Tropical Trek 2008 Round Trip from Cancun: Sun, Mar 16 – Sat, Mar 29 14 Days: $723 plus $172 for food/parks. Frequent Crawler Program Points Awarded for this Trip: 3,500 Points for Free Trip: 50,000 Join the Frequent Crawler Club today!

Tropical Trek - 14 Days

Explore stunning ruins and observe vast examples of biological diversity while ancient Mayan culture casts a spell over you. Take cool plunges into the depths of sacred cenotes and delve into the highland jungle of Chiapas. Savor long walks on broad white beaches.

We begin our adventure with a visit to the jungle ruins of Coba, site of Nohoch Mul, the Yucatan's tallest pyramid. Camping out in Rio Lagartos, the next morning, visit the regional Biosphere Reserve, home to 30,000 pink flamingos, the largest population in the world!

In Merida, shop for the world's best hammocks and enjoy a little nightlife before we make our way to Uxmal. Tour the Pyramid of the Magician and, naturally, the House of the Turtles.

Marvel at the wisdom of the ancients at the ruins of Chichen-Itza on the equinox. Witness the winged serpent make its descent along the side of El Castillo. Also know as the pyramid of Kukulkan, the pyramid is a three dimensional representation of the Mayan Calendar with 365 steps and 9 terraces. Tonight we'll camp under the stars in a Yucatan meadow.

Wake to a refreshing dip in the subterranean waters of cenote Dzitnup. We'll have lunch in the zocalo of the colonial city of Valladolid before heading to Tulum.

What better way to wake than sunrise over the Caribbean? Home to fascinating coastal ruins perched atop limestone cliffs, enter this ancient fortress to visit the House of Frescoes and the Temple of the Descending God. You'll have two full days to explore and relax on the beach.  Hang your hammock under a shady palm or kick back on the beach with a margarita.

After breakfast we'll stop at Cenote Azul for a freshwater dip. That afternoon, visit the wooded ruins of Kohunlich, renowned for the giant faces of sun god Kinich Ahau on the Temple of the Masks.

At Palenque, wake to the sunrise and the hooting of howler monkeys in the nearby treetops. Then head into the ruins to explore the Temple of the Inscriptions, and browse the work of local Mayan artisans on the steps of these ancient pyramids. We'll camp for two nights at the hip jungle resort of Mayabell.

We'll have a full day to play and explore the glittering blue cascades of Agua Azul in Chiapas. Hire a local guide and journey downriver to see seven giant horseshoe falls, or explore the hundreds of smaller falls near our campsite. Tonight, fall asleep to the water's lullaby yards from the door of your tent.

The waterfall at Misol Ha plunges over 100 feet into a giant jungle pool. Ask the local kids to show you the hidden cave behind the waterfall.

After a cool plunge into the depths of Cenote Aktun Ha, we'll arrive in Cancun in time for a farewell dinner and party.

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Please note this is a combination trip. Please call our office for details.

Flexible Itinerary means that we may alter an itinerary depending on weather, local events, etc. Although we make every attempt to run our trips as advertised, please be aware that the itinerary may change to give you the best trip possible.

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Important Considerations

Passport, Visas, and Red Tape: The international borders we cross are usually not a problem, provided that everybody has their necessary papers in order. Getting these papers in advance is easy — much easier than at the border at 3:00 AM when the consulate is closed.

The United States border: Everyone, including U.S. citizens, must present a valid passport to re-enter the United States. You may be even required to present a multi-entry visa or a plane ticket out of the country. Be prepared! The Green Tortoise cannot be responsible (nor can we wait) for any passengers who get delayed at the border because of missing or improper papers. Please contact the respective consulates to be certain that you can obtain travel papers BEFORE you make a reservation. We do not refund deposits due to beauracractic errors.

Transportation: This trip will require you to organize your own transportation to and from Cancun. Once you have booked with us, we will send you a thorough information package to help you plan and pack for this expedition. We highly recommend Exito Travel for airline tickets (see "Weblinks" on the left) at 1.800.655.4053 or 510.655.2154 (ask for Emma).

The People and their Country: Mexico has incredibly friendly locals steeped in a unique and rich history. Many people will go out of their way to help visitors or just to strike up friendly conversation. You will find the cultural experience very rewarding with participation, respect, and common sense.

Camping Out: We will be camping out quite a bit on these trips and we do not provide tents. As such, we highly encourage people to bring a small, easy-to-assemble tent. Not only do they provide privacy and sanctuary when in the great outdoors, but also protection from elements such as wind and sand.

Why Green Tortoise? You may be thinking, The place is beautiful, the locals are friendly, why don't I pack a bag and do it on my own? This is possible and thousands do it every year. However, by traveling with us, you can leave the hassles of public buses, car rentals, and lodging details behind. We have been running these tours for more than 30 years, and our experience provides you with a greater knowledge of the country, an increased level of security, and, most importantly, access to destinations, people, and experiences that you might never find on your own!