On this small group tour we explore the wonders of the Yucatan—ancient
Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, Uxmal, Ek Balam, Tulum and
Edzna; colorful colonial cities of Merida, Izamal, Valladolid; and Campeche,
fortified to fight off Caribbean pirates.
1st Day: Our tour begins with our arrival at Cancun. We have free
time to enjoy the white sand beaches, blue water, and great restaurants.
In the evening, we join our guide for a welcome cocktail and introduction
to the tour.
2nd Day: After breakfast, we travel to the walled fortress of
Tulum. Overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, the Mayan port has over
sixty well-preserved structures within its massive walls. Then on to
the ruins of Coba. Located around two lagoons, its elevated stone and
plaster roads radiate out up to sixty miles. Finally, we drive to the
colonial town of Valladolid, once a stronghold for Mayan rebels, who
hid in a secret cenote (a natural well) to emerge at night and slaughter
resident Spaniards. After lunch, we tour the town and the ex-convent
San Bernardino.
3rd Day: Today we visit the archaeological site of Ek Balam, with
its enormous Acropolis pyramid. Later, in the delightful city of Izamal,
a magical town whose buildings are all painted yellow, we ride through
the cobblestone streets in horse drawn “calesas.” Overnight
in Mérida.
4th Day: From the mid-19th century until World War I, the major
crop of the Yucatan was sisal, used for making rope. This morning we
visit two of the fabulous haciendas that were built for this purpose,
and then drive to Uxmal, one of the finest examples of an ancient Mayan
city. In the evening we enjoy Uxmal’s light and sound show.
5th Day: We continue our journey to Edzna. With its complex system
of waterworks, the Mayan city was as an economic, political and religious
center. The Great Plaza is spectacular, with its beautifully preserved
buildings, including its five-story Acropolis. Then we travel to the
colonial city of Campeche and visit the fort built to protect the city
against the real “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Overnight in
Campeche.
6th Day: WAfter breakfast we drive to Becal, where workmen in
damp and humid caves weave panama hats. We continue our travel to Chichén
Itzá, the most visited Mayan city. The Pyramid of Kukulkán,
the ball court, the Observatory and the sacred well are only a few of
the many sights in this huge archaeological zone. Tonight we will enjoy
a light and sound show at Chichén Itzá and a farewell dinner
at the hotel.
7th Day: On the way back to Cancun, we stop at Ik Kil Cenote,
a sacred pool of Mayan royalty, where we can take a refreshing swim in
the clear, clean water. For those departing today, we say good bye at
Cancun Airport. For those wishing to extend their stay, add-ons are available.
What’s included: The trips are fully escorted by English-speaking
guides and include all accommodations, land transportation, many meals.
What’s included: The trips are fully escorted by English-speaking
guides and include all accommodations, land transportation, and many
meals.
|
Double occupancy: |
$1790* |
|
Single room supplement: |
$ 330* |
| 2009 Price per person: |
To be announced |
|
January 5–11 |
May 18–24 |
|
March 8–14 |
November 9–15 |
*Note: Prices subject to change without notice.
