Dig deep into ancient Mayan history at the Uxmal, Chichén Itzá and Tulúm ruins, delve into Mexican culture though the food, markets and artisans of Merida and explore the wilds in underground sinkholes and at the UNESCO world heritage site of Sian Ka'an Biosphere with a naturalist
The top of Uxmal’s grand pyramid rewards you with a breathtaking view. This is what you came to Mexico for—the side of the Yucatan you can’t see from behind a resort’s wall. You’re here to dig deeper and discover the region’s rich archeological and cultural wonders. Fill up on local delicacies and rich culture in Mérida but save space on your camera’s memory card for the region’s white-sand beaches. From the majesty of Chichén Itzá to the ruins at Tulúm, connect with a side of Mexico few travelers get to know.
What's Included
- Welcome gift - Orientation walk around Merida and local markets - 1 hour group Spanish lesson - Tour of Uxmal ruins and Hacienda Sotuta de Peon - Visit a cenote (underground sinkhole) for a swim - Horse drawn carriage tour of Paseo Montejo district - Visit the Anthropology Museum - Tour of Chichen Itza ruins and Balankanche caves - Tour of Tulum ruins - Canal tour in Sian Ka'an Biosphere - Arrival and departure transfers
- 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches (Allow USD160-220 for meals not included.)
- Comfort hotels (8 nts)
- Van, boat, horse-drawn carriage, walking
- Discovery Adventures guide, local guides
- Small group experience; Max 15, avg 8.
Places Visited
- Mexico
Day 1 Cancún
Arrive at anytime. Arrival transfer included.
Day 2 Mérida (B,L)
One hour group Spanish lesson and orientation walk around Mérida exploring plazas, architecture, markets and artisan shops. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant to try local specialties.
Day 3 Mérida (B,L)
Explore the archeological site of Uxmal then visit an historic, working Mexican hacienda. Later swim in the crystalline waters of a nearby cenote (underground sinkhole).
Day 4 Mérida (B)
Horse-drawn carriage tour of Paseo Montejo district and visit to the Anthropology Museum. Option for shopping.
Day 5 Chichen Itza/Valladolid (B,L)
Explore the famed Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza Chichén Itzá and a visit to the caves of Balankanché that were once used for Mayan ceremonies. Overnight in Valladolid, a bustling Mayan city with a colonial flair.
Day 6-7 Tulum/Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve (2B,1L)
Visit the seaside ruins at Tulum and free time to relax at the beach. On Day 7, explore with a local naturalist, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, the largest protected area in the Mexian Caribbean and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 8 Playa del Carmen (B)
Travel to Playa del Carmen, option to visit the beach and town, snorkel and shopping.
Day 9 Cancún (B)
Depart at any time, transfer to the Cancún airport is included.
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