Mexico Highlights (from Cancun) Express Travel Pass

Mexico Highlights (from Cancun) Express Travel Pass

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Mexico Highlights (from Cancun) Express Travel Pass

13 Days Starting in Cancún and ending in Mexico City

Visiting: Cancun, Chichen Itza, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Merida, Palenque, Misol-Ha, Agua Azul, San Cristobal, San Cristobal de las Casas, Oaxaca, Mexico City, Teotihuacan

Tour operator:

Bamba Travel

Tour code:

49032

Group Type:

Independent

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Partially Guided

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Hiking, Sightseeing

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Explore Southern Mexico as you travel from Cancun to Mexico City. Make stops an ancient ruins and stunning waterfalls.

Highlights

  • See the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza

  • Marvel at the rock formations at Hierve El Agua

  • Dine with a local family at Teotihuacan

Itinerary

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Day 1: Cancun, Mexico

Location: Cancun, Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza Day Trip (roundtrip from Cancun) Departure Time: 4:00 Duration: 12 hrs Embark on a thrilling adventure to the heart of ancient civilization with this breathtaking early morning tour of Chichen Itza. Rise with the sun and beat the crowds as you delve into the rich history of this renowned archaeological site. With a specialized guide by your side, journey back in time as you explore the remains of this once powerful city. Discover the secrets of the Maya civilization and learn how Chichen Itza played a pivotal role in shaping their world from 600 AD to 1200. Marvel at the intricate details of this sacred site, still considered holy by the Maya people of the Yucatan today. Brave the jungle's lush terrain as you unearth the mystery of this lost city, protected by UNESCO and now listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With the cool morning air at your back and the warm sun at your face, this early morning tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Chichen Itza in a way most will never have the chance to. Please note: The government requires an additional fee for the use of mobile devices such as GoPros, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and drones at the ticket office. Get ready for a truly epic adventure!

Day 2: Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Location: Playa del Carmen

Cancun to Playa del Carmen Type: Bus Time: Every 30-45 minutes from 06:30 to 21:30 Duration: 1.2 Hours Transfer from Cancun to Playa del Carmen Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Playa del Carmen.

Day 3: Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Location: Playa del Carmen

Free Day Enjoy a free day to experience on your own

Day 4: Tulum, Mexico

Location: Playa del Carmen, Tulum

Playa del Carmen to Tulum Type: Bus Time: 09:16, 09:25, 09:51, 10:00, 10:36 Duration: 1 Hours Transfer from Playa del Carmen to Tulum Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Tulum.

Day 5: Tulum, Mexico

Location: Tulum

Free Day Enjoy a free day to experience on your own

Day 6: Merida, Mexico

Location: Merida

Tulum to Merida Type: Bus Time: 01:40, 08:57, 10:47, 14:37, 18:57, 20:17, 21:27 Duration: 3.5 Hours Transfer from Tulum to Merida Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Merida.

Day 7: Merida, Mexico

Location: Merida, Palenque

Merida to Palenque Type: Bus (Overnight) Time: 22:00 23:30 Duration: 9 Hours Transfer from Merida to Palenque Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Palenque.

