1-480-626-1266 info@johnpaultours.com
South American Sampler

South American Sampler

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

South American Sampler

Mexico City | Guadalupe | Teotihuacán | Santiago de Tlatelolco | Tlaxcala | Puebla | Lima | Belize City

>> Just south of the United States is a land of thriving culture and deep devotion. This trip offers the opportunity to see Central as well as South America through a Catholic lens. You will explore Mexico City and Our Lady of Guadalupe as well as the Pyramids. In Peru, your eyes will be opened to the life of an early missionary as Indian and European culture collided. The trip will end with a relaxing few days in Belize on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
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“Better than I would have ever imagined!”

–Sandra Comiptu

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to our hotel in Mexico City. Enjoy a welcome group dinner this evening. (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacán – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning, through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico- Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will have mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go to the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacán to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and overnight in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. In Tlaxcala visit the place where St. Michael the Archangel appeared to Diego Lazaro in 1631. After lunch head to Puebla where we visit the Franciscan church of Puebla where the incorrupt body of Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio is preserved. After arriving from Spain, he became very wealthy in agricultural business and road building. He taught the local Indians to cultivate the land and how to build agricultural tools. Late in life, Sebastian gave all of his wealth to the convent of Poor Clares, and joined the Order of St. Francis. Though already in his 70’s, he did not exempt himself from hard work and begging to support the Friars. We return to Mexico City for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mexico City – Lima, Peru
We pack our bags early and transfer to the airport and fly to Lima, Peru. Our 5 hour flight will arrive in Lima in the afternoon. The group will transfer to the hotel and then you will have free time to relax or explore at your leisure. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal with the group this evening. (B, D)

Day 5 | Lima
Today we explore all that Lima has to offer. Peru is a devout Catholic country with a stunning 90% of its residents practicing Catholicism. It is home to some of the world’s most famous Saints: Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Martin de Porres. This morning we head to the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo. This is the oldest religious site in Lima. Here is where Saint Martin de Porres practiced his faith and where the beautiful Saint Rose of Lima is buried. We will spend time in Holy Mass and prayer while reflecting on the lives of St. Rose and St. Martin. After this we head to the Plaza Mayor and visit the locals. Here you will see the historic architecture and crafted gardens. We will spend the afternoon exploring the city as a group. This evening enjoy a group dinner. (B, D).

Day 6 | Lima
This morning we head to the Sanctuary of Las Nazarenas which was constructed to honor the patron of the city, Lord of Miracles. After time for prayer, we head over to the Pucllana Temple which is home to incredible ruins. Not a far trek from the city, these ruins show the history of Lima. After visiting this site we head to the Larco Musuem which is home to many pre-Colombian artifacts. We will leisurely explore the museum and then head to Larcomar, a boardwalk situated on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. We will have time to relax and enjoy lunch here while taking in the sights and sounds of the street. Without skipping a beat we are back on our tour to visit the Church of San Francisco which is home to the catacombs of Lima. Tonight we enjoy dinner in the city. (B,D)

Day 7 | Lima – Belize City
This morning we pack our bags and for the airport for our 7 hours flight to Belize City. Upon arrival we will be taken to our beach front hotel and the rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy all that God’s nature has provided. Enjoy a traditional meal with the group. (B,D)

Day 8 | Belize City
This morning we explore Belize City starting with St. John’s Cathedral. This beautiful Cathedral is situated on the Caribbean Coast representing the entrance of Catholicism to the New World. After celebrating Holy Mass we take a drive to Xunantunich which holds Ancient Mayan ruins. Upon arrival back in Belize City, the rest of the day is yours to explore the city or relax at the beach. Enjoy dinner on your own this evening. (B,D)

Day 9 | Belize City
This day is left for your enjoyment. You are free to spend the last day of this pilgrimage exploring the city, or relaxing. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with the group to share your favorite memories. (B, D)

