Merida And The Mayan Riviera

Today we will wake up at the crack of dawn to visit Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive. This impressive Mayan temple is famous for the Kukulkan pyramid, the ball court, the observatory, the convent and the sacrificial well.  The archaeological site remains in an excellent state of preservation despite receiving thousands of visitors every day.  We will then head on to the city of Merida, where we will spend the evening.

Today, we will visit the village of Uman, with its 16th century San Francisco de Asis church. This domed building made of stone has a gothic appearance and the village's centre-piece along with its local market. Heading on for an hour or so more, we will reach Oxkintok meaning “three days of burning,” in the Mayan language. It is considered one of the most important settlements in the northern Yucatan and, possibly, the oldest in the central Puuc region. Its location controlled the flow of commercial goods from the south to connect with other contemporary cultures. We will then head to the Hacienda San Pedro Ochil, one of the seven haciendas in the region, where they farm henequen. We can see how artisans work inside their workshops or even visit a small museum of folk art. Women weave hammocks and embroider their white cotton dresses, which are characteristic of the region. In the afternoon, we will head back to Merida.

After breakfast, we will head out to the Celestun Reserve, which is home to the stunning pink as well as more than 170 resident and migratory bird species that inhabit the area. We can also see crocodiles in the marshes, the green hawksbill and loggerhead turtles laying their eggs. We will have the time to relax on a secluded, pristine beach before we head back to Merida.

Today we will head out on a cultural tour that will take us back to colonial times. This “white City” maintains its character with its old paved streets and impressive buildings such as the Merida main Cathedral built in 1561, Casa de Montejo, the government palace, municipal palace, theatres, parks and markets. Also, the delectable, local cuisine is a must, as these Yucatecan dishes are world-renowned for their tastiness!

Today we will head to the town of Tulum, stopping at the Coba Archaeological Site along the way. "Coba" literally translates to ‘waters stirred by the wind’, an appropriate Mayan name as this settlement is surrounded by two large lagoons. For many years Coba was an ignored piece of Mayan history due to its location between Tulum and Valladolid due to the dense jungle surrounding it. This Mayan site is still largely unexcavated, making it a true marvel of the Yucatan Peninsula.  

The white pathways will take us to three settlements that demonstrate the architecture and vast area of this once large city, home of 2 ball courts and the highest Mayan pyramid in the Yucatan, Nohoch Mul. What makes this site different from Chichen Itza and other Mayan sites is that it is a combination of sites connected to the central pyramid. There is also the option to take a zip line over the archaeological site if you are feeling adventurous!

Today we will head to Muyil for a fascinating cultural immersion experience. A local nature guide will share the mysteries of the Muyil archaeological site to appreciate it in all its glory. We will hike through the forest to the shore of a turquoise lagoon called Chunyaxche, where we can jump in the fresh water canal and float on the calm waters for a relaxing experience. We will then enjoy a Mayan lunch before we return to the hotel. 

After breakfast, we will visit the village to enjoy an authentic experience in a Mayan community and where the local people open their homes to visitors. We can learn all about the local people, their traditions, customs, and trade. These traditions have been passed down for generations and are a legacy of their Mayan ancestors. We will learn about Maya medicine plants, textiles, legends, storytelling and watch a henequen spinning demonstration. 

 We will then visit Tihosuco and its church and convent dedicated to the Divine Child. 

The town, rich in history and culture, has a museum devoted to the social Maya War, where visitors can see impressive paintings and weapons used during this historic event. We will have a traditional lunch of Mayan Yucatecan cuisine before we return to Tulum. 

After breakfast, we will head to the Tulum National Park. El Castillo, which is the tallest building in the Tulum site, offers spectacular views over the Caribbean. Here we will take the time to do some snorkelling and once more appreciate the magnificent barrier reef. We will then enjoy a free afternoon to relax on the idyllic beach.

Today is the final day of this adventure and we will drop you at the Cancun International airport in time for your international flight back home or onto your next exciting destination.