Embark on an epic journey across Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala! 🚐✨ Start in Mexico City with historic cantinas and pyramids, then camp at the Tehuacán cactus reserve 🌵. In Oaxaca, explore Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, and traditional pulque fields, then continue to turtle conservation and boat trips in Huatulco 🐢🌊.
In Chiapas, cruise Sumidero Canyon, witness unique rituals in Chamula, and explore the jungle ruins of Palenque 🌿. Discover the Yucatán’s cenotes, the massive ruins of Calakmul, and the “seven colours” of Bacalar before reaching the Caribbean 🏝️. Learn Mayan traditions like hammock weaving and stingless beekeeping along the way 🐝.
In Belize, snorkel Caye Caulker’s reefs, dive into Garifuna culture, and explore the mystical ATM cave 🇧🇿🔦. Finally, cross into Guatemala for the sunrise at Tikal, the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey, and the vibrant rituals of Chichicastenango 🇬🇹✨. Finish at Lake Atitlán with a scenic hike and community visit, before wrapping up in Antigua with an optional volcano trek! 🌋☕🌵
Extend your adventure with extra nights in Antigua Guatemala, where you can embark on guided treks to the majestic Pacaya or Acatenango Volcano for an unforgettable finale. Please carefully read this article before making your decision on whether or not to do the Acatenango Trek.
What’s Included: A mix of hosted meals and authentic regional dining is included throughout the journey (see the specific breakdown at the top of this page). 🌮✨
Van Cooking & Bonding: On certain days, we cook together using our professional van equipment. It is an iconic part of the overland experience and a great way to bond as a group! 🚛🥑
Local Flexibility: For the remaining meals, you are free to explore local restaurants at your own pace, try our handpicked recommendations, or join group dining options. 🍟🍹
Dietary Needs: We happily accommodate most dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). Please note that options can be limited during remote roadside lunch stops. 🥕🌾
We’re all about giving you the best experience possible, with must-do activities that other tours leave out. When you compare, you’ll see our trips are the best deal around!
🚶♂️ City Walks: Guided introductory orientation walks of Mexico City, Oaxaca City, San Cristóbal de las Casas, and Antigua Guatemala.
🛕 Archaeological Sites: Guided tours to Teotihuacán, Monte Alban, Palenque, Chichen Itzá, and Tikal, plus free exploration of the remote Calakmul Site.
🌵 Nature & Hiking: Hike and camp at Tehuacán Cactus Reserve / Botanical Garden, swim and hike at Hierve El Agua Springs, and free hike at Palenque National Park.
🛶 Boats & Beaches: Camp and boat trip at Huatulco National Park, boat tour at Sumidero Canyon (with Chiapa de Corzo), sailing tour at Bacalar Lagoon, swim at Xul Há Lagoon, and enjoy Puerto Morelos’ Caribbean beach.
🦎 Cenotes & Wildlife: Visit Miguel Colorado and Xux Há Cenotes, boat tour at La Ventanilla mangrove, observe the bat sinkhole at Calakmul, and turtle liberation (if available) in Oaxaca.
💀 ATM Cave: Guided excursion of the famous Crystal Maiden Cave in Belize.
🤿 Caye Caulker: Full day Snorkelling tour at Caye Caulker Island (Includes Hol Chan Marine Reserve).
🌊 Semuc Champey: Entry and exploration of the turquoise Semuc Champey National Park pools.
🎨 Chichicastenango: Guided tour at Chichicastenango Market and the Mayan Ritual Sanctuary.
🌋 Lake Atitlan: Lower Mayan Trail at Atitlan Lake + Visit Amigos de Santa Cruz NGO.
🥁 Hopkins: Learn about the Garifuna Culture in Hopkins (Drumming, Dancing, Cooking).
🐝 Local Immersions: Explore Oaxaca’s artisan workshops, learn about pulque in maguey fields, visit San Juan Chamula Tzotzil Church, visit Natik’s Community Project in Zinacantán, and enjoy a traditional Mayan Bees demo and lunch.
