Mexico, Belize and Guatemala Experience
From CAD $3,804
Guarantee
Group Tour
Easy
Rating
(10 reviews)
Experience Overview
Chase the sun across 3 spectacular countries. From Cancun to Antigua you'll be spoilt with beaches, national parks, ancient ruins & plenty of included, unforgettable travel experiences that allow you to experience this enchanting region like one of the locals. From sailing in Caye Caulker to zip-lining through the jungles, and getting the party started in Cancun - this one isn't just about soaking up rays, it's about enriching the soul.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
FAQs
- Lima: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
- Lake Titicaca: What can I expect when travelling in Latin America? Flexibility is key when you’re travelling in Latin America. The itinerary will give you a good idea of what your trip is gonna look like. But routes, schedules, hotels & modes of transportation may be subject to change without prior notice because of local circumstances or events beyond Contiki’s control.
- Iguassu Falls: Which currency should I bring? You’ll need to bring USD cash with you, as it’s the only way to pay for the Free Time Add-Ons on this trip. You’ll receive the cost of each option in your Welcome Email. Plus, we recommend you bring Visa and/or Master Card (American Express or Discover cards aren’t widely accepted).
- Iguassu Falls: Is it customary to tip? You’ll usually receive a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. But tipping isn’t a requirement. Either way, if you’re pleased with your service, a tip will always be appreciated! We recommend tipping 12% of the total bill.
- Iguassu Falls: What is the role of the Trip Manager? Your Trip Manager brings the group together with all the info, fun facts and food recommendations you'll ever need. Plus, they’ll ensure everything runs smoothly and address any issues. They’ll be there with you throughout the trip and will be your go-to person if you need anything. They’ll also fill you in on the cultural and historical context of the places you visit with some informal talks when relevant.
- Iguassu Falls: Is tap water safe to drink? Drinking tap water isn’t recommend. So, please stick to bottled water (even when brushing your teeth). There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase bottled water during the trip.
- Iguassu Falls: What power adapters do I need? Most places use similar plugs to the US and Europe, but it’s a good idea to bring a circular two-prong adapter just in case. No voltage converter is needed for devices like phones and laptops, but you may need one for high-powered devices (e.g., hairdryers).
- Buenos Aires: What should I pack for my trip? Pack light, but smart. Think: layers for all types of weather, comfy walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a daypack, any meds, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and even a circular two-prong power adapter. Don’t worry tho, your Trip Manager will send a full list of things you should pack before your trip starts.
- Iguassu Falls: How much luggage can I bring? You can bring 1 hand luggage + 1 suitcase or backpack per person. Internal flights are included in this trip (your Trip Manager will have your tickets ready for you). Each traveller is allowed 1 checked bag & 1 carry-on bag/personal item (eg: small backpack/handbag or laptop bag). Our suitcase restriction above means that the checked bag will be within the limitation for this flight. The carry-on bag must not exceed 114 cm (45”). Extra or overweight bags will incur a fee by the airline which is the traveller’s responsibility. Fees range from US$25.00-US$100.00.
- Mexico City: Will I need vaccinations prior to travelling? Please check the latest travel info from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if you're travelling to Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. We also recommend that you consult your local health clinic or doctor for more details.
- Belize City: Can I get cash out in Mexico, Belize & Guatemala? Yep, ATMs are easy to find in cities, towns, and tourist hotspots. You’ll need to get: Pesos in Mexico Belize dollars (and sometimes USD) in Belize Quetzales in Guatemala Heads up: rural areas can be hit or miss, especially in Belize and Guatemala. So, bring some backup cash and use ATMs inside banks when you can.
- Mexico City: What’s the weather like in Mexico, Belize & Guatemala? Short answer: it varies (a lot). Long answer: Mexico has all the moods. On the coasts and in the south (think Cancun, Los Cabos), it’s hot and humid during rainy season. Up in the mountains (think Guadalajara), you’ll find more chill – think spring vibes year-round. And in the really high bits? Pack layers, because it can get frosty. Belize & Guatemala bring the tropical heat in the lowlands (around 25–30°C), with serious humidity and a rainy season from May to October. Belize can be prone to a storm or two - so waterproof everything. But Guatemala’s highlands (like Antigua and Quetzaltenango) flip the script with cooler temps, crisp nights, and all-round alpine energy.
