Discover the Yucatan & the Mayan World
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Port
Progreso (Merida), Yucatan, Mexico
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$69
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Take a journey into Mexico's ancient past and learn how history has shaped each aspect of the everyday lives of the Maya people in the 21st century. Many visitors think of the Maya as an ancient civilization that disappeared long ago but, in fact,
Mayan culture, customs, language and beliefs remain strong on the Yucatan Peninsula even today.
Let the scenery of Mexico embrace you on a 45-minute drive. You'll be seeing pink when you stop at two beautiful natural lagoons, where countless flamingos live and play against a backdrop of blue.
Explore the ruins of Xcambo — an important city in the ancient Mayan trade route. Built more than 2,000 years ago to control salt production, Xcambo remains a fascinating example of the gifts of archaeology. It contains untouched sites, fully restored pyramids, and buildings still undergoing reconstruction.
Visit the town of Dzemul — a modern-day Mayan village where traditional palapas sit next to Spanish-influenced buildings. Follow your guide through town to the Catholic cathedral in the main square. Relax in the gardens, watch the townsfolk pass by, and take in these colorful surroundings.
Next, head to a lovely Beach Club for an hour to relax in the sun over a Mexican lunch buffet and refreshments.
Return directly to the ship with the tour or, time permitting, guests wishing to stay in town to shop or explore independently at the marketplace are welcome to do so, but must make their own way back to the ship.
Notes:
Tour requires considerable walking and climbing on uneven, rough surfaces. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, flagstones, inclines, gravel, grass, and many steps. Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc) cannot be accommodated on the transportation. Wear sturdy, non-skid, closed-toe walking shoes. The Mexican government charges an $8 fee for the use of video equipment inside the ruins. Tripods and/or professional video cameras are not allowed. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Travel time to Uxmal is approximately 1¾ hours each way. Archaeological restoration is ongoing; only certain structures are open to climb. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing; bring a towel, reef-safe/biodegradable sunscreen (no other kind is allowed) and a hat. Swim at your own risk. The Beach Club is not exclusive to Holland America guests.