Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatán

  • thumbnail image_mexicofamilyjourneytheheartoftheyucatn
  • thumbnail map_mexicofamilyjourneytheheartoftheyucatn

Duration: 8 days

Begins: Playa del Carmen

Ends: Playa del Carmen

Trip Code: CMPNF

From

£2,699 per person

Angebot anfordern

or Call 01273 099433

    The Yucatán Peninsula is the perfect destination for explorers of all ages. Full of marine life, Maya ruins, and wildlife-packed jungles, this 8-day journey through some of Mexico’s must-see historical sites–small towns, cenotes, and reserves, offers the perfect educational experience for the entire family to share. Go on a jeep safari on the island of Cozumel, visit the remarkable wildlife in Celestún, marvel at the largest pyramid at Chichen Itza, visit a small Maya community and enjoy some ice cream in Izamal. The perfect blend of cross-cultural connections, history, and exploration that will provide a lifetime of memories for your whole family.
    Is this tour for me?
    Travel Style
    National Geographic Family Journeys
    Trips for adventure-loving families in search of a meaningful way to discover the world together.
    Service Level
    Upgraded
    Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.
    Physical Rating
    2 - Light
    Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.
    Trip Type
    Small Group
    Small Group experience; Max 20.
    Age requirement
    12+
    All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
    What's Included
    • Your G for Good Moment: Yaxunah Community Visit & Cochinita Pibil, Yaxuná
    • Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
    • Your Family Journeys Moment: Family Tour of Chichén Itzá with an Expert Guide, Chichén-Itzá
    • Your Family Journeys Moment: Santa Bárbara Cenotes, Mérida
    • Your Discover Moment: Playa del Carmen
    • Complimentary arrival transfer
    • Day tour of Cozumel with ruins, snorkeling, and beach time
    • Celestún Biosphere Reserve visit with a boat ride on the river and free time at the beach for water activities
    • Visit Izamal’s Mayan pyramid and climb the many steps
    • Enjoy an ice cream before the drive back to Playa del Carmen
    • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
    Accommodations

    Hotels (7 nts).

    Meals

    7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner

    Allow USD220-290 for meals not included.

    Transportation

    Private vehicle, boat, walking.

    Staff & experts

    Two CEOs (Chief Experience Officers) throughout, local guides.

    Itinerary Notes

    Prices are based on double occupancy; all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will accommodate triples/quads whenever possible. Please call for further details.

    Family Journeys are designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child in order to book, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

    Day 1 : Playa del Carmen

    Welcome to Playa del Carmen –your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travelers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead.

    Arrival Transfer

    Cancún International Airport - Playa del Carmen 1h 56km

    You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

    Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

    1h

    Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Day 2 : Day trip to Cozumel

    Your adventure-filled day begins with a ferry ride to the island of Cozumel. Protected by offshore reefs, Cozumel was sparsely populated, but pirates and trading ships often sought shelter and replenished their supplies here. During the Mayan period the island was used as a commercial and ceremonial centre, making it home to several small archaeological sites with deep historical significance. Travel by jeep on an island safari while learning about the land and efforts to protect the nearby reefs. Swim in the clear waters, enjoy lunch with a view, and listen to stories of the ancient Maya. Return to the hotel in Playa del Carmen where dinner will be at your leisure.

    Ferry

    Playa del Carmen - Cozumel 0h45m

    Sit back and enjoy the views from the water on your ferry ride between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel.

    Cozumel Jeep Tour

    Cozumel 5h - 6h

    Set off by jeep to explore the island of Cozumel today. Begin by heading to the island's ruins with time to explore, take photos, and learn more about their historical significance. Head to the east side of Cozumel for a quick visit to the Chen Río Beach and El Mirador, offering stunning views of the ocean and great photo opportunities for the whole family. Afterwards, continue to a nearby beach club where there will be time for snorkelling and an included lunch by the water. The group will be here for about 90 minutes and your local guide will distribute and give instructions on the use of any safety equipment for snorkelling.

    Ferry

    Cozumel - Playa del Carmen 0h45m

    After a fun day exploring Cozumel, you can rest and relax on the ferry ride back to Playa del Carmen.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch

    Day 3 : Playa del Carmen/Mérida

    After breakfast, begin the journey to Merída. The first stop along the way will be to Chichen Itzá. National Geographic has ranked Chichen Itzá as the best Mayan ruin to visit in Mexico. This significant archaeological site is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and houses 26 ruins in one location. Join an expert guide who will teach you about the site, including the pyramid, known as El Castillo or El Caracol. You’ll also see the largest Maya ball court in the Americas–Tlachtli.