- Lima: Is there anything specific I need to know? Safety: You’ll stay in expert-picked areas that are safe and convenient. While you’re on your own, it’s best to stick to safe areas, follow your gut & of course, use your common sense (avoid dark alleys, don’t leave valuables unattended, use crosswalks). Water & Food: It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in any of these countries. Stick to bottled water (even for brushing your teeth!). You’ll have plenty of opportunities to purchase them on your trip. Toilets: We’ll make a service stop along the way where you can use a toilet. But remember to toss used toilet paper in the trash, not the toilet (don’t wanna clog it up!) WiFi/Cell Service: WiFi is available at most accommodations and restaurants, but it can be slow. It’s best to check with your phone provider about international plans.
Included Experience
- Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour of this ancient Mayan city. Soak up the history and hear the myths and legends.
- Chichen Itza: It’s time to live your best life, as you cool off in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. Don’t forget your camera!
- Cancun: Get the party started with a Margarita and dinner with the gang. Gaze at the golden skies and bask in those mellow vibes.
- Caye Caulker: Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker. This is how we roll.
- Caye Caulker: Drift across the Caribbean Sea and watch the sun go down over Caye Caulker. This is how we roll.
- Tikal: Spend the night in the rainforest. Your chance to walk in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans. And meet monkeys and toucans.
- Tikal: Explore this epic Mayan ‘lost city’ in the heart of the jungle. And hear historic tales from a local expert. #bucketlist moment.
- Tikal: Ah, Guatemala! A rainbow-coloured fiesta of Insta ops and the official 'birthplace of chocolate’. Heaven on earth.
- Antigua Guatemala: Antigua is a ‘tale of two cities’. Here we’ll tour the ancient part (originally built by Spanish colonists) with a native guide.
- Antigua Guatemala: Fill up on tostadas, enchiladas and all the other spiced dishes of your foodie dreams.
Trip Details
Product Code: 17115
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Family, 55+, Luxury
Tour Operator:
Contiki (CA)
Supplier Code: 186.346A
Starts: Cancun, Mexico
Finishes: Antigua, Guatemala
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Easy
Includes
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,804 ($346 /day)
Itinerary
There’s no time for mucking around… we’ve got exploring to do. Traveller, welcome to Cancun where you'll be letting the good times roll - and the good times start now. Fun is the name of the game today in this stunning white sand beach spot. Thrill seekers could take a trip to some hidden waters deep in the tropical jungle. A bit of rural island hopping, ziplining a stint at Garrafon Natural Reef Park, a visit to some ancient Mayan ruins and finally some more swimming is all on offer. Explore the offshore coral reefs and caves while the sunshine ripples through the crystal clear water. Then back to Cancun where you can grab seafood by the seashore with the crew.
Accommodation: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Yes, Yes. We just arrived. But we're saying goodbye to bright & buzzing Cancun (only for a bit!) to check out an epic historical hotspot.The most famous ancient ruins in Mayan history. With our Local Guide leading the charge, we’ll learn all about the Mayan calendar, the positioning of the sun, the connections of the ruins around the country, and the worlds that came before us. Afterwards, we’ll take a dip in a cenote – which is the best way to beat the Mexican heat.You've got the entire day tomorrow to spend soaking up the Cancun sun. So, rest up!
Accommodation: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Cancun is a hub of fiery entertainment… known for way more than party vibes. Powdery beaches, endlessly swimmable waters and laid-back taco joints (basically all you need, no matter your mood.) Your Trip Manager knows this place like the back of their hand too, so you're guaranteed to be in the know on all the best spots to head for the evening.
Accommodation: Ocean View Arenas Cancun (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Get ready for your next adventure this morning as we're heading to the beautiful shores of Playa del Carmen. A bit of retail therapy never hurt anyone, so how about a stroll down Paseo del Carmen shopping centre to spend some pesos? You'll fall head over heels for this sun-kissed seashore town. For the food addicts amongst you, a plethora of seaside bars and restaurants are here to blow your mind with their delicious cocktails and local recipes.
Accommodation: Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Mexico, you've stolen a slice of our hearts forever but with Belize & the Caribbean Island of Caye Caulker on the horizon, we're not feeling too sad... Hello heaven. Rub your eyes, blink and blink again - yes this pinch-yourself tropical paradise truly is real, This evening is all about enjoying the last dregs of sunshine, sampling fresh seafood and getting down to some reggae rhythms... **PLEASE NOTE: this day may be replaced with another night in Playa del Carmen when the Belize Ferry is not operating as scheduled. Caye Caulker activities will be rescheduled so all inclusions and optional experiences are still offered as per itinerary. A Free Time Add On Activity of ATV riding may also be offered by the Trip Manager when the itinerary has 2 nights in Playa del Carmen.
