{"id":4955,"date":"2023-12-17T11:24:04","date_gmt":"2023-12-17T16:24:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/?post_type=events&p=4955"},"modified":"2026-03-01T23:20:42","modified_gmt":"2026-03-02T04:20:42","slug":"lost-city-marathon","status":"publish","type":"events","link":"https:\/\/marathontours.com\/en-us\/events\/lost-city-marathon\/","title":{"rendered":"Lost City Marathon and Half-Marathon"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

New to our calendar! Follow the footsteps of the Maya and find yourself at the inaugural Lost City Marathon! Nestled in the dense rainforests of the Chiapas region on the Yucatan peninsula, the ancient Mayan city of Palenque, famous for its well preserved and impressive Mayan architecture, offers the start line for a trail Marathon of unrivaled lush vegetation and breathtaking beauty. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":4961,"template":"","event_types":[6,106,104],"event_locations":[28],"event_distances":[11,12],"event_course_types":[16],"event_seasons":[17],"class_list":["post-4955","events","type-events","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","event_types-adventure","event_types-half-marathon","event_types-marathon","event_locations-north-america","event_distances-half-marathon","event_distances-marathon","event_course_types-trail-remote","event_seasons-winter"],"acf":{"event_hero_image":4958,"event_logo":4956,"event_logo_background":{"enable":false,"background_colour":"#FFFFFF"},"event_status":"waitlist","event_status_labels_available":"limited-space","event_status_labels_waitlist":"available-soon","event_status_labels_off_sale":"sold-out","event_waitlist_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"Available Soon","url":"mailto:kaitlyn.roukey@marathontours.com","target":"_blank"}},"event_additional_buttons":null,"event_book_button":{"link_option":"external","":null,"external_link":{"title":"On Request","url":"https:\/\/forms.marathontours.com\/booking?tc=lcm","target":"_blank"}},"event_extra_button":"","event_overview":"

If you have questions regarding Marathon Tours & Travel's Lost City Marathon Packages please:\u00a0EMAIL OUR TRIP DESIGNER<\/a>\u00a0or\u00a0CALL 617-242-7845<\/a><\/p>\r\nFollow the footsteps of the Maya and experience the colors, flavors, and\u00a0rhythms of M\u00e9xico\u2019s most interesting corners. Nestled in the dense rainforests of the Chiapas region on the Yucatan peninsula, the ancient Mayan\u202fcity of Palenque, famous for its well preserved and impressive Mayan architecture, marks the start line for a trail Marathon of unrivaled lush vegetation, animal life, and breathtaking beauty.\r\n\r\nOnly 10% of Palenque has been fully discovered and along with providing a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the Maya people which thrived in this once vibrant and powerful city, it has now been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and cultural significance.\r\n\r\nFeaturing both a marathon and a half-marathon, the awe-inspiring route follows jungle trails, majestic rivers, picturesque ranches, and small villages.\u00a0 A challenging race crossing various surfaces, including water and steep hills, but one certainly worth getting your feet wet.\r\n\r\nKeep your eyes open and enjoy the rich bird life and look for the different species of butterflies found on the open planes \u2013 there are over a hundred!\u202f Howler monkeys, scarlet macaws & toucans can be found in the jungle if you step lightly (they often scatter when runners approach). If you are lucky enough to spot a howler monkey, know that they sometimes amuse themselves by throwing small branches from the treetops at onlookers who stop to stare.","event_overview_button":"","event_feature_icons":null,"event_features":{"meals_included":{"detail":"Meals per the itinerary","title":"Meals Included"},"guide":{"title":"Guide","detail":"English speaking tour leader"},"transfers":{"detail":"Airport transfers and ground transportation as described in the itinerary","title":"Transfers"},"trip_extension":{"title":"Trip Extension","detail":""},"accommodation":{"title":"Accommodation","detail":"A choice of standard or deluxe accommodation packages"},"entry":{"title":"Entry","detail":"Full and half distances available"},"celebration_party":{"detail":"Celebration dinner","title":"Celebration Party"},"excursions":{"title":"Excursions","detail":"Guided tours included with optional tours at additional cost"},"helping_hand":{"title":"A Helping Hand","detail":""},"worldwide_events":{"title":"Worldwide Events","detail":""},"medal_bling":{"title":"Medal