The tour begins with an exploration of the ruins of Chichén Itzá, which are characterized by huge stepped pyramids. Discover for yourself how these ancient people flourished in Mexico and Central America. In the early evening we arrive at the colonial city of Mérida, capital of Yucatán State, where we spend the next two nights. A first-class night bus takes us to San Cristóbal de las Casas on the evening of Day 4.

San Cristóbal de las Casas was the former State Capital of Chiapas. This is a colourful city with attractive colonial buildings and rich indigenous traditions. There are many optional activities. Visit the Sumidero Canyon, tour the area by mountain bike or horse, or explore the bright markets, museums, churches and surrounding mountain villages.

Located in the beautiful Ocosingo Valley, this is the closest point to the ruins of Toniná, the last city of the Classic Maya civilization. The ranch is located in the transition zone between the jungle and the highland forest, half way between San Cristobal and Palenque. Discover the ruins and relax in this tropical highland setting while you enjoy delicious home-cooked meals.

We travel by bus across the jungle to the outskirts of Palenque, one of the most beautiful Mayan sites in Mexico. Set within the lushness of the Chiapas jungle, Palenque's colourful, riotous wildlife and profuse flora will impress you as much as the ancient structures will. We take a comfortable night bus across the peninsula on the evening of Day 12.

Our final stop is the beach side town of Playa del Carmen, where we will take time to relax and enjoy the coast. Optional activities abound in the area. You may shop for souvenirs, visit the nearby ruins of Tulum, take a boat trip across to the island of Cozumel, swim, snorkel, dive, or soak up some sun off the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán.

Services end. Free to depart at anytime. Playa del Carmen is located a 45 minute-drive south of Cancún, therefore it is easy to head directly to the international airport without returning to Cancún.

You will be on the move a great deal, so our general advice is to pack as light as possible.

How much you take is obviously a personal matter, but the amounts indicated in the brochure are the most recent averages for meals and optional excursions. If you intend to purchase many expensive souvenirs we would recommend that you take much more than this figure, or a credit card. These are quite widely accepted throughout Mexico. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

Mérida (Mexico)
City tour $10
Celestún Bird Sanctuary $35
Uxmal Ruins tour $35-$40
Palenque
Flight (microlight)over ruins $35
Agua Azul/Misol-Ha $10-$12
Flight over Bonampak/Yaxchilán $100 (4 person min)
San Cristobal de Las Casas
Villages tour $10-$12
Lagunas de Montebello $25-$30
Sumidero Canyon $20-$25
Bicycle rental $2/hour
Horseback riding $3/hour