Ecotourism, Stunning beaches and the Maya mystery.
Central America, Caribbean & Mayan Culture (PAN – COS – NIC – GUA – MEX – COL)
Paradisiacal beaches, tropical forests and impressive cultures
Central America is known for its diverse geography, which includes lush rainforests, volcanic mountains, tropical beaches, and fertile plains. The region is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to volcanic landscapes.
The Caribbean is a tropical region comprising numerous islands and coastal areas, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cultures, and a diverse blend of languages and traditions.
The Mayan culture, rooted in ancient Mesoamerica, is characterized by its sophisticated civilization, remarkable achievements in mathematics and astronomy, intricate hieroglyphic writing system, impressive architecture such as pyramids and temples, and a deep spiritual connection with nature and the cosmos.
Continental Central America (PAN - COS - NIC - GUA)
Continental Central America, often referred to simply as “Central America,” is the mainland portion of the Central American region that excludes the various islands and island nations in the Caribbean Sea.
Central America is known for its biodiversity, with numerous unique species of plants and animals found in its rainforests and ecosystems. It is also a popular destination for tourists, offering a wide range of attractions, from archaeological sites to beautiful beaches and ecotourism opportunities.
What to visit?
Costa Rica is a small yet ecologically rich country in Central America, celebrated for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and progressive environmental policies. Key highlights and features of Costa Rica include its extensive national park system, which protects a wide variety of flora and fauna, including toucans, sloths, and jaguars; its stunning coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offering excellent opportunities for surfing, snorkeling, and relaxation; and its reputation as a global leader in sustainable tourism and renewable energy, with a goal to become carbon-neutral. Costa Rica’s natural beauty and commitment to environmental preservation make it a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor enthusiasts.
Panamá City
Panama City is the capital and largest city of Panama, a country located in Central America. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis that serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Panama. Panama City is a dynamic and diverse destination that combines modernity with history and natural beauty. It offers a range of experiences, from exploring the historic charm of Casco Viejo to marveling at the engineering wonder of the Panama Canal and enjoying the city’s cultural and culinary offerings.
Granada City
Granada is a historic city located in Nicaragua, in Central America. It is one of the country’s oldest and most culturally significant cities, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Granada is a city that combines history, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, making it a popular destination for tourists exploring Nicaragua. Its well-preserved colonial charm and proximity to Lake Nicaragua and the Mombacho Volcano make it a unique and captivating place to visit in Central America.
Atitlán Lake
Lake Atitlán is a stunning and picturesque lake located in the highlands of Guatemala. It is often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world due to its breathtaking natural surroundings, including dramatic volcanic peaks, lush green hills, and the tranquil blue waters of the lake itself.
Caribbean Beaches (COS - PAN - COL)
The Caribbean is a region located in the Caribbean Sea, which is part of the larger Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its stunning beaches, warm tropical climate, and diverse cultures. The Caribbean comprises numerous islands and countries, each with its own unique history, culture, and natural beauty.
The region is known for its diverse cuisine, which often features a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences. Music, including reggae, calypso, and salsa, plays a significant role in Caribbean culture, and festivals and celebrations are common throughout the year.
What to visit?
The Bocas del Toro Archipelago is a picturesque and popular destination located on the Caribbean coast of Panama. It consists of a group of islands, islets, and cays in the Bocas del Toro province. This archipelago is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse marine life, lush rainforests, and vibrant Caribbean culture.
Cancun
Located in the northern part of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún is a world-renowned tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also a gateway to exploring the Riviera Maya and nearby archaeological sites like Tulum and Chichen Itza.
Cahuita & Tortuguero National Parks
Located near the town of Cahuita, Cahuita national park is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike along well-maintained trails, snorkel in the coral reefs, and observe a variety of animals, including howler monkeys and sloths. Often referred to as “the Amazon of Costa Rica,” Tortuguero national park is a remote and pristine rainforest area accessible only by boat or plane. It’s a critical nesting site for green sea turtles, and you can witness these incredible creatures nesting and hatching during the nesting season.
Bluefields & Corn Islands
Bluefields is the capital of the South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region (RACS) and serves as a cultural and economic hub for the region. It has a unique Afro-Caribbean culture influenced by the Garifuna, Creole, and Miskito communities. The town is known for its lively music scene and colorful festivals. The Corn Islands, consisting of Big Corn Island and Little Corn Island, are popular destinations for their stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and relaxed atmosphere. These islands offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.
Colombian Caribbean
The Colombian Caribbean, also known as the Caribbean Region or Caribbean Coast, is a region in the northern part of Colombia that borders the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse ecosystems. The Colombian Caribbean offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical and cultural immersion in cities like Cartagena and Barranquilla to outdoor adventures in national parks and beautiful islands. The region’s mix of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences is reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine, making it a vibrant and culturally rich part of Colombia.
Mayan Culture (MEX - GUA)
The Maya culture refers to the complex and ancient civilization that inhabited Mesoamerica, primarily in the regions that are now modern-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. This culture flourished for thousands of years, with its peak between 250 and 900 AD. The Maya civilization is known for its impressive achievements in various fields.
Today, the Maya culture continues to influence the modern-day populations in the regions where it once thrived, and its rich history and heritage are studied and celebrated worldwide.
What to visit?
Riviera Maya Coast
The Riviera Maya coast is a breathtaking stretch of Mexico’s eastern shore, known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a diverse range of tourist destinations, including the bustling city of Playa del Carmen and the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum.
Palenque
Palenque is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the lush jungle of the Mexican state of Chiapas. It is known for its exceptionally well-preserved Mayan ruins, which date back to the Classic period of Maya civilization. The city was at its peak between the 6th and 7th centuries AD and was a significant cultural and political center. Some notable features of Palenque include the Temple of the Inscriptions, the Palace, and various other temples and structures adorned with intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions and art. Palenque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is celebrated for its historical and architectural significance.
Tikal and Yaxhá
Tikal is one of the most famous and important ancient Maya archaeological sites, located in the dense rainforests of northern Guatemala. It was once a thriving Maya city-state and served as a major political, economic, and cultural center during the Classic period of Maya civilization, particularly between the 6th and 9th centuries AD.
Tikal’s remote location in the Guatemalan jungle adds to its mystique, as it was engulfed by dense vegetation and hidden from the modern world for centuries until its rediscovery in the 19th century. Today, Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history and natural beauty of this ancient Maya wonder.
Yaxha is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Petén region of Guatemala, near the borders of Belize and Mexico. It is renowned for its well-preserved ruins and impressive temples, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in Mayan history and culture.
The Caribe in pictures
Culture, unique landscapes, ancestry and much, much more to see.
Why people loves nave tours
NMC2023-04-15A Special Travel Agent During our family's trip to Chile and Argentina from December 2022 to January 2023, Mario Mellado from Nave Tours provided exceptional service. Mario promptly responded to our requests and worked with us to create a customized itinerary that included excellent guides and hotel accommodations. Even when we faced an unexpected airline disruption that required several changes to our plans, Mario quickly responded and efficiently reworked our itinerary. He also ensured that we received eligible refunds for prepaid hotel costs. Mario went above and beyond to make our trip enjoyable, demonstrating a high level of care for our family's needs. Overall, we highly recommend Mario and Nave Tours for their excellent service.Travelwag2023-03-26I highly recommend NAVE TOURS. I was struggling to book travel to Chile when I came across Chiara on a web search. I was reluctant to book with a company unknown to me, but after meeting face to face via WhatsApp with Chiara, my husband and I felt comfortable booking with her. She made excellent recommendations and saved us from spending time in undesirable locations. Chiara was exceptionally responsive and got back to me in a very timely manner as we worked to put an itinerary together. The 3 weeks went without a hitch. Incredibly all the tour guides and transfers arrived exactly as planned. The tours were all with English speaking guides and excellent. I can’t recommend this company enough. In regards to the payment, Nave suggested using WISE money transfer. This was a leap of faith for me as I was not familiar with this platform. The fees are exceptionally low for transfers. I took the plunge and hoped for the best and again, this payment method worked well. If we travel in South America again I will be booking with Nave Tours.AHMED2023-01-02Tailored trips by Mario(Nave Tours) Mario arranged everything in my trip from A to Z tailored on my requirements, and given attention to details based on previous trips which he arranged(like in what are my accommodation preferences, duration of stays, private transportation , etc.). In addition, the people who pick me up from airport are always English speakers, friendly and besides they are locals. So they explain detailed history of the places visiting and also offering any sort of support needed. I only rely on Mario for my Central/South American countries, highly recommended!!Erin P2022-12-12Definitely worth hiking Aguas de Ramon in Santiago We used nave