A Passage Through Mexico + Flavours of Oaxaca + Riviera Maya Beach

Accommodation in Mexico City

Zocalo Central

Included

               

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

93%

93%

Service

91%

91%

Location

99%

99%

Standard Hotel: This hotel is located on the city’s main square, and has more amenities and services. There is a sixth-floor restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, looking out over the cathedral and commerce on the streets below. There is a gym and the en-suite rooms are air conditioned.

Why stay here? It is difficult to find a hotel in a better location in Mexico City. You can take advantage of this by sitting on the rooftop terrace above the Zócalo Square, watching the activity taking place below from a relaxed and pleasant environment.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant and gym.

• The hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, a wake-up call service, complimentary bottled water and fruit, an ice machine, laundry facilities and currency exchange.

About the room

All rooms have air conditioning, free WiFi, a TV, a telephone, a tea/coffee maker, free bottled water, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available
Standard room

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Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico

£180
(£180 Single Supplement)

                 

Superior Hotel: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is a historical hotel in a beautiful art nouveau building. It is situated on the main plaza of Mexico City and offers 60 elegant, well-proportioned en-suite rooms. In the heart of the historic centre, it is within walking distance of many tourist attractions and also offers 3 restaurants and a scenic roof terrace. 

Why stay here: Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico is a stunning building with comfortable rooms and is centrally-located.

Hotel facilities
• WiFi is available throughout the hotel
• Three restaurants and a piano bar
• Scenic roof terrace

About the room
All rooms are spacious with en-suite bathrooms and wifi. There is a safe, coffee facilities, cable television and air-conditioning.

Room types available
Economy King, Economy Double

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Accommodation in San Cristóbal De Las Casas

Sombra del Agua

Included

                 

Standard Hotel: A charming colonial-style hotel in the heart of San Cristobal de las Casas. The Sombra del Agua is set in a historic mansion that dates back to 1907, elegantly adapted with modern amenities. There is verdant courtyard where guests can relax, and a cosy restaurant that serves delicious Mexican cuisine prepared in traditional clay cookware.

Why stay here: The Sombra del Agua is in an great location to explore San Cristobal de Las Casas, and provides a peaceful place to rest after a busy day.

Hotel facilities 

• Free WiFi is available in all areas 

• There is a restaurant and bar 

About the room 

All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, WiFi, a TV, a telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, and a safety deposit box

Room types available 

Standard room.

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Casa del Alma

£140
(£140 Single Supplement)

             

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

94%

94%

Service

89%

89%

Location

94%

94%

Superior Hotel: The Casa del Alma boasts a lovely location near the centre of San Cristóbal. Perched on a hill, each of the 27 en-suite rooms has great views of the city, and there is a restaurant, bar and relaxing spa and gym.

Why stay here: The suites here are spacious, allowing you to spread out during your stay, and the private balconies in each room provide great views.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available free of charge

• Restaurant and bar

• Spa and gym

About the room

All rooms are spacious with en-suite bathrooms and private balconies. There is tea and coffee facilities and free wifi.

Room types available

Standard suite

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Accommodation in Palenque

Chan-Kah Resort

Included

             

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

68%

68%

Service

54%

54%

Location

78%

78%

Standard Hotel: On the road between the town and ruins, and surrounded by tropical vegetation, this hotel is at one with its natural surroundings. It has two outdoor pools, a restaurant and bar. The comfortable rooms have en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning.

Why stay here? This is one of the most comfortable hotels in Palenque: although the rooms are simple, they are well-sized and there is a good swimming pool. The jungle environment and proximity to Palenque ruins are big draws.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, coffee shop and bar, a swimming pool, a Maya-style spa, a games room and a gift shop.

• The hotel offers room service, assistance with booking tours, computer access in the lobby, a wake-up call service, a safety deposit box at reception, laundry facilities and money exchange.

About the room

All rooms have a ceiling fan, a TV, a telephone, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available
Casita junior suite

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Quinta Cha Nab Nal

£140
(£140 Single Supplement)

             

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

93%

93%

Service

73%

73%

Location

93%

93%

Superior Hotel: This boutique hotel is three kilometres from Palenque archaeological site in a jungle setting. With just a few rooms, the hotel offers good service, lush grounds, a swimming pool, a Maya-style spa and a restaurant. The attractive rooms have air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms.

Why stay here? Quinta Cha Nab Nal is smaller and quieter than most hotels in Palenque. Perfect for a relaxing stay, it offers a higher level of accommodation and better service. The restaurant serves good meals and the rooms are spacious. As most hotels in the area are more simple, this is probably the best place to stay in Palenque.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a swimming pool, gardens and a spa.

• The hotel offers assistance with booking tours, tea and coffee in the lobby, a safety deposit box at reception and laundry facilities.

About the room

All rooms have air conditioning and a ceiling fan, free WiFi, a TV, a telephone, a mini bar, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available
Junior suite

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Accommodation in Campeche

Hotel Plaza Campeche

Included

       

Standard Hotel: This charming colonial style hotel is located in the historic centre of the city opposite the Parque Centenario. The Plaza Campeche has a total of 83 well-appointed rooms. The hotel has a restaurant, cafeteria, bar and swimming pool. 

Why stay here? Located in the historical zone of the city and only a couple of blocks from the Plaza de la Independencia making it easy to explore this colourful city.

Hotel facilities

• Free WiFi is available in all rooms and public areas.

• There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool

• The hotel offers concierge service, luggage storage, laundry service and 24-hour front desk.

About the room

All rooms have air conditioning, en-suite bathroom, TV, safety deposit box and desk.

Room types available

Standard Room

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Hotel Boutique Casa Don Gustavo

£40
(£40 Single Supplement)

           

Superior Hotel: This small boutique hotel has been designed in the style of an old 18th century home. The hotel has a total of 10 rooms which are both spacious and comfortable, and decorated in the keeping with the history of the house. The hotel has a restaurant and outdoor swimming pool.

Why stay here?

Hotel facilities 

• Free WiFi is available in all rooms and public areas.

• There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool

• The hotel offers concierge service, luggage storage, laundry service and 24-hour front desk.

About the room 

All rooms have air conditioning, en-suite bathroom, TV, safety deposit box and desk.

Room types available 

Standard Suites

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Accommodation in Mérida

NH Collection Paseo Montejo

Included

       

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

69%

69%

Service

52%

52%

Location

70%

70%

Standard Lodge: Situated in downtown Mérida, the NH Collection is a stone’s throw from the tree-lined Paseo Montejo avenue where you can find ornate mansions housing boutique shops. The 120-room hotel is within walking distance of several sites, including the Palacio de Canton which boasts majestic French-style architecture. There is a rooftop swimming pool, restaurant and bar. 

Why stay here? The hotel’s design is inspired by the henequen plant, native to the Yucatán area. The restaurant offers fresh, local cuisine and the roof terrace has a pool where you can watch the sunset with a cocktail.

Hotel facilities

• Free WiFi is available in all rooms and public areas.

• There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and gym.

• The hotel offers concierge service, luggage storage, laundry service and 24-hour front desk.

About the room

Rooms are modern, with wooden flooring and plenty of natural light. All rooms have air conditioning, en-suite bathroom, TV, tea and coffee making facilities, safety deposit box and desk.

Room types available

Superior Room

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Casa Lecanda

£180
(£180 Single Supplement)

           

Superior Hotel: Casa Lecanda is a boutique hotel in a beautifully preserved colonial building. It is located in the heart of Mérida’s old town, just two blocks from the main street of restaurants and shops. The hotel itself is a peaceful retreat from the outside buzz, with a series of gorgeous patios, a pool and beautiful high-ceilinged rooms.  There are a number of outdoor spaces in which to relax, as well as an on-site tequila bar. En-suite rooms are spacious with great amenities, and locally crafted custom-made furniture.

Why stay here: This hotel is a stylish haven in the heart of the city. Between the lovely patios, the high, wood-beamed ceilings and the luxurious bedding, it is impossible not to relax here.

Hotel facilities

• Beautiful courtyards and pool

• Wine and tequila bar

• Wi-fi

About the room

Spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms look out onto the pool and garden. There is a safe, cable television and air-conditioning, and locally-built, custom-made furniture.

Room types available

Patio room

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Accommodation in Oaxaca

Parador San Miguel

Included

             

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

80%

80%

Service

87%

87%

Location

93%

93%

Standard Hotel: In a colonial-style building in the heart of the city centre, this hotel has a charming restaurant serving local dishes. Rooms are simply but attractively furnished,all the en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning.

Why stay here? This is a great base in Oaxaca: it is centrally located and within walking distance of many restaurants, is very well kept and service is attentive.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• The hotel has a restaurant and can arrange massage and hair dressing services.

• The hotel offers assistance with booking tours, a safety deposit box at reception and a laundry service upon request.

About the room

All rooms have air conditioning, free WiFi, a TV, a telephone, free bottled water, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available
Standard room

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De La Parra

from £300
(£300 Single Supplement)

           

Superior Hotel: This small hotel, very close to the main square, has 13 colonial-style rooms, a seating area in the courtyard, a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Rooms have air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms.

Why stay here? This is an intimate and homely hotel, and its setting in a colonial-era building brings some character to the decoration and style. The courtyard is a relaxing haven in which to cool off in the pool or unwind with a drink on the comfortable chairs.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.

• There is a restaurant, a pool bar, gardens and a gift shop.

• The hotel offers assistance with booking tours, a wake-up call service, laundry facilities, a coffee service in the lobby, and free access to a computer in the lobby.

About the room

All rooms have air conditioning, free WiFi, a TV, a telephone, a safety deposit box, a mini bar, a coffee machine, a hair dryer and en-suite bathrooms.

Room types available
Standard room

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Accommodation in Playa del Carmen

Mahekal Resort

Included

                     

Llama Travel Customer Rating

Overall

93%

93%

Service

89%

89%

Location

91%

91%

Standard Beach Hotel: This hotel on the largest stretch of beach in Playa del Carmen is a ten-minute walk from the centre of town but feels disconnected from the activity of the main eating and shopping area. Two meals per day are included: breakfast and either lunch or dinner, depending on your preference. There are two pools, both with a bar, two restaurants and a spa.

Why stay here? Stunning white sand beaches are found all along the Riviera Maya, but hotels between the main towns of Playa del Carmen and Tulum are often quite isolated, with limited facilities nearby. This hotel offers the best of both worlds; a laid-back, spacious hotel with attractive accommodations in a tropical style, whilst also being close to the services of Playa del Carmen. We like the fact that rooms are found in individual, small buildings spread throughout the grounds, with well-kept gardens between them.

Hotel facilities

• WiFi is available in public areas and is included in the resort fee.

• There are two restaurants, two poolside bars, two swimming pools, shaded sun loungers on the beach, a spa, a gift shop and an on-site dive centre.

• The hotel offers assistance with booking tours, luggage storage, beach and pool towels and laundry facilities.

Resort Fee

All guests staying at the Mahekal Resort will need to pay a resort fee of approximately $35 per room per night. This fee will need to be paid at check-in and cannot be prepaid. The resort fee includes bicycle hire, a welcome drink, beach and pool towel service, bottled water in the rooms and restaurant and complimentary WiFi. 

About the room

Garden view rooms are on the ground floor with a private terrace and hammock, air conditioning and ceiling fans, WiFi, bottled water, a safety deposit box, a hair dryer, umbrellas and en-suite bathrooms. 

The Hotel Mahekal has only a small number of twin rooms and does not assign these prior to check in. We cannot guarantee that there will be 2 beds in the room – it is possible that a double room will be assigned at check in, even if a twin room has been requested.

Room types available

Garden view room

 

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2025

• Jan 2025 From £4719 £4419 Show departures

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Holiday Information

About Your Holiday

• Llama Travel Groups

  In many cases, the best way to describe our holidays is flexible tours, so you can choose where to visit by combining different extensions and excursions, and which hotels to stay in. In most cases, you will be with other Llama Travellers, but not necessarily the same people throughout. This allows you to get to know like-minded people, but not have to spend all your time with the same group. If we don't have anyone else taking a particular part of a holiday, we will normally operate this just for you.

  In some cases, we operate more traditional tours, with the same Llama Travel group travelling together for the majority of the holiday, which allows land travel from one location to another, and in this case we may have a minimum number of travellers required to operate the group.

  Excursions are usually taken together with other Llama Travel customers in groups of no more than 18 people. If we have more than 18 booked, we operate two groups. These will usually be in English, although in some places, especially on wildlife excursions, the excursions may be operated by one of our local partners, so you may be with people other than Llama Travel customers and the group may be a mix of English and other languages. In these cases, group sizes can sometimes be larger. If you would like to know the likely situation for your holiday, please ask us and we will be able to check. Transfers may be with more than 18 people.

  We get a wide range of people taking our holidays, with probably the largest group being couples aged in their forties to sixties, or even older. However, we also have a large number of customers in their twenties and thirties, especially for some of the more active holidays. What unites everyone is a sense of curiosity and a desire to discover new cultures, landscapes and wildlife. Although most of our customers travel with friends or family, we also have quite a few single travellers who are happy to mix and match as described above.

  Group Size
  Most holidays can operate with a minimum of 2 passengers, but some holidays have a higher minimum group size. If we have fewer than the minimum number of passengers, we will let you know two months before departure. In this case, we will refund you any monies paid or offer you an alternative option. It may be possible to operate the trip for fewer than 4 passengers for an additional cost.

  Holidays in Europe usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
  Holidays in Namibia or South Africa usually have a minimum group size of 6 passengers.
  Holidays in Kenya usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
  Holidays in Asia usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.
  Holidays in Costa Rica and Mexico usually have a minimum group size of 4 passengers.

• What's Included

  Prices listed are per person and based on two persons sharing a room and include all flights from the UK and within destination, service of guides and reps (please note that tips are not included), accommodation and all transfers and excursions listed in the itinerary. Where applicable, entrance fees, taxes and charges are included in our prices at the rates advised to us at the time of preparation. An adjustment will be made to your price if any of these change before your holiday. UK airport taxes are included.

• Financial Protection

  All the flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate

  For holidays not including any flights, financial protection is provided through IPP: https://www.llamatravel.com/ipp-protection

Booking Conditions

• Llama Travel Booking Conditions

  Please see our booking conditions page for further information.

How To Book

• Booking the Holiday

  To book a holiday or discuss your requirements, please call us on 020 7263 3000. We can usually confirm availability immediately, but may need to check with a supplier first.

• Paying for the Holiday

  You can pay your deposit by bank transfer, cheque, standard UK debit card or non-premium UK personal Visa / MasterCard credit card. Balance payments can be made by bank transfer or cheque. We do not accept cards for balance payments. We are unable to accept cash.

Before You Go

• Visas & Passports

  To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

  Latin America

  Visas are not required in advance for British citizens for any Llama Travel Latin American destination. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate.

  If you are flying via another country, especially the US, you need to comply with the appropriate immigration requirements. Please ask us for details.

  You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

  There is an entry fee to enter Chile for citizens of Australia, the US, Canada and some other countries which must be paid upon arrival. There is also an entry fee for US and Canadian citizens visiting Argentina, which must be paid in advance online.

  If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate.

  Africa

  British nationals can enter Morocco, South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana for a visit of up to 90 days without a visa. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the appropriate consulate. You need a passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For South Africa, you need a passport with two blank pages.

  British nationals require a visa to enter Zimbabwe for Victoria Falls, which can be purchased upon entry. The Kaza Univisa allows you to cross the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and also allows for day trips to Botswana (cost is approximately US$50). On occasions, the Zimbabwe border staff may not issue a Kaza Univisa, and you may need to purchase a Zimbabwe visa (single or double entry), which has a slightly higher cost. Citizens from other countries should consult the specific embassy to check entry requirements.

  Currently, no visa is required to visit Namibia, but the Namibian government has announced that it will introduce a visa upon entry in April 2025.

  British nationals to Kenya require an electronic travel authorisation, which must be obtained online in advance. You can apply for this on the eTA website. For more information, see the website of the Kenya High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Kenya consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages

  If children are not travelling with both parents, some countries require a letter of consent to enter or depart. Please consult the appropriate consulate. In South Africa and Namibia, children under 18 must also carry an unabridged birth certificate.

  You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed if you are transiting in Europe.

  To issue some tickets, we require passport details and ages when you book. If you subsequently change your passport, please let us know as soon as possible.

  Asia & the Middle East

  To visit Jordan, you need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. You will need a visa to enter Jordan. The Jordan visa is included in the price of your holiday. On arrival in Amman our representatives will meet you prior to immigration and this will be provided to you free of charge. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Jordanian consulate.

  All visitors to Sri Lanka, including British nationals, require an electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the ETA website. For more information, see the website of the Sri Lanka High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Sri Lanka consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

  All visitors to India, including British nationals, require a visa, which can be obtained online in advance, and for which there is a cost. You can apply for single entry and transit visas on the e-visa website. For more information, see the website of the India High Commission. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Indian consulate. You need a passport with two blank pages, valid for six months after your return to the UK.

  Visitors from 13 countries, including the UK, can travel to Vietnam visa-free for stays up to 45 days. For stays longer than 45 days, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. Stays longer than 90 days are not permitted. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Vietnamese consulate.

  To visit Cambodia, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Cambodian consulate.

  To visit Laos, a visa is required at a cost. This can be applied for online on the e-visa website. You need a full 10-year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. For British passports endorsed in any way and all other passports, please ask the Laotian consulate.

  If you are arranging a stopover in Singapore, you must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card up to three days before entry into Singapore.

  Europe

  You need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months after your return to the UK. If you renewed your current passport before the previous one expired, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the minimum period needed.

   

• Adventure Activities

  In many destinations, you can arrange adventure activities, either through Llama Travel or through the local operator. If you are interested in taking any of these, please make sure you are covered by your travel insurance.

• Travelling With Children

  Some countries have strict regulations regarding the entry and exit of children under 18 when not travelling with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting. If you are travelling with children who are not entering or leaving the country with both parents, or if the child has nationality of the country you are visiting, please contact the consulate of the country you are visiting to check requirements.

  Countries in Africa have particularly strict requirements regarding children travelling, and in both South Africa and Namibia, children need to carry an unabridged birth certificate. Additionally, in Namibia, adults travelling with children where they are not the biological or legal guardians of those children, should be in possession of an affidavit statement from the child’s parents giving consent for their travel.

  Such requirements do change from time to time, and although we try to keep abreast of such changes and update this information, if you are travelling with children, we suggest you check current requirements carefully.

• Receiving Your Tickets

  You will receive tickets approximately 10 days before departure, along with information on accommodation, transfers and excursions. Our agents in destination will give you final details for hotel and excursions when you arrive. Please check airline tickets carefully in case timings have changed after we issued your confirmation.

• Money

  Cards are widely accepted in most hotel and restaurants, and cash machines are common in most destinations. However, when travelling to remote areas, it is advisable to take cash, as it is difficult to withdraw or change money. Travellers cheques are no longer widely used, so it may be inconvenient to take these.

  It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals from your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary, however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

  More information on the situation regarding money, budgeting and tipping in specific countries is in the country information below.

• Travel Insurance

  Adequate travel insurance is essential. We do not sell or recommend any specific policy, but good medical insurance should cover medical evacuation and repatriation. If you are going to be taking part in any activity, please ensure your policy covers you for this, especially if this involves high-altitude trekking, such as the Inca Trail.

When Your Are Travelling

• Safety & Security

  Most people who travel to the countries where Llama Travel operates experience no problems on holiday. However, as is the case anywhere in the world, crime can be a problem, especially in large cities. Tourists can appear attractive targets to criminals. To minimise the risk, use common sense. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive looking jewellery or cameras. Avoid empty streets, especially on your own. Take a taxi after dark. By taking sensible precautions, you should have a trouble-free holiday.

  Each country has its own standards for health and safety, but these are often not as good as in the UK. We take this into account when selecting hotels and request that they comply with all local regulations, but cannot guarantee that these are equivalent to British standards. Please take reasonable precautions to protect yourselves whilst on holiday, e.g. by locating fire exit routes.

  Please also check the Foreign Office travel advice for the countries you are visiting at www.fco.gov.uk.

• LGBT Travel

  Attitudes towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) travellers around the world can be very different from those in the UK.

  In Latin America and Europe, attitudes can sometimes be more conservative than in the UK, but there are not usually problems.

  In some African countries, including Morocco, Zimbabwe and Kenya, same sex relationships are illegal and conservative attitudes prevail. However, hotels and lodges do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms. In much of Africa and the Middle East, public displays of affection may attract negative attention, especially with LGBT couples, although the majority of people are friendly to visitors, irrespective of gender and sexual orientation. In South Africa, the authorities have introduced legislation which bans any discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

  In most of Asia, attitudes to same sex relationships can be conservative, but there are not usually any problems. In Sri Lanka, same sex relationships are illegal, but hotels do not discriminate and same sex couples can share rooms.

  The UK Foreign Office has information LGBT travel on their travel advice for individual countries, found at www.fco.gov.uk.

• Wildlife Risks

  For all wildlife excursions, please always follow the instructions of your guide, both for the animals’ welfare and for your safety. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, excursions involving exposure to wild animals will always carry some risk.

  If you take a safari in Africa, you will be with an experienced guide at all times, who is usually unarmed. Staff are experienced at dealing with wildlife, but by their nature, game drives have exposure to wild animals, and there will always be some risk in this, which you accept by going on holiday. Game drives run according to a schedule, although unexpected delays can occur, which the guide will deal with as quickly and safely as possible. Being in the wilderness means that the environment is unpredictable, so the unexpected can happen, and off-road vehicles can occasionally break down or get stuck in the uneven terrain.

  .

Health & Fitness

• Vaccinations & Medical Requirements

  Please consult your GP or a travel clinic about health and vaccination requirements. Advice for travellers is available at NaTHNaC  
  

  When travelling, stomach illnesses are not uncommon due to changes in diet. We suggest you only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. If you are unsure if salads and fruit have been washed in purified water, it is best to avoid them.

  If you suffer from a disability or condition and are worried whether this will affect the enjoyment of a holiday, please call us. We will do our best to help. We recommend that you bring any medicines you require from the UK.

  If you have any health problems on holiday, please speak to our local agents or hotel staff. They will arrange for a doctor or hospital if necessary. If you do experience any problems, please seek appropriate medical attention.

  Outside of major cities, medical facilities can be basic, meaning a lengthy transfer if hospital attention is required.

  Latin America

  Yellow fever and / or malaria precautions are recommended for visiting the jungle, Iguazu Falls and some parts of Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador. Yellow Fever certificates are sometimes required if you have recently visited a country with an infected area. Children under 6 require proof of vaccination against polio to enter Brazil. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old. If you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, please speak to your GP about zika. Please seek medical advice before you travel.

  Parts of South America are at high altitude. Most visitors do not suffer major problems. However, shortness of breath is common and we advise you to take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart or lung condition, or think that you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

  Africa

  Malaria precautions are highly recommended when visiting the Kruger National Park in South Africa, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the north of Namibia, including Etosha, Botswana and Kenya. Yellow Fever vaccination is highly recommended for Kenya. Travellers entering many African countries, including South Africa and Kenya Africa, coming from a yellow fever zone must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Some GPs do not recommend yellow fever vaccinations for travellers over 60 years old.

  Asia

  Malaria tablets are not usually advised when visiting the areas that Llama Travel offers in Japan, India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos, although a low risk exists in south-east Asia, so general precautions are recommended. If you have visited a country with yellow fever recently, you will usually require a valid yellow fever certificate to enter. Please be aware that Shimla in the Himalayas in India is at a moderately high altitude, so we recommend you take things calmly during your first day at altitude. If you suffer from a heart of lung condition, or think you may suffer due to the altitude, please consult your GP.

• Age & Fitness Limitations

  For most of our holidays, age is not a concern. However, a reasonable level of fitness is required, as most holidays require some walking, sometimes on uneven ground. Even relatively mild activities can be strenuous at altitude. High altitude trekking is more strenuous than an equivalent length walk at low altitude.

Getting There

• Breaking up the journey with stopover

  Depending on the route and the airline, if you would like to break your journey to or from your final destination, and add a stopover to your holiday, this may be possible. Please ask us for information.

• Arranging your own flight

  If you are interested in arranging your own international flights, this is sometimes possible. Please ask us for details of this and any discount we can arrange for removing international flights. Please do not book your flights until we have reconfirmed all services with our suppliers and you have checked the confirmation invoice.

• Visa Requirements if transiting in another country, especially the US

  All people transiting in a third country need to make sure they comply with any immigration requirements for that country.

  This is especially the case when in transit in the US when flying to Latin America. In this case, you must comply with US immigration requirements. It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with these requirements before you travel. Failure to do so may result in you being denied boarding on your flight to the US and, at best, a last-minute and probably expensive re-routing avoiding the US. It is important, therefore, that you follow these procedures carefully.

  If your flight to Latin America involves a stop in the US, you will be subject to US immigration control upon entry to the US. If you qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you are able to avoid the need to apply for a visa, but still need to enter your details online on the US State Department website. If you do not qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, you must apply in person at a US embassy for a US visa. Please make sure that you do this in good time.

  If you are a UK citizen and have a UK passport, you may qualify for visa-free travel. You will require a machine readable passport to qualify for the ESTA Visa Waiver Program (so you do not require a visa to enter the US). A machine readable passport has the holder's personal details (name, date of birth, nationality and passport number) contained in two lines of text at the bottom of the photo page. This appears as two lines of letters, numbers and chevrons (">>>>>") printed across the long edge of the photo page. It must be also include an integrated circuit chip capable of storing the biographic information from the data page, a digitized photograph and other biometric information.

  Please note, holders of passports indicating that the bearer is a British Subject, a British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Overseas Citizen, British National (Overseas) Citizen or British Protected Person do not qualify for travel without a visa. A passport which states that the holder has Right of Abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not quality for visa-free travel.

  If you have visited certain restricted countries, including Cuba, you may not qualify for visa-free travel.

  If you have been arrested, even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction, or if you have a criminal record, you will need a visa.

  If you have any doubts about whether you qualify for the Visa Waiver Program, please check with the US embassy. Full details can be found on the US embassy’s UK website at: http://london.usembassy.gov/vwp3.html

  Many European, Australian and New Zealand passport holders also qualify for the Visa Waiver Program as long as the passport is machine readable and complies with the relevant criteria. Please see the US embassy website for a list of countries which qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. It is important that you check the website of the US Embassy in the country of passport nationality for any further changes before you travel.

  Details of the ESTA Visa Waiver Program can be found on the US State Department website at

  https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.

  In addition to the Visa Waiver Programme, the US Transportation Security Authority requires anybody flying through the United Sates to supply specific passenger information prior to their international flight.

• Airlines

  Air fares vary from date to date and between airlines. Our holidays are scheduled to use the most advantageous air fare. You can choose which airline you prefer, we will let you know if a supplement is payable. Levels of onboard service and facilities, such as entertainment, vary by airline and route. Please ask us for details. Flights are sometimes operated by another airline in the appropriate airline alliance.

• Airlines

  Air fares vary from date to date and between airlines. Our holidays are scheduled to use the most advantageous air fare. You can choose which airline you prefer, we will let you know if a supplement is payable. Levels of onboard service and facilities, such as entertainment, vary by airline and route. Please ask us for details. Flights are sometimes operated by another airline in the appropriate airline alliance.

• Departure Airports

  Many airlines offer the option of flying from regional airports in the UK, avoiding the need to make your own way to London. Due to the timing of flights, in some cases this may involve an overnight stop in London or another intermediate airport. There is usually a supplement for regional departures. Please note that most of our flights depart from London.

• Flight Upgrades

  You can upgrade to business class or premium economy on most airlines. Call us for prices for the route and airline you are interested in.

  Premium Economy

  Some airlines offer Premium Economy cabins, which provide more comfortable seats which recline further and have more legroom. There are better meals and a bar service.

  Other airlines offer standard economy class seats with extra legroom for an additional cost.

  Business Class

  Many airlines have long-haul business class cabins with seats that convert into full flat beds and often have a privacy screen.

  Business Class within Europe is often similar to economy class seating, but with better meals, and middle seats are often left empty.

• Baggage Allowance

  Most scheduled airlines have a baggage allowance of 23kg per passenger for international flights, but internal flight allowances can be less. Exact limits can be found on airline webpages. Please bear this in mind when packing, as carrying excess baggage will normally incur an expensive additional cost payable at check in. Additionally, certain excursions have a limited baggage allowance. Where this is the case, we will advise you in advance. Llama Travel accepts no responsibility for the delay, loss or damage of luggage.

  There may be additional luggage restrictions for specific countries. In this case, details of this will be in the country information below.

• Selecting your seats on flights

  Many airlines now charge a fee to select your seat prior to checking in for your flight, even when travelling in premium economy or business class. Alternatively, you may choose your preferred seat free of charge when online check-in opens 24 hours prior to departure or at the airport. Please ask us about the options available at time of booking.

  We all want a comfortable journey, particularly on long haul flights. If you would like a seat with some extra leg room or a larger recline please let us know. Airlines have introduced a range of “economy comfort” seats that may be purchased in advance. In some cases, these seats may only be purchased online directly with the airline once Llama Travel has issued your ticket approximately 30 days prior to departure.

  For internal flights, and for connecting flights in Europe, it is usually only possible to select seats when you check-in online or at the airport.

  It may not be possible to always use online check-in systems, especially when using a codeshare flight. On occasion, your preferred seat may be changed by the airline for operational reasons such as a change of aircraft or to facilitate a disabled passenger on the day you fly and as such, Llama Travel cannot guarantee specific seats.

Travelling in Mexico

• What to pack - Mexico

  The climate around Mexico City and Oaxaca is mild, with relatively consistent temperatures year-round. March, April and May are the warmest months, and November to February tend to be the coolest, with averages of 14°C. Most rainfall occurs during the summer months of June to September. The months of December, January and February are usually dry, but rain can fall throughout the year so waterproofs are advised.

  Due to its elevated location, San Cristobal also has a mild, spring-like climate, with an average temperature of around 15°C. On sunny days, the city can feel quite hot, but the temperature drops considerably during wet weather, so a mix of warm and cooler weather clothing is advisable.

  Descending into the tropical climate of the Chiapas lowlands (for Palenque), the Yucatan (for Merida) and the Riviera Maya, humidity is high year-round and temperatures sometimes exceed 30°C. There is an average of 12 daylight hours and high factor sun protection is essential. Waterproofs are advised year-round, although the wettest months are from June to October.

  Insect repellent is recommended for visiting the jungle around Palenque, Merida and the Caribbean Coast. Closed, comfortable shoes such as trainers or lightweight walking shoes are suitable for day excursions. Be sure to bring beachwear for your time on the coast.

  You can bring whichever luggage you feel most comfortable with: suitcases, soft bags and rucksacks are fine.

  Electricity in Mexico is 11V, and plugs are of the flat two-pin type.

  Having a photocopy of your passport with you at all times is recommended.

  Please bring any medication you may require from the UK.

• Money

  The Mexican currency is the Mexican Nuevo Peso, known simply as the Peso. Sterling isn’t easy to exchange in Mexico so carrying US Dollars is advised. Note that it is only possible to exchange cash in banks or at bureaux de change. UK debit and credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, and ATM's are readily available, although it is good to carry a small reserve of cash.

  It is always recommended to inform your bank that you are travelling abroad and to which countries. This will allow them to authorise money withdrawals on your account when you are away. Some banks say that this is not necessary; however we would still recommend contact with your bank as in some cases people have had difficulty in withdrawing currency.

• Tipping

  Tipping in Mexico is customary but by no means obligatory. In most circumstances, such as restaurants and tour guides, 10 -20% is appropriate. Drivers should receive US$3-5 per day for group tours and $10 for private tours. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers.

• Food

  Most people are familiar with the concept of tacos, guacamole and enchiladas, but arriving in Mexico you will discover that Mexican food is a lot richer than the Tex-Mex movement would have you believe. The cuisine is understood to be a fusion of traditional local ingredients, and those ingredients and cooking styles introduced by the Spanish. Staple ingredients include corn, beans, avocados, tomatoes, chilli peppers and rice, as well as meat, cheese and a rich variety of herbs and spices.

  The style of food varies across Mexico, with different spices and other ingredients adapted according to the local conditions. For example, the Yucatan Peninsula cuisine is based on the Maya culture, with influences from a diverse range of cultures from Middle Eastern to Caribbean, and uses local ingredients such as tropical fruits and traditional cooking methods such as pit ovens. By contrast, Mexico City for the most part relies on produce brought in from other parts of the country. Here street food reigns supreme with taco stands and Torterias (tortas are sandwiches similar to subs) battle it out for passing trade. While the ingredients and style of cooking varies from area to area, staples like the aforementioned tacos and tortas are found in most parts of Mexico. Another staple found across the country is mole (pronounced mo-leh), an umbrella term for sauce. Moles also vary from place to place, but usually they contain a fruit, chili pepper, nuts and spices.

• Budgeting for your stay

  Hotels in Mexico include breakfast. Besides that, a simple set-menu lunch will cost US$3-4.50 per person, while a nice dinner with alcoholic drinks will set you back about US$11-16 per person.