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Day 1
Arrive in Merida, Yucatan, the cultural center of the peninsula and known for its history, majestic colonial architecture and Center of the Maya World. Transfer to the Fiesta American Hotel. Depending on the day of the week, optional cultural activities are available. This tour may also start in Cancun or Cozumel.
Day 2
Morning departure for an all day tour of Chichen Itza, lunch included. This site covers some 90 acres. The Castillo dominates the plaza: a 9-story pyramid probably dedicated to Kukulcan, the featured serpent. Visit the largest ballcourt in Mesoamerica and the Caracol, a round tower with an interior spiral staircase, thought to have been an astronomical observatory. This site belongs to the Late Classic and Early Post-classic periods. Overnight in Chichen Itza or in Merida.
Day 3
Morning city tour and time to visit Merida's market where a variety of artisan work can be found. After lunch begin the Puuc route. Transfer to Uxmal - Terminal Classic - famous for its elaborate masks and facades: exquisite Maya elegance. The Nunnery Quadrangle, the Pyramid of the Magician, the Governor's Palace and the House of Pigeons are among the most important sites. Visit the Museum. A light and sound show is presented every evening. Overnite at Hacienda Blanca Flor. Dinner included.
Day 4
Today drive south via the scenic hills to Kabah, Sayil and Labna. Kabah has an impressive structure, Codz-Poop, Palace of the Masks, adorned with 400 Chac masks. Continue to Sayil, "home of ants," a 3-story Great Palace with more than 100 rooms occupied during the Terminal Classic. Six miles further is Labna, a monumental and beautiful corbeled arch. Time for box-lunch. Continue 11 miles to the Loltun Caves, containing Maya and pre-Maya stone artifacts. Admire the stalactites and stalagmites. Return to Hacienda Blanca Flor for dinner and overnight.
Day 5
Return to Merida. Enjoy the 2000+ flamingos in the Gulf area of Celestun. White sand and clear water, from an underwater spring, is inviting for a swim. Celestun is well-known for its wonderful sea food cuisine. In the afternoon, back in the city, visit the market, other local arts and crafts stores or just stop for a refreshment at any of the many outside restaurants around the main square and appreciate the style of life of the "yucatecas." Dinner at the Virrey de Mendoza.
Day 6
Depending on your itinerary, tour the colonial homes and gardens in Merida. Continue to your next Maya destination or return home. Prior to your departure from home, you will have received a very detailed map of the Maya World, things to do and not to do, recommendations for restaurants and availability of cultural programs in each city (most of them free): dances, festivals, weekly local musical groups in the plazas, etc.
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