Bling","detail":""}},"event_gallery":[{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":4962},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":7674},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_video","youtube_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=79S9cPbs77Y"},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":7673},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":7675},{"acf_fc_layout":"event_gallery_image","image":7676}],"event_packages":[{"package_title":"Lost City Marathon Package","package_duration":"4 Nights","package_dates":"February 19 - 23, 2026","package_days":[{"day_title":"Thursday, February 19","day_content":"Welcome to Villahermosa and Palenque, M\u00e9xico. Plan your arrival to Villahermosa (VSA). Seven flights arrive from Mexico City daily. A representative will meet you at the airport in Villahermosa to guide you to buses that will be waiting to transport you to Palenque (2.5 hours\u2019 drive). Guests can check into the hotel in Palenque after 3:00PM.\r\n\r\n(No meals included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nPlease note domestic flights are not included in your package. To ensure a spot on the bus, kindly share your flight details, including arrival time, with us"},{"day_title":"Friday, February 20","day_content":"After breakfast at your hotel, a bus will take us to restaurant Chiapaneca for our race briefing.\u00a0 Race officials will provide you with important details about tomorrow\u2019s race and distribute your race bags.\u00a0 The race briefing is the last chance to change your running distance.\u00a0 After the briefing, we continue to the Maya ruins of Palenque.\u00a0 Following a guided tour, you will have time to explore the historic site at your own pace before the bus returns runners and supporters to their hotel.\u00a0 The rest of the afternoon is yours to unwind, prepare for race day, or wander through town before tonight\u2019s pasta buffet.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & dinner included)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Saturday, February 21","day_content":"Race Day!\u00a0<\/strong>Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel and catch a bus at 6:00AM to take all runners & spectators to the start. Runners will be dropped off at the parking lot outside the Palenque Archeological Zone where personal belongings for the finish can be left\u00a0and\u00a0toilets are available for your convenience. The race will start in waves at 7:00 AM, with marathon runners in the first waves and half marathon runners in the last waves.\u202fTen minutes before the start of your wave, you will be allowed to enter the Archeological Zone to line up at the start.\u00a0Items that are not being used for the race may not be taken into the Archeological Zone.\u00a0 \u202fThe finish line is located near the\u00a0Chiapaneca\u00a0restaurant where runners will enjoy a well-deserved lunch after the race. Shuttle buses will bring runners back to their hotel after the race and lunch. Please be sure to review race details here:\u00a0 Lost City Race Information - Route & Elevation<\/a>\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & lunch at finish area)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, February 22","day_content":"Optional Excursion and Celebration Dinner.\u00a0<\/strong>After yesterday\u2019s run you have the\u00a0option\u00a0to relax at the hotel pool or take another visit to the Palenque ruins on your own.\u202fAdditionally, you can book the optional excursion to the\u202fAgua Azul\u00a0Waterfalls<\/strong>\u202fwith our Adventure guides.\u00a0These breathtaking waterfalls promise a day\u00a0filled with relaxation and beauty.\u00a0In the evening,\u00a0buses will take all guests to\u00a0enjoy a celebratory dinner with your new friends!\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & celebration dinner included - Agua Azul Waterfall\u00a0excursion\u00a0includes lunch)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, February 23","day_content":"