+ many other free and optional activities to enjoy along the route! 🗺️
Customise your adventure! You can easily select and view current pricing for any of these optional upgrades during Step 2 of your online booking process:
🌋 Acatenango Trek Extension: 2 Nights total — 1 night camping on the volcano + 1 night hotel in Antigua. Click here for full itinerary & details above.
🔥 Pacaya Hike Extension: 1 Night in Antigua Guatemala + Volcano Hike. Click here for full itinerary & details above.
🏨 Pre/Post Trip Accommodation: Book extra nights at our comfortable starting or ending hotels to explore at your own pace.
🔒 Single-Share Upgrade: Secure your own private hotel room throughout the trip (and a private tent when camping).
⛺ Private Tent Only: Upgrade to your own personal tent for the camping nights.
If you are looking for a private cabin or private room upgrade while the group is staying in remote eco-lodges or wilderness dorms, please indicate it in your booking notes or during your trip. These spots are limited and subject to local availability! 🔑🪵
This adventure is rated as Moderate. It is a perfect blend of active exploration and relaxation, but it requires an adventurous spirit, a good fitness level, and a love for the outdoors.
🥾 Hiking & Terrain: You should be comfortable walking on uneven ground, navigating high stone steps at Mayan ruins, and climbing into our overland truck. Specific activities like the ATM Cave or the optional Acatenango Volcano trek can be physically strenuous.
🏊 Water Comfort: Since we visit stunning rivers, limestone pools, and tropical islands, being comfortable in the water and knowing how to swim is highly recommended.
☀️ Climate & Bags: Expect tropical heat and humidity in Belize and Petén. Also, you must be capable of carrying your own luggage for short distances (like from the truck to your hotel room or onto island water taxis). 🧳🛶
🛫 Recommended Arrival Airport: Mexico City International Airport (MEX). 🇲🇽 Flight Strategy: Because we start in Mexico City and end in Antigua, it is often cheaper to book a return flight to just one of those cities (or even a return to Guatemala City). You can then simply add a separate, low-cost one-way flight between MEX and GUA to complete the loop! ✈️
🚕 Arrival Airport Transfer: To get to our joining hotel from MEX, the best way is to book an Uber (if you have data) or simply take a taxi from one of the official authorised stands inside the airport terminal. 🗺️
🏨 Your First Night: Your first night in Mexico City is included! You can arrive at any time during the day to check in and drop your bags. 💼 Pro Tip: If you fancy visiting the world-famous Anthropology Museum or Frida Kahlo’s “Blue House,” we highly suggest arriving a day or two early. 🏛️ Note: Frida Kahlo tickets sell out fast and must be booked 1–2 months in advance here. 🌸
✨ Pre-Departure Meeting: We officially kick off the tour with an essential Pre-Departure Meeting at 9:30 AM at the hotel’s reception on Day 2. 🗓️👋 Please ensure you arrive in Mexico City on Day 1 so you don’t miss this important briefing before we hit the road!
🏨 Last Night Included / Tour Ends: At our ending hotel, located in the heart of Antigua Guatemala. 🇬🇹
✈️ Recommended Departure Airport: La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City.
🚐 Departure Airport Transfer: To get from Antigua to the GUA airport, we highly recommend booking a shared shuttle van directly through our hotel front desk upon arrival. Alternatively, a private taxi can be arranged for around $50 USD. 🚖
Our expedition runs during the dry season (November to May) for the most comfortable travel conditions. However, Mesoamerica is a great year-round destination with unique vibes in every season, and because our route crosses drastically different altitudes, your weather will vary more by where we are than by when we go.
🍂 November to March: The core dry season. Cooler, crisp air is ideal for long days of exploring.
🔥 April to May: Late dry season. Great weather, but expect intense heat in the lowlands.
🌿 June to October: The green/rainy season. Expect heavy afternoon showers, but also fewer crowds and incredibly lush landscapes.
🌴 Jungle & Coast (Lowlands): Warm and tropical year-round. Highs around 35°C (90°F)—and up to 40°C (100°F) in April/May. Perfect for cenotes and beaches! 🤿
⛰️ Highlands: Spring-like days around 25°C (80°F), but crisp nights dropping to 10°C (50°F). 🥾
🌋 Acatenango Volcano Note: If you join the optional overnight trek, be ready for true alpine freezing temperatures dropping to 0°C (30°F). ❄️
(Check out our altitude and temperature breakdown chart below to pack like a pro!) ↓
We highly recommend packing light for maximum comfort and flexibility on the road. If you forget anything, don’t worry—all essentials can easily be purchased locally.
