Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the best of Central America on the Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip. Starting in the beautiful city of Cancun, Mexico, this 21-day journey will take you through some of the region’s most stunning landscapes and historical sites. The route stretches across 3103km, taking you through the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá, Uxmal, and Palenque, and the bustling markets of Chichicastenango in Guatemala. The best time of year to drive this route is during the dry season, from November to April.
This trip is perfect for any driver, with mostly good roads and few challenging turns. Be aware of needing to cross borders, and be prepared for some narrow and curvy roads in certain areas. Along the way, you’ll be able to experience UNESCO Heritage Monuments, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture.
The Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip is an unforgettable journey, offering an incredible experience and memories that will last a lifetime. With a moderate budget, you can explore all the wonders of Central America.
21
number of days
3,163 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Cancun
Distance 3,163 km
Driving time 59.8 h
Pace: modest
822.4 kWh
Airports
CUN
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CZM
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Cancun is the perfect starting point to the “Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip”. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Cancun is a tropical paradise with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore ruins of the ancient Mayan civilization, such as the archaeological sites of Chichen Itza and Tulum. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of activities such as snorkeling, deep sea fishing, and scuba diving. For a taste of local culture, there are numerous restaurants and bars offering authentic Mexican cuisine.
Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the closest international airport. Car rentals are available at the airport for those wishing to begin their road trip. The Yucatan Peninsula offers a scenic drive with the opportunity to experience the unique culture of the region. Visitors can explore the diverse landscape of the Caribbean coast and drive through small villages, beaches, and jungles. Nature lovers will be able to spot many different species of wildlife and bird watching is also popular in the region.
The “Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip” is an exciting journey that will take travelers to some of the most beautiful and diverse places in the world. Cancun is the perfect starting point to experience the unique culture and beauty of Mexico.
1
Cancun
- Chichen Itzá
Distance 220 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
65.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an incredible road trip from Cancun to Chichen Itzá. This 216 km journey will take you less than 3 hours to explore some of the most awe-inspiring sites of Mexico. Start your journey at Cancun, the city of beaches and sun, where you can enjoy the Caribbean Sea and the white sand beaches. From Cancun, drive to Chichen Itzá, an ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure to stop at Valladolid, a colonial city with stunning architecture and charming cobbled streets. The city is also known for its great restaurants and cafes. As you drive closer to Chichen Itzá, you will pass by Cobá, a pre-Columbian Mayan city with an extensive network of ancient roads and archaeological sites. Finally, you will arrive at Chichen Itzá, the home of the majestic El Castillo pyramid. This is one of the most iconic sites of Mexico and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. Make sure to take in the stunning views and learn about the Mayan culture and history. Along the way, pay attention to other historical sites you will come across. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Chichen Itzá - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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2
Chichen Itzá
- Mérida
Distance 123 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
36.8 kWh
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Chichen Itzá to Mérida, Mexico! This stage will be a 123 km journey and can be completed in fewer than 2 hours. Along the way you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most interesting places in the region. Start your journey at Chichen Itzá, one of the most important archaeological sites of the Mayan civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, visit the colonial city of Valladolid, a charming town full of history and beautiful architecture. Finally, you will reach Mérida, the capital of the Yucatan Peninsula, where you will find a vibrant cultural life and a wide variety of attractions. Don't forget to visit the archaeological site of Uxmal, another UNESCO World Heritage Site along the way. As you drive, be sure to take in the amazing views of the region and keep your eyes open for more historical sites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Mérida - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Mérida
- Uxmal
Distance 80 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
23.9 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Mérida to Uxmal, two of the most iconic cities in Yucatan, Mexico. It's an 80km drive that can be done in less than two hours. Along the way, you will come across some remarkable UNESCO heritage sites and you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the Yucatan's rich cultural history.
Start your journey in Mérida, where you can visit the Palacio de Gobierno, the Centro Cultural Olimpo and the Plaza Grande. Then head to Uxmal, the ancient Mayan city, to explore its majestic pyramids and the fascinating Governor's Palace. Don't forget to visit the Uxmal Archaeological Site and the Puuc Route, where you'll find several archaeological sites.
Make sure you take your time to explore the area and enjoy the fascinating sights and sounds of Yucatan. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage.
Uxmal - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Uxmal
- Campeche
Distance 157 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
47.0 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Uxmal to Campeche! A 157km journey that will take you less than 3 hours to complete, this trip offers an abundance of breathtaking views, historical sites, and cultural attractions.