Day 8: Palenque, Mexico

Location: Palenque, Misol-Ha, Agua Azul, San Cristobal

Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls (Palenque to San Cristobal) Departure Time: 08:00 Duration: 14 hrs You will be picked up early in the morning and transferred to the Palenque ruins. You will have a couple of hours to visit these beautiful ruins hidden in the jungle own your own. Then you will be transferred to Misol-ha where you will spend 45 minutes. The last stop will be at Agua Azul where you will have 2 hours and 30 minutes to freely explore this beautiful area. After seeing these 3 beautiful attractions, you will be transferred to San Cristobal which is about a 4-5 hour drive, so be prepared for a VERY LONG but VERY EXCITING and BEAUTIFUL DAY AS WELL. -Description of the attractions- -Palenque Ruins- The ancient Mayan city of Palenque is one of Mexico's most breath-taking archaeological parks surrounded by lush tropical forest and jungle. This site has a serene, mystical atmosphere. From the moment you enter, you feel engulfed by a sense of history, timelessness and awe. Explore the site on foot and climb up the pyramids for great views of the ancient city and the jungle. (approx. 3 1⁄2 hours) -Agua Azul Waterfalls- Rio Xumul-Ha (meaning River of Blue Water, or in Spanish, Agua Azul) features a series of torrential cascades and fast flowing waters rolling down a limestone ridge to form pools and small streams. Take a one-hour walk next to the falls in the breath-taking green valley and swim in one of the calm parts of the refreshing blue river. (approx. 2 1⁄2 hours) -Misol-Ha Waterfall- River Misol-Ha (meaning "Streaming Water"), in the "Chol Maya" tribe area of Chiapas, creates one of the state's most wonderful natural sights as the river glides off the edge of a cliff and 40 meters down into a deep pool of water surrounded by lush vegetation. Swim in the deliciously refreshing water and be impressed by the sight of the fall from below. A small walkway will take you behind the water curtain created by the waterfall where you can walk inside the caves. (approx. 45 minutes)

Day 9: San Cristobal De Las Casas, Mexico

Location: San Cristobal de las Casas

Local & Sustainable Foodie Experience Departure Time: 13:00 Duration: 2 hrs Mexican food is varied, as is the diversity of its culture. The best experiences are meaningful when the senses are nurtured. In Chiapas, traditional cuisine is recreated with the ingredients that walkers of history brought with them and mixed with local ingredients to create delicious gastronomic dishes. First we will give you an introduction to the meaning of party dishes in Chiapas and their special ingredients. You will be able to taste a dish from the Chiapas culinary options' menu. Then, you will taste a Posh Traditional tsotsil, and you will learn about the traditional food of Chiapas, being able to taste an authentic soup from San Cristóbal and a dish based on pork, chicken or vegetarian with the seasoning and secrets of the "Coletas" families. You can taste a Mayan drink to accompany your food. The place you will be taking part in the activity, is a pleasant and light-filled space where fair trade in handicrafts made by indigenous women is also promoted. In addition to providing the inputs with which the dishes are made, they also exhibit here their handicrafts. Language is not a problem, we love learning new words and making friends! NOTE: Travelers can also choose local vegetarian, gluten-free and vegan food options. PLEASE NOTE THIS ACTIVITY DOES NOT OPERATE ON SUNDAYS.

Day 10: San Cristobal De Las Casas, Mexico

Location: San Cristobal de las Casas, Oaxaca

San Cristobal de las Casas to Oaxaca Type: Bus (Overnight) Time: 11:30, 20:00, 21:20 Duration: 12.5 Hours Transfer from San Cristobal de las Casas to Oaxaca Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Oaxaca.

Day 11: Oaxaca, Mexico

Location: Oaxaca

Hike through Hierve el Agua Departure Time: 9:00 Duration: 9 hrs Join us on a tour of Hierve el Agua, a popular tourist destination in the Mexican state of Oaxaca known for its tall petrified waterfalls made of carbonated water and natural springs. During the tour, you'll have the chance to swim in the crystal-clear pools, take guided walks through the trails, and learn about the tradition of mezcal making while sampling different flavors. We'll also visit the Zapotec weavers town of Teotitlan del Valle, where skilled artisans use ancient techniques to create and paint stunning rugs inspired by famous artists. Hierve el Agua is located in the Sierra Madre mountain range and is about 50 kilometers from the city of Oaxaca.

Day 12: Mexico City, Mexico

Location: Mexico City

Oaxaca to Mexico City Type: Bus Time: 08:00, 09:30, 10:00, 12:00, 14:30, 15:30, 21:30, 22:00, 22:15, 22:30. 23:00, 23:15, 23:30, 23:59 Duration: 7 Hours Transfer from Oaxaca to Mexico City Please make your own way to the bus station to catch your bus to Mexico City.