\r\n\r\nOur time in Palenque has come to an end. Transfers to Villahermosa airport (coordinated with the flights you have booked and shared with us) will leave throughout the day to accommodate different flight times.\u202f Hotel check out is 10:00 AM.\u00a0 If you are up for more adventure, consider booking our five (5) night Yucatan extension trip - a journey filled with natural wonders, rich history, delicious cuisine and beautiful beaches.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\n<\/div>"}]},{"package_title":"Lost City Marathon Package","package_duration":"8 Nights","package_dates":"February 15 - 23, 2026","package_days":[{"day_title":"Sunday, February 15","day_content":"Plan your arrival to Mexico City (MEX) and make your way to your hotel in the city center by metro, metrobus, shuttle bus, or taxi. Please note that guest booking standard & deluxe stay at different hotels in Mexico City & Palenque. Located in the historic city center, NH Centro Historico Hotel (Deluxe) and Novotel Centro Historico (Std) will be your home for four (4) nights. Close to the Z\u00f3calo and a short walk from Alameda Park and Chinatown, these hotels are the perfect base to explore the city on foot! Luggage can be stored at your hotel if you arrive before 3:00 PM giving you time to stroll around the city when you arrive.\r\n\r\n(No meals included today)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, February 16","day_content":"Explore\u00a0Mexico City on today\u2019s guided tour. Visit the National Museum of Anthropology which showcases Mesoamerican civilization throughout time and highlights how the nation of Mexico has been shaped. The adjoining park provides a quiet rest from the bustling city if you are less museum inclined. In the afternoon, we will make our way south to the borough of Xochimilco, a\u00a0World\u00a0Heritage\u00a0Site known for its canals and waterways, you will experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty as we set out on an enchanting canal boat ride on the famous \u201cfloating gardens\u201d \u2013 Trajineras.\r\n\r\nUpon returning to our hotel, you will have time to explore the nearby pedestrian shopping area.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & lunch included)\u00a0<\/em>\r\n\r\n\u00a0<\/span>"},{"day_title":"Tuesday, February 17","day_content":"Today you have the entire day free to explore the city or to join one of our optional excursions.\u00a0 If you are a sports fan, consider \u201cTacos & Lucha Libre\u201d where you will witness a vibrant blend of sport, theater, and pop culture \u2013 Mexico\u2019s unique wrestling match. Alternatively, day trip to one of Mexico\u2019s \u201cMonarch Butterfly Reserves\u201d for a serene and breathtaking experience. \u00a0The Butterfly excursion departs after breakfast and returns by late afternoon, allowing you to take part in both optional excursions.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included - Taco tasting & drink included on Lucha Libre excursion)\u00a0<\/em>"},{"day_title":" Wednesday, February 18","day_content":"After breakfast we start our excursion to Teotihuacan \u2013 the famous Sun and Moon pyramids located about an hours\u2019 drive from the city center. Our knowledgeable local guide will walk us through the impressive architectural feats, and the mysterious Avenue of the Dead giving us a fascinating glimpse into one of the world\u2019s most remarkable archaeological treasures.\r\n\r\nIn the evening, join an optional \u201cCooking Class\u201d and learn how to prepare traditional Mexican dishes \u2013 a fun way to end the day with friends while picking up some new skills!\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & lunch included - Dinner included with Cooking Class)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Thursday, February 19","day_content":"After breakfast buses will take us to the airport for our domestic flight to Villahermosa. Depending on the number of participants, guests will be assigned to one of two departures\u00a0(10:40AM or 1:15PM<\/em>).\u00a0 The flight (included) is approximately 1:40 hours. Upon arrival, buses will take us to Palenque\u00a0(2.5 hours)<\/em>\u00a0where we will check into our hotel, settle in and you are free to choose one of the many restaurants in the lively central square to experience the local lunch & dinner cuisine.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast included)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Friday, February 20","day_content":"After breakfast at your hotel, a bus will take us to restaurant Chiapaneca for our race briefing.\u00a0 Race officials will provide you with important details about tomorrow\u2019s race and distribute your race bags.\u00a0 The race briefing is the last chance to change your running distance.\u00a0 After the briefing, we continue to the Maya ruins of Palenque.\u00a0 Following a guided tour, you will have time to explore the historic site at your own pace before the bus returns runners and supporters to their hotel.\u00a0 The rest of the afternoon is yours to unwind, prepare for race day, or wander through town before tonight\u2019s pasta buffet.