tours to hike Aguas de Ramon outside of Santiago! He booked a guide for us that arranged communication, pick up, drop off, park fees, and info. Our guide was wonderful and very accommodating. He carried our extra water and let one of us use his hiking stick. It would have been a much less enjoyable hike without his presence!Marian S2020-03-06Made to feel special I travelled solo to Chile in February 2020. I booked an Antarctic Cruise leaving from Punta Arenas and wanted activities on either side of the cruise dates that would give me a fair view of what Chile is like. After months of exploring ideas, available tours and costs I despaired at finding anything suitable that did not involve paying a single supplement for accommodation or space on a tour. I Googled for travel agents with specialised knowledge of Chile and asked for help in securing single-priced accommodation in specific places. Only one agent responded - Nave Tours. Within no time Mario and I agreed on places and activities. He gave valuable input on my ideas and was accommodating in my wish to experience the Mapuche culture. His arrangements here exceeded my expectations.Two weeks before I was due to leave for Chile my Antarctic cruise was cancelled, leaving a gaping hole in my itinerary. Within three days of asking Mario to help fill the gap and expand the range of places to see, it was all finalised and paid for. He extended my scope to include the desert area around La Serena because he knew I'd be interested in indigenous culture. This was a superb idea.The logistics of travel went off without a hitch. Where travel time was long he ensured that my driver was English speaking so I could have conversations about Chile, its culture, history and current tensions. Every plane was met. Each hotel booked without complications on arrival or departure.Mario's email responses to my queries from the far side of the Atlantic at all hours made me feel he didn't sleep much and that I was the only client who mattered. I felt super safe in his hands. I could relax and enjoy my holiday.Esther C2020-01-27trip of a lifetime i was googling for agents who could plan a trip to patagonia that would cover 1) all the places i wanted and 2) for the dates that i could travel. loads of agencies out there but nothing that fit my bill or wallet. stumbled across Nanook, which is essentially a matchmaker between you and one of their agents local to the place you want to go, and that’s how i met Mario of Navetours. Mario’s emails may come across curt at first, but i realised that’s just how he phrases things. almost every email i sent was promptly replied to, and with the information i needed. as a solo female, i had loads of questions and concerns about my safety, but Mario was able to put me at ease. when the protests in santiago broke out, he also kept me updated and even offered to change hotels for me to a suburb that was safer and further away from the protests. the tours that he arranged for me were great. i enjoyed myself immensely travelling to south patagonia, tierra del fuego and atacama. the pace was just nice and the people i’ve met were great and friendly too! whatever activities and hikes i wanted to do, mario was able to recommend the right ones. if there’s one that was slightly economically unsound, Mario also made sure that i know before i make any commitment.we kept in constant contact throughout my trip using WhatsApp, which was great for when there’s any issue. the only qualm i had was with the Keoken Hostel; the staff was aloof and even grumpy when they realised i was right and had a reservation with them - when it was actually their staff who forgot to key it in after receiving payment months ago. i’m sure there’re way better accommodations in Punta Arenas. in any case, i would highly recommend Mario and Navetours if you’re heading to Patagonia!Monika M2019-10-07Great service and professional partner. Great service for our travel agency's client from Poland. Nave Tours organized a tailor made trip lasting over 3 weeks including Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. The cooperation was fantastic and very professional on each step - from planning till the end of guest's trip. Great people, very helpful and perfect organization. An unforgettable experience for our client. We are looking forward to working with you again.Ida Elise T2019-07-30Peru and Bolivia Very good service and help to create the perfect in Peru and Boliva. Included all the highlights we wanted to see and made a program that was easy to understand and where all the details were included.joeymantua2019-06-05Amazing tour guide and enriching cultural experience I went on a study abroad trip with my school visiting Santiago (Chile), Valparaiso (Chile), and Buenos Aires (Argentina). My group's tour guide Mario was personable, informative and great at planning activities. Not only did he take us to great restaurants and tourist attractions but he also provided us with recommendations for when we had nothing planned. Mario's dedication to our group was incredible and he definitely left a positive mark on me and my whole group.Christina2019-06-04An unforgettable experience. For two weeks, I as well as 19 of my peers went on a study abroad trip to Santiago, Chile and Buenos Aires, Argentina with Mario as our tour guide. This was my first time ever traveling out of the United States and everything was EXCELLENT. Mario truly made it an unforgettable experience. He was always patient with our group, made sure everything was scheduled accordingly, and was able to bounce back and work quickly to resolve any bumps that came along. His outgoing and caring personality made the trip even more enjoyable, and I was genuinely sad to see him go when our trip was over.
