La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Summary
The Mayans forged a powerful and mysterious empire across
southern Mexico, Guatemala and Belize. Following 'La Ruta Maya'
we explore the hidden treasures of this region ‐ magnificent cities,
pyramids and temples. These incredible architectural feats have
captivated historians since their discovery. The ancient Mayan
civilisation is also apparent in the customs, language and dress of
the Indian towns and villages we pass through.
The Mexican Day of the Dead celebration is possibly the most
vibrant and colourful tribute to human mortality there is. Citizens
pay tribute to the dead, especially close relatives, visiting graves
and congregating round the stones to lay edible offerings at the
headstones alongside beautiful golden mounds of marigolds, the
Flor de Muerto (flower of the dead).
Spanning three countries, we discover lively colonial towns, active
volcanoes and the palm‐fringed Caye Caulker, a paradise for
snorkelling and diving, along with experiencing Day of the Dead
festivities.
16
17 DAYS
16 DAYS
AUX
MIN AGE
FLIGHT INC.
LAND ONLY
TRIP CODE
At a glance
Travel by private minibus, boat and
internal flight
Several long drives
Group normally 6 to 15, plus leader.
Min age 16 yrs.
9 nights comfortable hotels and 6
nights standard hotels, all with en suite
facilities.
All breakfasts and 1 dinner included
Highlights
An in‐depth exploration of the
highlights of the Mayan world
Experience the Day of the Dead
Festivities in San Cristobal de las Casas
Guided visits to the Mayan sites of
Palenque, Uxmal, Chichen Itza, Tulum,
Tikal and Xunantunich
Colourful colonial cities of Antigua, San
Cristobal de las Casas, Campeche and
Merida
Traditional Indian communities in the
Mexican highlands
Two nights at beautiful Lake Atitlan,
surrounded by volcanoes
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
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In the afternoon we drive for approximately 2.5 hours into the
highlands to the ancient market town of Chichicastenango, where
centuries‐old economic and cultural traditions of the Kaqchikel
people continue to thrive. A further drive of 1.5 hours brings us
to Panajachel, a small town on the shore of Lake Atitlan.
Guatemala's largest lake is dominated by three volcanoes and
was formed following an ancient eruption. Many of the villages
that exist around the lake are only accessible by boat.
Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 3 ‐ Lake Atitlan
This trip includes several long drives so please be prepared for
this.
Today we will explore some of the area surrounding Lake Atitlan.
A 60‐minute scenic boat ride on the lake takes us to the village of
San Juan La Laguna, where we will visit the home studios of local
painters and a textile cooperative where women are engaged in
hand weaving and natural dyeing processes. We continue by boat
to Santiago Atitlan where we can learn about the Mayan
traditions and beliefs from our local guides. At certain times of
the year, it may be possible to visit a shaman's house to see this
fascinating practice, held amidst clouds of burning incense.
Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 4 ‐ To San Cristobal de las Casas
Border crossings can sometimes be delayed with significant
queues and formalities.
Being in the tropics, most of the region is hot and humid,
particularly during the summer months and inland ‐ drinking
plenty of water and dressing in loose cotton clothing is advisable.
The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the type of
accommodation normally used and any meals included. Please
see the Accommodation section below for further information.
Today we begin early and drive north, crossing the border into
Mexico's southern state of Chiapas. The road takes us through
rugged mountain scenery before we come to the old capital of
the region, San Cristobal de Las Casas. This is one of the most
attractive colonial towns in Mexico, with many old churches and
squares amongst a lively café scene. It is also a major centre for
the Tzotzil Indians, each group having different, colourful
costumes. The extensive market has some good handicrafts for
sale and plenty of interesting foodstuffs on offer! San Cristobal
has a very pleasant climate because of its altitude. Today is a full
day drive of around 7 hours plus stops for lunch in a simple
restaurant in a small town (not included) and the border crossing.
Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 1 ‐ Start Antigua
Day 5 ‐ San Cristobal de las Casas
Those on group flights will be met at Guatemala City airport and
taken to our start hotel in Antigua (approx. 1 hour drive). Those
on land only arrangements should make their own way to the
start hotel. Comfortable Hotel
Day 2 ‐ Antigua, Guatemala
Many travellers agree that Antigua is one of the most attractive
cities in Latin America. Rightly declared a UNESCO World Heritage
Site, the colourful, colonial city attracts visitors from all over for
its unique history and renowned Spanish language schools. Above
the tiled roofs of pastel houses there are impressive views of the
Agua and Fuego volcanoes, standing in excess of 3700m above
the city. Antigua was the capital of the Spanish empire in Central
America from 1543 to 1773, a highly religious period that left the
city with an abundance of convents and churches packed with
religious art. Unfortunately many buildings are now in ruins from
centuries of earthquake damage ‐ our guided walking tour of the
city will bring its fascinating history to life.
We visit the nearby Indian villages of San Juan Chamula and
Zinacantan this morning. These small communities are very
traditional and many of the villagers continue to follow ancient
religious practices within the Catholic churches. In the main
church of Chamula, where locals practice a blend of Catholicism
and Mayan customs, people sit on the pine needle covered floor
surrounded by dozens of candles, chanting prayers in an ancient
dialect of Tzotzil. Our guide will explain some of the local
traditions before we enter the church to see this practice for
ourselves. Visitors should note that when visiting churches in the
villages, photography of the worshippers and the church interiors
is expressly forbidden. Your guide will explain the full reasons
behind this, but please remember to exercise discretion when
taking pictures, always seeking permission before using your
camera. In the afternoon, there will be some free time to
explore San Cristobal de las Casas at your leisure. Comfortable
Hotel (Breakfast)
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
Day 6 ‐ Day of the Dead
The Mexican Day of the Dead celebration is possibly the most
vibrant and colourful tribute to human mortality there is. Citizens
pay tribute to the dead, especially close relatives, visiting graves
and congregating round the stones to lay edible offerings at the
headstones alongside beautiful golden mounds of marigolds, the
Flor de Muerto (flower of the dead). Today we hope to visit some
cemeteries around San Cristobal de las Casas to see the altars
and tributes made for loved ones. We also hope to visit local
markets and bakeries with ornaments and essentials for the Day
of the Dead festivities, with the chance to sample specialties only
on offer during this festival. We also plan to visit the Chamulan
village Romerillo. Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 7 ‐ Agua Azul Waterfalls and Palenque
Today we descend from the highlands to the humid forests of
north‐eastern Chiapas ‐ expect some winding roads but plenty of
spectacular scenery en route. We break our journey at the Agua
Azul Falls, a glittering series of cataracts which often appear blue
due to the high mineral content. In Spanish the name of the falls
means 'Blue Water'. (Please note that on the rare occasions
where we are unable to visit Agua Azul Falls, we will endeavour
to visit the Misol Ha waterfalls instead) Our journey will continue
to the small town of Palenque, where the Mayan site of the same
name is located just on the outskirts. Enjoy an optional trip to El
Panchán for dinner this evening, a nearby bohemian rainforest
hangout (dinner not included). The total driving time today is
approx. 8 hours. Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 8 ‐ Palenque
This morning we have a guided tour of the impressive Mayan site
of Palenque. The jungle‐covered complex is one of the most
famous in Mexico and is located in the low hills of Chiapas. The
pyramids, sanctuaries and temples, with their sculptured wall‐
panels and roofs are remarkably well preserved and are probably
the finest surviving examples of Mayan buildings.
In the afternoon, we drive for around 7 hours to the historic
fortified city of Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which
boats incredibly well preserved colonial architecture.
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Most impressive are the city walls, built to protect the city from
the constant attacks of English and Dutch buccaneers and pirates
during the 16th and 17th centuries. Arrive in the early evening
and head out to sample some local cuisine overlooking the Bay of
Campeche ‐ seafood is a local specialty and widely available.
Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 9 ‐ Uxmal and Merida
From Campeche we travel for around 2 hours to reach the
fascinating Mayan ruins of Uxmal. Uxmal dates back to the late
classic period, having been built by the Xiu tribe. The site is
dominated by the Pyramid of the Magician and the Nunnery
Quadrangle which consists of long buildings with elaborately
carved façades. There are remnants of a ball court used in ritual
games that sometimes ended in sacrifice, and the whole site is
quite exposed, which is a real contrast to the ruins of Palenque.
From Uxmal it is around a 1 hour and 30 minute drive to the
bustling colonial city of Mérida. Many of its buildings were
constructed using stones from the Mayan city which existed on
the site and these are still visible in the walls of the imposing
cathedral. The city flourished following the conquest and the
19th century homes designed in French style contribute to the
attractive appearance of the historical centre. We arrive in the
middle to late afternoon and will enjoy a walking tour of the
city; the main square is particularly impressive when lit up at
night. Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 10 ‐ Chichen Itza
We will spend the morning exploring one of the largest Mayan
ceremonial centres at Chichén Itza, located approximately 2
hours from Mérida. The impressive El Castillo Pyramid sits in the
middle of the site and is surrounded by temples, palaces and ball
courts. Nearby, we stop to visit the Cenote Sagrado ('Sacred
Well'), dredged in the early 20th century and found to contain
precious gold, silver and jade artifacts as well as the remains of
sacrifice victims. After the tour we stop in Valladolid to further
explore the mix of Mayan and colonial Spanish culture on the
Yucatan before driving for around 3 hours to the fantastic beach
community of Tulum, where we stay for the next 2 nights. Just
outside the town lies one of the most photographed sites in the
Yucatan; the ruins of an ancient Mayan city
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
that overlook the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
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Day 15 ‐ Tikal
This morning we have a short tour of the ancient Mayan fortress
of Tulum followed by an optional visit to the sacred underground
Mayan waters to cool off in a nearby cenote that is suitable for
swimming. The most famous buildings in the complex are the
ruins that overlook the lapping waves of the Caribbean, but there
are also several temples, ritual platforms and houses to be
explored. In common with many other Mayan cities, the whole
site is surrounded by a huge defensive wall. This afternoon is free
to relax on the beautiful Tulum beach. Standard Hotel
(Breakfast)
We make an early start this morning to reach Tikal, the most
famous and probably the most impressive of all Mayan sites
(approx. 45 minute drive). Here, in the middle of the jungle are
nearly 20 square miles of classic Mayan ruins, surrounded by the
dense jungles of Petén. We take a tour of the city, visiting the Q
complex, Main Plaza, North and Central Acropolis, Seven Temples
and Mundo Perdido (Lost World). Tikal is a superb area for
observing wildlife in the jungle environment and visitors regularly
see Howler monkeys, Spider monkeys, toucan, Weaver birds,
coatimundi and even tarantula (if you know where to look and
wish to find one!). In the afternoon, we head to the town of
Flores and take a short flight to Guatemala City, where we will
spend our final night. Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 12 ‐ Caye Caulker
Day 16 ‐ End Guatemala City
This morning we drive for around 3 hours to Chetumal and cross
the border into Belize. We continue another 2.5 hours to Belize
city, stopping for lunch en route, where we board the water taxi
for the 60 minute transfer to Caye Caulker. This laid‐back
Caribbean Island is just west of the Belize Barrier Reef and offers
fantastic snorkelling and diving opportunities. There will be some
border formalities this morning, but this afternoon has been left
free to relax into island life and understand the meaning of
Belize's motto: 'no shirt, no shoes, no problem!' The tiny village
of Caye Caulker has only three sandy main streets (Front, Middle
and Back Street), but they are full of bars and restaurants, many
of which serve excellent fresh seafood. Standard Hotel
(Breakfast)
Those on the group flights will be transferred to the airport for
their flight back to London. (Breakfast)
Day 13 ‐ Caye Caulker
Day 3 ‐ To Belize City via Xunantunich; Boat to Caye Caulker.
Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 11 ‐ Tulum
Today is a free day for optional excursions and activities, or
simply for relaxation. Diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking and fishing
can all be arranged locally. As the island is small, it is very easy to
complete a circuit on foot. As well as the marine activities there
is also a forest reserve in the northern part of the island which
offers great bird watching in the mangroves. Standard Hotel
(Breakfast)
For those on group flights, these depart in the afternoon and will
arrive in the UK the following day.
Day 1 ‐ Fly to Guatemala City. Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 2 ‐ Fly from Guatemala City to Flores; Visit Tikal.
Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 4 ‐ Free day. Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 5 ‐ To Belize city; transfer to Tulum. Standard Hotel
(Breakfast)
Day 6 ‐ Visit Tulum ruins; swim in a cenote; free afternoon.
Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 14 ‐ To El Remate
Day 7 ‐ Visit Chichen Itza; to Merida. Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
We leave Caye Caulker by boat bound for Belize City (approx. 1
hour) and then drive from the coast into the heavily forested and
sparsely populated Maya Mountains, encountering some
spectacular scenery en route. We will stop at the Mayan ruins of
Xunantunich to explore its temples and palaces. Located on a
ridge close to the border with Guatemala, the site has some fine
stucco facades as well as several elaborately carved stelae and
an impressive 40 metre high pyramid. After looking around the
ruins, we cross the border and descend into the humid eastern
lowlands of Guatemala. Our final destination is El Remate on
Lake Peten Itza, where we have the opportunity to learn more
about sacred plants in a traditional Mayan garden and enjoy a
group dinner. Total drive time today is just under 3 hours (2
hours between Belize City and the border with an additional 45
minutes to El Remate). Standard Hotel (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 8 ‐ To Merida via Uxmal ruins. Standard Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 9 ‐ Drive to Palenque and guided tour. Comfortable Hotel
(Breakfast)
Day 10 ‐ Visit Agua Azul Waterfall; to San Cristobal. Comfortable
Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 11 ‐ Day of the Dead festivities. Comfortable Hotel
(Breakfast)
Day 12 ‐ Explore San Cristobal de las Casas and nearby villages.
Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Day 13 ‐ To Panajachel. Comfortable Hotel (Breakfast)
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
Page 4
Day 14 ‐ Boat trip on Lake Atitlan. Comfortable Hotel
(Breakfast)
Day 15 ‐ Chichicastenango; Antigua. Comfortable Hotel
(Breakfast)
Food
All breakfasts and 1 dinner included.
Day 16 ‐ End Guatemala City.
Breakfast generally consist of fruits, cereals, beans and eggs.
Please refer to the extra expenses section for more details on
food costs in the countries visited.
We will stay in a variety of colonial and modern properties, all
with en suite facilities. Some of the accommodation highlights
will include: a property 2km from Palenque surrounded by forest,
a Spanish colonial residence in the heart of San Cristobal de las
Casas and a hotel overlooking the beach in Tulum. Some of the
hotels have pools and most have wifi/internet.
Transport
Transport in this trip is by private minibuses (usually with air
conditioning), boat/ferry and domestic flight.
Single Accommodation
We can arrange single rooms throughout the trip for a
supplement (subject to availability) from £485. Please ask your
sales consultant for details.
Key to Accommodation
We indicate in the itinerary what type of accommodation is
provided on each day. The descriptions are guidelines only and
are used to give an idea of the accommodation offered, rather
than an exact description.
Comfortable Hotel, Lodge or Gite ‐ good quality comfortable
accommodation. Single, twin or double rooms with en suite
facilities and added amenities which may include air
conditioning, Wi‐Fi and swimming pool. Accommodation is chosen
for its location and character, and typically meets local 3/4 star
standards.
Standard Hotel, Lodge or Gite ‐ reasonable quality standard
accommodation in single, twin or double rooms, the vast
majority with en suite facilities. Some properties have added
amenities such as Wi‐Fi, but facilities are generally simpler and
meet 2/3 star standards. These properties are chosen for their
value, location or character.
On the coast and in the lowland areas there is little variation in
temperatures between the seasons. These are likely to be 28ºC to
33ºC average daytime maximum and 18ºC to 23ºC night time
minimum. On the coast the heat and humidity are moderated by
sea breezes, but inland it is likely to be quite humid.
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
The wet season is from June to October, when it normally rains
on average one day in three. The rains tend to be short and
heavy, alternating with pleasant clear spells. During the other
months rain is much less likely, but there is the chance of an
occasional storm at almost any time. In the hills the
temperatures are moderated by the altitude, and there is more
seasonal variation. Between November and February the daytime
maximum is around 20ºC, rising to 27ºC in summer. Nights are
much cooler, around 6ºC in winter and 12ºC in summer. Note
that it can be surprisingly cold in the highlands on winter nights.