Your journey will begin in Uxmal, the most impressive example of Puuc architecture in the Yucatan, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Pyramid of the Magician, the Nunnery Quadrangle and the Governor's Palace. From there, you can make your way to Labna, where you can marvel at the monumental arch and several structures that are part of the Puuc style.
Continue your journey to the archaeological site of Kabah, where you will find the impressive Palenque, a structure that stands out for its intricate decoration and stone masks. After that, you can visit the impressive Sacbé, an ancient Mayan road surrounded by lush vegetation and limestone walls.
Finally, your journey will end in Campeche, a city declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Here, you can explore the walled city, the Cathedral, the Fuerte de San Miguel, and other colonial buildings.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Campeche - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Campeche
- Palenque
Distance 361 km
Driving time 5.1 h
Pace: fast
108.3 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Campeche to Palenque! This journey of 362km can be completed in less than 5 hours, allowing travelers to take in the sights and sounds of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Edzna, home to incredible Mayan ruins. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads as you drive through the rural countryside. Stop in Hopelchén, a charming town with a rich cultural history. Then, explore Chicanná, where you can observe the remains of an ancient Mayan city. Finally, arrive in Palenque, a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, such as the Palenque Archaeological Site. Don’t forget to check out the Itinerary for this stage of the road trip for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Palenque - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Palenque
- San Cristobal de las Casas
Distance 213 km
Driving time 5.8 h
Pace: slow
48.9 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Palenque to San Cristobal de las Casas! This 213 km journey will take fewer than 6 hours and is full of stunning landscapes, captivating historical sites, and winding roads. Along the way, you'll have a chance to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Palenque, the breathtaking Agua Azul Waterfalls, and the lively city of San Cristobal de las Casas. As you drive, pay attention to the winding roads and the narrow sections. Make sure you take your time and savor the views! During the trip, you'll also come across many charming towns, so don't forget to stop and explore. Once you reach San Cristobal, you'll find plenty of interesting attractions and activities awaiting you. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Set off on your journey and get ready for an amazing adventure!
San Cristobal de las Casas - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
San Cristobal de las Casas
- Chichicastenango
Distance 407 km
Driving time 9.3 h
Pace: modest
105.7 kWh
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Embark on a road trip adventure from San Cristobal de las Casas to Chichicastenango, a scenic 348 km route that can be completed in fewer than 9 hours. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and winding roads as you cross the state border. Along the way, take a break to explore historical sites like the San Juan Chamula Church and the Santo Tomás Church in Chichicastenango. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Be mindful of the narrow roads in certain sections of the route. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, so don't miss out on the many attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites along the route. Check the "Itinerary" section of this stage for more information. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Chichicastenango - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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8
Chichicastenango
- Antigua
Distance 117 km
Driving time 3.8 h
Pace: slow
26.8 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Chichicastenango to Antigua! This 117km drive takes less than 4 hours and is packed with incredible sights along the way. Take in the breathtaking landscapes, from the rolling hills to the winding roads, and spot historical sites like the UNESCO Heritage sites. Make sure to keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road and the winding bends. Along the way, you'll find plenty of picturesque spots to explore, so don't forget to take pictures! Whether it's a stop to admire the views or a brief break to grab a bite to eat, this route has something for everyone. With so much to see and do, you'll be glad you took this road trip. For more information, including attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Antigua - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Antigua
- Guatemala City
Distance 36 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: slow
8.2 kWh
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Embark on a journey from Antigua to Guatemala City, where you’ll be able to explore the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. The drive is only 36 km long and takes less than an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to admire the scenery and visit some of the most interesting sites. Along the route you'll find some of Guatemala's most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites, like the Antigua Guatemala, the Iximché archaeological site, and the Ruins of Quiriguá. You can also take a detour to visit the colonial town of Chichicastenango, or take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old capital of Guatemala, Ciudad Vieja. Make sure to take some time to appreciate the breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes. As you drive, be sure to keep your eyes open for some of the country's most stunning churches and cathedrals. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, take a deep breath, and enjoy your drive from Antigua to Guatemala City!
