Swim in a Cenote
Paddle in one of Riviera Maya’s remarkable natural ground-water-filled limestone sinkholes.
An exploration of Mexico’s idyllic Yucatan Peninsula, from its Mayan ruins and turquoise ocean to its wildlife reserves and colonial cities, this journey strikes the perfect balance between ocean-side relaxation and archaeological discoveries.
Paddle in one of Riviera Maya’s remarkable natural ground-water-filled limestone sinkholes.
Tour the ancient ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza in the company of a private guide.
Lounge on white sand beaches or snorkel in the dazzling coral-filled ocean.
Travel by boat to see the world’s largest populations of American flamingos in Celestun.
With the benefit of utilising a private guide and driver and omitting internal flights, this highly customisable journey encompasses out of hours tours of one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World” and days spent snorkelling through the turquoise waters of the peninsula’s colourful barrier reef. In a place peppered with ancient Mayan pyramids, white sandy beaches and colonial cobblestone cities, we can arrange adventures to newly-discovered underground rivers, early access to world-renowned ruins, moonlight safaris and kayaking in salt flat lagoons. With explorations of Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Merida and the sandy retreat outcrop of Riviera Maya, this is a breathtaking journey through marvels that need to be seen to be believed.
Day 1
Cancun
Day 2
Cancun - Ek Balam - Valladolid - Chichen Itza
Day 3
Chichen Itza - Uxmal - Campeche
Day 4
Campeche
Day 5
Campeche - Becal - Celestun
Days 6-7
Celestun
Day 8
Celestun - Merida - Tixkokob
Day 9
Tixkokob, Ake & Izamal
Day 10
Tixkokob - Coba - Cenote Dos Ojos - Riviera Maya
Days 11-13
Riviera Maya
Day 1
Cancun
Day 2
Cancun - Ek Balam - Valladolid - Chichen Itza
Tour the ancient ruins of Maya site of Chichen Itza in the company of an expert private guide.
Day 3
Chichen Itza - Uxmal - Campeche
Day 4
Campeche
Day 5
Campeche - Becal - Celestun
Days 6-7
Celestun
Travel by boat to see the world’s largest populations of American flamingos in the Celestun Biosphere Reserve.
Day 8
Celestun - Merida - Tixkokob
Day 9
Tixkokob, Ake & Izamal
Day 10
Tixkokob - Coba - Cenote Dos Ojos - Riviera Maya
Lounge on the white sand beaches of the Riviera Maya or snorkel in the dazzling coral-filled ocean.
Days 11-13
Riviera Maya
Paddle in one of Riviera Maya’s remarkable natural ground-water-filled limestone sinkholes.
Chichen Itza is not only one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World”, but one of the most visited archaeological sites on the planet. Receiving thousands of visitors each day, ordinary visits to this ancient pyramid can be busy and distracting. At Steppes Travel, we can arrange exclusive sunrise permits that allow for unforgettable out of hours tours of the Mayan temple in the company of an expert private guide or archaeologist. Before the site opens to the public and morning coaches arrive, intrepid early-morning visitors to the ruins might find themselves alone but for its ancient stone-carved reliefs and handful of other early birds. Also travel to Uxmal to climb its Pyramid of the Fire Macaw and gaze out over the surrounding jungle.
From a bungalow bordered by unspoiled beaches and native vegetation, travel to the Celestun Biosphere Reserve where countless species of shorebirds and waterfowl congregate alongside the world’s largest population of American flamingos. Regarded by ornithologists as a true treasure trove and one of the gems of the peninsula, the reserve hosts three endemic species that are found nowhere else on Earth. In a place where turtle’s come ashore to nest, toucans grace the branches and manatees occasionally appear in quiet backwaters, we can arrange boat trips to see the renowned flamingo colony and even moonlight safari trips.
Despite the bountiful supply of indulgent resorts and spoiling jungle-backed coastal properties lying in wait, a jaunt to Riviera Maya would not be complete without visits to the lesser-known highlights of the tropical retreat. Experience its marine-life-rich barrier reef during private snorkelling trips and discover its lush interior on jungle quad biking tours, while still having time to unwind with nights spent in hand-picked hideaways with spectacular turquoise waters just a stroll away. From horseback riding and mountain biking to sailing and swimming with dolphins, there are options to suit everyone. For a truly unique and memorable experience, we can arrange trips to the natural limestone cenotes where you can dip your feet or take a cooling paddle.
Amble the streets of colonial-era Merida, the historic city in the centre of the Yucatan, whose pearlescent appearance earned it the nickname of “The White City”. With a private guide, discover its charming churches, listen to local mariachi bands, and stroll under magical walkways formed by graceful flower arches. Its collection of quaint markets and artisan shops make Merida the ideal place to pick up souvenirs, particularly as it is the centre for the region’s hammock-making industry, and your local guide will be able to lead you to the most authentic boutiques. Staying in a traditional hand-picked hacienda, laze the mornings away in a hammock or take a cooling dip in a tropical greenery-surrounded pool. When evening descends on the city, frequent one of the inviting candlelit eateries to sample Mexican suppers accompanied by world-class wines under moonlight.
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Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
January and February are peak months of travel as the weather is dry, temperatures and temperatures are warm. As these are popular months, we recommend planning 9-12 months in advance. Many beach hotels and resort have required minimum night stays during this time, which will be taken into consideration when planning your itinerary.
January and February are peak months of travel as the weather is dry, temperatures and temperatures are warm. As these are popular months, we recommend planning 9-12 months in advance. Many beach hotels and resort have required minimum night stays during this time, which will be taken into consideration when planning your itinerary.
March continues to be a dry month in Mexico and peak time to visit. Crowds have calmed from January and February school holidays and can be a great time to travel.
April continues to be peak season to travel to Mexico. Weather is still dry and towards the end of the month temperatures begin to rise slightly in the south.
May is a shoulder season set between the dry season ending in April and the start of hurricane season in June. Expect the occasional afternoon shower and temperatures to begin rising in the south.
The rains become more prevalent in June, in the form of afternoon storms and showers. Humidity and temperatures are building as hurricane season begins, though historically most hurricanes take place between August and November.
July is very much the wet season across Mexico. Expect temperatures of +30 along the coast which break into afternoon showers to cool the evenings. The temperatures inland are marginally less, averaging mid-20s.
Hurricane Season
Hurricane Season
Hurricane Season
November is considered the first month heading into the dry season. The rains have subsided but not completely gone, following the hurricane season. Early November can be a good time to visit, before the school holiday (for the USA) crowds begin.
December is one of the most popular months for travel in Mexico. Weather is dry and warm across the country making for a comfortable environment to experience the culture and wildlife that Mexico has to offer. As this is a busy time, we highly recommend planning 9-12 months in advance.
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