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Things you can’t miss when visiting CARIBE AND MAYA REGION
Bring your sacred amulet and enjoy the journey
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Corcovado National Park
Located on the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado is a true wilderness area where you can see a wide range of wildlife, including tapirs, jaguars, and monkeys. It’s a great spot for hiking and birdwatching.
Tortuguero National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
La Selva Biological Station
Operated by the Organization for Tropical Studies, this research station allows visitors to experience the rainforest up close. Guided tours are available, and you can observe researchers at work.
Pacuare River
For adventure seekers, the Pacuare River is renowned for its white-water rafting trips. As you navigate the rapids, you’ll have a chance to appreciate the stunning landscapes.
Cahuita National Park
Located on the Caribbean coast, Cahuita is known for its coral reefs and marine life. Snorkeling and hiking are popular activities here, and you can often spot colorful fish and even reef sharks.
Miraflores Visitor Center
This center offers a museum and observation decks where you can watch ships pass through the locks of the Panama Canal.
Partial and Full Transit Tours
These tours take you through the entire length of the canal, offering a unique perspective on this engineering marvel.
Casco Viejo (Old Town) Tours
Explore the historic Casco Viejo district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene.
Panama City Walking Tours
Join a guided walking tour to discover the city’s history, art, and culture. Many tours focus on Casco Viejo, but some also cover other neighborhoods like Punta Paitilla and Punta Pacifica.
Rainforest and Wildlife Tours
Explore the nearby rainforests and national parks to discover Panama’s incredible biodiversity. Popular destinations include Soberania National Park and Metropolitan Natural Park.
Panama City Food Tours
Savor the flavors of Panama by joining a food tour that takes you to local markets, restaurants, and street food vendors
Panama City by Night
Experience the city’s vibrant nightlife by taking a night tour, which might include visits to popular bars and clubs.
City Walking Tour
Explore the historic streets of Granada on a walking tour. Visit landmarks like La Merced Church, Granada Cathedral, and Parque Central while learning about the city’s history and culture.
Islets of Granada Boat Tour
Take a boat tour on Lake Nicaragua to explore the Islets of Granada, a group of small islands formed by ancient volcanic activity. These islets are home to diverse bird species and lush vegetation.
Mombacho Volcano Tour
Visit the nearby Mombacho Volcano Natural Reserve. You can take a guided tour to hike the volcano trails, explore the cloud forest, and even zip-line through the treetops.
Masaya Volcano and Artisan Market
Head to the Masaya Volcano National Park to see the active Santiago Crater and visit the nearby Masaya Artisan Market, where you can shop for handmade crafts.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Explore Lake Nicaragua by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, either independently or on guided tours.
Zapatera Island Tour
Take a boat tour to Zapatera Island, which is known for its archaeological sites, petroglyphs, and hiking trails.
Chocolate Making Workshops
Learn the art of making chocolate at a local cacao farm. You can participate in hands-on workshops and tastings.
Boat Tours
One of the best ways to explore Lake Atitlán is by taking a boat tour. You can visit multiple villages around the lake, each with its own unique character. Some popular stops include San Pedro La Laguna, Santiago Atitlán, and San Marcos La Laguna.
Hiking
There are several hiking opportunities around Lake Atitlán. You can hike to the summit of the San Pedro Volcano for breathtaking views of the lake or explore the trails around the villages to experience the local culture and natural beauty.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake at your own pace. You can paddle to nearby villages or simply enjoy the tranquility of the water.
Birdwatching
Lake Atitlán and its surrounding areas are home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. Consider a guided birdwatching tour to spot some of the native birds.
Indigenous Village Tours
Take a cultural tour to visit indigenous Mayan villages around the lake. You can learn about traditional weaving, see local markets, and interact with the indigenous communities.
Cerro de Oro
Visit Cerro de Oro, a small village on the southern shore of the lake, known for its handicrafts and beautiful views of the lake from the Cerro de Oro viewpoint.
Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs of nearby Fuentes Georginas, which are nestled in the mountains and offer a soothing experience.
Hot Springs
Relax in the natural hot springs of nearby Fuentes Georginas, which are nestled in the mountains and offer a soothing experience.
San Juan La Laguna
Explore the village of San Juan La Laguna, known for its vibrant murals, art galleries, and cooperatives where you can purchase handcrafted textiles and art.
