Mexico's Yucatán: a road trip adventure
On this self-drive journey through Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, you will immerse yourself in one of the world's most captivating landscapes. Savor the bold flavors of regional cuisine on a street food tour through Mérida, explore pristine cenotes, and witness the spectacle of Chichén Itzá's Light and Sound Show.
Glide through the waters of Río Lagartos by boat, cycle past the ethereal pink lagoons of Las Coloradas, connect with sacred Maya bees in a beeswax workshop, and encounter spider monkeys in the lush nature reserve of Punta Laguna. Our local experts will craft every detail of your perfect itinerary.
Services
Included:
- 7 nights accommodation in double rooms
- 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch
- Land transfers in an air-conditioned car with English-speaking driver
- Activities & admission fees to sites as per the itinerary
- Rental car
- All applicable taxes
Excluded:
- International & domestic flights
- Fuel costs & highway tolls
- Personal expenses
- Hotel extras
- Any meals & drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Tips & gratuities
Optional:
- This tour can also be done in a group of up to 12 participants
Itinerary at a Glance
Merida
Welcome to Merida
Uxmal - Mulix
History & hidden cenotes
San Crisanto
Meet the sacered Maya bees
Merida - Chichen Itza - Valladolid
Mexican flavors & Chichén Itzá light show
Rio Lagartos
Experience nature & wildlife
Coba - Punta Laguna - Cancun
Into the jungle
Detailed Itinerary
Merida
Day 1: Welcome to Merida
Upon arrival in Mérida, you'll be picked up from the airport or bus station and taken to your hotel.
At the scheduled time, your guide will meet you at your hotel for a walking tour of Mérida, the capital of Yucatán and gateway to the Mayan world.
Known as "The White City" for its light-colored buildings and traditional clothing, Mérida boasts colonial charm. You'll visit the Cathedral, Government Palace, and stroll along Paseo de Montejo, lined with restored mansions now serving as museums and restaurants. After the tour, you'll return to your hotel.
Uxmal - Mulix
Day 2: History & hidden cenotes
Today begins with a visit to Uxmal, one of the most important archaeological sites in Yucatán after Chichén Itzá. Its impressive Puuc-style architecture features smooth walls, traditional Maya hut motifs, and many depictions of the rain god Chaac.
Next, explore the Choco-Story Museum where you’ll taste delicious cacao and learn about 2,000 years of chocolate history.
This is followed by a special highlight: a traditional Mayan ceremony led by a local shaman. You can also visit a small animal sanctuary with jaguars, monkeys, and more.
Finally, discover two hidden cenotes in San Antonio Mulix. Peaceful, untouched, and accessible only by a jungle path, you can enjoy these less frequented places and may have them all to yourself.
Afterward, returning to Mérida.
San Crisanto
Day 3: Meet the sacered Maya bees
A day full of magical experiences awaits as you dive into the authentic life of the local Maya.
You'll visit a community dedicated to breeding sacred Maya bees and take part in a hands-on workshop, learning to craft your own artistic candles from pure beeswax.
Enjoy a traditional lunch with the villagers, savoring regional dishes and warm hospitality. Later, the journey continues to San Crisanto, a charming fishing village on the Gulf of Mexico, where you can relax and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
After this enriching cultural and coastal experience, you’ll return to Mérida.
Merida - Chichen Itza - Valladolid
Day 4: Mexican flavors & Chichén Itzá light show
Today, you'll discover the rich flavors of Yucatecan cuisine on a delicious street food tour. Influenced by both Mayan and European traditions, the local dishes are known for tender meats, unique spices, and fresh regional produce.
Your first stop is Mérida’s bustling Lucas de Gálvez Market where you'll sample tamales, empanadas, exotic fruits, fresh juices, and the iconic Cochinita Pibil. You'll also visit a local seafood spot and an ice cream parlor with unusual flavors.
Time permitting, you’ll stop in Izamal, the “Yellow City”, to visit its historic Franciscan monastery.
In the evening, enjoy the Light & Sound Show at Chichén Itzá before heading to your hotel in Valladolid.
Rio Lagartos
Day 5: Experience nature & wildlife
You’ll travel to Río Lagartos, a coastal fishing village known for its vibrant birdlife. Enjoy a boat ride through the lagoon and mangroves, home to over 320 species, including flamingos.
You’ll stop at a shallow area for a natural spa experience using the mineral-rich mud.
Next, visit Las Coloradas, Mexico’s second-largest salt factory, where a short bike ride lets you admire the stunning pink lagoons.
Afterward, return to Valladolid, a charming colonial town with deep Mayan roots. Stroll its cobblestone streets, visit the Convent of San Bernardino, take a refreshing swim in Cenote Zací, and explore the nearby market for local treats like habanero hot sauce.
Coba - Punta Laguna - Cancun
Day 6: Into the jungle
Your final day is dedicated to nature and the ancient Mayan culture. After breakfast, you’ll head to Punta Laguna (Otoch Ma’ax Yetel Kooh), a nature reserve near Valladolid known for its spider and howler monkeys. Enjoy a jungle walk with a local guide who will help spot wildlife.
Later, visit the remote ruins of Cobá, hidden deep in the rainforest. Learn about its fascinating history as you walk through lush jungle paths. Don’t miss the chance to climb Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the region, for stunning views over the canopy.
The tour ends at your hotel, after which you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home.
