The Yucatan Peninsula: Land of the Maya
Trip Overview
In October of 1989, National Geographic published an article called “La Ruta Maya”. This article, written by former National Geographic editor William Garret and with photos by Kenneth Garrett, David Alan Harvey and others, offered many their first glimpse into this fascinating world. In this expedition, you and your colleagues or clients will be taken into some of the remarkable places featured in that article. Wander through the remains of structures dating back over two millennia, swim in sacred cenotes, and enjoy up-close wildlife encounters. And that’s only a fraction of what’s in store on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Itinerary Highlights
- Gain a window into the ancient past at the wonderfully preserved Mayan archaeological sites of Uxmal, Cobá and Tulum
- Swim in amazing sacred cenotes (sink holes) once used in Mayan rituals
- Explore the secret underworld of the Yucatán Peninsula in stunning caves studded with stalactites and stalagmites
- Enjoy an off-hours visit to Chichen Itzá, one of the new wonders of the world
7 NIGHTS / 8 DAYS
RIVIERA MAYA
PRICE: From $ 5,295
Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Single Supplement applies. Air not included. Because this is a Private Xpedition, final pricing is subject to change based on final dates, availability, and choices.
What´s included:
- A customized Itinerary
- Local expert guide throughout the trip
- Airport-Hotel-Airport private transfers
- Private transportation and activities per itinerary
- Lodging as indicated in the itinerary
- Full breakfast daily
- Entrance fees and taxes
- Gratuities
Itinerary
After arriving in the Riviera Maya, make yourself at home in your stunning hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome reception and dinner.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Before dawn, set off for Tulum, the Maya’s largest commercial port on the Yucatán Peninsula. This ancient fortress contains over 60 buildings, many of which are perched along the most rugged cliffs on the Quintana-Roo coast and offer breathtaking views of the Caribbean. Witness a glorious sunrise, followed by a guided visit of the archaeological site – which is open only to selected visitors at this time of day. After breakfast, continue to Muyil, one of the earliest ancient Mayan sites located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Later, swim in an untouched canal and walk through the lush mangrove forests, before continuing to a spectacular cenote (sinkhole) for a swim and lunch.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Today have a more leisurely start, setting off after breakfast for Cobá, an ancient Mayan city that held great power until the rise of Chichen-Itzá. Traversing the archaeological zone on foot, by bike or by tricycle, get a feel for its size while you learn about its history. Afterward, take a dip in a cenote deep in the jungle. Continue to Izamal, one of Mexico’s designated “Magical Towns” due to its preservation, architecture and unique mix of cultures. Here, visit local artisans’ workshops and discover the craft techniques that have been preserved for generations. Spend the nights in a beautiful historic hacienda.
San Jose Cholul
The day begins with the journey to Mérida, where you will enjoy a guided exploration of this lovely city. After lunch, continue onto Uxmal, a former Mayan city dating back to the Late Classic Period. During the mid-19th century, John Lloyd Stevens proclaimed it one of the most beautiful examples of Mayan architecture, and modern-day archaeologists consider it to represent the peak of the Puuc building style. The visit takes us by the Governor’s Palace, Square of the Nuns, Ball Court and the Pyramid of the Magicians.
San Jose Cholul
After breakfast, head to the living museum of Hacienda Sotuta de Peón. Here, learn about the famous haciendas and their former main produce, henequen (sisal fiber), which was the source of the Yucatán’s wealth during the Colonial era. Visit the processing plant and the main house. Later, take a mule‐drawn rail cart tour of the fields, ending at a refreshing cenote. In the evening, arrive in Chichen Itzá to spend the night.
Hacienda Chichen
Chichen Itzá is one of the grandest architectural accomplishments of the Mayan civilization and dates back to 900 B.C. Visit the site very early in the morning, before it opens its doors, and witness the stunning Temple of Kukulkan, the Observatory, the Sacred Well and much more at sunrise. Return to the hotel for breakfast. Later, cool off at a beautiful cenote nearby. After lunch, head back to the Riviera Maya. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, exploring the fabulous grounds of the hotel before re-joining the group for dinner.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
First thing this morning, head to Xcaret Park for an out-of-hours walking tour of this incredible natural beauty spot – including a swim in one of its atmospheric underground rivers. Gently float on the sparkling waters through tunnels carved into ancient coral formations. Back above ground, learn all about the local scarlet macaw breeding program and, depending on the season, release sea turtles back into their natural habitat. In the evening, end your Mayan adventure with a bang as you watch the wonderful Xcaret by Night show. Later, enjoy a farewell gourmet dinner in the wine cellars of the park, a place only accessible to handpicked guests.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
The day will begin with one final breakfast together, before you’re whisked off to the airport for your flight home.
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The Yucatan Peninsula: Land of the Maya
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