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & Pasta dinner included<\/em>)"},{"day_title":"Saturday, February 21","day_content":"Race Day!\u00a0<\/strong>Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel and catch a bus at 6:00AM to take all runners & spectators to the start. Runners will be dropped off at the parking lot outside the Palenque Archeological Zone where personal belongings for the finish can be left\u00a0and\u00a0toilets are available for your convenience. The race will start in waves at 7:00 AM, with marathon runners in the first waves and half marathon runners in the last waves.\u202fTen minutes before the start of your wave, you will be allowed to enter the Archeological Zone and line up at the start.\u00a0Items that are not being used for the race may not be taken into the Archeological Zone.\u00a0 The finish line is located near the\u00a0Chiapaneca\u00a0restaurant where runners will enjoy a well-deserved lunch. Shuttle buses will bring runners back to their hotel after the race and lunch.\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & lunch at finish area)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Sunday, February 22","day_content":"Optional Excursion and Celebration Dinner.<\/strong>\u00a0After yesterday\u2019s run you have the\u00a0option\u00a0to relax at the hotel pool or take another visit to the Palenque ruins on your own.\u202fAdditionally, you can book the optional excursion to the\u202fAgua Azul\u00a0Waterfalls\u00a0<\/strong>with our Adventure guides.\u00a0These breathtaking waterfalls promise a day\u00a0filled with relaxation and beauty.\u00a0In the evening,\u00a0buses will take all guests to\u00a0enjoy a celebratory dinner with your new friends!\r\n\r\n(Breakfast & Celebration Dinner included) (Agua Azul Waterfall\u00a0excursion\u00a0includes lunch)<\/em>"},{"day_title":"Monday, February 23","day_content":"Our Palenque adventure has come to an end.\u00a0 Transportation back to Villahermosa is arranged for your domestic flight (included) back to Mexico City. \u00a0Depending on the final group size, there will be one or two flights departing at 8:38AM and\/or 10:25AM.\u00a0 Please book your international flight out of Mexico City airport AFTER 5:00PM<\/u><\/strong> today. If you need a post-night in Mexico City because of your flight connection, please contact us for pricing or book an airport hotel on your own.\r\n\r\nIf you are up for more adventure, consider booking our five (5) night Yucatan extension trip - a journey filled with natural wonders, rich history, delicious cuisine and beautiful beaches.\u00a0(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n(Itinerary subject to change)<\/em>"}]}],"event_extensions":"

Optional Excursions <\/strong><\/h3>\r\nTaco Tasting & Lucha Libre | February 17 | 4 Hours (Mexico City)<\/strong>\r\n\r\nKick your evening off at Taquer\u00eda El Caif\u00e1n with taco tasting and a cold beer (or non-alcoholic drink) and learn about the legends and theatrics behind the masks before heading over to the iconic Arena Mexico to see the high-energy traditional match.\r\n\r\nMonarch Butterfly Reserve | February 17 | 7-8 Hours (Mexico City)<\/strong>\r\n\r\nExperience one of nature\u2019s most incredible journeys as millions of monarch butterflies arrive in the mountain forest of central Mexico.\u00a0 From January to February, the butterflies cluster in dense, fluttering groups on the oyamel fir trees at altitudes above 3,000 meters.\u00a0 We will travel two hours from Mexico City to Piedra Herrada Sanctuary where we will take a 45\u201360-minute hike or optional horseback ride to the heart of the reserve.\u00a0 Comfortable shoes and a light jacket are recommended.\r\n\r\nCooking Class | February 18 | 3 Hours (Mexico City)<\/strong>\r\n\r\nImmerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Mexican cuisine with an unforgettable evening of hands-on cooking and delicious dining.\u00a0 In this lively cooking class, a local chef will guide you step by step through the art of preparing an authentic Mexican meal. Using fresh, local ingredients, you\u2019ll learn essential techniques\u2014from chopping and slicing to mixing and blending\u2014as you craft a flavorful feast from scratch. After we\u2019ve cooked up our culinary creations, we\u2019ll enjoy dinner together.\r\n\r\nAgua Azul Waterfalls | February 22| 6 Hours (Palenque)<\/strong>\r\n\r\nIf you are a fan of\u00a0waterfalls,\u00a0you should not miss this excellent excursion to one of Mexico\u2019s best \u2013 the Agua Azul.\u00a0Agua Azul, meaning \u201cBlue Water\u201d\u00a0consists\u00a0of several smaller falls and pools. The water is famous for its very clear and\u00a0turquoise\u00a0blue color.\u00a0 Be sure to bring good footwear\u00a0(no flip flops)<\/em>\u00a0as it can be muddy around the falls.\u00a0(Lunch included)<\/em>\r\n\r\n \r\n

