A proud Mexican hailing from the small city of Tlaxcala. Over the past four years, she has been dedicated to exploring the diverse landscapes of Mexico and has developed a profound appreciation for the authentic Mexico she has come to adore. It's a Mexico brimming with culture, natural wonders, and warm-hearted people. What sets her apart is her commitment to traveling with a positive impact and forging meaningful connections. Karen is eager to share her wealth of experiences and knowledge to assist you in crafting an authentic journey through Mexico that reflects her passion and values.
Itinerary Highlights:
- Sumidero Canyon and its viewpoints
- San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán
- Misol-Há and Agua Azul Waterfall Expedition
- Palenque Archaeological Zone and Waterfalls
- Clay workshop in Nahá
- Nahá and Amarillo Lake Tour
- Walking tour of the walled city of Campeche
- Artisanal Adventures
- Explore the archaeological sites of Uxmal
- Market tour in Mérida
- Visit the community of Yokdzonot
- Visit the Milpa and Maya Forest and less known cenotes in Yalcobá
- From Valladolid to Puerto Morelos
- Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos
Day 1 | Welcome to Chiapas!
Welcome to Chiapas! Your private transport will pick you up to take you to your hotel where you can settle in and prepare everything for the journey ahead.
Day 2 | Sumidero Canyon and its viewpoints
The adventure begins early as your transportation picks you up at your hotel for a one-hour drive to Tuxtla Gutiérrez, where, with luck and clear skies, you'll enjoy breathtaking views en route to the pier of Cahuaré. After a brief wait, you'll board a motorboat for a two-hour journey through the majestic Sumidero Canyon, an imposing natural formation with 800-meter-high walls that began forming approximately 136 million years ago. You'll marvel at waterfalls cascading from the high canyon walls, caves sculpted by nature over millennia, and the region's diverse flora and fauna. After the boat tour, you'll return to the vehicle for a twenty-minute drive to the canyon's viewpoints. This alternative perspective allows you to appreciate the canyon from above, stopping at five different viewpoints (availability permitting) to enjoy and contemplate the scenery or simply listen to the surrounding sounds. Finally, you'll take the vehicle for a one-hour trip to San Cristóbal.
Day 3 | San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán
On this tour, you will visit two indigenous towns in the highlands of Chiapas: San Juan Chamula and San Lorenzo Zinacatán. San Juan Chamula, a Tzotzil community of pre-Hispanic origin located 10 kilometers from San Cristóbal de las Casas, features the neighborhoods of San Juan Bautista, San Pedro, and San Sebastian, each with its pantheon presided over by gigantic crosses representing Chul Metic (Mother God) and Chul Totic (Father God). In San Lorenzo Zinacantán, known as the "Place of Bats," you can admire the colonial-era church of San Lorenzo, remodeled in the early twentieth century, as well as the chapels of Esquipulas and San Sebastian. You'll also visit a family home to learn about backstrap loom weaving, traditional cuisine and taste a traditional drink known as posh.
Day 4 | Misol-Há and Agua Azul Waterfall Expedition
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the lush jungles of Chiapas, as you discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Misol-Há and Agua Azul waterfalls. Begin your adventure at Misol-Há, where a majestic cascade plunges 35 meters into a crystalline pool below. Feel the mist on your skin and hear the roar of the waterfall as you stand in awe of nature's power. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, surrounded by verdant vegetation and the soothing sounds of cascading water.
Next, venture to Agua Azul, where a series of turquoise cascades cascade down limestone formations, creating a breathtaking display of natural beauty. Follow the winding paths through the jungle to discover a succession of cascades, each more stunning than the last. Marvel at the vibrant blue hues of the water, created by mineral deposits, and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 5 | Palenque Archaeological Zone and Waterfalls
You will visit the Archaeological Zone of Palenque, just a fifteen-minute drive from the town of the same name. This ancient city, a significant archaeological site of the Mayan world, was a center of civilization until the 7th century and remained hidden by the jungle until rediscovered. It's believed that almost ninety percent of the original city is still unexplored. With your local guide, you'll explore little-known jungle trails to delve into the site's history, myths, rituals, beliefs and the life of its past inhabitants. Over a two-hour tour, you'll visit the most emblematic buildings, such as the Temple of the Skull, the Queen's Bath, the Ball Game, the Palace and the Temple of the Inscriptions, which houses the tomb of King Pakal, Palenque's most famous ruler. After the archaeological tour, you'll take a fifty-minute drive to the waterfalls of Roberto Barrios, also known as the waterfalls of the Bascan Valley. This natural paradise at the entrance of the Chiapaneca jungle offers two and a half hours to explore its staggered waterfalls, characterized by crystalline turquoise water during the dry season (March to July). You can walk along the path beside the river to reach natural pools for a refreshing swim, surrounded by the tranquil wilderness and the sounds of the jungle. Afterward, you'll have free time to enjoy lunch.
Day 6 | Clay workshop in Nahá
In our next destination, participants will engage in a clay workshop, using a material employed since pre-Hispanic times to create everyday utensils and model figures of Gods. This workshop takes place in the home of a Lacandon woman named Nuk, who will explain the techniques for making clay. You can use your skills and imagination to mold your figures, rediscovering your creative and spiritual side throughout this two-hour session. In the evening, you'll embark on a jungle tour, listening to the diverse sounds of the night, particularly the hooting of owls. With luck, patience and quiet observation, you might catch sight of some of the seven owl species native to the region, such as the spectacled owl (Pulsatrix perspicillata) and the horned owl (Lophostrix cristata).
Day 7 | Nahá and Amarillo Lake Tour
Prepare yourself for an immersive jungle expedition guided by a knowledgeable Lacandon guide through the Nahá Reserve. Commencing with a 3 to 4-hour tour, the adventure begins with a 1-kilometer walk along a country road leading to the trail entrance. This 3-kilometer trail (round trip) unveils the picturesque Nahá lagoon. En route, our guide will illuminate the diverse local flora and fauna while you soak in the serenity of Nahá Lake. A serene boat ride awaits, allowing you to glide along its tranquil waters. Disembarking for a 1-kilometer jungle hike near the water, an opportunity arises to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and serenity of nature, potentially encountering local wildlife such as turtles and crocodiles.
Day 8 | Walking tour of the walled city of Campeche
After a 7-hour drive from Nahá to Campeche, meet your local guide to discover the historic center of San Francisco de Campeche, one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico. Let yourself be inspired by its seaside skyline and colorful colonial facades.
Campeche was once enclosed by protective walls. During a tour lasting approximately 3 hours, you will have the opportunity to stroll along a section of these historic fortifications. Your itinerary will include visits to the dock, the Puerta de Tierra, the reconstructed Puerta de Mar, a museum and three popular neighborhoods. Along the way, you'll delve into the captivating history of this city, including stories of pirate attacks, the English conquest attempts and Spanish colonization. This experience will provide insight into the blend of pre-Hispanic and colonial cultures that permeate the city's daily life.
Day 9 | Artisanal Adventures
Accompanied by your local guide, your transportation will take you to visit part of the path that was once traced by the Spaniards to unite the cities of Mérida and Campeche in approximately 5 hours. There are several villages developed here that preserve their culture through rituals and handicrafts. You will start with Hecelchakán where you can enjoy a typical breakfast of the region (not included), a place that is known for its cultural history, besides hosting archaeological and cultural sites, such as the Church of San Francisco de Asís which is an example of colonial architecture. You will continue to Bécal to learn about the artisanal process of the jipi hats made from the fibers of the jipijapa plant, you can also appreciate the traditional embroidered clothing of Dzitbalché and taste the artisanal bread of Pomuch as well as visit its cemetery. At the end of the tour, your transportation will take you to Mérida.
Day 10 | Explore the archaeological sites of Uxmal
Explore the ancient city of Uxmal, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Maya world, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uxmal, meaning "Thrice Built," is celebrated for its majestic architecture, which stands as some of the most impressive in the Yucatán. Its allure lies in the low, horizontal palaces surrounding courtyards adorned with intricate sculptures.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll embark on a 1-hour and 30-minute tour to delve into Uxmal's history, from its glory days to its decline. Discover the distinctive Puuc architecture and visit iconic structures such as the Pyramid of the Soothsayer, the Quadrangle of the Nuns, and the House of the Pigeons.
In the afternoon, venture to Mun-ha, where you'll meet a local guide who will introduce you to an exciting conservation project blending nature preservation and traditional Mayan culture. Engage in a hands-on workshop on jicara engraving, a fruit native to the Yucatán Peninsula historically used for food and water storage. Witness the array of crafts crafted from natural fruit, testing your artistic skills and creativity to craft your own souvenir to take home.
Day 11 | Market tour in Mérida
Join a group of travelers for an approximately 5-hour experience in the city of Mérida. At the established meeting point, you will meet your guide, from where you will begin your adventure in the city’s main market. During this tour, you will learn about the customs and traditions of Yucatán and sample the local cuisine, tasting authentic dishes and fresh fruits. Once you have acquired the necessary ingredients at the market, you will travel by bus to the host’s house, who will guide you step by step in the preparation of a traditional menu, an experience that will immerse you in the authentic culture and flavors of Yucatán!
Day 12 | Visit the community of Yokdzonot
Embark on a journey to the community of Yokdzonot, a favored stop for refreshment, where you'll encounter an impressive cenote with vertical walls, 40 meters in diameter and 45 meters deep.
Furthermore, the cooperative engages in social and environmental activities with the youth and children of the community.
Operated by a cooperative primarily composed of women from the community who have utilized tourism as a tool for empowerment, this cenote stands as a testament to their success. Delight in swimming in its crystalline waters; the community offers zip-line activities passing over it and the opportunity to rappel down its vertical walls, admiring the flora and fauna surrounding this water body. Conclude your visit with a delectable traditional meal at the restaurant.
Day 13 | Visit the Milpa and Maya Forest and less known cenotes in Yalcobá
Experience the enchanting Yalcobá, a Mayan community nestled in the verdant jungles of southern Mexico. Join a two-hour interpretative walk led by a local guide and English-speaking translator, traversing the Mayan jungle and delving into the traditional agricultural system known as the milpa. Learn about local plants, wildlife, and visit the stunning Rejoyada cenote, offering a glimpse into the fecundity of these sacred spaces. Afterward, embark on a 90-minute tour exploring the cycle of cenotes. Begin at an open cenote brimming with biodiversity, followed by a journey into a historic cave and a swim in an exclusive underground cenote, reminiscent of the underworld, Xibalbá. This adventure promises serenity, cultural enrichment, and a thrilling exploration of Mayan heritage.
Day 14 | From Valladolid to Puerto Morelos
Drive to Puerto Morelos, where you'll have the day off to rest, enjoy the beaches and restaurants, and await the sunset on the beautiful Mayan Riviera.
Day 15 | Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos
Visit the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park, an integral part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System and a sprawling coral reef stretching approximately 1000 km along the Caribbean coast of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. This reef ranks as the world's second-largest barrier reef, following Australia's Great Barrier Reef.
Accompanied by your local guide, you'll embark on a boat to enter this protected natural area and engage in a two-hour snorkeling excursion near the barrier reef. Beneath the surface lies a captivating world seldom explored. Thanks to the crystal-clear, shallow waters, you'll have the opportunity to observe diverse coral species, vibrant fish, and crustaceans, as well as the marine grasslands of the reef lagoon. With a stroke of luck, you may even encounter turtles during the excursion.
Day 16 | Goodbye traveler
Time to say goodbye, enjoy your breakfast, get your things ready and finally drive to Cancún airport. We hope it was an unforgettable trip.
