Route of the Maya Heart
Independent tour
Valladolid – Mérida – Uxmal Bacalar – Akumal
This journey through Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula weaves together ancient ruins, colonial towns, and natural beauty. Explore markets, swim in cenotes, and discover Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, and Mérida. From flamingo-filled lagoons to starry skies and sea turtles in Akumal, each experience reveals the region’s rich culture, vibrant flavours, and timeless connection to land and sky.
Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9-10
Day 1 : UK - Cancún – Valladolid
Arrive in Cancún and transfer to Valladolid, a charming colonial town rich in Franciscan history. Explore its vibrant zócalo and colourful market. Swim in the ethereal Cenote Suytun before savouring Yucatecan fusion cuisine at Conato 1910, where local flavours meet international flair in a creative, art-filled setting. (B)
Day 2 : Valladolid
Visit the ancient Mayan site of Ek’ Balam, then descend into the forest-shrouded cenote of Xcanché for a refreshing swim. Later, tour Casa de los Venados, a private folk art museum filled with vivid Mexican traditions, from whimsical catrinas to imaginative local portraits. (B)
Day 3 : Valladolid – Mérida
Marvel at Chichén Itzá’s iconic “El Castillo” and ancient observatory, “El Caracol.” Continue to Izamal, the “City of Hills,” home to sun god pyramids and vast monastery courtyards. End the day in Mérida, where colonial elegance and Maya heritage converge in Yucatán’s vibrant capital city. (B)
Day 4 : Mérida
Tour an organic habanero plantation near Kinchil, where fiery peppers thrive in Yucatán’s sun-drenched soil. Back in Mérida, explore the historic centre, with visits to its cathedral, colonial mansions, and the famed Casa de Montejo. Stroll at your leisure and savour a crisp marquesita on the lively Paseo de Montejo. (B)
Day 5 : Mérida – Uxmal
Begin at the Palacio de Cantón, home to Yucatán’s anthropological museum and Mayan treasures. Cruise through Celestún’s bird sanctuary, spotting vibrant flamingos. At Hacienda Yaxcopoil, walk among fading grandeur before contuining to ancient Uxmal. (B)
Day 6 : Uxmal – Bacalar
Explore Uxmal's majestic ruins and visit the nearby Mayan Planetarium, where a dome show reveals how ancient astronomers mapped the stars. (B)
Day 7 : Bacalar – Akumal
Visit Bacalar’s 18th-century fortress and take in sweeping views of the radiant Lagoon of Seven Colours. Continue to Tulum, where ancient ruins perch above the Caribbean sea. Arrive in Akumal to unwind. (B)
Day 8 : Akumal
Swim alongside sea turtles in Akumal Bay and venture into the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve where you'll float through mangroves and tranquil lagoons. (B)
Day 9-10 : Akumal – Cancún - UK
Transfer to Cancún Airport ahead of your departing flight as your journey comes to an end. (B)
