of the smaller Mayan sites on the tour. Marvel at the second tallest structure in Belize; El Castillo, which boasts of magnificent sceneries of jungle landscapes for a jaw-dropping view of Belize and neighbouring island, Guatemala! After your incredible day of sightseeing you will cross the border onto Guatemala and onto your hotel.

A highlight of the Mayan Explorer tour is undoubtedly a day at the Tikal National Park, which is a UNESCO-listed site. Set deep within the jungles of Tikal National Park and with an impressive 3,000 collective buildings of temples and palaces across 6 square miles. Your guide will be on hand to talk you through its history and how it has become one of the most important pre-Columbian cities! You will stop for lunch in Tikal National Park.

You’ll begin your morning travelling west to reach the riverside archaeological site of Yaxchilan – an ancient city that lies on the bank of Usumacinta River, which was once one of the most powerful Maya states along the course of the Usumacinta River! The 30-minute boat ride along the river borders Guatemala and Mexico and once you step foot in Yaxchilan you’ll have plenty of time to explore its beautiful sights and off-the-beaten track surroundings, from moss-covered structures and lush jungles. Your guide will take you to explore the complex of plazas, temples and well-preserved stone lintels. After you’ve explored this incredible destination you will continue by boat then by road to the town of Palenque.

Engulfed by the Central America jungle, the pre-historic city of Palenque dates back to 3rd century BC and is home to some beautiful and elegant ruins in which you’ll see on your journey through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. During your guided tour you will visit the astronomic observatory, which is believed to have been used for stargazing and making astronomic predictions! In the afternoon you will make your way to the west coast of Yucatan Peninsula and the port town of Campeche. Home to narrow cobbled streets lined with colourful houses and ruins of the historic city wall still standing today! Campeche exudes with Spanish architecture and rich history for you to explore and on the evening you will have free time to explore at your leisure.

In the morning you will travel to Merida, stopping off at the pre-historic town of Uxamal on the way – known to be one of the most important archaeological sites of Maya culture! You’ll also enjoy a spot of lunch in the town before continuing your journey onto Merida. Check into your hotel on arrival and enjoy the evening at your leisure in Merida, a cultural capital with beautiful architecture, museums, parks and excellent dining options.

On the last day of the tour you will get to visit the most popular Mayan site in Mexico – Chichen Itza! Saving the best ‘til last – this complex of ruins on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula (also known as El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcan) is a must see when visiting Mexico and your tour of Chichen Itza will be first thing in the morning to beat the crowds! After you’ve explored this magnificent ruin you will make your way to Secrets Capri Riviera.

After all the sightseeing in Mexico, it’s time to kick back and relax on the gorgeous beachfront of Secrets Capri Riviera, placed just 15 minutes along from the coast of Playa del Carmen. This adult-only retreat is set in the tropical Mayan jungle and offers a stretch of white sandy beach and glistening turquoise waters for you to enjoy. Guests can indulge in Unlimited Luxury service such as limitless access to gourmet a la carte dining with reservations, unlimited international and domestic top-shelf drinks, natural juices and soft drinks. 24-hour room and concierge service, pool and beach wait service, daily refreshed mini-bar, endless daytime activities and live night entertainment, oceanfront bar venues and free Wi-Fi.