Cooking Classes
Learn to cook traditional Guatemalan dishes with a cooking class hosted by a local family. You’ll get hands-on experience preparing regional cuisine.
Sunset Cruises
Enjoy a tranquil sunset cruise on the lake. Many operators offer evening boat tours that allow you to witness the breathtaking sunset over the volcanoes and the water.
Yoga and Wellness Retreats
Lake Atitlán is a popular destination for yoga and wellness retreats. You can find various centers offering yoga classes, meditation sessions, and holistic healing treatments.
Coffee Tours
Guatemala is known for its coffee, and you can take a coffee tour to learn about the coffee-making process at local plantations.
Island-Hopping Tours
Explore the various islands and cays of Bocas del Toro on boat tours. Popular stops include Isla Colón, Isla Carenero, Isla Bastimentos, and Isla Solarte. You can also visit secluded beaches, snorkeling spots, and more.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The crystal-clear waters of Bocas del Toro offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. Discover colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles.
Zipline Canopy Tours
Experience the thrill of ziplining through the lush rainforests of Bocas del Toro. Several tour operators offer zipline canopy tours that provide stunning views of the island’s natural beauty.
Surfing
Bocas del Toro is a popular destination for surfers of all levels. Rent a surfboard or take surf lessons at various beaches, including Playa Paunch and Bluff Beach.
Dolphin Watching
Take a boat tour to see dolphins in their natural habitat. You may have the opportunity to watch dolphins play and jump alongside your boat.
Hiking and Nature Tours
Explore the island’s rainforests and wildlife on guided hiking and nature tours. Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park is a great place for jungle hikes and wildlife spotting.
Sea Kayaking
Rent a kayak or join a guided sea kayaking tour to paddle through mangrove forests, along coastlines, and into secluded coves.
Chocolate Farm Tours
Discover the chocolate-making process by visiting local cacao farms. Learn how chocolate is produced from the cacao bean and enjoy chocolate tastings.
Bioluminescent Bay Tours
Experience the magic of bioluminescence by taking a night tour to Red Frog Beach on Isla Bastimentos. Witness the water light up with the movement of tiny organisms.
Cultural Tours
Learn about the local Ngäbe-Buglé indigenous culture by visiting indigenous communities. Some tours offer cultural experiences, including traditional dances and crafts.
Boat Rentals
Rent a boat or water taxi for a day of private exploration. You can create your own itinerary and visit secluded spots around the archipelago.
Sunset Cruises
Enjoy a romantic sunset cruise with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and the archipelago’s islands.
City and Cultural Tours
Explore the vibrant town of Bluefields and learn about its Afro-Caribbean culture. You can take a walking tour to visit historical sites, markets, and interact with locals.
Boat Tours
Bluefields is a coastal town with a network of rivers and canals. Consider taking boat tours to explore the surrounding mangroves, wildlife, and nearby islands.
Snorkeling and Diving
The Corn Islands are known for their clear waters and coral reefs. Join snorkeling or diving tours to explore the underwater world and encounter colorful marine life.
Beach-Hopping
Both Big Corn Island and Little Corn Island have beautiful beaches. You can take a boat tour or simply rent a bike and explore different beaches on the islands.
Island Exploration
Little Corn Island is known for its lush tropical jungle. Take guided hikes to explore the interior of the island, visit secluded beaches, and enjoy panoramic views from high points.
Local Cuisine Tours
Experience the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and Caribbean flavors. Join cooking classes or food tours to taste traditional dishes.
Turtle Watching
If you visit during the right season, you might have the opportunity to participate in turtle nesting and hatching tours, as the Corn Islands are important nesting grounds for sea turtles.
Historical Walking Tours
City Bike Tours
Discover the city on two wheels with guided bike tours, which offer a unique perspective on Cartagena’s neighborhoods and landmarks.
Food Tours
Sample Colombian cuisine on food tours in Cartagena. Taste local dishes and street food while learning about the city’s culinary traditions.
Mangrove Tours
Explore the nearby mangroves by kayak or boat to observe local wildlife and experience the natural beauty of the coastal ecosystems.
Tayrona National Natural Park Tours
Visit Tayrona Park, a stunning natural reserve with hiking trails leading to pristine beaches. Guided tours are available to help you explore the park’s beauty while providing insights into the indigenous culture of the area.
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Tours
Explore the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are home to indigenous communities and offer hiking opportunities, including treks to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida).
La Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) Trek
Embark on a multi-day trek to the Lost City, an ancient archaeological site hidden in the jungle. Guided tours are necessary to access this remote location.
Snorkeling and Diving
San Andrés and Providencia are known for their exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities. Join tours to explore vibrant coral reefs and underwater ecosystems.
Island-Hopping
Explore the nearby cays and islands, such as Johnny Cay and Crab Cay, by taking boat tours. These tours often include stops for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation.
Watersports
Engage in various watersports, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and jet skiing, with guided lessons and rental equipment available.
Cultural Tours
Learn about the unique Raizal culture of San Andrés and Providencia through cultural tours, which may include visits to local communities and traditional events.
Mayan Ruins Tours: Tulum
Explore the ancient Mayan ruins perched on the cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
MAyan Ruins Tours: Coba
Visit the Coba archaeological site, where you can climb the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Mayan Ruins Tour: Chichen Itza
Although it’s a bit farther from the Riviera Maya, it’s a must-visit site. Tours to Chichen Itza are readily available.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
The Riviera Maya offers some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities. Explore the Great Mayan Reef, cenotes (natural sinkholes), and underwater caves.
Cenote Tours
Explore the cenotes, which are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water. Some popular cenotes for tours include Dos Ojos, Ik Kil, and Gran Cenote.
Beach and Water Activities
Enjoy water sports such as jet-skiing, parasailing, kayaking, and windsurfing on the beautiful beaches of the Riviera Maya.
Boat Tours
Take a boat tour to visit islands like Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, or Holbox. These islands offer unique experiences, from snorkeling to relaxing on pristine beaches.
Swim with Dolphins
Several facilities in the Riviera Maya offer the opportunity to swim with dolphins, providing a memorable and educational experience.
Cultural and Culinary Tours
Explore the local culture through food. Take a cooking class to learn to prepare traditional Mexican dishes or go on a food tour to sample local cuisine.
Jungle Tours
Discover the lush jungles of the Riviera Maya by taking an ATV tour, ziplining through the canopy, or hiking in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
Nightlife Tours
The Riviera Maya has a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in Playa del Carmen. Consider taking a bar crawl or joining a nightlife tour to experience the local party scene.
Palenque Archaeological Site Tour
This is the primary attraction in Palenque, and a guided tour of the archaeological site provides you with valuable historical and cultural insights. Most tours include visits to key structures like the Temple of the Inscriptions, the Palace, and the Temple of the Cross Group.
Agua Azul and Misol-Ha Waterfalls Tour
A combined tour to these two beautiful waterfalls is a great option. You can swim in the natural pools at Agua Azul and experience the impressive cascades of Misol-Ha.
Palenque and Bonampak Tour
If you’re interested in Mayan art and history, consider a tour that combines a visit to Palenque with a trip to Bonampak, another Mayan archaeological site known for its vivid murals.
Palenque and Yaxchilán Tour
Yaxchilán is another nearby Mayan site with well-preserved ruins. This tour allows you to explore both Palenque and Yaxchilán in one day.
Tikal Sunrise Tour
Watching the sunrise over Tikal’s ancient temples is a magical experience. Many tour operators offer early morning tours that take you to the top of Temple IV to witness the sunrise and explore the archaeological site before the crowds arrive.
Tikal Day Tour from Flores
This is a common option for travelers staying in Flores, a nearby town. These tours typically include transportation to Tikal, guided exploration of the ruins, and a return trip to Flores.
Tikal Sunset Tour
Similar to the sunrise tour, this option allows you to witness a beautiful sunset over the temples. You’ll explore Tikal during the late afternoon and then enjoy the sunset from a vantage point.
Tikal Guided Tours
Most tours to Tikal include a knowledgeable guide who can provide historical and cultural insights. These tours often cover key structures like the Great Plaza, Temple of the Jaguar, and the Central Acropolis.
Birdwatching Tours
Tikal is situated in a lush rainforest, making it a haven for birdwatchers. You can book tours specifically designed for birdwatching, led by experienced guides who can help you spot various bird species.
Wildlife Tours
Tikal is not only rich in history but also in biodiversity. Look for tours that focus on spotting wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and other exotic creatures.
Yaxhá
Exploring Yaxhá, the ancient Maya archaeological site in Guatemala, can be a fascinating experience. While Yaxhá is not as widely visited as Tikal, it offers a rich historical and cultural experience. Also you can combine visiting Tikal in the morning and Yaxha in the afternoon with a sunset there.