Guatemala City - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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10
Guatemala City
- Copan Ruinas
Distance 239 km
Driving time 5.2 h
Pace: modest
62.2 kWh
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Embark on an exciting 240km road trip from Guatemala City to Copan Ruinas! With an estimated driving time of 5 hours, the journey is full of fun and interesting sights. You will cross the border into Honduras, pass through several UNESCO Heritage sites, and have the chance to marvel at the winding roads and narrow passes along the way. Get ready to be inspired by the historical sites, scenic roads, and stunning views as you make your way to Copan Ruinas! Don't forget to check out the Itinerary for this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Copan Ruinas - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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11
Copan Ruinas
- Quirigua
Distance 107 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: slow
24.6 kWh
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Embark on a 107 km journey that will take you less than 4 hours to travel from Copan Ruinas in Honduras to Quirigua. This is an amazing road trip that will take you through picturesque landscapes, winding roads, and even across the state border. You will have the opportunity to visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way, including the Mayan Ruins in Copan Ruinas and Quirigua Archaeological Park. As you drive, pay attention to the narrow and winding roads, as well as the stunning views of the countryside. Be sure to check out the beautiful colonial architecture in Copan Ruinas and the impressive stelae monuments in Quirigua. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Quirigua - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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12
Quirigua
- Flores
Distance 275 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: modest
71.5 kWh
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Start your road trip from Quirigua and drive for about 6 hours to reach Flores. Along the way, you will experience some breathtaking views, winding roads, and narrow passages. There are also some UNESCO World Heritage sites to admire. Your journey will be filled with historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. On your travels, make sure to take a break and enjoy the stunning views of the countryside. You may also want to visit some monuments, such as the Quirigua Archaeological Park and the Mayan ruins of Aguateca. After a full day of sightseeing, you can relax in Flores. Here, you can explore the city's cobblestone streets, churches, and markets. Don't forget to check out the nearby El Mirador viewpoint for some stunning views. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Flores - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Flores - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - Flickr
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13
Flores
- Tikal
Distance 65 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
16.9 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Flores to Tikal! This journey of 65 km will take you through the beautiful Guatemalan landscape, where you will find some of the most amazing UNESCO Heritage sites in the world. As you drive along, you will find winding roads and stunning views of the lush forests and mountains. Be sure to keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. As you make your way to Tikal, you'll be able to explore the archaeological treasures and other incredible sites. The journey will be an unforgettable experience, so don't forget to take lots of pictures and videos! Remember, more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Tikal - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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14
Tikal
- Belize City
Distance 225 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
58.4 kWh
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Embark on a road trip that will take you from Tikal, Guatemala to Belize City. On this 225 km journey, you can expect to spend fewer than 4 hours driving. Along the way, you will cross the state border and will have a chance to visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. While the road is mostly wide, some sections are narrower so pay attention to your driving.
Your first stop should be the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, where you can explore the ruins and towering pyramids. You will also have the opportunity to observe the wildlife in the nearby national park. Next, you will pass through the town of Melchor de Mencos, where you can visit the small Mayan ruins of El Naranjo. Further along the route, you will find the towns of San Benito and San Ignacio, where you can explore the caves and rivers.
Finally, you will reach Belize City, where you can visit the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha, or explore the archaeological site of Xunantunich. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Belize City - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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15
Belize City
- Chetumal
Distance 157 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: modest
40.8 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Belize City to Chetumal, a 161 km drive that will take you less than three hours. This is one of the most interesting stages of the journey, as you'll cross the border from Belize to Mexico. Make sure to explore the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and cultural attractions that you'll find along the way.
Start your trip in Belize City, the largest city in the country. Visit the Almenara fort, one of the oldest structures in the city, and the famous Belize Zoo, home to over 170 species of animals. Next, take a short drive to Corozal, a picturesque coastal town. Here you can see the Corozal Bay, the Santa Rita archaeological site, and the lovely Santa Rita Church.
Continue your journey to the state border and then to Chetumal, the capital of Quintana Roo in Mexico. Take the time to explore the Chetumal Bay, the Chetumal Archaeological Museum and the Palacio Municipal. You can also visit the market to buy some traditional Mexican souvenirs.
Make sure to have a great adventure during your road trip from Belize City to Chetumal. For more information on the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the itinerary of this stage.
Chetumal - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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16
Chetumal
- Tulum
Distance 254 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: fast
76.3 kWh
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Are you ready for the ultimate road trip? Start your journey in Chetumal, Mexico and end in Tulum, a mere 250 km away. In fewer than 4 hours, you can explore the best of what this region has to offer – from historical sites to picturesque landscapes. As you drive along the scenic road, take note of the many attractions that await.
