Deep Mexico: Chiapas, the Maya World & the Caribbean

Arrival in Mexico City. Depending on when you land, you'll have free time to wander around the Zócalo, the Cathedral, the Templo Mayor, the Palacio de Bellas Artes and the Alameda Central at your own pace. Grab a bite in the city centre or at a classic taquería, then head over to Roma or Condesa later in the day for a more laid-back vibe.

Day trip to Teotihuacán, the ancient pre-Hispanic city and one of Mexico's most important archaeological sites — home to the massive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, and the sweeping Avenue of the Dead that ties the whole complex together. On the way back, a stop at the Basilica of Guadalupe, Mexico's most important Catholic shrine and a major pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, with deep religious and historical roots in the country.

Airport transfer to catch your flight to Tuxtla Gutiérrez, in the state of Chiapas. On arrival, you'll continue by road to San Cristóbal de las Casas — a mountain city known for its colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Check in to the hotel and, depending on your arrival time, enjoy some free time to wander the historic centre at your own pace, browse the craft markets, or settle into a local café and soak up the atmosphere.

A cultural day trip to San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, two Tsotsil communities near San Cristóbal de las Casas where indigenous traditions are very much alive in everyday life. In San Juan Chamula, we visit the church — famous for its blend of Maya and Catholic rituals — always with respect and no photography inside. In Zinacantán, we get up close with the textiles, the backstrap loom, and the family workshops behind it all.

Full-day trip to Sumidero Canyon from San Cristóbal — a dramatic natural gorge carved by the Grijalva River, with towering walls and lush vegetation all around. You'll take a boat ride along the river, soaking in the scenery, with a stop in Chiapa de Corzo, a colonial town known for its central square and distinctive Mudéjar fountain, before heading back in the afternoon.

Bus transfer to Palenque, and once you arrive, the afternoon is yours — rest up after the journey or, depending on timing, head out and explore the town at your own pace: wander the streets, grab a relaxed dinner, or check into one of those jungle-wrapped hotels and start soaking up that lush, wild atmosphere.

Early morning trip to the Palenque archaeological zone — one of the most remarkable ancient Maya cities, famous for its jungle-wrapped temples and refined architecture, including the Temple of the Inscriptions. We'll explore the ruins, the surrounding jungle, and the on-site museum (if open). Quiet afternoon back in the village or at the accommodation.

A day trip to Agua Azul and Misol-Ha, two iconic natural spots near Palenque, famous for their turquoise waters and lush jungle surroundings. A full day soaking up the scenery and the waterfalls, with a return to Palenque by late afternoon.

Hop on the Tren Maya to Mérida, then transfer to the hotel on arrival. Depending on when you get in, there's time for a gentle wander around Plaza Grande, the Cathedral, Casa de Montejo and the streets of the historic centre. A great chance to try some Yucatecan food — cochinita pibil, sopa de lima, panuchos or salbutes — and wind down the evening around Santa Lucía or Santa Ana.

Day trip to Uxmal, one of the top archaeological sites on the Puuc Route and a standout example of Maya architecture in Yucatán — known for its elegant structures and intricate geometric decoration. Then on to Kabah, a smaller but fascinating site famous for the Palace of the Masks, whose facade is covered in carvings of the rain god Chaac. Back to Mérida to wrap up the day.

We leave the hotel in Valladolid and head to Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and one of the most important Maya sites. Next stop: cenote Yokdzonot, a natural freshwater formation typical of the Yucatán Peninsula, with deep blue water and turquoise reflections. Then we swing by Izamal, a colonial city known for its yellow facades and laid-back atmosphere, before heading back to Valladolid.

A relaxed morning in Valladolid — wander the Calzada de los Frailes at your own pace, peek inside the Convento de San Bernardino, or take a dip at Cenote Zací. Then it's time to hop on the bus or the Tren Maya toward Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Cancún, depending on where you're based. Arrival on the Riviera Maya and your first night on the coast.

Free day to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean beaches at your own pace — kick back at the hotel, head out on your own to a nearby cenote for a dip in those crystal-clear waters, or make your way over to Isla Mujeres or Cozumel, both famous for their turquoise waters and laid-back vibe. Time to switch off and soak up the surroundings however you like.

Free day to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean beaches at your own pace — kick back at the hotel, head out on your own to a nearby cenote for a dip in those crystal-clear waters, or make your way over to Isla Mujeres or Cozumel, both famous for their turquoise waters and laid-back vibe. Time to switch off and soak up the surroundings however you like.