Day 13: Mexico City, Mexico

Location: Teotihuacan

Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour Departure Time: 6:20 Duration: 8 hrs Embark on a mystical journey to the "City of the Gods," Teotihuacan, before the tour groups from Mexico City arrive. Explore the impressive archaeological site in peace and tranquility as you visit its different structures, squares, and murals, surrounded by a magical and mystical atmosphere. Your experience is enhanced by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories, history, and updates on the latest discoveries at the site. Immerse yourself in the culture of ancient Mexico with a stop at a local Teotihuacan family's obsidian workshop, where you'll sample cactus-based liqueurs and traditional Mexican spirits like tequila, mezcal, and pulque. Cap off your day with a delightful lunch experience (not included), where you can savor a variety of traditional Mexican dishes and flavors.

What's Included

  • Transport

    Travel between destinations is primarily by bus, with routes including Cancun to Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen to Tulum, Tulum to Merida, Merida to Palenque, San Cristobal de las Casas to Oaxaca, and Oaxaca to Mexico City.

  • Meals

    Includes 2 lunches.

  • Activities

    Includes Chichen Itza Day Trip (roundtrip from Cancun), Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls (Palenque to San Cristobal), Local & Sustainable Foodie Experience, Hike through Hierve el Agua, and Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour.

  • Guides

    English speaking guides for some of the activities.

What's Not Included

  • Other Meals / Drinks

    Meals and drinks other than the 2 included lunches are not provided.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses are not covered.

  • Tips & Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not provided.

  • Accommodations

    Accommodation is not included in this tour package, allowing travelers the flexibility to choose their own lodging options throughout the journey.

Mode of Transport

Travel between destinations is primarily by bus, with routes including Cancun to Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen to Tulum, Tulum to Merida, Merida to Palenque, San Cristobal de las Casas to Oaxaca, and Oaxaca to Mexico City.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included in this tour package, allowing travelers the flexibility to choose their own lodging options throughout the journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is used during the tour?

    Travel between destinations is primarily by bus, with routes including Cancun to Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen to Tulum, Tulum to Merida, Merida to Palenque, San Cristobal de las Casas to Oaxaca, and Oaxaca to Mexico City.

  • What can I expect during the Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls tour?

    You will be picked up early in the morning and transferred to the Palenque ruins, followed by visits to Misol-Ha and Agua Azul. The tour includes time to explore each site and ends with a transfer to San Cristobal.

  • Is accommodation included in the tour package?

    No, accommodation is not included in this tour package, allowing travelers the flexibility to choose their own lodging options throughout the journey.

  • What is included in the Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour?

    The Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour includes exploring the archaeological site before the crowds arrive, visiting a local family's obsidian workshop, sampling cactus-based liqueurs and traditional Mexican spirits, and an optional lunch experience.

  • Are there any additional fees for using mobile devices at Chichen Itza?

    Yes, the government requires an additional fee for the use of mobile devices such as GoPros, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and drones at the ticket office.

  • What activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several activities such as a Chichen Itza Day Trip, visiting Palenque Ruins, Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls, a Local & Sustainable Foodie Experience, a hike through Hierve el Agua, and a Teotihuacan Early Morning Tour.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    The tour includes 2 meals. Other meals and drinks are not included.

  • What is special about the Hierve el Agua tour?

    The Hierve el Agua tour includes swimming in crystal-clear pools, guided walks through trails, learning about mezcal making, and visiting the Zapotec weavers town of Teotitlan del Valle.

  • What is the duration of the Chichen Itza Day Trip?

    The Chichen Itza Day Trip is a 12-hour tour, starting early in the morning.

  • Is there a local food experience included in the tour?

    Yes, there is a Local & Sustainable Foodie Experience in San Cristobal de las Casas, where you can taste traditional dishes from Chiapas and learn about local culinary traditions.

  • Is there an age limit?

    No! Most of our bamba travellers fall between the ages of 18 - 35, but everyone is young at heart and welcome to come experience the world with us! If you are between the ages of 18 and 118, we invite you to travel with bamba and have the time of your life! Minors must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Most of our trips cater to the adventurous independent traveller. In fact, many of our travellers arrive on their own and quickly find that they easily meet like-minded people along the way at their hostels, on transportation, or during activities.

  • Do I need travel insurance?

