Oct 25 – Nov 2, 2023
Join in on the vibrant and colorful celebrations of Day of the Dead in Merida. This traditional Mexican festival is a chance to witness and actively participate in rituals and ceremonies that pay homage to deceased loved ones.
Master the art of traditional Mexican cuisine by taking a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn how to make Pib, a delicious and unique tamal made especially for the Day of the Dead celebrations. The class will be held by a local cook and you will learn about the history, tradition and the ingredients used in the tamal.
Explore the natural beauty of Mexico by visiting a variety of mesmerizing cenotes and an awe-inspiring cave system. The crystal-clear water, natural light and limestone formation of the cenotes and the cave system will leave you in awe.
Delve into the cultural significance of death and mourning by visiting three different cemeteries and witnessing the intricate and meaningful rituals of Day of the Dead up close. The tour will allow you to experience and understand the significance of this traditional celebration in the local culture.
$2,449usd per person (in double room)
9 days, 8 nights
Starts in Cancun, October 25th, 2023
Ends in Cancun, November 2nd, 2023
Upon arrival in the city of Cancun, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff who will escort you to your beach hotel for check-in. Take the evening to relax and unwind after your journey, and get ready for an exciting experience ahead.
Accommodation at Presidente InterContinental Cancun; no meals included today
Today, you’ll visit the lesser-known but equally impressive archaeological site of Ek Balam. Far less visited than the nearby Chichen Itza, but no less remarkable. Marvel at the complexity of the statues, engravings and palaces, and feel free to climb the pyramids if you’re feeling adventurous. After your visit, the journey continues to the magical town of Izamal, where houses are painted in bright yellow and a local convent boasts the second largest atrium in the world. From here, you’ll head inland towards Merida for a four night stay.
Accommodation at El Castellano; breakfast included today
Travel southwest to visit the picturesque and unique Mayan city of Uxmal, renowned for its intricate engravings and unique architectural style known as Puuc. This is one of the most important Mayan cities and it’s sure to leave you in awe. Afterwards, you’ll head to a nearby cave system, where you’ll have a striking encounter with the Mayan underworld. You’ll return to Merida early in the evening, in time to experience the vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations, known as Hanal Pixan in Maya.
Accommodation at El Castellano; breakfast included today
Today’s itinerary is more relaxed, allowing you to fully enjoy the charming colonial White City during a guided city tour, followed by a flavorful food tour of the local hotspots. Merida is a city that truly embodies the Mexican people- you’ll see evidence of its rich history, cultural diversity, and the pride of its inhabitants everywhere you look. Later in the evening, continue to indulge in the local Day of the Dead celebrations.
Accommodation at El Castellano; breakfast and lunch included today
A short distance from Merida, you’ll find an intriguing collection of cenotes, natural sinkholes that are considered sacred by the Mayan people. You’ll visit three different ones, learning about their different types, their connection to the Mayan underworld and their religious significance. Of course, you’ll have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in these crystal-clear waters. Afterwards, you’ll return to Merida to witness the Day of the Dead procession, the peak of the festivities in Merida, full of color, music, and delicious food. The procession ends at the main square, where you can join in the celebrations and admire the intricate altars on display.
Accommodation at El Castellano; breakfast included today
Prepare for an unforgettable, authentic experience as you immerse yourself in the daily life of a traditional Mayan community. You’ll have the opportunity to converse, learn and spend time with local families who are direct descendants of the ancient Mayan Kingdom. They’ll welcome you into their homes, sharing their customs, teaching you about traditional handcrafts, farming, and cooking techniques. Participate as much or as little as you like, and savor the delicious meal prepared by your host family, before taking a refreshing dip in the local cenote. The journey continues to the charming colonial city of Valladolid in Yucatan, for 2 nights of comfortable accommodation.
Accommodation at Real Hispano; breakfast included today
Rise and shine for an early start to visit the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive. Here, you’ll explore the main areas of the site, including the sacred cenote, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the connection between this world and the world beyond, along with the ancient Mayan beliefs surrounding death. Before heading back to Valladolid, take a refreshing dip in a cenote and later, experience the local Day of the Dead celebrations in the evening.
Accommodation at Real Hispano; breakfast included today
Start your day off on the right foot with a captivating city tour of Valladolid, where you’ll delve into the traditional flavors and rich history of the Yucatan Peninsula. As you explore the charming streets of this vibrant city, you’ll learn about its past as a thriving hub of commerce and agriculture, as well as its important role in interactions between the Maya and the Spanish. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own, whether it’s browsing the local markets, doing some shopping, or simply relaxing in a charming café. Later, you’ll head back to Cancun where you’ll embark on an unforgettable taco tour and discover the best local spots where locals actually dine.
Accommodation at Real Hispano; breakfast and dinner included today
At the designated time, our professional driver will arrive at your hotel to drive you to the airport, after a trip been filled with unforgettable experiences, amazing sights and mouth-watering foods. We thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey and we hope that you’ll return soon to discover more of the beauty and culture of Mexico. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon!
No accommodation provided today; breakfast included today
