EUROCULT
LITO
Map
Day 1 Arrive Cancún
Arrive in Cancún at any time. Check into our hotel and enjoy the city. Please try to arrive
before 6pm for an important group meeting where you can meet the Chief Experience Officer
(CEO) and the other group members.
Long a destination among sun-worshipping tourists and spring breakers, we only stay here
long enough to meet and get primed for our adventure. As your fellow travellers are arriving
at various times throughout the day, there are no planned activities other than a group dinner
and info session. Look in the hotel lobby for notices on when/where the group meeting will
occur.
The heat and humidity of Cancún may affect you upon arrival, with a general sense of
lethargy and/or loss of appetite. This is no cause for alarm, it’s simply a reaction to the heat.
Be sure to drink plenty of water (cold bottled water is available everywhere) and do not
attempt too much in any given day. We prefer fan-cooled rather than air conditioned rooms to
avoid having to acclimatize to the heat and humidity every time you go outside.
The famous resort of Cancún on the northeastern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a thriving
town with skyscraper hotels and crowded beaches. Prices are higher in Cancún than
Postbus 13050 - 3507 LB Utrecht | Wittevrouwenstraat 36 - 3512 CV Utrecht |
Tel Antwerpen: 03 23159994 | [email protected] | www.eurocult-lito.nl
EUROCULT
LITO
elsewhere in Mexico because everything must be transported into the city. We use it as a
starting and finishing point, and try not to spend too much time in this massive resort area.
Days 2-3 Chichén Itzá/Mérida
Departing Cancún at approx 9:00am under the already scorching sun, we stop for a guided
tour of the famous Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. Spend approximately two hours exploring
this famous site, known for its huge stepped pyramids and elaborate stone carvings. The bus
then continues on as we make our way to Mérida, the capital of the Yucatán State. Also
known as la ciudad blanca (the white city), Mérida offers the ideal opportunity to learn about
Mexico’s fascinating mix of cultural influences.
The city of Chichén Itzá, estimated to be founded in 432 AD, houses some of the finest
examples of Mayan architecture ever excavated, including El Castillo (The Castle). This 75foot pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan, is famous for its balustrade of 91 stairs
up each of the four sides, a ball court with a grandstand, and towering walls. At about 3:00
PM on the day of the vernal equinox (approx March 20) and the autumnal equinox (approx
Sept 21), the sunlight lands directly on the main stairway in a series of triangles that form a
serpent's body and ultimately connect with the stone-carved serpent's head at the bottom of
the pyramid. The attention to detail, and fusion of architecture, science and religion within the
structures and throughout the city planning, will no doubt impress you.
We will have an included orientation walking tour of Mérida, the capital of Yucatán State,
which was founded in 1542 on the site of the Mayan city of Tihoo. Its centre, the Plaza
Mayor, or zocalo, is green and shady and surrounded by the twin-towered 16th Century
Cathedral, the City Hall, the State Government Palace, and the Casa Montejo. There are
several 16th and 17th century churches scattered throughout the city, as well as some
interesting museums. Mornings are the best time to visit the busy and colourful markets. You
can buy traditional crafts, such as hammocks or Guyabera shirts, and a good selection of
Maya replicas. You can also try out new and wonderful food items. Be sure to stroll down the
Paseo de Montejo (or take a caleche carriage ride). Together with many shops and restaurants,
you will see stately mansions dating from the late 19th century. Nearby you will find the main
shopping street, Calle 65. You are sure to find Mérida a fascinating and beautiful city to
explore on foot.
Mérida is also the gateway to the Mayan ruins of the Puuc Route. The most famous of these
ruins, Uxmal, is one of the Yucatán’s many ancient treasures. Uxmal rivals Chichén Itzá both
in scale and extent of excavation.
Optional visit to three nearby cenotes (water sink holes) in the town of Cuzama, not far
outside Mérida. Transportation to the cenotes is an adventure in itself as it involves taking
small wooden horse-drawn carts that run along old rail tracks. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the
crystal clear waters of the cenotes!
Approximate Distance: 320 km
Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours
Days 4-5 Palenque
After a long day of travel we arrive at the monumental Mayan ruins of Palenque. The large
sarcophagus containing the mummified remains of the Lord Pakal were found in 1952 by
Mexican archaeologist Alberto Ruz and is only one of Palenque’s many treasures. The
temples at this site, with fantastic comb-like decorations on their intact roofs, and the
Postbus 13050 - 3507 LB Utrecht | Wittevrouwenstraat 36 - 3512 CV Utrecht |
Tel Antwerpen: 03 23159994 | [email protected] | www.eurocult-lito.nl
EUROCULT
LITO
sculptured wall panels, are undoubtedly amongst the most exquisite achievements of the
Maya. The ancient city holds over 200 buildings of varying size and complexity. Don’t forget
to bring your camera.