    We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip, especially when travelling in developing countries. Bamba does not include travel insurance of any type.Your current medical insurance may cover part of your trip, so it is important for you to become familiar with your current coverage. We recommend purchasing additional travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and repatriation, lost or stolen items and unforeseen cancellations. If you plan to participate in activities such as white-water rafting, trekking, sand-buggy rides, etc please make sure they are included in your policy.

Reviews of this operator

Jonas Nesset(Norway)  

The company is exceptional. When...

Dec 10 2019

The company is exceptional. When I had questions, I always got prompt and professional answers. The excursions that Bamba organized were fantastic! Thank you once again for everything!

Shane Alce(United Kingdom)  

For true explorers....

Aug 12 2019

For true explorers.

Marian Reder(Germany)  

To this day, this is...

Oct 2 2019

To this day, this is the best tour we've ever done together as a couple! The fun activities, great hotels and nice guides worth the money! We were always taken care of and they made sure that we had a good time. This tour is definitely worth taking.

Tanja Ottosen(Denmark)  

The Bamba Team really made...

Jan 9 2020

The Bamba Team really made my journey one of the most memorable experiences of my life! Still so nice and supportive! They handled everything and responded to each question within a few minutes. I wholeheartedly recommend it to everyone. Especially if you want to do a lot of activities and travel to a lot of different places without feeling rushed. They've also helped me with specific issues that weren't covered by the tour, as well as answering general questions. Thank you so much for making my journey so enjoyable!

Braiden Rowe(United States)  

The tour was fantastic; I...

Feb 12 2020

The tour was fantastic; I was able to visit some of Japan's most beautiful locations, and the accommodations were excellent, with convenient access to the city's best attractions. Also, our tour guide was fantastic. I will pick bamba again and recommend the tour to anyone who wants to see Japan while having a good time!!

Aaron Davies(Australia)  

I only have good words...

Oct 23 2019

I only have good words about our trip to Kenya. The entire experience was totally magical and I struggle to say how fantastic it was. We were fortunate enough to have a brilliant vehicle for ourselves, but we had great luck with David for our guide too. He was very knowledgeable, courteous and nice. Thank you for helping to create this fantastic safari experience. I Highly recommend this company.

Matteo Hoffmeister(Germany)  

Bamba Experience has been the...

Jun 5 2019

Bamba Experience has been the best tour guide I've ever had. Every tour has been a thrilling experience. There are so many things to choose from. Bamba has been extremely helpful in providing us with all of the necessary information for our departures and activities! Bamba has made this a simple and enjoyable experience. I'll certainly tell my friends and family about it! Thank you very much, Bamba!!

Melanie Liu Chang(Australia)  

We organized a trip through...

Feb 20 2020

We organized a trip through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia on the hop-on, hop-off bus. It made the trip so much simpler for us as first-time travelers because we just had to send an email to arrange the bus, which avoided the hassle of looking for the best price and so on! We also had a number of tours included, they were all amazing and saved us the trouble of trying to find the best offers on our own; it also meant we got to see a lot of stuff we wouldn't have seen otherwise. Overall, it was a fantastic experience that I will strongly suggest and use again!

Marius Halvorson(Norway)  

Our Bamba tour of Vietnam...

Jun 25 2019

Our Bamba tour of Vietnam was fantastic. We had a lot of new experiences and all of the help we needed to make this a stress-free vacation. The well-organized accomodation and transportation were excellent. We will certainly use Bamba in the future.

Alexis Helman(Australia)  

I had booked our Uyuni...

Jun 25 2019

I had booked our Uyuni Salt Flats & Desert Adventure 3D/2N (Uyuni to Atacama) tour via an Australian travel agency, but they had made an error and refused to assist us or take responsibility. This was very difficult for us because we wanted to have a stress-free honeymoon. I contacted Bamba and I asked if we could talk on the phone so they made the improvements to our tour reservation that our travel agent declined to make. The quality of service was exceptional and they generously offered to us a complimentary gift because it was our honeymoon. I can't say enough good things about Bamba.

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Bamba Travel allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Bamba Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bamba travel, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Bamba Travel requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bamba travel charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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