Chichén Itzá
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is a world-famous mark of the ancient Mayan civilisation. A striking step pyramid dominates the city, which dates to around 600 A.D. The purpose or symbolism of Chichen Itza is the subject of much debate, but research suggests it was likely used for ceremonies in honour of the rain god, Chaac.
Uxmal
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Temples of Uxmal is a fascinating Mayan archaeological site that was once one of the largest cities on the peninsula. It showcases unique architecture across its temples and pyramids, as well as more information about the ancient Mayan daily lifestyle and religious belief.
Colonial Cities
Alongside the ancient delights of the region, there is a clear colonial influence. Campeche is a city characterised by its charming plazas, churches, city walls, colourful houses and cobblestone streets. Similarly, Merida – the vibrant capital of the state - oozes colonial charm through its architecture and 16th-century cathedral, while bustling markets and local museums are well worth exploring.
Cenotes
Overall, the peninsula is home to nearly 7,000 mesmerising cenotes, natural sinkholes that result from the collapse of limestone caves. Cool off from the glorious Mexican sunshine in the turquoise waters filled with aquatic life. These enchanting caves were believed by the ancient Mayans to be entrances to the underworld.
There are various routes to access the delights of the Yucatan Peninsula. Your Luxury Travel Specialist will advise the best travel arrangements for your tailor-made trip to Mexico.
Travelling With Children or Without an Adult
Children travelling without both parents should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. Please contact the relevant Embassy for the county you are travelling to for further information.
Visa and Advance Passenger Information
All passengers must ensure they have a valid, acceptable passport, any required visa and any other documentation for both the final destination and any stop-off points en route. Please make sure that Advance Passenger Information is submitted in advance to travel for all destinations. Failure to hold correct documentation or submitting incorrect details with Advance Passenger Information or Visa applications may result in refusal of carriage or entry into a country. Please check with the relevant Embassy regarding visa requirements well in advance of your travel date. Charges may apply for some visas.
Passengers not travelling on a British Passport are advised to contact their relevant Foreign & Commonwealth office for individual Visa requirements.
For up-to-date resort information, visit www.fco.gov.uk
Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide and you should take health advice about your specific needs from your general practitioner or a specialist clinic as early as possible before travel. Those planning to become pregnant should discuss their travel plans with their healthcare provider to assess their risk of infection with Zika. For information about Zika, other mosquito-borne diseases (such as Dengue fever and Chikungunya), Lyme Disease (caused by tick bites), and to receive advice on mosquito bite avoidance measures, please visit Insect and tick bite avoidance.
In addition, we highly recommend that you seek specialist advice from your doctor and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection against, for example: Malaria, Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid. In some cases, treatments for Malaria should begin well in advance of travel. Travellers may also be required to show Yellow Fever Certificates on arrival in certain destinations i.e, some African countries. Please note that you are strongly advised against scuba-diving for 24 hours before travelling by air. We would also like to draw your attention to the risk of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and recommend that you consult with your doctor before travelling.
Visit the FCDO website and select your destination country for the very latest travel advice: Foreign Travel Advice. Additional sources of information include: Public Health England, The National Travel Health And Network Centre, Foreign And Commonwealth Office and your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.