Day 10 | Belize City – USA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for our flight back to the USA. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Peru and Bolivia: Exploring Marian Shrines

Peru and Bolivia: Exploring Marian Shrines

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Peru and Bolivia: Exploring Marian Shrines

Lima | Pachacamac | Paracas | Ballestas Islands | Huacachina | Nazca | Puerto Inca | Arequipa | Lake Titicaca | Puno | Copacabana | Sun Island | Juli | Sillustani | Cuzco | Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu

>> Dive into the heart of South America with this pilgrimage to Peru and Bolivia. The trip will lead you along some of the most awe inspiring sites in the Western Hemisphere. Explore the terrain early Christian missionaries trekked across to spread the word of Christ and learn the story of the peoples and cultures they encountered. This trip will leave you in awe of the Church and her people.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

"We've been to Italy, and Poland, and Israel, and we wanted something different. Wow. I had no idea I was missing so much!"

–Michael R. 

Day 1 | USA – Lima, Peru
Depart the USA on your flight to Lima, Peru. Meals will be served aboard your international flight. Upon arrival you will be met by your guide who will take the group back to their accommodations. Relax after your flight and then enjoy a welcome dinner with your group and guide this evening. (D)

Day 2 | Lima
This morning enjoy a Peruvian breakfast before our tour of this City of the Kings. Lima was founded by Francisco Pizarro and is home to some of the most beautiful sites of South America. We will visit the colonial Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas), the magnificent Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s palace, the Franciscan monastery and catacombs, the Dominican monastery, and the tombs of St. Rose of Lima and St. Martin de Porr es. This evening we enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 3 | Lima – Pachacamac – Paracas
We depart from the City of Kings to Pachacamac. This popular archaeological site is home to some of the most important pre-Columbian artifacts. We stop here to see how life was before the Spaniards arrived and then we head to our next destination, Paracas. This city is situated between sandy deserts, riverbeds of shallow rocky rivers and the Pacific Ocean. We rest tonight in Paracas, enjoying local cuisine. (B, D)

Day 4 | Paracas – Ballestas Islands – Huacachina – Nazca
Our pilgrimage takes us to the seas this morning. We board a local ship for a few relaxing hours sailing around the Ballestas Islands. These islands are home to many forms of wildlife, the most popular being the sea lions. We will see them basking in the sun, water birds diving for their morning meals, and much more. After our morning at sea, we load our comfortable coach and head south stopping in the city of Ica which is a stunning oasis of palm trees and tropical vegetation surrounding a lake against the back drop of golden sand dunes. We spend some time taking in the beauty and then continue south to Nazca. Nazca is famous for their gravel desert plateaus with geometrical motifs as well as fascinating wildlife. This phenomenon is best viewed from a light aircraft deck and you are welcome to make an optional flight to see this site (depending on weather). We overnight in this quaint oasis. (B, D)

Day 5 | Nazca – Puerto Inca – Arequipa
This morning we depart Nazca early for a scenic drive down the Pacific coast that provides views of the sea and sandy deserts. We stop in Puerto Inca, a secluded port of the Incas. This peaceful stop is a place for us to stretch our legs and learn about Incan culture all while feeling the ocean breeze. This evening arrive in Arequipa where we eat dinner as a group and retire to our rooms. (B, D)

Day 6 | Arequipa
After a full night’s rest and a filling breakfast we start exploring this charming city from the 16th century that is situated between high volcanoes. Here we will visit the monastery of Santa Catalina which is the only one of its kind in all of South America. We will celebrate Holy Mass in the Basilica Cathedral of Arequipa and explore the main plaza with colorful streets. Enjoy local cuisine with the group at a local restaurant tonight. (B, D)

Day 7 | Arequipa – Lake Titicaca – Puno
The Andes await us! We board our coach and climb higher and higher up the mountain pass of Abra Toroya all while viewing spectacular sites from the altitude of the Andes. Our climb takes us past wild herds of llamas and alpacas as well as other alpine animals. We finish our climb at 12,000ft in the quaint village of Puno where we visit the famous Lake Titicaca. (B, D)