Main Bag: 1 Large backpack or duffel bag (max 18 kg / 40 lbs and 75 × 30 × 30 cm / 30 × 12 × 12 in). Suitcases are highly discouraged, as you will need to carry your own gear up stairs or down cobbled streets.
Day Gear: 1 Small daypack for daily excursions + 1 fanny pack/shoulder bag for quick-access valuables. If you love souvenirs, leave extra space or plan to ship items home! 🎁
7–12 Days of underwear, t-shirts, and socks.
2–3 Pairs of ultra-light long trousers + 2–3 fresh long-sleeved shirts (crucial for evening mosquito defence! 🦟).
1 Warm fleece/sweater + 1 light waterproof rain jacket ☔.
Footwear: Comfortable trainers/hiking shoes 👟 + sandals/flip-flops 🩴 + water shoes.
Swimwear + quick-dry towel + UV-protective swimming shirt (highly recommended).
Personal medications, toiletries, hand sanitiser, and earplugs.
Eco-friendly mosquito repellent, sunscreen, hat 👒, and sunglasses 🕶️.
Note: We carry a basic first aid kit 🩹 on the truck, but please bring your own prescription supplies.
Everyday Gear: 1 Refillable water bottle 💧, an American travel adapter 🔌, and a small padlock 🔒 for hostel lockers or hotel bags.
💡 Recommended: 1 Headtorch or small flashlight 🔦 with spare batteries (highly useful for camping nights or unexpected power cuts).
Valid passport, visas, flight tickets, and physical photocopies.
Debit/credit cards 💳 + some local currency in cash 💵 for remote stops.
For our wilderness nights, we provide everything you need for a comfortable sleep: spacious tents (2 people per tent), 15ºC sleeping bags with fresh liners, and inflatable mats with integrated pillows. 😴
Laundry: Available at local services every few days (sometimes up to a week between stops). Hand-washing gear can be provided while camping.
Jungle Life: Harmless jungle critters and bugs are common in coastal or jungle areas. Wear long layers at sunset, use repellent, and embrace the wild! 🌿🐜
Overlanding is the ultimate way to discover hidden gems and build authentic connections off the beaten path. This raw style of travel requires physical and mental readiness, flexibility, and a true sense of adventure.
🌍 Embracing the Unexpected: Travelling through remote areas and navigating border crossings means things can change. Expect occasional, flexible adjustments to stops, accommodations, activities, or meals.
⏳ Driving Times: All described driving hours are careful estimates. They do not include stops for activities, meals, border crossings, or unpredictable conditions like road closures.
📋 Get Fully Prepared: Before hitting the road with us, please review our Pre-Departure Information and FAQs pages to fully understand the overland lifestyle and the scenarios we might encounter.
We had a wonderful 10-day family trip through Chiapas with Jaime from Lupita Overland, travelling from Oaxaca City through Tehuantepec, Juchitán, Tuxtla, San Cristóbal, Palenque and back, with plenty of stops along the way.
Jaime was considerate, flexible and very helpful from the start. It was clear how much he loves Chiapas, and he was genuinely excited to show us around, which made the trip feel much more personal. We visited caves, gorges, waterfalls, ruins, local food places and cultural spots, and felt we were able to see a lot without the days becoming too much.
We travelled as a family with our 5-year-old son, which was a new type of trip for Jaime, but it worked really well. The itinerary was full, but not over-packed. There was still time for our son to rest, play and swim in the hotel pools, and the longer driving days were broken up with good stops, so the travel never felt too hard.
The van, Lupita, was spacious, comfortable and well-equipped, and the hotels Jaime arranged were lovely throughout the trip. We always felt safe and well looked after, while still feeling like we were having a proper adventure through a really beautiful part of Mexico.
Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the trip and are very grateful to Jaime for making it such a memorable experience. We’d happily recommend Lupita Overland to anyone wanting to explore Chiapas or other parts of Mexico in a comfortable, flexible and personal way.😎
Our family of three, including our 5 year old son, has just returned from an epic 10 day road trip with Jaime in his awesome Lupita van. A round trip from Oaxaca to Chiapas and back to Oaxaca, with so many beautiful, interesting, and memorable stops along the way.
This was a fantastic family friendly tour of Chiapas region. Jaime created a journey that gave us a wonderful mix of nature, culture, history, food, and local experiences. We visited dramatic canyons, caves, waterfalls, community villages, local markets, colonial cities, archaeological ruins, cultural festivals, traditional handicraft workshops, and places to try delicious regional food and drinks. It was exactly the kind of trip we hoped for: full of adventure and variety, but still paced well enough for travelling with a young child.
Jaime was excellent from the very beginning. He was organised, communicative, flexible, and thoughtful throughout both the planning and the trip itself. He is especially good at setting and managing expectations, which made the whole experience feel smooth and relaxed. We always knew what to expect, but the trip still felt personal and full of discovery.
What made the experience really special was Jaime himself. He is calm, kind, and great with families. He works respectfully with local communities and clearly has a deep love for Chiapas and the people, landscapes, traditions, and culture of the region. It was a joy to have him share his knowledge, experience, and passion with us.
We also now know that Jaime covers trips through many other regions of Mexico, as well as some parts of Central America, which makes Lupita Overland a great option not only for Chiapas, but for anyone looking for a private, flexible, and meaningful overland travel experience more broadly.
We highly recommend Jaime and Lupita Overland to anyone looking for a private or small group tour operator, family road trip, overland tour. We would absolutely travel with Jaime again and hope to do more trips with him when we return to Mexico.
This tour was the most incredible experience! Jaimie, the tour leader, is the dream tour guide. Super organized, a really well paced tour. Many activities, but also some down time. He even gives very detailed suggestions for great things to do in free time. Jaime provides a written schedule of the itinerary in advance, as well as a daily meeting informational and patiently answers all questions, both in advance, and on the fly. He is super focused on everyone’s comfort and safety, continually checking in to make sure all is well. Jaime skillfully maneuvers the van over large speed bumps, through twisty mountain roads and around congested city streets, all with a smile on his face. Every person Jaime encounters becomes his amigo- he puts the national police guards at ease, they wave him through checkpoints, and hosts of our planned activities greet him with hugs. He has an incredible ability to connect with everyone, which I especially appreciated since I don’t really speak Spanish. You couldn’t be in better hands. We were fortunate to also have another amazing tour guide, named Cassie. She is also super knowledgeable about the areas we visited and she actually writes a great blog as Mexico Cassie. She was also fluent in Spanish and full of great recommendations and lots of common sense advice. Because of our guides area knowledge and great planning, we got to places before the crowds, had fabulous informative licensed guides for ruins tours, enjoyed great local cuisine, and stayed in off the beaten path gem accommodations. I wish I could give it 10 stars !
Traveling with Lupita Overland was amazing!! The group I travelled with was a great mix of people, and everyone was participating to achieve a fun and memorable experience. We saw so much of Mexican culture, and we experienced so much of the rich culture as well. I had never been on a tour like this before, and I was a bit nervous for it, but within two days on tour, I felt comfortable with Jamie and Cass, I was on the Mayan Tour Mexico Cass Edition. I would do this tour again in a heartbeat. We saw Spider Monkeys drinking from a Cenote, listened to Howler Monkeys at Calakmul while we explored and climbed…I attempted to climb….at the Maya Archeological Site in the middle of the jungle, and met amazing people who shared their cultural traditions with us. I think I’ll be on another Lupita Adventure in no time. Thank you Jamie and Cass for an amazing and memorable experience!
I just finished a 12 day trip with Lupita from Chiapas to Quintana Roo, Mexico. Jaime’s experience and professionalism as a trip organizer is obvious in his planning, attention to the needs of his guests and his relationships with local guides. We visited a wonderful range of natural, archaeological and cultural sites and learned so much about the areas we traveled through. We had deep conversations and lots of laughs. It was an amazing trip.