If you're looking for a unique experience, be sure to visit the Chetumal's archaeological zone, where you can explore the ancient Mayan ruins. Tulum is also home to a stunning Maya archaeological site, which stands overlooking the incredible Caribbean Sea. Other attractions along the way include the astounding Calcehtok Cave and the crystal clear waters of the Bacalar Lagoon.
No matter how you decide to spend your road trip, this stage will be a journey to remember. And for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Tulum - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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17
Tulum
- Cancun
Distance 130 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: fast
38.9 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Tulum to Cancun and explore the beauty of Mexico! This 130 km drive will take you less than two hours to complete. As you make your way, keep an eye out for historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. While in Tulum, be sure to visit the ancient Mayan ruins, and don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the Gran Cenote, a stunning natural sinkhole. Then, as you make your way towards Cancun, take in the breathtaking view of the Caribbean Sea from El Meco, a pre-Columbian archaeological site. Once you reach Cancun, explore the beautiful beaches, and don’t forget to check out the Cancun Underwater Museum. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the stage itinerary. Bon voyage!
Cancun - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Cancun
[detailsContainer]
The final destination of the Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip is the stunning Mexican city of Cancun. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
Cancun is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Relax on the white sand beaches of Playa Delfines or take a dip in the clear blue waters of Playa Tortugas. The nearby Isla Mujeres is a great spot for snorkeling and diving, with a wide variety of colorful fish and coral to explore.
In town, the Mayan ruins of El Rey and the El Meco archaeological site are must-sees. Get a taste of Mexico's colonial history at the San Miguelito archaeological site, or explore the ancient ruins of El Rey.
In addition to its historical attractions, Cancun also has plenty of great shopping and dining options. Visit the Mercado 28 to shop for souvenirs and browse the selection of local handicrafts. For a unique cultural experience, explore the shopping area of La Isla Shopping Village, where you can find traditional Mexican clothing and jewelry.
For those traveling to Cancun by air, the closest international airport is Cancun International Airport (CUN). If you’re driving, you can take the scenic route and enjoy the spectacular views of the Mexican countryside.
The final destination of the Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip is the beautiful Mexican city of Cancun. With its stunning beaches, fascinating historical sites, and vibrant shopping and dining scene, Cancun is the perfect place to end your road trip.
Cancun - Mexico - Middle America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Cancun
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End:
Cancun
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Distance:
3,163 km
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Stay:
21 days
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Getting there:
Cancún International Airport (CUN),
Cozumel International Airport (CZM)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating 21-day journey with the Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip, which begins in the vibrant city of Cancun, Mexico. Covering an impressive 3103 km, this expedition takes you through the heart of Central America, showcasing some of the most breathtaking landscapes and historically rich sites this region has to offer.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Chichen Itzá, Uxmal, and Palenque: Lose yourself in the mystery of ancient Mayan civilization with visits to these iconic archaeological sites. Chichen Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, boasts the magnificent Kukulkan Pyramid, while Uxmal and Palenque offer equally impressive architecture and insight into Mayan culture and cosmology.
- Chichicastenango, Guatemala: Immerse yourself in local customs and traditional crafts at one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central America, where you can witness the rich tapestry of Guatemalan indigenous culture.
Best Time to Go:
The optimum travel period is the dry season, from November to April, providing the most favorable Road conditions for driving and the best weather for exploring outdoor sights without the hindrance of heavy rainfall.
Potential Risks:
- Prepare for border crossings with the necessary documentation and an understanding of each country's entry requirements to ensure a smooth journey.
- Caution is advised when driving through areas with narrow and winding Roads, which can be challenging, especially in mountainous regions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
This journey not only features several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but it also allows travelers to experience the contrasts between lush rainforests, pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and colonial cities.
The route is well-traveled, with good Road infrastructure in most areas, contributing to a generally comfortable driving experience.
Budget-friendly accommodations and food options are available throughout the Trip, making it accessible for travelers with a moderate budget.
A good choice for:
The Across 4 Countries Classic Road Trip is an extraordinary way to experience the natural beauty, profound history, and diverse cultures of Central America. It is a journey that promises to leave you with a wealth of memories and stories to share for years to come.
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