Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatan

G Adventures · 8 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatan
Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatan
8 Days
From AUD $5249
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating

Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatan

Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatan

G Adventures · 8 days

Use code BONUS10 to get an extra 10% off all tours — for a limited time only. T&Cs apply

Duration

8 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

The Yucatán Peninsula is the perfect destination for your family to explore.

Includes

Activities

  • Your G for Good Moment: Yaxunah Community Visit & Cochinita Pibil, Yaxuná Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Playa del Carmen Your Family Journeys Moment: Family Tour of Chichén Itzá with an Expert Guide, Chichén-Itzá Your Family Journeys Moment: Santa Bárbara Cenotes, Mérida Your Discover Moment: Playa del Carmen
  • Complimentary arrival transfer
  • Day tour of Cozumel with ruins, snorkeling, and beach time
  • Celestún Biosphere Reserve visit with a boat ride on the river and free time at the beach for water activities
  • Visit Izamal’s Mayan pyramid and climb the many steps
  • Enjoy an ice cream before the drive back to Playa del Carmen
  • All tips included for activities and meals, except for Expedition Leader and porterage
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Hotels (7 nts).
  • 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner

Transport

  • Private vehicle, boat, walking.

Group Leader

  • National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout, local guides.

Highlights

  • Embark on an island safari by jeep and ride to some of Cozumel's idyllic beaches and archaeological sites
  • Channel your inner explorer at Chichen Itzá the site of the iconic El Castillo pyramid and a treasure trove of Maya ruins
  • Be on the lookout for local wildlife like flamingos crocodiles and sea turtles during a half-day excursion into the Celestún Biosphere Reserve
  • Travel into the jungle for a swim in cenotes—natural sinkholes that were sacred to the ancient Maya
  • Participate in communal life in the Maya community of Yaxunah where you’ll prepare a historical dish incorporating ancient Maya techniques.
Mexico Family Journey: The Heart of the Yucatan

Trip Details

Duration

8 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, boat, walking.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Finishes

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Family, National Geographic Journey

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Playa del Carmen

Welcome to Playa del Carmen –your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travelers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead.


Exclusive inclusions: Transport - You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.Activity - Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group on the morning of day two.Accommodation - Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
2

Day 2: Day trip to Cozumel

Your adventure-filled day begins with a ferry ride to the island of Cozumel. Protected by offshore reefs, Cozumel was sparsely populated, but pirates and trading ships often sought shelter and replenished their supplies here. During the Mayan period the island was used as a commercial and ceremonial centre, making it home to several small archaeological sites with deep historical significance. Travel by jeep on an island safari while learning about the land and efforts to protect the nearby reefs. Swim in the clear waters, enjoy lunch with a view, and listen to stories of the ancient Maya. Return to the hotel in Playa del Carmen where dinner will be at your leisure.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Sit back and enjoy the views from the water on your ferry ride between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel.Activity - Set off by jeep to explore the island of Cozumel today. Begin by heading to the island's ruins with time to explore, take photos, and learn more about their historical significance. Head to the east side of Cozumel for a quick visit to the Chen Río Beach and El Mirador, offering stunning views of the ocean and great photo opportunities for the whole family. Afterwards, continue to a nearby beach club where there will be time for snorkelling and an included lunch by the water. The group will be here for about 90 minutes and your local guide will distribute and give instructions on the use of any safety equipment for snorkelling.Transport - After a fun day exploring Cozumel, you can rest and relax on the ferry ride back to Playa del Carmen.Accommodation - Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
3

Day 3: Playa del Carmen/Mérida

After breakfast, begin the journey to Merída. The first stop along the way will be to Chichen Itzá. National Geographic has ranked Chichen Itzá as the best Mayan ruin to visit in Mexico. This significant archaeological site is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, and houses 26 ruins in one location. Join an expert guide who will teach you about the site, including the pyramid, known as El Castillo or El Caracol. You'll also see the largest Maya ball court in the Americas–Tlachtli.

Your next stop is the small Maya community of Yaxunah. Join a knowledgeable guide and learn more about this vibrant community and their rich cultural history. Attend a demonstration on how the traditional Cochinita Pibil dish is made and prepare for a hands-on tortilla-making experience as a family before sitting down for a delicious lunch together. Arrive in Merída in the early evening and have dinner on your own.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Meet up with a local expert and explore Chichén Itzá on a family-focused tour. Follow your trusty guides through this dramatic site, including a 30m (98 ft) high temple, known as the Pyramid of Kukulcan. This significant archaeological site is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and houses 26 Mayan Ruins in one place. Identify ruins like the Chichen Itza Pyramid also known as El Castillo, or El Caracol, the Observatory, the Temple of The Warriors, and the largest Maya ball court in the Americas–tlachtli. Wander around the ruins as your guide shares stories of the beliefs and rituals that defined this ancient Mayan civilization and use those imaginations to step back in time for a glimpse of what it might have been like to experience this sacred city and religious centre during its glory days.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Chichén Itzá and Mérida. There will be a short stop along the way at a G for Good Community Project.Activity - The community of Yaxunah is located in the central part of the state of Yucatán, México about 19km southwest of the great Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá. This location itself is historical with ruins of colonial era haciendas and a nearby church. During your visit here, the group will be given an introduction to the community's history as well as a demonstration on how the traditional Cochinita Pibil dish is made (lots of marinated and braised pork in achiote paste, orange juice, and lime). Afterwards, try your hand at tortilla making as a family before sitting down for a delicious traditionally cooked lunch.Accommodation - Hotel Wyndham Merida
4

Day 4: Mérida

Head into the jungle and marvel at the cenotes, giant holes in the earth filled with clear blue water. Considered sacred to the ancient Maya, cenotes have been studied by National Geographic Explorers like Dr. Guillermo de Anda extensively. Dive in with your family and channel your inner archeologist while exploring these waterways. Santa Barbara is home to 4 different pools to choose from, offering truly unique swimming experiences with the bonus of using a colorful small train as transport between. Return to Merída in the early evening for a free evening.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Mérida and the Santa Barbara cenotes.Activity - It’s a kid’s dream! Think massive sinkholes full of cool, inviting water, surrounded by blue sky above. It’s no wonder it feels like you’ve entered another realm. Spend the day visiting different cenotes in Santa Bárbara and travel between them by the iconic Santa Bárbara express train, a unique experience for the entire family. Lunch will be served in between the adventurous swimming, and the spread will be Yucatán Regional staples like, Papadzules, Poc Chuc, and Sopa de Lima.Transport - After an adventurous day at the cenotes, settle in to your private vehicle and return to Mérida.Accommodation - Hotel Wyndham Merida
5

Day 5: Celestún Biosphere Reserve / Merida

Spend part of the day observing wildlife in the Celestún Biosphere Reserve with knowledgeable local guides. In the reserve there are over 200 species of birds that migrate or live here year-round. The area also serves as a hatching ground for endangered sea turtles. During winter the wetland boasts flocks of thousands of flamingos, offering quite a sight. Be sure to remain on the lookout for other wildlife like herons, ducks and pelicans. This immersive experience offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about and appreciate diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. The afternoon back in Merída will be free to explore as you choose.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Celestún and Mérida.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Mérida and Celestún.Free_time - Arrive back to Mérida in the late afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day and evening free to do as you please. Spend time as a family, walk around, and opt to grab dinner at one of the nearby local spots.Activity - The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is located on the northwestern part of the Yucatán Peninsula. It's home to an extensive network of mangrove wetlands, making it a hot spot for birds and other wildlife. As you ride in a boat on the river with your guide, be on the lookout for the diverse populations of migratory and resident avian species. After the boat ride, there will be free time at a beach in the reserve that has a restaurant where the group will have lunch before returning back to Mérida. Please keep in mind that the presence of American Flamingos is seasonal and you will only be able to see them between November and March each year.Accommodation - Hotel Wyndham Merida
6

Day 6: Mérida/Playa del Carmen

Ascend the pyramid steps of Kinich Kak Moo, Izamal's Mayan pyramid and witness the excitement on your kids' faces as they conquer the ancient steps and take in the panoramic views from the top. Spend time here amid the buildings of uniform yellow and enjoy some ice cream before the drive back to the coast and white sand beaches of Playa del Carmen. Return to the hotel and relax with a swim in the pool or take advantage of some of the hotel's many amenities to unwind after your day's journey.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit Izamal and the The Kinich Kakmó Pyramid, dedicated to the Sun God or "Fire Macaw". Spread across a sprawling three acres. Climb the steps to the top of this 110 ft / 34 m tall pyramid and enjoy views of the surrounding site. Dating back to the Pre-Classic period this is one of the oldest Mayan structures. The structure was also built over a cave which holds an important place in the religion and mythology of the Maya. After exploring head to town amid the yellow buildings and enjoy a nice cold ice cream.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle. Please note you will cross a time zone along this route.Accommodation - Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
7

Day 7: Playa del Carmen

Enjoy a day on your own, taking advantage of the optional activities in the area, lounging by the hotel pool, or building sandcastles on the beach. You can also choose to pre-book a visit to the Mayan city of Tulum, the only Mayan city built on a coast and one of the few protected by a wall of limestone. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for an included farewell dinner where everyone can swap stories and reflect on a week of fun and engaging exploration.
In the evening there will be an included final group dinner where everyone can swap stories and reflect on a week well spent in a deeply historical part of the world.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy a full free day as a family in Playa del Carmen. From hanging out on the beach to taking a day trip to Tulum, there are endless options to get out and enjoy this slice of paradise.Accommodation - Hotel Acanto Playa del Carmen
8

Day 8: Playa del Carmen

Depart at any time.

Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $5,249
(Tour only)
Per Person Standard

Duration: 8 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

The Yucatán Peninsula is the perfect destination for your family to explore.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 29 Mar 2026

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990