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Mexico

Chiapas & the Yucatan Peninsula: Highlights & Hidden Sites

Program No. 25253RJ
Gain an overview of Chiapas and the Yucatan Peninsula while delving into Mayan history and modern culture at archaeological sites, villages and cities.

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At a Glance

Delve into the rich culture of the Yucatan Peninsula on this learning adventure that will bring you through rainforests, villages and Mayan history, all on one unforgettable journey. Explore archaeological sites like Chichen Itza (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Uxmal, and gain insight into the stories of the Mayan civilization and how Mayan people today maintain their traditions and spirituality. Wander the streets of the region’s small towns and larger cities and experience their unique architecture and local customs and crafts. Immerse yourself in nature in cenotes (natural limestone sinkholes), the mangroves of Celestum Biosphere Reserve and the Agua Azul waterfalls, with the chance to swim at a crystal-clear lagoon and ride in a boat through Sumidero Canyon. You’ll get a taste of archaeology, conservation, heritage and more as you circle the Yucatan Peninsula!
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to three hours at a time over varied terrain. Hot/humid weather conditions increase level of difficulty.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Explore four Mayan archaeological sites and their museums — Palenque, Uxmal, Chichen Itza and Tulum.
  • Participate in a cooking class to experience ancestral cuisine in an “aldea,” a Mayan rural community.
  • Experience rainforests, cenotes and waterfalls as you search for wildlife like howler monkeys and flamingos and learn about local conservation efforts.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Maria Mitrani
Maria Mitrani was born in Italy, then lived in Canada, the United States and France. She finally settled in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico, where she has been living since 1976 with her husband and three children. She has a bachelor’s in Italian and art history from the University of California at Berkeley. Since 1985 she has led learning adventures through different parts of Mexico and is a specialized guide for Baja California. She is one of the owners and founders of Andiamo.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Maria Mitrani
Maria Mitrani View biography
Maria Mitrani was born in Italy, then lived in Canada, the United States and France. She finally settled in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico, where she has been living since 1976 with her husband and three children. She has a bachelor’s in Italian and art history from the University of California at Berkeley. Since 1985 she has led learning adventures through different parts of Mexico and is a specialized guide for Baja California. She is one of the owners and founders of Andiamo.
Profile Image of Esther Mitrani
Esther Mitrani View biography
Esther Mitrani was born in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico. She graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology at the Universidad Autonoma de Baja California, then worked in San Francisco for three years in human resources in high-tech. Missing her home, she return to her native city. Esther has been guiding since 1994, and joined the family business in 2002 as an organizer and tour leader. She is an eager traveler, and she loves sports and languages.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.





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