Day 8 | Puno – Lake Titicaca – Copacabana, Bolivia
Today we leave Peru behind and take to the water to cross over to Bolivia, as half of Lake Titicaca belongs to Peru and the other half to Bolivia. This lake offers not only amazing scenes for photography but is also home to many cultures living on different islands on the lake. The indigenous people here still hold age old customs, language and dress. We end our day’s journey in Copacabana, Bolivia, which is home to the Virgin of Copacabana, the largest Marian Shrine of South America. (B, D)

Day 9 | Copacabana – Sun Island – Juli – Puno
We start our morning celebrating Holy Mass at the Shrine of the Virgin of Copacabana before sailing to the Island of the Sun on Lake Titicaca. The Island of the Sun (Isla del Sol) is known today for its vast ruins and for a traditional way of life. Later we find ourselves back on land and travel back to Peru, passing through the town of Juli. Here there is a magnificent church with intricate paintings. This is also where the Jesuits in the 16th century attempted to build a mission for the Indians. Our guide will fascinate us with the stories of a different world and the history of this region. This evening we return to Puno for our overnight. (B, D)

Day 10 | Puno – Sillustani – Raqchi – Andahuaylillas – Cuzco
This morning we board our coach for our scenic drive to Cuzco, the ancient Inca capital. The first stop is in Sillustani on Lake Umayo, where there are tombs in the shape of towers. In the beautiful mountainous valley, which runs the ancient Incan road, we will move north, stopping at important locations such as Raqchi and Andahuaylillas. We arrive in Cuzco this evening where we dine as a group and relax after a long day of travel. (B, D)

Day 11 | Cuzco
Dedicating the whole day to this charming city, we start our walking tour of this former capital city. Many say that Cuzco is not only the most beautiful city in Peru but in all of South America and our tour will highlight the reasons for this statement. We visit the complex Cathedral which consists of three temples, a Marian Shrine, and priceless works of Sacred Art. Cuzco is also home to a dozen churches including a Dominican Monastery built into the ruins of the Incan Temple of the Sun. Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient ruins amidst the modern city center. Enjoy dinner on your own tonight. (B)

Day 12 | Cuzco – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cuzco
We fill up on a traditional Peruvian breakfast and start our adventure. The railway will take us to Ollantaytambo where we will board another special tourist train that will drive us along the Urubamba River to the small tropical village of Aguas Calientes. In Aguas Calientes we will find the switchbacks to climb to the ruins of Machu Picchu. This is the most spectacular set of ruins in the world. Our guide will give you time to marvel at the beauty and tell you of the ancient peoples who lived here before. This evening we return to Cuzco where we enjoy a farewell dinner together. (B, D)

Day 13 | Cuzco – USA
We share breakfast together and start making our journey back to the USA. (B)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Mexico: Experience the History of the Catholic Church

Mexico City | Guadalupe | Teotihuacán | Santiago de Tlatelolco | Tlaxcala | Puebla | Cancún

>> The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated on December 12th. In 1999, Pope Saint John Paul II, in his homily given during the Solemn Mass at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, his third visit to the sanctuary, declared the date of December the 12th as a Liturgical Holy Day for the whole continent. During the same visit Pope Saint John Paul II entrusted the cause of life to her loving protection, and placed under her motherly care the innocent lives of children, especially those who are in danger of not being born.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
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“The pilgrimage was amazing, the beach was second best!”