    Your next stop is the small Maya community of Yaxunah. Join a knowledgeable guide and learn more about this vibrant community and their rich cultural history. Prepare for a hands-on experience and participate in communal life with the artisan workers, at the horticultural plots and with beekeepers or milperos (corn farmers). Arrive in Merída in the early evening and have dinner on your own.

    Private Vehicle

    Playa del Carmen - Chichén-Itzá 3h 190km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    Family Tour of Chichén Itzá with an Expert Guide

    Chichén-Itzá 2h

    Meet up with a local expert and explore Chichén Itzá on a family-focused tour. Follow your trusty guides through this dramatic site, including a 30m (98 ft) high temple, known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan. This significant archaeological site is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and houses 26 Mayan Ruins in one place. Identify ruins like the Chichen Itza Pyramid also known as El Castillo, or El Caracol, the Observatory, the Temple of The Warriors, and the largest Maya ball court in the Americas–tlachtli. Wander around the ruins as your guide shares stories of the beliefs and rituals that defined this ancient Mayan civilization and use those imaginations to step back in time for a glimpse of what it might have been like to experience this sacred city and religious centre during its glory days.

    Private Vehicle

    Chichén-Itzá - Mérida 2h30m - 3h 148km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Chichén Itzá and Mérida. There will be a short stop along the way at a G for Good Community Project.

    Yaxunah Community Visit & Cochinita Pibil

    Yaxuná 0h30m

    The community of Yaxunah is located in the central part of the state of Yucatán, México about 19km southwest of the great Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá. This location itself is historical with ruins of colonial era haciendas and a nearby church. During your visit here, the group will be given an introduction to the community's history as well as a demonstration on how the traditional Cochinita Pibil dish is made (lots of marinated and braised pork in achiote paste, orange juice, and lime). Afterwards, try your hand at tortilla making as a family before sitting down for a delicious traditionally cooked lunch.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Wyndham Merida

    Acommodation

    Hotel Wyndham Merida

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch

    Day 4 : Mérida

    Head into the jungle and marvel at the cenotes, giant holes in the earth filled with clear blue water. Considered sacred to the ancient Maya, cenotes have been studied by National Geographic Explorers like Dr. Guillermo de Anda extensively. Dive in with your family and channel your inner archeologist while exploring these waterways. Santa Barbara is home to 4 different pools to choose from, offering truly unique swimming experiences with the bonus of using a colorful small train as transport between. Return to Merída in the early evening for a free evening.

    Private Vehicle

    Mérida - Santa Bárbara 1h 46km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Mérida and the Santa Barbara cenotes.

    Santa Bárbara Cenotes

    Mérida 4h30m

    It’s a kid’s dream! Think massive sinkholes full of cool, inviting water, surrounded by blue sky above. It’s no wonder it feels like you’ve entered another realm. Spend the day visiting different cenotes in Santa Bárbara and travel between them by the iconic Santa Bárbara express train, a unique experience for the entire family. Lunch will be served in between the adventurous swimming, and the spread will be Yucatán Regional staples like, Papadzules, Poc Chuc, and Sopa de Lima.

    Private Vehicle

    Santa Bárbara - Mérida 1h 46km

    After an adventurous day at the cenotes, settle in to your private vehicle and return to Mérida.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Wyndham Merida

    Acommodation

    Hotel Wyndham Merida

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch

    Day 5 : Celestún Biosphere Reserve / Merida

    Spend part of the day observing wildlife in the Celestún Biosphere Reserve with knowledgeable local guides. In the reserve there are over 200 species of birds that migrate or live here year-round. The area also serves as a hatching ground for endangered sea turtles. During winter the wetland boasts flocks of thousands of flamingos, offering quite a sight. Be sure to remain on the lookout for other wildlife like herons, ducks and pelicans. This immersive experience offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about and appreciate diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. The afternoon back in Merída will be free to explore as you choose.

