Mexico · Archaeology

5-Day Mayan Archaeological Tour from Tulum to Chichén Itzá

5 Days Round trip from Cancún Easy pace

Exploring the Mysteries of the Mayan Empire

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore iconic Mayan archaeological sites including Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, Palenque, Tulum and Becan
02 Discover natural wonders such as the Misol-Ha waterfalls and the lush landscapes of Yucatán and Chiapas
03 Experience ancient Mayan civilisation through temples, pyramids and ceremonial centres across Mexico
04 Explore the colonial charm of Campeche and Mérida while travelling through rich cultural heritage regions

Embark on a five-day journey through southeastern Mexico, exploring the heart of the ancient Mayan world. Visit iconic archaeological sites including Tulum, Kohunlich, Becan, Palenque, Edzná, Uxmal and Chichén Itzá, alongside the stunning Misol-Ha waterfalls. Experience colonial charm in Campeche and Mérida while discovering rich history, architecture and culture. This shared expedition combines archaeology, nature and heritage across the Yucatán and Chiapas regions for an unforgettable travel experience.

Explore the iconic Pyramid of Kukulcán (El Castillo), the Sacred Cenote, the Observatory and the Great Ball Court.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities San Francisco de Campeche, Cancun, Merida, Chichen Itza, Tulum, Uxmal, Palenque, Riviera Maya, Edzna

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

From Cancún to Chicanna via Tulum and Kohunlich

Departure from Cancún on a shared tour heading to Tulum, a spectacular Mayan city perched on the Caribbean coast and protected by fortress walls.
Admire the breathtaking sea views and learn about its historical significance as one of the last Mayan cities, which fell around 1600 BC.
Continue inland to Kohunlich, famous for its massive stucco masks, ball court and stelae plaza.
Explore the ceremonial centre and archaeological structures that reflect the city's cultural importance.
Proceed to Chicanna, renowned for its temples adorned with intricate zoomorphic figures.
Check in at Chicanna for overnight accommodation after completing the day's exploration.

Day 02

Chicanna to Palenque via Becan and Misol-Ha

After breakfast, depart from Chicanna on a shared tour to Becan, an ancient Mayan city whose name means "cliff," believed to reference the natural moat that once surrounded its central area.
Explore its ceremonial centre, plazas and archaeological structures while learning about its historical and cultural significance.
Continue the journey to Misol-Ha waterfalls, a spectacular natural site surrounded by lush jungle scenery.
Enjoy time to swim, take photographs and relax in the refreshing environment of the falls.
Proceed with a shared transfer to Palenque and check in for overnight accommodation.

Day 03

Palenque and Campeche Temples and Colonial Heritage

After breakfast, enjoy a guided visit to the Palenque archaeological site nestled in the lush mountains of Chiapas.
Explore ancient temples, ceremonial plazas and the ornate tomb of the ruler Pakal, one of the most influential figures of the Mayan civilisation.
Continue the journey through scenic landscapes on a shared transfer towards Campeche.
Arrive in Campeche, a charming colonial city known as the "Pirate City" with colourful streets and historic fortifications.
Check in at the hotel for overnight accommodation in Campeche.

Day 04

Campeche, Edzná and Uxmal Mayan Architecture Journey

After breakfast, depart from Campeche on a shared tour to the Edzná archaeological site, known for its impressive structures and unique acoustic features.
Explore the ceremonial plazas, temples and ancient architectural remains of this significant Mayan city.
Continue into the state of Yucatán to visit Uxmal, one of the most remarkable Mayan cities, famous for the Pyramid of the Magician and intricately decorated buildings.
Discover the architectural brilliance and historical importance of the site while exploring its main complexes.
Proceed to Mérida and check in at the hotel for overnight accommodation.

Day 05

Mérida to Chichén Itzá and Return to Cancún

After breakfast, depart from Mérida on a shared tour towards Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Explore the iconic Pyramid of Kukulcán (El Castillo), the Sacred Cenote, the Observatory and the Great Ball Court.
Learn about the advanced astronomical and architectural knowledge of the Mayan civilisation while walking through the archaeological complex.
Enjoy scenic views of the Yucatán landscapes during the journey.
Continue on the shared transfer back to Cancún or the Riviera Maya, marking the conclusion of the tour.

Where this trip takes you

Tulum cliffside, Kohunlich stucco masks, Misol-Ha waterfalls, Chichén Itzá pyramids

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Cancún 9 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

1 night of accommodation in Xpuhil
1 night of accommodation in Palenque
1 night of accommodation in Campeche
1 night of accommodation in Mérida
Guided tours with a bilingual guide in Spanish and English
Meals as per itinerary
Comfortable shared transport for all excursions
Shared airport transfers for arrival and departure

What's Not Included

International or domestic flights
Travel insurance
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, including lunches and dinners except where specified
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, tips and extra drinks
Optional activities or additional stops not included in the itinerary

Know before you go

Prices do not apply during high season periods including Easter, national holidays, Christmas and New Year.
Programs in Mexico City do not operate during major events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Day of the Dead celebrations and Virgin of Guadalupe celebrations.
Programs in Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey do not operate during the 2026 FIFA World Cup dates.

Logistics