The pattern of rainfall is similar to the lowlands.
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16 days, normally start Antigua Guatemala Fri, end Guatemala
City Sat
Itinerary Start
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Antigua
Guatemala in the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of
how to reach the start point are provided in the Final Joining
Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks before departure.
Accommodation check‐in times are normally from around
3.00pm.
17 days, normally depart London Fri, return Sun
Airport Transfers
Itinerary Start
The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day
1 of the itinerary.
Flights from London
We normally use the scheduled services of United Airlines
(depending on availability). As flight timings and schedules
change regularly we recommend you call one of our specialist
sales staff or your agent to confirm up‐to‐date timings. Please
note timings may change at a later date and cannot be confirmed
until approximately two weeks before departure.
If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement
only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged
to coincide with the arrival time of the group flight ‐ please check
the group flight details 2 weeks before departure. If you do not
take this transfer, or miss it, you must make your own way to the
joining point at your own expense.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will
be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do
not receive these at least a week before departure, or require
them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
UK Regional Flights
The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we
are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please
visit www.exodus.co.uk/regionaldepartures for a useful overview
of the options available, and contact our sales team for expert
advice.
Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing
income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to
protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to
responsible tourism, covering everything from the way we plan
and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company.
If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow
a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international
check in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow;
this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is
known to be subject to delays.
Accommodation & Meals:
Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights.
Please note that transfers are not included for clients arriving on
any other flight, even if Exodus has booked it. Those arriving
from London on non‐group flights should read the airport transfer
section below for information on reaching the start point. Please
check with the Exodus office.
We use predominantly locally run accommodation, which
contributes directly to the local community as local staff are
employed and locally produced or sourced goods are bought for
the accommodation benefiting the wider community. Where
meals are not provided, clients are encouraged to buy locally
grown produce and try the abundance of fresh food being made.
For example, your tour leader will point out the best food
markets in Chichicastenango, San Cristobal de las Casas and San
Juan Chamula and will be able to advise you on which dishes to
pick and what they contain. We will have the chance to visit a
traditional restaurant called 'Halach Huinik', which we have been
supporting for years.
Local Crafts & Culture:
The countries visited on this tour have such a deep and rich
culture and this is reflected in the variety of handmade crafts on
offer. We try to engage with these cottage industries as much as
possible. For example, in Guatemala we visit San Juan La
Laguna, where we will visit the home studios of local painters
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
and a textile cooperative where women are engaged in hand
weaving and natural dyeing processes. The cooperative was
formed in 2005 after hurricane Stan and so the income
generated by travellers buying jewellery and embroidery here
goes to re‐building the community. Here there is a real
opportunity for cultural exchange as clients can even learn to
make their own tortillas by hand and then eat with beans or spicy
chili (if you are brave!).
For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit:
www.exodus.co.uk/responsible‐travel
Passports and Visas
All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6
months beyond the intended length of stay. It is your
responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to
obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the
regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below
is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities
should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies.
We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and
customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and
any subsequent effects.
Page 6
Belize
Holders of British, Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian and
most EU passports do not require visas for Belize.
If you are travelling via the USA and are eligible to transit under
the Visa Waiver Programme (most British and western European
citizens with a machine readable passport are), you are now
required to register in advance for an Electronic Travel Authority
(ESTA). There is a US$14 charge for the ESTA, which is only
payable online with a credit card. Please see our website
www.exodus.co.uk/usvisa for further information. All other non‐
residents passing through the US must get a visa in advance.
Check with your local embassy or consulate for more details on
how to obtain a visa.
Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the
current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is
required.
Vaccinations and Health
Travel health can often be something people forget about before
going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long
way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for this trip.
Recommended vaccinations for this trip are: Tetanus, Typhoid.
Mexico
Holders of British, Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian and
most EU passports do not require visas for Mexico.
If you are travelling via the USA and are eligible to transit under
the Visa Waiver Programme (most British and western European
citizens with a machine readable passport are), you are now
required to register in advance for an Electronic Travel Authority
(ESTA). There is a US$14 charge for the ESTA, which is only
payable online with a credit card. Please see our website
www.exodus.co.uk/usvisa for further information. All other non‐
residents passing through the US must get a visa in advance.
