Your journey begins on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, where you’ll bask on white sand beaches and explore the stunning Bacalar lagoon.
Cross into Belize and unwind on the island of Caye Caulker before diving into Garifuna culture with an immersive drumming experience at Palmento Grove. Continue your exploration at Belize’s Tropical Education Centre, where you’ll encounter diverse wildlife. The adventure deepens as you venture into the mystical Crystal Maiden caves in the lush Cayo jungle.
Entering Guatemala, discover the ancient ruins of Tikal, the serene Petén Lake, and the charming Flores Island. Journey through the turquoise rivers of Semuc Champey, wander the verdant coffee plantations of Cobán and soak in the breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán. Your expedition concludes in the colonial town of Antigua, with an optional ascent of the majestic Acatenango volcano.
Add extra nights to your adventure and experience guided treks to Acatenango or Pacaya Volcano from Antigua Guatemala. Please carefully read this article before making your decision on whether or not to do the Acatenango Trek.
Overlanding is your gateway to discovering hidden gems and making extraordinary connections in off-the-beaten-path destinations. It’s an adventure that calls for physical and mental readiness, flexibility, and an open mind.
As part of the adventure, expect some flexibility. Travelling through remote areas and navigating unpredictable border crossings may lead to adjustments in stops, accommodations, activities, and meals. Please note that the described driving hours are estimates and do not include time for activities, meals, or border crossings. They can also be affected by road closures or other unforeseen conditions.
Before booking, be sure to check out our Frequently Asked Questions Page, where we address possible scenarios you might encounter.
| DAY | ACCOMMODATION | BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER | DRIVING HOURS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | HOTEL | 0.8 h | |||
| DAY 2 | HOTEL | 4.0 h | |||
| DAY 3 | HOSTEL | CG | 4.5 h | ||
| DAY 4 | HOSTEL | IN | |||
| DAY 5 | CAMP | IN | IN | IN | 3.0 h |
| DAY 6 | CAMP | IN | IN | 3.0 h | |
| DAY 7 | CAMP | IN | IN | IN | 2.0 h |
| DAY 8 | HOTEL | IN | 3.0 h | ||
| DAY 9 | HOTEL | IN | 2.5 h | ||
| DAY 10 | HOTEL | IN | IN | 7.5 h | |
| DAY 11 | HOTEL | IN | IN | 0.5 h | |
| DAY 12 | CAMP | IN | IN | IN | 2.0 h |
| DAY 13 | HOTEL | IN | 7.0 h | ||
| DAY 14 | HOTEL | IN | IN | ||
| DAY 15 | HOTEL | IN | 3.0 h |
This tour includes 13 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 6 dinners.
Our wonderful hosts will provide most of your meals, except for one breakfast that we might prepare using our van equipment—a fun way to bond as a group! For the remaining meals, you’re free to explore on your own, follow our recommendations, or join our group meals. This flexibility allows you to experience the local cuisine at your own pace and budget.
We accommodate most dietary needs. However, please be aware that options might be limited during certain stops (like en-route lunch stops). For more details, check out our FAQ page.
Our carefully selected accommodations set us apart from the rest. We dedicate ample time to finding the best locally-owned stays with top-notch value. Comfort, central locations, and charming colonial styles are our priorities. Lupita’s mix of cosy hotels, eco-friendly community stays, and well-equipped campsites ensures you experience the best of each destination. For those remote adventures, get ready for authentic, basic camping.
Our hotel rooms typically feature two double beds and private bathrooms for every two people, with options for queen or triple rooms available on request at some stops. For camping, we provide all the necessary gear, including foam mats, air mats with pillows, sleeping bags, and liners. You’ll share a spacious tent designed for four with just one other person from the same sex.
Want to know more about where you’ll be staying? Ask for our full accommodation list, which is kept private to preserve the uniqueness of our routes!
Upgrades are usually available when camping or in hostels, but can’t always be guaranteed. Priority check-in is given to those on the standard package. You can also opt for a single tent while camping—just let us know during the booking process. For more details, check out our accommodation section on the FAQ page.
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!
+ many other free and optional activities to enjoy!
This trip is rated as Moderate,
Your tour features a blend of activities and a few longer driving days. You’ll have camping nights and some treks, so a good fitness level and adventurous spirit are important. While no prior experience is required, you should be comfortable with swimming and hiking. Expect to encounter heat and humidity, but you’ll also have opportunities to relax at comfortable hotels and scenic spots.
You’ll need to carry your bags in certain situations, such as from parking to the hotel or onto boats, and be prepared to navigate stairs and high steps at archaeological sites and in the van. Some activities, such as the ATM Cave and the Acatenango Hike (Extension A), can be strenuous and may involve challenging terrain or high altitudes.
The Yucatán Peninsula, Belize, and East Guatemala are fantastic year-round destinations, but the sweet spot for your trip is from November to May. This is when the weather is typically drier, cooler, and less humid, making it ideal for exploring. For the last bit of our tour, the Guatemalan highlands offer pleasant hiking weather, with lows around 10°C and highs of 27°C. For those joining us on the Acatenango volcano, be ready for chilly nights at around 4000m above sea level.
Optionally, you can bring other items such as 1 set of casual clothes for evenings out, a pouch or money belt inside your clothing for extra safety, and a book to read during your vacation.
If you are opting for the Acatenango Trek Extension, make sure to pack appropriate gear. You can also rent what you need before the tour starts:
