14 Days Mexico, Guatemala & Belize Itinerary
Embark on a budget-friendly adventure through Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, uncovering ancient Mayan sites, relaxing on Caribbean shores, and experiencing diverse cultures. This 14-day journey balances historical exploration with natural wonders, perfect for budget travelers.
Duration
14 days
Budget
$1400
Best Time
November to April (dry season)
Activities
92
Daily Avg
$100/day
Cities
Cancun (1d), Tulum (1d), Belize City (1d), Tikal (1d), Tulum (1d), Belize City (2d), Tikal (1d), Belize City (1d), Caye Caulker (1d), Tikal (1d), Antigua (1d), Lake Atitlan (2d)
Pace
Fast
This itinerary offers a captivating blend of ancient Mayan history, vibrant cultures, and stunning natural beauty. Explore pristine beaches, delve into mysterious ruins, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of each country.
Your itinerary covers 9 of 12 must-have experiences
Ancient Mayan Ruins
Day 4: Travel to Tikal National Park
Caribbean Beaches
Day 1: Arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN)
Snorkeling/Diving
Day 10: Snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef
Colonial Towns
Day 12: Shuttle from Tikal to Antigua
Lake Scenery
Day 13: Boat to San Juan la Laguna
Local Markets
Day 9: Dinner at a Local Restaurant
Caving
e.g., Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) (Belize), Barton Creek Cave (Belize)
Mayan Cooking Class
Day 12: Shuttle from Tikal to Antigua
Coffee Plantation Tour
Day 12: Shuttle from Tikal to Antigua
Explore Cenotes
Day 2: Swim in Gran Cenote
Wildlife Spotting
e.g., Community Baboon Sanctuary (Belize), Rio Dulce (Guatemala)
Waterfall Rappelling
e.g., Bocawina National Park (Belize)
Mexican, Guatemalan, and Belizean cuisine offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by indigenous traditions, Spanish colonization, and Caribbean influences. From spicy street food to complex, slow-cooked stews, the region provides a diverse culinary adventure for every palate. Be prepared for a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and spicy sensations.
Must-Try Dishes
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, shaved onto small tortillas, and topped with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.
📍 Street food stalls and taquerias throughout Mexico, especially Mexico City
A rich and complex sauce made from chocolate, chili peppers, spices, and nuts, typically served with chicken or turkey. A true taste of Mexican heritage.
📍 Restaurants in Puebla and Oaxaca, or upscale Mexican restaurants
A traditional Guatemalan stew made with chicken, beef, or pork, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, chili peppers, and various vegetables. A hearty and flavorful dish.
📍 Traditional restaurants (comedores) throughout Guatemala
A flavorful Mayan turkey soup, spiced with achiote and chili peppers, often served with rice and tamales. A unique and authentic Guatemalan experience.
📍 Restaurants in Cobán and the Alta Verapaz region
Food Neighborhoods
Trendy restaurants, cafes, and international cuisine
Traditional Guatemalan dishes and international fare with stunning volcano views
Fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired cuisine
A mix of Belizean, Mayan, and international flavors, with many street food options.
Vegetarian options are becoming more prevalent, especially in tourist areas. Look for dishes featuring vegetables (verduras), beans (frijoles), and rice (arroz). Vegan options are less common but can often be accommodated with some communication. Gluten-free options are limited; be sure to inquire about ingredients. If you have allergies, learn key phrases in Spanish to communicate your needs effectively. Halal food is not widely available.
In many local restaurants, wait to be seated. It's polite to say "provecho" (enjoy your meal) to others as you pass by. Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15%). Street food is often eaten standing up or at small tables nearby. It is considered polite to finish all the food on your plate, especially when dining with locals.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
October 31 - November 2Celebrations throughout Mexico, especially in Oaxaca and Michoacan. Expect colorful decorations and cultural events.
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
March/AprilMajor religious holiday with processions and events. Expect crowds and higher prices.
Garifuna Settlement Day
November 19Celebrated in Belize, commemorating the arrival of the Garifuna people. Expect music, dancing, and cultural events.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶N/AFREE
02:00 PM - Arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN)
Arrive at the airport, go through customs and immigration.
- 🚶ADO Bus or pre-booked Shuttle$5
03:00 PM - Transfer to Hostel/Budget Hotel
Take pre-booked shuttle or ADO bus to your accommodation in Cancun's Hotel Zone or downtown.
- 🚶N/AFREE
04:00 PM - Check-in and Freshen Up
Check in, leave your luggage, and get ready to explore.
🏨Create Custom ItineraryAdd your hotel booking
Search and add hotels to see on maps
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
- 🚶Bus R1 or R2 from Hotel ZoneFREE
04:30 PM - Relax on Playa Delfines (El Mirador)
Enjoy the iconic Cancun sign and the beautiful beach.
- 🚶Bus or taxi from Hotel Zone$10
07:00 PM - Dinner at Parque de las Palapas
Enjoy authentic and affordable Mexican food.
🍽️Create Custom ItineraryAdd restaurants for Dinner
Get personalized restaurant recommendations
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
- 🚶WalkingFREE
08:30 PM - Stroll through Downtown Cancun
Explore the local shops and soak in the atmosphere.
Downtown Cancun
Affordable, close to restaurants and local markets, and easy access to transportation.
📅 Best Time to Visit
November to April (dry season)
The weather is generally warm and sunny with low humidity. Rainfall is minimal, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring ruins.
November to April is the dry season, making it ideal for travel. Expect sunny days and pleasant temperatures.
Check for local holidays as businesses and transportation may have altered schedules.
Getting Around
Mexico City has excellent metro; ADO buses for intercity
Tarjeta de Movilidad (Mexico City)
Mexico City Metro is cheap and covers the city. ADO buses are comfortable for intercity.
Travel
150 USDAccommodation
15-30 USDFood
15 USDActivities
200 USDUtilize local buses (chicken buses) for affordable intercity travel.
Opt for hostels or budget-friendly guesthouses.
Eat at local comedores (small restaurants) for cheaper and more authentic meals.
- Learn basic Spanish phrases.
- Bargain respectfully in markets.
- Stay hydrated, especially in hot climates.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
- Try local street food (from reputable vendors).
- 1Lightweight clothing
- 2Comfortable walking shoes
- 3Insect repellent
- 4Sunscreen
- 5Reusable water bottle
International Flights
Book 3-6 months in advance for best prices, especially for peak season travel.
Accommodation
Book 2-4 months ahead for popular areas and peak times to ensure availability and better rates.
Travel Insurance
Purchase immediately after booking flights/tours to cover unforeseen cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
Major Tours (e.g., Tikal, Chichen Itza, Belize diving)
Book 1-2 months in advance, especially for popular or niche tours that can sell out.
Inter-country Bus Tickets (e.g., ADO in Mexico)
Book 1-2 weeks ahead online or at terminals for popular routes, especially around holidays.
Visa Requirements Check
Verify your specific country's visa requirements well in advance of your trip (e.g., Mexico FMM, specific visas for Belize/Guatemala).
Airport Transfers / Shuttle Services
Arrange in advance to avoid scams or long waits upon arrival, particularly if arriving late at night.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Holafly website
📍 Telcel stores, authorized retailers, and some convenience stores in Mexico
📍 Digi stores and authorized retailers in Belize
WiFi is widely available in hotels, hostels, and many cafes and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. The quality of WiFi can vary significantly, with some locations offering fast and reliable connections, while others are slower and less consistent. Public WiFi hotspots are available in some cities, but security may be a concern.
Useful Apps
Consider purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM for reliable data access. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Be aware of potential roaming charges if using your home country's SIM. Always use a VPN when connecting to public WiFi for added security. Test your SIM card or eSIM upon arrival to ensure it is working properly.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
127V
60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10–15%
Not expected; round up at nice restaurants
$1–2 USD per bag; 20–50 MXN for housekeeping
Tipping is expected at restaurants. Propinas (tips) are customary.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Exercise caution due to petty theft, especially in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
911
911
911
911 for all emergencies
Payments
Cash widely used, especially at markets and taquerias
Accepted at hotels and larger restaurants
Limited outside major cities
Carry pesos in small denominations. USD accepted in some tourist areas but at bad rates.
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is pleasant, with sunny days and minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.
Related Itineraries
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
Want a Personalized Version?
Get this itinerary customized for your exact travel dates, with weather-aware recommendations and real-time pricing.
Create My Custom Itinerary60s