Check with your local embassy or consulate for more details on
how to obtain a visa.
Guatemala
Holders of British, Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian and
most EU passports do not require visas for Guatemala.
If you are travelling via the USA and are eligible to transit under
the Visa Waiver Programme (most British and western European
citizens with a machine readable passport are), you are now
required to register in advance for an Electronic Travel Authority
(ESTA). There is a US$14 charge for the ESTA, which is only
payable online with a credit card. Please see our website
www.exodus.co.uk/usvisa for further information. All other non‐
residents passing through the US must get a visa in advance.
Check with your local embassy or consulate for more details on
how to obtain a visa.
The risk of malaria on this trip is slight, but you may wish to
consult your GP or travel health clinic for further advice.
Dengue fever and/or Chikungunya are known risks in places
visited on this trip. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by
daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or
prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of
prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the
usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Zika fever is a mosquito‐borne viral disease and a known risk in
places visited on this trip. There is currently no vaccine or
prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention
is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual
precautions to avoid mosquito bites. For the latest information
please visit www.exodus.co.uk/zika‐virus‐q‐a .
If you are arriving from an area with risk of Yellow Fever
infection, both Guatemala and Belize require you to have a
Yellow Fever certificate.
The above information can change at short notice; as we are not
qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we
strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a
Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up‐to‐
date information.
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
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Insurance ‐ are you adequately covered?
ATM availability/Credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques
You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining
a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are
covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are
resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel
insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on
your trip.
ATMs are increasingly available in most major towns throughout
the region, although are generally difficult to find in rural areas.
A flat fee of up to US$3 and a small commission usually applies
with debit card withdrawals. Credit card withdrawals generally
attract a 1% charge. You should check with your bank before
departure to ensure your card will be accepted in ATMs. Most
major credit cards are accepted in larger shops and more
expensive restaurants, but their use is not widespread in smaller
establishments and so cash is recommended.
Local Time
GMT ‐6hrs
Group, Staff and Support
The group will generally be between 6 and 15 people. There will
be a local leader and drivers and local guides where needed.
The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note
that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share
accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian.
Travellers' cheques (in US dollars also) can be quite difficult to
change throughout Central America and there will be limited
time on the trip to do this. It is certainly much more convenient
to carry as much of your money in US dollars as possible, so long
as you are security conscious. We recommend that you bring
some small denomination notes ($1 and $5 notes) since getting
change is often a problem when paying for small items.
Extra Expenses and Spending Money
Please retain the Tourist Card given on entry into Mexico, as this
will allow you to cross the border into Belize without
complications.
Currency Information
The national currency of Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXP), with
an exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 25
to the UK£ and 19 to the US$.
The national currency of Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal
(GTQ), with an exchange rate at the time of publication of
approximately 11.9 to the UK£ and 7.6 to the US$.
The national currency of Belize is the Belize Dollar (BZD), with an
exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 3.25
to the UK£ and 1.99 to the US$.
Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.
You should take all of your spending money in US Dollars since it
is difficult to change Sterling or Euros and exchange rates are
generally less favourable for these currencies. Goods and services
can be paid for in most establishments in US dollars, but change
will usually be given in the local currency and good rates of
exchange aren't always available. As this tour passes through 3
different countries, it's advisable to change small amounts of
money fairly regularly from US Dollars into the local currency. We
suggest changing a small amount of money on arrival at
Guatemala airport where there are plenty of exchange counters.
Your tour leader will then recommend the best opportunities to
change money throughout the trip. It is suggested that you take a
couple of copies of your passport with you as these are useful
when changing cash in banks.
Guatemalan law dictates that onlty notes to the value of USD50
or USD100 can be changed in to local currency, they will not
change smaller denominations.
There are small entry and exit taxes for Guatemala and Belize
payable when crossing land borders ‐ these are variable but
should not come to more than US$55 in total. Please note that
the entry and exit taxes change constantly, and your leader will
advise of any changes where appropriate. An airport departure
tax of approximately US$30 per person (subject to change) is
payable when leaving Guatemala City airport.
