Exploring the Mayan World
March 2-12, 2021
It’s not very often you get an opportunity to accompany a renowned archaeologist as he explores the bones of an empire, decodes ancient hieroglyphs and enjoys a round of handmade tequila! Come join us as we experience all of this and more in 2021 in Mexico’s Colorful Yucatán Peninsula!
Melita Trips specializes in the unique – and now we are partnering with “The Great Courses”, a world-renowned online education platform announcing their new travel series with us. Now you will be able to continue to learn all about the world as you experience it firsthand with Melita Trips!
We are excited to have Dr. Edwin Barnhart lead our adventure through the past, present, and future of the Maya world in the northern Yucatán Peninsula. For more than 30 years, Dr. Barnhart has dedicated his life to learning about their culture.
Trip Includes:
- Premium tour led by Dr. Edwin Barnhart, Archaeologist
- See the world famous Chichén Itzá Observatory
- Enjoy agave tequila made in its original setting
- Enjoy the awesome beauty of the Loltún Caves
- See the majestic ruins and statues, like the Winged Warriors of Ek’ Balam
- Swim in some ancient sinkholes called Cenotes
- Transfers to and from airport in Mérida on day 1 and day 11
- Tour of agave fiber and sisal factory
- View preserved Maya art and carvings
- Pay respect to the dark history of imperialism
- Taste delicious local dishes – traditional and modern
- Meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 2 dinners
Starting at: $6895.00
ITINERARY
USA to Mérida, Mexico
Tuesday, March 2nd
Our journey begins in Mérida. Enjoy a welcome dinner and orientation meeting after you settle into your hotel.
Mérida
Wednesday, March 3rd
Once you’ve rested and restored, we will explore the city! After immersing ourselves into their culture, we’ll learn more about the history of the Maya in the Yucatán.
Mérida to Izamal
Thursday, March 4th
We begin with a visit to Ake, where they’re reviving a 100-year-old fiber industry. Then it’s onto Izamal, the yellow city, where we’ll experience history – including a hike up a giant pyramid!
Chichén Itzá
Friday, March 5th
Visit one of the most famed historical sites worldwide – Chichén Itzá – and see what many consider to be the finest remaining examples of Maya architecture.
Valladolid
Saturday, March 6th
Today is about the Colonial city of Valladolid; the winged warriors of Ek’ Balam – and enjoying some tequila at a traditional agave distillery! We’ll also visit the Cenote Suytun, a large sinkhole, so bring your swimsuits!
Tihosuco
Sunday, March 7th
More fun in the Maya world awaits us as we travel through Tihosuco, home to the Caste War Museum. We will also visit the Punta Laguna National Park to see ancient Maya hieroglyphs and talk to the howler monkeys!
Mayapán & Mani
Monday, March 8th
We will visit Mayapán, another ancient capital of the Yucatan. We will drive to Mani to contemplate the darker aspects of the destruction of sacred Maya codices by the Spanish friar Diego de Landa.
Santa Elena & Kabáh
Tuesday, March 9th
After breakfast, we will start the day off right with a visit to the Loltun Caves, followed by lunch in the little Maya town of Santa Elena; then on to Kabáh, home to the more than 200 faces of Chaac, the rain god!
Uxmal & Muna
Wednesday, March 10th
Today we visit Uxmal, then head to Muna, home of Patricia Martin, where the ancient art of Maya pottery is still kept alive in the workshop of a master!
Mérida & Bécal
Thursday, March 11th
We start our penultimate day with a trip to the Celestún biosphere; which covers over 150,000 acres. Next, we visit Bécal, and pick ourselves up some panama hats; or Jipijapas, as they are called in the Yucatán.
Mérida to USA
Friday, March 12th
Today is departure day. Breakfast will be available before we transport you to the airport for your flight home!