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
You’ll need a big breakfast today because you're free to do whatever you want, which could mean a whole lot of exploring. Belize has a spectacular Barrier Reef that's just begging to be discovered, so grab a snorkel and get out there. Back on land, it's all about sandy streets flanked by palm trees and dotted with cafes and bars lined with colourful hammocks, painted tables and the most laid-back vibes we know. You'll be begging to stay longer. And your wish is our command.
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Another free day to soak up the vibes of this beautiful city, and spend some more time in the water. Snorkel, siesta, or sip something sweet as you watch the golden sunset over the shimmering waters. Bliss.
Accommodation: Tropical Paradise Hotel (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast
Water taxis will whizz us back to the mainland across the glorious underwater playground you've become so well acquainted with over the last few days, landing us back in the arms of Belize City. It’s a super swift passing by of the beloved Belize City before we take to the road to journey across the border into yet another stunning country: Guatemala. This leg of the trip will see you travel overland through Guatemala’s Peten forests. This afternoon before we drop anchor at our hotel, you could zoom around the treetops like a monkey but securely attached on a zipline of course! Later on you will doze off to the tranquil sounds of the nature all around you, but in a comfy bed with all the amenities you need.
Accommodation: Hotel Tikal Inn (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise early today to watch the sun stretch over the the top of the Mayan ruin Templo IV. Not a bad way to start the day, hey? We'll then take a guided tour of the crumbling ruins before a trip to the island of Flores, where we'll have lunch and time for shopping before flying this afternoon to Guatemala's capital city and then on to beautiful Antigua. This place isn't just about the dreamy scenery - there's plenty of history to soak up too. You'll notice colorful rooftop gardens dotted amongst the crumbling colonial buildings and you'll hear the clip clop of the horse drawn carriages that are still a favoured form of transport today. You'll be glad to know there are two peaceful nights planned here in the old colonial town set right beneath two massive volcanoes.
Accommodation: Hotel Las Farolas
Meals: Breakfast
Start with a tour with our guide to learn about the local architecture, tiny squares, and fountains. Don your explorers cap this afternoon and head off for some ME time. Being able to choose your own adventure could take you up Pacaya Volcano on a guided hike. If you’d rather produce those endorphins by making (and eating) your own chocolate, then that is also a rather delicious option where you'll learn about the process from start to end and take home the results of your efforts. Guatemalan delights tonight? Yes please. We'll get local over chiles rellenos (or peppers stuffed to the brim with vegetables, meat and sauces). You're sure to hear a collective mmmm.
Accommodation: Hotel Las Farolas
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Morning global roamers, we came, we saw, we sizzled. We'll fuel up on one last breakfast together, then it's time to wipe away the tears and do those final friend requests because today you're homeward bound with firm plans in full steam for a Contiki 2.0 reunion in Asia. See you next time!
