Mayan Tree of Life & Chocolate Discovery
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Port
Puerto Chiapas, 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
$89.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Investigate one of the most intriguing Mayan sites in the region, with a collection of ancient stone carvings dating from roughly 300 - 100 BC. These carvings at the Izapa ruins depict the Mayan ideas of Creation. A particularly interesting and complex one, Stela V, depicts the Tree of Life, human figures, and animals. Theories surrounding the carvings speculate about visitors from other continents long before the arrival of Columbus. The Tree of Life is depicted as a Ceiba tree, easily identifiable by its extraordinary height, high crown, and large, buttressed roots. See this and the many other stelae at the Izapa site.
A short bus ride brings you to Tuxtla Chico, where you will learn about the sacred cacao bean and its importance to the Mayan people. During a demonstration in the main square, see how cacao beans are transformed into chocolate. Sample the locally made chocolate and see a variety of regional handicrafts. Dancers and marimba players put on a lively performance.
After a stop at the town's historic church, you will head back to the pier.
Notes:
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes; bring sunscreen, a hat and insect repellent.