Meals vary from around US$10‐18 for lunch and dinner in
Guatemala and the Mexican highlands to around US$15 ‐ 30 in
the Yucatan area and Belize. A beer costs on average US$3‐5.
Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group
sizes)
Caye Caulker snorkelling from US$35 (half day) ‐ rates vary by
location, trips to Hol‐Chan Marine Reserve are typically more
expensive
Sea kayaking US$25 per hour (minimum 2 hours)
Diving US$85 (single tank) or US$115 (two tank)
Manatee and snorkelling day trip (US$85 including lunch/drinks)
Tipping (leader and local staff)
While tipping is not compulsory, it is a large part of the Latin
American service culture. Certified guides will accompany us to
each ruin visit, and it is customary to tip.
We suggest that you budget between US$95‐100 in total on this
itinerary to be broken down as follows:
Approximately US$3 per day for your tour leader.
Approximately US$2 per day for your driver.
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
Approximately US$2 for each local guide used (you should expect
8 different local guides on this itinerary)
You may wish to form a 'tip kitty' with other group members to
facilitate the distribution of tips. By definition, gratuities are not
something we can include in the tour cost.
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This helps other people see what our holidays are really like and
you'll be entered automatically into our monthly photo
competition.
To make full use of the Community you'll need to join My Exodus.
It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting
for?
http://www.exodus.co.uk/community
Essential Equipment and Clothing
Sunglasses
Sunhat
Sunscreen
Rain poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket
Warm sweater
Swimming gear
Shorts
Sturdy walking shoes for Mayan ruins
Long trousers
Long‐sleeved lightweight shirts
Insect repellent
Refillable water bottle
Dress is fairly conservative in Guatemala and parts of rural
Mexico. Women do not normally wear shorts in the towns and
men should always wear a shirt or t‐shirt.
Optional items
Umbrella
Binoculars
Headtorch
Small daypack for walks/ruins visits
Universal sink plug.
Baggage and Baggage Allowance
At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on
the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We
recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage.
Internal flights in the destination country are subject to a weight
limit of 20kg.
As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold
luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check the airline's
website for the latest information prior to your departure.
Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can
view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write‐ups
which have featured in the national media and take advantage
of some special deals on travel gear and equipment.
In the Community Travel Forum you'll find the Departure Lounge
where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you
depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to
upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website.
In booking this trip you should be confident in your ability to
participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you
have any doubt about your suitability you should call the Exodus
office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different
capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone's ability to
safely partake in an activity, or their impact on other people's
enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in
some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that
activity.
Although rarely enforced, by booking this trip you agree to
section 16 of our Booking Conditions which clearly states that our
leaders have the authority to do this. In these circumstances we
will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered
alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided
for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional
costs incurred.
Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which
can be contacted on 0044 (0)1582 640 045.
Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to
read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or
at www.exodus.co.uk/about‐exodus/essential‐information?
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and
details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you
approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not
receive these at least a week before departure, or require them
earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where
differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current
brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and
website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in
order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where
necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be
possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a
variety of reasons ‐ climatic, political, physical or other. In these
circumstances we will make the best possible alternative
arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and
airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving
Mexico, Guatemala & Belize • La Ruta Maya ‐ Day Of The Dead Festival
Departure
harder than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices.
Although we endeavour to keep our website as accurate as
possible, daily fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price
may be out of date. For accurate prices we recommend that you
contact one of our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice
Service advises British tourists on the potential dangers they
might experience when travelling overseas. We liaise closely with
them and adhere to their travel advice. For up‐to‐date advice on
all countries, please visit www.gov.uk/foreign‐travel‐advice.
Should there be any change to advice prior to or during travel,
we may have to cancel or curtail a tour at short notice, or re‐
route an itinerary part way through.
Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of
publication. The most up‐to‐date prices can be found on the
Exodus website.
© Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO
1. Check availability
Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
2. Secure your place
You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for
between three and seven days.
3. Complete your booking and payment
When you're ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online
booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking
form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all
major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book
with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour
operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number
2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association
(IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators
(FTO) and ABTA ‐ The Travel Association. This means you can
book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to
us for your trip are fully protected.
Edition No. MP 3 2017
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