Post-Race Extension \u2013\u00a0Yucat\u00e1n Highlights | 5 Nights | February 23 \u2013 28, 2026<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nMonday, February 23 \u2013 Campeche\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nAfter breakfast we will make our way to Campeche stopping in the cozy beach town\u00a0of\u00a0Champot\u00f3n to stretch our legs and enjoy lunch (lunch not included).\u00a0 Upon reaching Campeche in the late afternoon, you will have some time to explore the impeccably preserved Baroque colonial buildings and walled historic district and settle into your hotel near the city center and the waterfront.\u00a0 Today\u2019s driving time is approximately 6 hours.\u00a0(Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nTuesday, February 24 \u2013 M\u00e9rida\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nThis morning, you have time for a stroll or run along the waterfront before joining your tour leader and local guide on a tour of Campeche.\u00a0 After our tour, we head to M\u00e9rida \u2013 the proud Capital of Yucatan.\u00a0 A captivating city, blending Maya and Spanish influences, M\u00e9rida is also considered one of Mexico\u2019s safest cities.\u00a0 The three-hour drive to this vibrant city will be followed by a guided walk through M\u00e9rida\u2019s bustling local market and the city center where you will find suggestions for good lunch and dinner venues.\u00a0After the walk, rooms will be ready to relax before you set out for town and have dinner at your choice of one of the fabulous local restaurants. (Breakfast included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nWednesday, February 25 \u2013 Chich\u00e9n Itz\u00e1 & Playa del Carmen\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nCrowned as one of the 7 Modern Wonders of the World in 2007, this iconic Maya city holds a paramount position in this civilization\u2019s history. The renowned pyramid, El Castillo, stands as a geometric, astronomical, and architectural marvel at the heart of the archaeological zone, surrounded by meticulously excavated and reconstructed structures, including an exceptional ball court from the Maya era.\r\n\r\nA guided tour will be followed with some time for exploring on your own.\r\n\r\nAs our road trip continues East to the famous Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen, we enter the state of Quintana Roo and clocks must be moved forward one (1) hour (Quintana Roo is on Eastern Standard Time and not Central Standard Time).\r\n\r\nIn Playa del Carmen we check into our all-inclusive hotel, and it is time to relax and enjoy the festive Mexican atmosphere.\u00a0(Breakfast & dinner included)<\/em>\r\n\r\nThursday, February 26 \u2013 Playa del Carmen\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nExperience Playa del Carmen, where the sun-kissed shores invite relaxation and exploration. Unwind on the beach or dive into the turquoise waters for a refreshing swim in this stunning coastal paradise.\r\n\r\nIf you want more action, stroll the vibrant streets and immerse yourself in the local culture at the bustling markets.\r\n\r\nAs the sun sets, the city comes alive with the beat of music from lively bars and the aroma of delectable Mexican cuisine wafting through the air.\u00a0(All inclusive)<\/em>\r\n\r\nFriday, February 27 \u2013 Playa del Carmen\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nEnjoy another day\u00a0of\u00a0relaxation\u00a0in Playa del Carmen.\u00a0Optional activities, including\u00a0snorkeling, swimming\u00a0in a cenote or visiting\u00a0more Maya ruins\u00a0can be booked with local tour operators.\u00a0\u00a0The hotel and your tour leader will advise you\u00a0where to find the local tour operators offering various excursions and activities.\u00a0(All inclusive)<\/em>\r\n\r\nSaturday, February 28 \u2013 Transfer to Cancun\u00a0<\/strong>\r\n\r\nOur time in Mexico has come to an end and it is time to head home.\u00a0 If you would like to extend, it is possible to request additional nights\u00a0(subject to availability)<\/em>. Check out time is 12:00 PM and transfers to Cancun Airport\u00a0(included)<\/em>\u00a0will be arranged according to your flight home.\u00a0(Breakfast included)<\/em>","event_extensions_packages":null,"event_packages_and_rates":"

Lost City Marathon Tour | Four-Night Package: February 19 \u2013 23, 2026<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n
\r\n\r\nFeatures:<\/strong>\r\n