The Highlands of southwestern Mexico retain a more traditional feel. Only about 210 km
(130 miles) separate the Atlantic and the Pacific, at the hot heavily jungled Isthmus of
Tehuantepec. Entering the state of Chiapas, you will see and feel its uniqueness. This is the
richest area of Mexico in natural resources, yet it is also home to the poorest citizens of the
country. The mountains of Chiapas are the birthplace of the revolutionary Commandante
Marcos and the Zapatista movement. It is also home to some of Mexico’s poorest people, the
majority of whom are of pure or mixed indigenous descent.
Estimated Travel Time: 9 hours
Approximate Distance: 620 km
Days 6-7 San Cristóbal de las Casas/Agua Azul & Misol-Ha Waterfalls
Visit the famous Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls, which are approximately 45 minutes
away from Palenque and both well worth a visit. The 35-metre high Misol-Ha waterfall is set
in the middle of lush jungle, with smaller falls just inside a nearby cave. Take a break from
the heat with a swim in the stunning naturally formed pools at the waterfalls of Agua Azul,
located just 15 minutes from Misol-Ha.
Wind your way out of the jungle as you head towards San Crístóbal De Las Casas, which
stands in a high mountain valley at 2110m (6921 ft). We include an orientation walking tour
of the city and you will find fine examples of 16th century architecture, including a church
whose engraved altar is solid silver, and a crown shaped fountain. The city enjoys a temperate
climate and most visitors find that walking the old cobble-stoned streets is the best way to
discover the city’s past and present. The city’s mountain valley setting and proximity to the
jungle of the Chiapas lowlands, also allows various opportunities for outdoor activities like
hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, where you will appreciate the natural scenery
of the area.
Most indigenous groups in this area are members of the Tzotzil and Tzeltal groupings. Within
these groups are the Tenejapans who wear black knee-length tunics, the Chamulans who wear
white wool tunics and the Zinacantecos who wear multi-coloured outfits, with the ribbons on
their hats signifying how many children they have. The people here are as curious about
foreigners as foreigners are about them. Please respect their traditions. Dress conservatively
when visiting the villages and refrain from photographing religious ceremonies, or individuals
who do not wish to be photographed. Put yourself in their place before you act.
Estimated Travel Time: 6 hours
Approximate Distance: 220 km
Days 8-9 Panajachel (1L)
Our first destination in the country is the shores of Guatemala's most beautiful lake, Lake
Atitlán. We stay in Panajachel, a lakeshore town surrounded by spectacular volcanoes and
small villages. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the villages on the lake by boat, departing
in the mornings and returning in late afternoon. Get ready for spectacular views of the
surrounding volcanoes and everyday life in a highland village.
The Planeterra project - The Mayan Homestay Project is located in the village of San Juan.
Postbus 13050 - 3507 LB Utrecht | Wittevrouwenstraat 36 - 3512 CV Utrecht |
Tel Antwerpen: 03 23159994 | [email protected] | www.eurocult-lito.nl
EUROCULT
LITO
The project currently hosts G Adventures groups twice per week and another company’s
group once per month. Planeterra's initiative here is to help more families get involved in the
Posadas Mayas program and current families to have more space by remodeling and
constructing new rooms. The project also includes investing in solutions that reduce
environmental impacts associated with tourism (i.e. waste and water management) and
developing other small businesses to be linked to the Posadas Mayas.
Panajachel is a relatively modern town with paved streets in its centre, with a great deal of old
world flavour and charm. The best way to see Panajachel is on foot but beware as there aren't
any street signs! Visit the old churches and explore the back streets to see the more traditional
side of Panajachel. You can test your communication and bargaining skills in the local
markets, of which there are many. There is also a number of community cooperatives that you
may wish to visit. The proceeds from the sales return directly to the community and are a
significant contribution to the local economy. The area is also ideal for outdoor pursuits like
swimming, fishing, wind surfing, hiking, bird watching, kayaking, horseback riding, and for
the really adventurous, parapenting!
