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Hanal Pixan: Day of the Dead in the Yucatan

Highlights

  • Witness and take part in Day of the Dead celebrations in three different locations.
  • Learn how to cook 'pib', a special kind of tamale prepared in Yucatan for Day of the Dead celebrations.
  • Explore three different stunning cenotes.
  • Enjoy one of the wonders of the world - Chichen Itza.

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Give us a call or email to request your preferred dates and we’ll get in touch with our host to see what’s available.

What you'll do

Arrival Day

Upon arrival in the charming city of Cancun, you’ll be warmly 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

Presidente InterContinental Cancun; no meals included today

Meals:

No meals included today

Ek Balam and on to Merida

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. Fr...Read All

Uxmal and Day of the Dead Celebrations

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.

We will then head back to Merida, where we will witness the Day of the Dead procession, the peak of the festiv...Read All

Explore Merida

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.

 

 


Accomm...Read All

Submerged Yucatan

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,...Read All

Traditional Mayan Day

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 ...Read All

Chichen Itza and Cenotes

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 cele...Read All

Experience Valladolid

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 b...Read All

Departure Day

Sadly, your incredible journey comes to an end. 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!

What's included

Included

  • Extended Traveler insurance, valid for the entirety of the tour (9 days)
  • 8 overnights in well located, locally rated 4* and 5* hotels
  • 8 breakfasts at the hotels, including taxes and service charges
  • Authentic food tours in Merida and Cancun
  • Entrance fees according Chichen Itza, Cenotes, Caves and Ek Balam
  • Private vehicle for the group with A/C (highway fees, parking fees and driver expenses included)
  • Licensed English-speaking guide
Your local host

Alex and Team

Alex and his team take you to see the less visited, more authentic side of the country. Even if you’re staying in a big resort area, we have designed our tours to focus on unique experiences.

Wander through cobblestone streets, watch craftspeople in their workshops (or participate in craft making!), taste the food, and learn how to make it. Visit the natural wonders of Mexico, and marvel with our rich culture.

Having worked in tourism in Mexico for 50+ years, we have curated our experiences to show you only what we love the most.

Alex and his team take you to see the less visited, more authentic side of the country. Even if you’re staying in a big resort area, we have designed our tours to focus on unique experiences.

Wander through cobblestone streets, watch craftspeople in their workshops (or participate in craft making!), taste the food, and learn how to make it. Visit the natural wonders of Mexico, and marvel with our rich culture.

Having worked in tourism in Mexico for 50+ years, we have curated our experiences to show you only what we love the most.

Alex and Team image

Location

This tour starts and ends in Cancun.

Getting there

Please note that prices for the holidays do not include flights. We recommend using www.skyscanner.net to check flights.

Nearest airport:

Cancun International Airport

Located in the eastern-most part of Mexico, the Yucatan peninsula holds a wealth of places to visit: the resort destinations of Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen; the less visited beaches of Progreso, El Cuyo and Sisal; countless cenotes (natural sinkholes) and caves; a dense jungle perfect for hiking and bird watching; a myriad of little towns where the descendants of the Mayan people still speak their native language, and carry on with their traditions; and of course, the dozens of archaeological sites left behind by the Mayas.

FAQs

What is the activity level of this tour?

The active level of this tour is moderate. People with claustrophobia are recommended to refrain from going into cenotes, and the Calcehtok cave excursion can get your clothes wet and/or muddy, and this is the part of the tour that pushes the active level to moderate – we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes and a change of clothes.

What should I bring?

Guests are recommended to bring light, comfortable clothes; walking shoes; sunblock; insect repellent; hat; sunglasses; bathing suits; a small back pack for day excursions.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends at Cancun International Airport. If you require a different start or end spot, please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly. Additional costs may apply.

What time do you depart from Cancun?

Pick up on day 1 is per your arrival flight; other days start time is around 8am

What are the Day of the Dead celebrations?

Day of the Dead celebrations are very important for Mexicans, and we will make visits to cemeteries when people are paying respect to the Dead; please proceed with respect and ask permission to take photos or record videos, specially in the smaller communities or cemeteries.

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