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Mexico's Treasure: The Yucatan
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 Mexico's lush Yucatan is a tropical paradise filled with ancient ruins, baroque colonial architecture and exotic flora and fauna. Geographically isolated, the Yucatan is home to a unique culture influenced by the indigenous Mayan Indians and historic trading partners from the Caribbean and Europe. Marvel at ancient Mayan pyramids and temples, learn about traditional Mayan and Mexican cultures and savor the delicious flavors of regional cuisine during your sojourn in Yucatan. Highlights
Ek'Balam, Valladolid, Merida, Izamal, Uxmal, Kabah, Celestun, Chichen Itza Collette Experience To travel in Mexico's Yucatan is to explore a world of ancient Maya archaeological sites, colonial architecture and savory cooking. Our local guest speakers will enhance your experience with a series of exclusive talks.
? Learn about the Maya heritage before and after the Spanish Conquest.
? Gain knowledge about the ecological wonders of the Yucatan land and environment.
? Enjoy a presentation on Yucatecan cuisine and sample the delicious local dishes.
? Learn about the distinctive structures and architecture of the Maya region. |
| Call (800) 727-8440 for more information or to book today! Mention code 8724024 | | Collette Vacations | | Offer valid through 12/31/2009 | | | Day | Destination | Description | | Day 1 | Cancun | Cancun, Mexico : Travel to Mexico's lush Yucatan, a tropical paradise filled with ancient archaeological sites, baroque architecture and exotic flora and fauna. During your historic journey, marvel at ancient Maya pyramids and temples, learn about traditional Maya and Mexican cultures and savor the delicious flavors of the region's cuisine. Your tour begins in the Caribbean jewel of Mexico's Yucatan peninsula, Cancun. The remainder of your day is at leisure to explore Cancun independently.
| | Day 2 | Merida | Cancun - Ek'Balam - Valladolid - Merida : Visit the magnificent archaeological site of Ek'Balam (Star Jaguar). Dating from AD 900, this wealthy city-state was known for richly carved stone, molded stucco ornamentation, stelae, a sophisticated network of roads and numerous hieroglyphic texts. Next, spend time at the colonial city of Valladolid, known as "The Pearl of the East." Enjoy some time at leisure to explore the plaza. Your day ends in Merida, capital city of the Yucatan. Join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception followed by dinner.
| | Day 3 | Merida | Merida - Izamal - Merida : A tour of Merida - founded in 1542 and known as the "white city"- features the spectacular archaeological finds at the Museum of Anthropology and the impressive collection of paintings at the Governor's Palace. See the Plaza Principal, Cathedral of San Ildefonso, and Paseo Montejo with its gorgeous 19th-century homes. Outside Merida, you will stop for lunch at a local hacienda to sample Yucatecan cuisine. Travel to Izamal, a beautiful colonial city known for its seven major Maya pyramids. Explore the treasures of this unique town on your own before returning to Merida for an evening at leisure.
| | Day 4 | Merida | Merida - Uxmal - Kabah - Merida : Enjoy a full-day excursion to two impressive archaeological sites in the area, known as Puuc Route, which has World Heritage status. First, visit Uxmal, which was one of the largest city-states in the Yucatan. Enjoy a guided tour and see the impressive building known as the "Pyramid of the Magician." Later, travel to Kabah, the sister city-state to Uxmal, and visit the "Temple of the Masks," whose facade is completely adorned with sculptures of the rain god, Chac. This evening you are invited to a presentation on Yucatecan cuisine followed by a wonderful dinner at a local restaurant.
| | Day 5 | Merida | Merida - Hacienda Visit - Merida : Today, travel back in time to the golden days of the haciendas when you visit the Hacienda Sotuta Peon. Experience the grandeur and magnificence of the hacienda buildings and plantation and watch the staff of this working plantation produce and process henequen (sisal). Take a scenic ride on an historic mule-drawn cart and perhaps enjoy a swim in a cenote, an underwater cave. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore all that Merida has to offer.
| | Day 6 | Merida | Merida - Uman - Celestun - Merida : This morning, walk through a local market in the town of Uman. Your guide will talk about the local produce that is used for everyday cuisine in the Yucatan. Your day continues at the Ecological Reserve at Celestun. During a relaxing boat excursion watch for the local wildlife, including elegant flamingos and pelicans that make this their home. After returning to Merida, the balance of the day is at leisure.
| | Day 7 | Valladolid | Merida - Chichen Itza - Valladolid : No trip to the Yucatan would be complete without visiting the famous Maya city-state of Chichen Itza. Explore what was once the largest political and religious center in the Yucatan. Marvel at the magnificent archaeological site that demonstrates the impressive architectural skills and ingenuity of the ancient Maya civilization. Your day concludes with a farewell dinner.
| | Day 8 | Tour Concludes | Valladolid - Tour Concludes : Your tour ends today in Valladolid.
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| | | Radisson Hacienda Cancun or similar | | El Castellano Hotel | | Ecotel Quinta Regia | |
| Note
Tour prices are Land Only rates based on per person double occupancy. Please call your agent for triple or child occupancy rates. Taxes and fees are additional for tours that feature a cruise; port taxes are not included in the prices shown. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking. |
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