Meals: Breakfast
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Contiki (CA)
Contiki is a New Zealand-based tour company that caters to 18 to 35-year-olds, offering over 350 different tours in over 75 countries in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, North America, South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.[1] It is a subsidiary of The Travel Corporation. Its tours historically had a reputation for partying;[2][3] however, it also operates wellness trips culturally immersive experiences that focus less on alcohol, which are more popular with Generation Z.[4] The company owns lodging facilities in Europe, including the Chateau De Cruix, a 16th century castle in the Beaujolais wine region, and the Gasthof Schoneck in the Austrian Tyrol. The name "Contiki" comes from the portmanteau 'Con' from the word 'Continent' and 'Tiki'; from the Māori referring to the first man, often symbolised as a pendant known as hei-tiki. It can also be attributed to the New Zealand slang 'Tiki-tour' describing taking a longer route to a destination in order to explore.[5]
In Business Since 1931
Reviews
Anonymous - Traveled, January 2024
The trip was amazing! Great itinerary with a nice mix of relax, party and travel between destinations. Very easy to book - some difficulties initially due to date and itinerary changes however once these were finalised it was easy to book.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, February 2024
This trip is a mixed bag. There are so many early mornings which you aren't warned about prior to booking (3am, 4am and 5am) which leaves you feeling constantly exhausted. I don't mind an early morning to travel but it seems like this trip took it a bit far. This is not my first Contiki either so I have a fairly good benchmark with other itineraries (and with other tour companies). Whilst Belize and Guatemala are phenomenal places with good hotels and great food, the Mexico part was disappointing. The included food isn't great in Mexico and the itinerary makes no sense in that you're told to start in Mexico City but you have no time there - you literally sleep and you're on the road the next morning for 12 hours in a coach to go to Oaxaca, the trip should have allowed travellers to meet the group in Mexico City and have a day or 2 there or just meet in Oaxaca. The add ons aren't great either - you're told that you are buying 4x4 jungle ATVing for an extortionate price but you are literally on the ATV for 30 minutes. The tour manager was great and the group we had was lovely. The issue here is really the itinerary itself and the sheer exhausting nature of it. Contiki should also really consider amending the start of the trip for Sol Seekers. I am really thinking twice before booking another Contiki. Contiki's service is really good. You can always reach them easily on the group chat or on the telephone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/19/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, June 2024
For the price paid, we felt that there should have been more included activities. We were able to find the same or similar activities to the ones offered by Contiki at much cheaper prices. For example, we did a catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres at a fraction of the price quoted by Contiki. The included meals weren't very nice or authentic and seemed like a waste of money on Contiki's part. Eating at restaurants like the one we ate at for the welcome meal in Mexico City is unnecessary. Additionally, the day we spent in Playa del Carmen was a waste and should be replaced with Tulum. We organised a day trip to Tulum from Cancun ourselves and had an amazing time. I wish we had more time there and that it was included on the tour. The main issue I had with the trip was that I experienced quite a bit of racism from the other travellers. Remarks were made about my appearance and I was actively excluded when we first joined the tour in Mexico City. After deciding not to leave the tour (considering how much money I'd spent and that I'd spent several months looking forward to it) we ended up creating our own itinerary and keeping to ourselves. The trip manager seemed oblivious to this, which was a poor reflection on Contiki. I'm an experienced traveller and when I travel I want to be immersed in the culture of a new country, eat local food, learn about the history and meet the people. I want an authentic experience. Unfortunately, this isn't what Contiki offers. The main objective seemed to be getting blind drunk and being too hungover to truly travel and explore during the day. Although this is clearly what some people are looking for in a travelling experience, I am not and therefore I will not be using Contiki again. The customer service received when we booked the trip was fine. Although we weren't told about the way the trip would work i.e. there being a 'mother' tour and several other tours tagged on to that. We were not told that there would be over 40 people on the tour at some points. We were not told that we needed to be in Mexico City the night before the tour started for the welcome meeting. Luckily we had already planned to spend a week in Mexico City before the tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2024
Madison - Traveled, August 2024
So many options and things to do! Really loved it! Great trip with an amazing group! Definitely worth the hours of travel and would do it all over again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2024
Kathleen - Traveled, May 2024
I always have a great time with Contiki. Great mixture of day experiences with a bit of partying in there too. Great optional activities too!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/21/2024
Catarina - Traveled, February 2024
2nd contiki, currently planning my next one.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/24/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, March 2024
Great job, good experience. Awesome activities and great trip manager. Poor choice of hotel for Tikal
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/26/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, April 2024
Take out spending time in Flores and add an extra night in Belize. More included dinners would be nice for the cost of the trip. Didn't receive travel documents before departure. It stated in the travel wallet that they would be emailed and they never were. - Would have liked to know earlier about the flight change rather than only the day before. I understand flights can get delayed but that was not what we were told, so unsure of why we changed. It resulted in spending a whole day in a place that wasn't worth it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/28/2024
Myrlene - Traveled, July 2024
I definitely got the experience I wanted. This trip exceeded my expectations! My tour guide , Abe, always went above to make sure our group had the best time in every location that we went to. I can't wait for my next contiki!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/23/2024
Anonymous - Traveled, May 2024
This will be my 3rd contiki, 5th tour of its kind and it was my least impressive. The tour guide was disorganised and only interested in hooking up with girls on the trip. He also made us late for various optionals. The structure of the tour had too many people coming and going as it was a whole lot of tours in one. I will now go with topdeck or G adventures going forward.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/27/2024
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