Yucatan expeditions dtours

1. The Mayan Culture reigned on the Yucatan Peninsula, on the Southeastern side of Mexico, enclosed by the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. It was in this area, where the Mayans reached their superior degree of development. Nonetheless, the Mayan Civilization covered a vast extension, from Mexico’s Southern Pacific Coast and all the way in to Central America. Traces of Maya nomad settlements date back to 1500 BC. We distinguish mainly 3 Mayan periods of social and urban development: Nomad, Mayan Pre-Classical and Mayan Classical. These periods are relatively evident in their building techniques, their carved inscriptions on their pyramids, buildings and temples. The Mayans developed a structure of writing, using hieroglyphs; and so kept record of Mayan findings in mathematics, architecture and astronomy. 3 days / 2 nights - Private Tour Cancún – Tulum Coba – Merida Day 1 Depart from Cancun to Merida. On the way we will visit Tulum, a walled sacred city of the Mayan Post Classic period, which is located south of Cancun. This Mayan city built on the sea shore was very important for the great commercial network that the Mayas established with Central America. Tulum stands on a cliff facing the rising sun, with outstanding views of the Caribbean. With over 20 buildings, you will be able to observe the Stalls on the monuments, with the graphic legacy of the stage of the Mayan Culture in that Period; also you will see the first Castle on your route dedicated to Kukulkan, the God of Gods of the Mayas. Tulum was a major link in the Maya extensive trade network, both maritime and land routes converged here. After Tulum we will head towards Coba, the largest Mayan city on the peninsula, which was the ground commercial controller of its time with an enormous network of pathways; the longest going for 100kms, connecting the site with other important cities of its time. The site has several large structures up to 42 meters in height, bearing witness to the presence of a large population at the time of splendor. The day ends at Merida. 1

2. Merida – Uxmal – Merida Day 2 Depart from Merida to Uxmal, which in Mayan means “Three times constructed”. The architecture of Uxmal is among the most majestic in Yucatan. Its beauty is characterized by low and horizontal palaces placed around patios and quadrants richly decorated with detailed sculptures. You will be able to view the Pyramid of the Magician, the Nuns’ Quarters, the Governor’s Palace and the Main Pyramid. The governor´s house and the temple of the wizard are considered architectonic marvels by experts for their precise construction and beauty. Uxmal, enveloped by legends and myths is situated within a series of hills known as the “Pucc region” or the mountainous area of the Yucatan. We will also visit Kabah as part of the “Puuc region” which is characterized by the prominence of “Chac” the rain god, who is venerated, conjured, and evoked through the magical repetition of this image. Return to Merida. Merida – Chichen Itza - Cancun Day 3 On our way back to Cancun, we will visit the archeological site of Chichen Itza which represents the most intact and impressive of the ruins of the Mayan Civilization that the modern world preserves today. Chichen Itza means “Mouth of the well of the Itzaes”. Its impressive constructions include the splendid Castle or Pyramid of Kukulcan, the Ball court, the Observatory and the Sacred well just to mention a few. All of this structures are breathtaking. We will continue to Valladolid, a Colonial city founded in 1543 which will be visited before the final drop off back in Cancun. Included Services » Transportation in air conditioned vehicles » English speaking guide during the days of the tour » Accommodation at the below mentioned and locally rated hotel with breakfast included » Visits mentioned in the itinerary, including entrances fees to the archaeological sites » Local taxes in hotels Not Included Services hotels » Meals not previously mentioned » Gratuities in Hotels » Tips during the excursions » Merida: El Castellano 4* or similar 2