–Harriot Jame

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to your hotel in Mexico City (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacán – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico– Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will celebrate Holy Mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go to the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacán to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and over night in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. In Tlaxcala visit the place where St. Michael the Archangel appeared to Diego Lazaro in 1631. After lunch head to Puebla where we visit the Franciscan church of Puebla where the incorrupt body of Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio is preserved. After arriving from Spain, he became very wealthy in agricultural business and road building. He taught the local natives to cultivate the land and how to build agricultural tools. Late in life, Sebastian gave all of his wealth to the convent of Poor Clares, and joined the Order of St. Francis. Though already in his 70’s, he did not exempt himself from hard work and begging to support the Friars. We return to Mexico City for dinner and over night. (B, D)

Day 4 | Mexico City – Guadalupe – Zócalo, Metropolitan Cathedral – Holy Family Church (Bl. Miguel Pro) – Guadalupe
After breakfast, we will make our way to the famous main plaza of Mexico City, the Zócalo formally named the Plaza de la Constitución. We will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and see the tomb of Bishop Zumarraga, the first Bishop of Mexico, known as the Protector of Indians. As we continue our journey learning about the history of Indians, and Mexican Christians we will arrive at the Holy Family Church in Mexico City. Pray at the tomb of Blessed Fr. Miguel Pro, the Jesuit martyr who having joined the Jesuits at a young age left Mexico in 1914 due to the tremendous anti–Catholic sentiment that reigned against the people by the government. He studied in Los Gatos, California until 1915 when he was sent to seminary in Spain. In 1925 he was ordained a Priest in Belgium and returned to Mexico. During this time of persecution, churches were closed and Catholics could only practice in hiding. Padre Pro clandestinely heard confessions, celebrated Holy Mass, and anointed the sick. In 1927 Bl. Pro was wrongly accused of an assassination attempt on the Mexican President. Moments before his execution, Blessed Fr. Miguel Pro forgave his executioners, and with his arms spread in the form of a cross he cried out ‘Viva Cristo Rey!’ This afternoon again visit Our Lady of Guadalupe with time for prayer and reflection. Tonight we enjoy a farewell dinner together before returning to the hotel for overnight. (B, D)
Option: Return to USA or Fly to Cancún for a few days of relaxation

Day 5 | Mexico City – Cancún
After breakfast we transfer to the airport in Mexico City for our flight to Cancún. After a short 2 hour flight arrive in the beach resort city of Cancún wher e we are transferred to our all–inclusive beach get– away resort. Enjoy the beach for the next few days! (B, D)

Day 6 and 7 | Cancún All–Inclusive Resort (Wyndham Maya, Royal Sands, or similar)
Enjoy a few days relaxing on the beach, sipping on unlimited drinks, and delighting yourself with various dining options available all day long. (B, D)

Day 8 | Cancún departure for USA
After breakfast we transfer to the airport in Cancún for our flight home. (B)

OPTIONAL EXTENSION: Enjoy an additional 3 nights at your all– inclusive resort!

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Introduction to the History of Catholicism in Mexico

Introduction to the History of Catholicism in Mexico

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Introduction to the History of Catholicism in Mexico

Mexico City | Guadalupe | Teotihuacan | Tlaxcala | Ocotlán | Cholula | San Francisco Acatepec | Puebla | Tula | Queretaro | San Miguel Allende | Guanajuato | Taxco | Cancún

>> The history of Catholicism in Mexico is fascinating; starting with Spanish Missionaries arriving in the 16th century, to the more recent Reform War of the 19th century. Come here to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe and listen to our historian guide share the culture and history of the local people. Past President of Mexico Porfirio Díaz once said “Without its religion, Mexico is irretrievably lost.” A recent census in Mexico reveals 82% of its population is Catholic!

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“Let's do this again asap!"

–Gwendolyn W.

