FLAMINGOS TO BACALAR
AN ECLECTIC EXPLORATION OF ARCHAEOLOGY, BIRDS, CENOTES, HACIENDAS, POTTERY & WEAVING
STARTS: Merida, Yucatan Mexico
ENDS: Chetumal, Quintana-Roo Mexico
DATES: Feb 23 - March 9, 2026
DURATION: 14 Nights / 15 Days
LOCATIONS: Merida, Celustun, Uxmal, Campeche, Hacienda Uayamon, Xpujil, Bacalar
PRICES INCLUDE TAXES AND ARE BASED ON COST SHARING. IF YOU WOULD LIKE A PRIVATE ROOM FOR 1, THE EXTRA COST IS $26,300 MXN. PLEASE REQUEST A ROOMMATE, AND WE WILL TRY TO MATCH YOU WITH SOMEONE TO AVOID THIS EXTRA EXPENSE.
PRICE FOR 6 GUESTS: 114,000 MXN Ea (Approx $6000 USD / $8200 CAD)
PRICE FOR 8 GUESTS: $100,000 MXN Ea (Approx $5200 USD / $7200 CAD)
PRICE FOR 10 GUESTS: $91,000 MXN Ea (Approx $4700 USD / $6550 CAD)
PRICE FOR 12 GUESTS: $82,000 MXN Ea (Approx $4220 USD / $5900 CAD)
PRICE FOR 14 GUESTS: $75,000 MXN Ea (Approx $3900 USD / $5400 CAD)
INCLUSIONS: All taxes, breakfasts, private transportation, bilingual guided services with a Licensed National Guide, an experienced ornithologist & art dealer with background in indigenous arts & narratives. All entrance fees and activities are included, unless otherwise noted. Tips for luggage handlers and hotel staff are included. Tips for your team leaders are discretionary and appreciated.
CURRENCY CONVERTER
TRIP OVERVIEW
The hot lands of Yucatan are home to many colourful & exotic birds...
Photographing birds is much more difficult than observing them, especially for the smaller species, so though we do not have many images to share, we promise to introduce you to a plethora of exotic, colourful and special birds. From the mangroves of Celestun where we will enjoy a morning and sunset boat ride, to the jungles of Campeche state and turquoise waters of Bacalar lagoon, we will be moving through different regions offering amazing opportunities for bird watching...
and exceptional archaeology unlike anywhere else in Mexico...
The stone veneers of the Maya Chene are arguably the most intricately designed and executed of all Maya architecture. Cut blocks that are pieced together into three-dimensional facades featuring the Gods of the Maya are not seen in other regions of Mexico, as they are along the Puuc-Route and Campeche state. We will be visiting some remote archaeological sites to see some of the most fantastic temples on offer here. With the Maya Train in operation now, these sites will start to fill-up with tourists, but we still have some hidden treasures for you to enjoy, which is why we are exploring by van rather than the train...
The haciendas of this region are historical treasures...
One could spend months exploring the regal haciendas of the Yucatan Peninsula, most of which had fallen into ruin but more recently renovated and open for events and spas with wonderful restaurants and luxury accommodations. The sooner we confirm this tour, the better chance we have of staying in one of these historical properties - as they do sell-out quickly during high season. One of the major benefits to staying in one of these properties is their location in areas that are full of nature and bird life, meaning we can bird watch without even having to leave...
If we are unable to stay in one of these properties, we will at least be touring two of them for their historical interest, delicious cuisine, and alluring cenotes...
and the city of Campeche is a seaside colonial marvel...
The Maya city of Can Pech had about 3000 houses and monuments. Following the arrival of the Spanish, Can Pech was conquered and Francisco de Montejo founded Campeche in 1540. It was from Campeche that Montejo began his campaign to conquer the Maya city of T'ho (now Merida). An era of mauraders arrived in the region, resulting in the Sacking of Campeche in 1633, and the Spanish began the construction of colossal walls to fortify their city. Quebec City and Campeche are the only two cities in North America to still have their ancient fortifications preserved, which was one of the criteria for Campeche receiving UNESCO status in 1999. We will explore the city including the Fort museum which houses an impressive collection of fine ancient Maya ceramics from nearby Isla de Jaina...
Panama Hats are made in Ecuador and....Campeche!!!
There is only one place outside of Ecuador where Jipijapa fibres are woven into the fine sombreros that can be rolled up without breaking - and that is in the small town of Becal, Campeche. This history involves a priest named Father Hurtado and the transplanting of Jipijapa palms from Ecuador through Central America to Campeche, where the men were already proficient hat weavers. The weavers in Becal us natural or homemade caves in their gardens for weaving their hats, which are entirely made by hand. Many of the weavers use natural dyes, though some also use synthetics. When we visit Becal, you can meet a family of weavers to purchase your own hat directly....
We will also visit some artisans who craft lovely ceramics...
Pottery is a widespread tradition across all ancient cultures, and the Maya of Yucatan Peninsula are no different. While we are here, we will visit the town of Ticul and Muna in search of your next favourite sculpture. The artisans create replicas of ancient pieces, from platters, plates and bowls to figurines of ancient gods...
This trip is accessible from anywhere in the world...
This tour starts in the colonial city of Merida, Yucatan Mexico and ends in the exotic lagoon of Bacalar, with flights departing from Chetumal International Airport...
We also recommend arriving early and leaving late if it's your first time....
The city of Merida is a colonial dream, surrounded by all sorts of important archaeological sites, the Yellow Town of Izamal, and nearby beach towns. Bacalar is incredibly beautiful and restful. If you have time, we highly recommend arriving in Merida prior to our tour, and extending your stay in Bacalar. If you don't want to change hotels, please ask for assistance - we can even make your extended reservation for you when we book our rooms. Please ask us for some tips - we can even recommend some guides if you would like a private day tour.
QUESTIONS?
Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer if you have any questions or would like to schedule this tour at a different time for a private group.
Email: coppermoontravels@protonmail.com
WhatsApp: +52 443 639 2782 (Please text first)