Opt to visit the Chichicastenango market, which is the best known market in the region, but
there are a number of other markets around where you may wish to purchase any number of
handicraft items. Renowned for its colourful handicrafts and intricate weavings, “Chichi” is
also an important trading place for the local residents, and provides close views of daily life
of modern Maya.
Estimated Travel Time: 10 hours
Approximate Distance: 380 km
Days 10-12 Antigua
Once the third largest city in all of Spanish America, Antigua served as Guatemala's capital
city for more than 200 years until it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773. Antigua today is
a peaceful, partially restored colonial city that is a pleasure to explore. Your tour leader will
give you an orientation walking tour to help you get your bearings. Walk through quiet
cobblestone streets past rebuilt stucco homes with heavy, beautifully carved wooden
entrances. It is a short 45 km from Guatemala City on a lovely winding road. The natural
scenery is some of the most beautiful anywhere with high mountain peaks surrounding deep
valleys, every inch of land covered with lush growth. The point of reference for finding one's
way around Antigua is the Central Park, which is directly in the centre of town and the place
to be in the late afternoon or early evening. You can pick up a map from the tourist office
located on the ground floor of the Palace of the Captains-General on the south side of the
Central Park. Explore the museums, the colonial buildings and other sites in this delightful
town.
Antigua offers three specialties that make shopping here very worthwhile. Textiles sold here
and in the nearby towns are of the highest quality, beautifully designed and woven on foot
looms or the rarer back strap loom. Jade, in carved statues and jewellery, is sold in several
factories and shops in town and silver jewellery is sold in the better shops and also in a silver
factory in nearby San Felipe de Jesus. The city offers good buys in ceramics and antiques as
well.
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours
Approximate Distance: 80 km
Postbus 13050 - 3507 LB Utrecht | Wittevrouwenstraat 36 - 3512 CV Utrecht |
Tel Antwerpen: 03 23159994 | [email protected] | www.eurocult-lito.nl
EUROCULT
LITO
Day 13 Rio Dulce
This morning we head to Rio Dulce, a charming town named after the river on which it's
located. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore. Take a stroll in the market located in the city centre
or visit Castillo de San Felipe which was a fort used to defend the town from pirates. You also
have the option to rent a canoe and peacefully navigate the river.
Day 14 Tikal/Flores
It is an early start to the famous ruins of Tikal where we will enjoy an included tour. The
sheer scale of the ruins at Tikal may at first seem daunting. Even if you make it only to the
main plaza or spend an hour relaxing in deep contemplation, you certainly won't be
disappointed. The central area, with its five main temples, forms by far the most impressive
section. If you start to explore beyond this you can wander endlessly into the maze of smaller
structures and outlying complexes hidden in the jungle growth. If your energy levels are high
enough to make it to the top of Temple IV, your senses won’t be disappointed! Spectacular
views of the surrounding jungle canopy will greet you from the top of the highest structure
within the complex. Occasionally, you may spot toucans, macaws and other bright birds from
this artificial perch within the greenery. Otherwise, you may simply marvel at the engineering
and organizational skills needed to construct this city within the jungle! A local bilingual
guide will explain the natural and artificial wonders of this site during our foray into Tikal.
After exploring Tikal we will travel to Flores for our overnight.
Days 15-16 San Ignacio
This morning you will have time visit Flores. The city of Tayasal was transformed into the
city of Flores, officially founded by the Spanish in 1700. It remained an isolated area, relying
on the subsistence farming of corn and beans, and the gathering of chicle from nearby trees,
used in the manufacture of gum. Despite the recent growth in Petén, Flores remains the same
small island town, with narrow, cobblestoned streets, small, brightly painted houses and
friendly people. The island is now attached to the mainland by a causeway, but many of the
local inhabitants still get around by cayuco, or dug-out canoe. Flores remains one of the most
scenic and charming towns in the Petén. It is particularly attractive to visitors because of Lake
Petén Itzá, a large lake (12 km long and 3 km wide) offering all sorts of possibilities for fun,
including swimming, boating, fishing and bird watching, a small zoo and a nature preserve.
In the afternoon we will cross the boarder into Belize and overnight in San Ignacio.
The relaxed atmosphere of San Ignacio allows for options including horseback riding,
canoeing, caving, or exploring the Mountain Pine Ridge area. Belize is an anomaly. Peaceful,
democratic, English-speaking, it seems in many ways not to belong in Central America at all.
And indeed, to an extent, it is more a Caribbean nation than a Latin one, looking out from the
coast rather than inland for its trade and alliances. On the other hand it has plenty of
distinctively Central American features as well. Above all, it offers a blend of cultures and
races that includes Maya, Mestizo, African, European, and Asian. Spanish runs a close second
as spoken language, with the rich local Creole. Belize consists of remarkable marine life,
profuse jungle vegetation, ancient Mayan ruins, and above all, friendly and easy-going
people.
An optional day trip to the astounding Actun Tunichil Muknal cave will leave you with
memories long after the adventure ends. Discover a wealth of archaeological and natural
wonders lying within the cave chambers. The Maya used the cave for rituals and
Postbus 13050 - 3507 LB Utrecht | Wittevrouwenstraat 36 - 3512 CV Utrecht |
Tel Antwerpen: 03 23159994 | [email protected] | www.eurocult-lito.nl
EUROCULT
LITO
communication with their gods; clay pots used for ceremonies remain intact as well as
evidence of human sacrifice. Make your way through one of the cave’s water systems using a
helmet and headlamp. An experienced local guide will give us insight into the fascinating
practices of the ancient Maya.
You can also arrange a trip to the impressive Maya ceremonial centre of Xunantunich.
Located on a natural limestone ridge, the site provides a grand view of the entire Cayo
District and the neighbouring Guatemalan countryside. The tallest pyramid on the site, El
Castillo, has been partially excavated and explored, and the east side of the structure displays
a unique stucco frieze. The plaza of the ceremonial centre houses three carved stellae. You
can get a group together and hire a taxi to take you the 14 km (9 miles) to the site. Getting
there includes crossing a narrow river by a hand-cranked ferry which shuttles you across!
There is a small fee to enter the grounds, and a guide will explain the site. A third alternative
activity is to take a walk on the Pantí Trail. From Chaa Creek, visitors are welcome to take
part in a self-guided walking tour set up by the herbalist, Rosita Arvigo, who has been
practicing for 20 years. Anyone interested in holistic medicine will be fascinated with
Rosita’s work at Ix Chel Farm. This can be arranged from San Ignacio, by taking a taxi to the
farm.
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours
Approximate Distance: 130 km
Days 17-19 Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is a relaxed and easy going island with friendly and welcoming local residents.
The main street is a sandy pathway through the centre of town surrounded by small bakery
and seafood stands. The main activities on the island are relaxation and exploration of the
reef. Snorkel and dive boats leave daily for full or half day outings to the reef, Hol Chan
Marine Reserve, the Blue Hole and for manatee spotting tours. The reef is the world's second
largest (after Australia) and offers some truly amazing sights including coral canyons and an
astonishing range of tropical fish, manta rays, sharks and barracudas. You can also try your
hand fishing and be rewarded with a fresh catch, then barbecue it on the beach...delicious!
Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours
Approximate Distance: 110 km
Days 20-21 Playa del Carmen
Our final stop is Playa del Carmen, located on the beach just a 45-minute drive south of
Cancún. The town is your last chance to enjoy some nightlife, buy last minute souvenirs and
to relax and swim in the Caribbean Sea. There is also snorkelling and diving available, and
long stretches of sandy beaches which are perfect for walking and relaxing after a hectic day.
Just off the coast is the island of Cozumel, renowned for its world-class diving. Take the ferry
from Playa del Carmen (30 to 75 minutes depending on the boat) across the turquoise waters
and explore the towns and the reefs of the island. For a final dose of ruins, Tulúm is just a 45minute drive south of Playa. Aside from its unusual late Mayan architecture, it offers possibly
the most appealing setting for any ruins, as it is located on a palm-fringed, white-sand beach,
where you can even go for a swim within the ancient walls.
Estimated Travel Time: 12 hours
Approximate Distance: 480 km
Postbus 13050 - 3507 LB Utrecht | Wittevrouwenstraat 36 - 3512 CV Utrecht |
Tel Antwerpen: 03 23159994 | [email protected] | www.eurocult-lito.nl
EUROCULT
LITO
Day 22 Depart Playa del Carmen
Depart Playa del Carmen at any time.
Note: Playa del Carmen is located just south of Cancún airport (45 minute drive) so you can
head directly there without returning to Cancún.
Postbus 13050 - 3507 LB Utrecht | Wittevrouwenstraat 36 - 3512 CV Utrecht |
Tel Antwerpen: 03 23159994 | [email protected] | www.eurocult-lito.nl