    Celestún Biosphere Reserve Visit

    Celestún 4h30m

    The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is located on the northwestern part of the Yucatán Peninsula. It's home to an extensive network of mangrove wetlands, making it a hot spot for birds and other wildlife. As you ride in a boat on the river with your guide, be on the lookout for the diverse populations of migratory and resident avian species. After the boat ride, there will be free time at a beach in the reserve that has a restaurant where the group will have lunch before returning back to Mérida. Please keep in mind that the presence of American Flamingos is seasonal and you will only be able to see them between November and March each year.

    Private Vehicle

    Celestún - Mérida 1h30m 120km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Celestún and Mérida.

    Private Vehicle

    Mérida - Celestún 1h30m 120km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Mérida and Celestún.

    Free time:

    Mérida

    Arrive back to Mérida in the late afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day and evening free to do as you please. Spend time as a family, walk around, and opt to grab dinner at one of the nearby local spots.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Wyndham Merida

    Acommodation

    Hotel Wyndham Merida

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch

    Day 6 : Mérida/Playa del Carmen

    Ascend the pyramid steps of Kinich Kak Moo, Izamal’s Mayan pyramid and witness the excitement on your kids’ faces as they conquer the ancient steps and take in the panoramic views from the top. Spend time here amid the buildings of uniform yellow and enjoy some ice cream before the drive back to the coast and white sand beaches of Playa del Carmen. Return to the hotel and relax with a swim in the pool or take advantage of some of the hotel’s many amenities to unwind after your day’s journey.

    Private Vehicle

    Mérida - Izamal 1h 68km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

    Izamal Pyramid Visit & Ice Cream

    Izamal 1h15m

    Visit Izamal and the The Kinich Kakmó Pyramid, dedicated to the Sun God or "Fire Macaw". Spread across a sprawling three acres. Climb the steps to the top of this 110 ft / 34 m tall pyramid and enjoy views of the surrounding site. Dating back to the Pre-Classic period this is one of the oldest Mayan structures. The structure was also built over a cave which holds an important place in the religion and mythology of the Maya. After exploring head to town amid the yellow buildings and enjoy a nice cold ice cream.

    Private Vehicle

    Izamal - Playa del Carmen 3h30m 250km

    Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. Please note you will cross a time zone along this route.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Lunch

    Day 7 : Playa del Carmen

    Enjoy a day on your own, taking advantage of the optional activities in the area, lounging by the hotel pool, or building sandcastles on the beach. You can also choose to pre-book a visit to the Mayan city of Tulum, the only Mayan city built on a coast and one of the few protected by a wall of limestone. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for an included farewell dinner where everyone can swap stories and reflect on a week of fun and engaging exploration.

    In the evening there will be an included final group dinner where everyone can swap stories and reflect on a week well spent in a deeply historical part of the world.

    Free time:

    Playa del Carmen Full day

    Enjoy a full free day as a family in Playa del Carmen. From hanging out on the beach to taking a day trip to Tulum, there are endless options to get out and enjoy this slice of paradise.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Optional Activities - Day 7

    Tulum Day Trip

    Tulum 4h

    Visit the only Mayan fortress in the world built in front of the turquoise sea. Spend this half day enjoying these beautifully located temples and learn about their important historical significance with your local guide. You will be transferred to and from your hotel for this excursion where your guide will offer more fascinating information about the history, architecture, and archaeology of the Mayan civilization as you explore ruins built over 800 years ago, boasting unparalleled views of the Caribbean Sea. Be prepared for a seamless blend of ancient ruins and coastal beauty while you unravel the mysteries of this incredible culture and study the architectural style evident in the well-preserved frescoes you will see.

    Beach Time - Playa del Carmen

    Playa del Carmen 1h - 8h

    Choose to spend the day enjoying the gorgeous beaches of Playa del Carmen with your entire family. Lounge in the sand with a good book while the kids build sand castles and go for a swim in the refreshing, calm ocean water.

    Walk Along Fifth Avenue

    Playa del Carmen 1h - 4h

    Take a walk on Fifth Avenue, where you can find all of the shops, restaurants, and cute souvenirs to remember your time here. Fifth avenue is a pedestrian street that runs through the heart of Playa del Carmen. As you walk search for all of the different colourful homes and murals.

    Acommodation

    Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast | Dinner

    Day 8 : Playa del Carmen

    Depart at any time.

    Meals Included:

    Breakfast

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