Exploration of the Yucatán

Day 1 | USA – Cancún
Depart the USA on your international flight in the morning and arrive to the oasis of Cancún by afternoon. This first day we will have time to relax after our journey. Enjoy welcome group dinner this evening and rest up for an exciting week. (D)

Day 2 | Cancún – Valladolid – Chichén Itzá
Get ready to jump into adventure. Our day starts with a drive to Chichén Itzá. We stop along the way in an old town called Valladolid where we will visit places including the main square and St. Gervasio’s Cathedral. We will also be visiting a local distillery where we can learn about the preparing process of famous agave liquor. After this small cultural experience we head to our final destination of the day, Chichén Itzá. We see the famous archaeological site including the Pyramid of Kukulkan and the Pelota Ball game court. This evening enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant in Piste. After dinner we will participate in the Light & Sound show in front of the pyramids. (B, D)

Day 3 | Chichén Itzá – Izamal – Mérida
With breakfast in our bellies we are headed to the historic town of Izamal. This “Yellow Town” has all yellow walls which were painted in colonial times. This beautiful city is home to an amazing Catholic culture. We will visit the Franciscan convent which is home to the figure of St. Mary of the Indians as well as celebrate Holy Mass in the same church as Pope Saint John Paul II. After a few hours of leisure we continue on to Mérida, which was once the wealthiest city of New Spain. Upon arrival we will explore some of the treasures of this town including Montejo Avenue, the Mérida Cathedral, the main square and the government palace. Enjoy a group dinner this evening. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mérida
Start the day with a tour of the Cacao Plantation and Museum where we learn about the importance of this plant in the pre-Columbian time. We also head to the UNESCO Heritage Site of Uxmal, the ancient city that “was built three times”. After a morning on land we change transportation to a boat and travel from Celestún to view flamingos in their natural habitat. This evening is free for your leisure with dinner on your own. (B)

Day 5 | Mérida – Playa del Carmen
We leave this rich city for scenic beaches as we make our way to Playa del Carmen. Upon arrival you are free to relax and enjoy.

Day 6 | Playa del Carmen
Enjoy this day relaxing on the beach, sipping on unlimited drinks, and delighting yourself with various dining options available all day long. (B, D)

Day 7 | Playa del Carmen – USA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)