Day 1 | USA – Mexico City
Depart the USA for Mexico City. Meals are served aboard your flight. Upon arrival we meet our Escort and transfer to the hotel in Mexico City (D)

Day 2 | Guadalupe – Teotihuacan – Santiago de Tlatelolco – Mexico City
This morning, through the Plaza of Three Cultures we visit one of the most historical churches in Mexico– Santiago de Tlatelolco. Continue to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe where we will celebrate Holy Mass in the main Basilica before the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Afterward, we go the original church where we learn the history of Juan Diego and the Tilma, with its miraculous image of Our Lady. In the afternoon we head to San Juan Teotihuacan to see the famous archaeological site of the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon. Dinner and overnight in Mexico City. (B, D)

Day 3 | Tlaxcala – Ocotlán – Cholula – Santa María Tonantzintla – San Francisco Acatepec – Puebla
Today we have a fascinating day of history through the early church in Mexico, showing its Spanish roots and Indian culture. We visit Ocotlán to see the image of Our Lady burnt into a tree trunk. In Cholula we see Mexico’s largest pyramids, and the church of San Francisco Acatepac with its fantastic façade and encrusted spiral columns. Continue to Puebla for overnight. (B, D)

Day 4 | Puebla – Tula – Queretaro
After a filling breakfast we head to the Cathedral and Rosary Chapel. In the supervision of the Dominicans, we will be awed by the architecture and design here. Enjoying the warm weather and sun we continue to Tula, home to the gigantic Toltec Warrior stone columns. We continue our history lesson of Chichen Itza, Hidalgo, Quetzacoatl and the Aztec Empire. This evening we arrive in Queretaro for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

Day 5 | San Miguel Allende – Guanajuato
This morning we take an excursion to San Migeul Allende in Guanajuato. This town attracts thousands of foreign artists, writers, and tourists. The well preserved historic center is home to World Heritage Sites and full of bright colored buildings seemingly built upon one another when seen from a panoramic view. Spend some time in the parish church of San Miguel and enjoy fine Mexican dining. (B, D)

Day 6 | Taxco – Mexico City
Today we travel through the mountains to Taxco, home to some of the World’s finest silver. Mining here began during pre–Hispanic times and continues to produce world class silver pieces. See the stunning main altar of the Santa Prisca Church, celebrate Holy Mass and enjoy lunch before returning to Mexico City for overnight before we head to Cancún for a few days of rest on the beach. (B, D)
Option: Return to USA or Fly to Cancún for a few days of relaxation
Day 7 | Mexico City – Cancún
After breakfast we head to the airport in Mexico City for our flight to Cancún. After a short 2 hour flight arrive in the beach resort city of Cancún where we are transferred to our all-inclusive beach get-away resort. Enjoy the beach for the next few days! (B, D)

Days 8 & 9 | Cancún
Enjoy a few days relaxing on the beach, sipping on unlimited drinks, and delighting yourself with various dining options available all day long. (B, D)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com

 

Exploration of the Yucatán

Exploration of the Yucatán

The possibilities are endless!

Check out our 35+ sample itineraries and mix days from different ones to create a truly customized trip.

Exploration of the Yucatán

Cancún | Valladolid | Chichén Itzá | Izamal | Mérida | Playa del Carmen

>> Mexico is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It also serves as a gateway to the ancient world of New Spain. This program offers a glimpse into both of these wonders. Join us on this tour of Mexico and find yourself lost in a world of vibrant color and rich culture.

Inclusions

  • Round trip air transportation from major airport near your parish
  • Superior tourist class hotel accommodations double occupancy with bath or shower (single supplement extra)
  • Breakfast daily, most group dinners, with wine and beer, as indicated in Itinerary (B, D)
  • Special events, entertainment, and comprehensive sightseeing programs as indicated in itinerary
  • Transportation by private deluxe motor coach Tour escort and local guides
  • Hotel Service Charges and Taxes
  • US airport taxes, fuel surcharges included** **subject to change in the rare occasion that government/airline fees and fuel costs increase drastically
|

“A surreal and blessed experience, Thank you”

– Ramona McKenzie

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)

 

John Paul Pilgrimages and Tours, Inc.

7730 E. Greenway Rd. STE 104 Scottsdale AZ 85260

1-480-626-1266
info@johnpaultours.com