Mexico: Yucatán Adventure

Join a licensed local guide for a visit to Chichén Itzá, one of the country's most famous Mayan sites. The city dates to around the 7th century AD, though evidence shows farmers lived here as early as the 4th century BC. Known for its 365-stepped pyramid, El Castillo, the site also features sculptures, murals, and other ancient structures.

Slip into the cool, shadowed world of Yucatán cenotes, where turquoise waters offer relief from the blistering heat. These underground caves were sacred to the Mayans and have fascinated travelers since ancient times.

Tropical flowers in fuchsia, yellow, and orange bloom beside the dark green leaves of almond and tamarind trees. Couples in white relax on ornate stone benches around Mérida’s central plaza. As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida is the ideal base for exploring the ancient Mayan world—but start with the city itself. A licensed guide will lead you to the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, begun in 1563 and home to Mexico’s oldest true dome. Inside, admire its dignified Tuscan columns and coffered nave. Across the sunny plaza, the Government Palace showcases murals of the Spanish conquest and Mayan heritage. Then stroll down Paseo de Montejo, a grand boulevard inspired by the Champs-Élysées, lined with iconic buildings and monuments.

Enjoy time at Progreso Beach, a favorite seaside resort lined with turn-of-the-century mansions.

Take a kayak ride through the lush mangroves near the Yucatán capital, home to diverse regional flora and fauna that will leave you in awe. Learn about the local ecosystems as you paddle through tunnels and islets.

Hop on a bike and explore ancient roads and walkways leading to Cobá’s great pyramid, Nohoc Mul, all surrounded by the lush Mexican jungle.

Playa del Carmen, once a quiet fishing village, now holds a Guinness World Record as one of Latin America's fastest-growing communities. Drawn by its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, newcomers help maintain the town’s vibrant and friendly atmosphere. Relax on the beach or shop for souvenirs along the lively main strip.

See the Mayan vision of a beach town in Tulum, the largest coastal city of its kind and a favorite Cancún daytrip. Explore limestone ruins, lush jungle, and brilliant blue waters with your Tour Director.

Spend an afternoon soaking up the sun on Playa del Carmen’s fine white sands, named for Cancún’s patron saint. The turquoise Caribbean waters invite you to explore vibrant marine life and coral reefs.

Spend an afternoon soaking up the sun on Playa del Carmen’s fine white sands, named for Cancún’s patron saint. The turquoise Caribbean waters invite you to explore vibrant marine life and coral reefs.

Discover the diversity of Mexican wildlife at Xcaret, meaning “little inlet” in Mayan. This ecological park sits on the site of a former Mayan port and religious center. Alongside archaeological ruins and a recreated Mayan village, you’ll find stunning beaches, a botanical garden with over 100 species, a butterfly pavilion, a dolphin arena, a coral reef aquarium, and more.