Overview
NEW - Yucatan: Astronomy, Pyramids & Mayan Legends
North America
8 days
7 nights
12 people
Easy
Wildlife & Nature
Step into the Yucatán, channeling your inner Indiana Jones to uncover the region's lost cities. From the towering ruins of Uxmal to a Mayan metropolis of Chichén Itzá, delve deep into the region's fascinating history while exploring lush jungles and meeting community insiders. Learn the secrets of one of the world’s greatest civilizations, and meet the people carrying its history forward. Lose yourself in vibrant Merida, swim in crystal-clear cenotes and indulge in mouthwatering Mexican cuisine. As you gaze at celestial skies, you'll find yourself transported to another time and place, fully immersed in the unique beauty of the Yucatán.
Global Community: Join local astronomers for a night of stargazing with incredible views of constellations, planets and star clusters.
Special Access: Visit a small town cemetery where the bones are cleaned yearly, then put on display.
Travel with Purpose: Spend the day with a Mayan community that keeps a traditional, communal societal structure alive.
Highlights
- Visit the site of the ancient crater that (perhaps) killed the dinosaurs.
- Uncover the lost city of Calakmul.
- Join local astronomers for a night of stargazing.
- Meet a local shaman and his family.
- Spend the day with a small Mayan community that embraces the traditional communal way of life.
Mayan legends, ancient craters, lost cities, and stunning constellations.
Day 1
Welcome to Mexico
¡Bienvenidos, welcome to Playa Del Carmen! On arrival, take a transfer from the airport to your beachfront hotel. Enjoy a memorable welcome dinner at a unique restaurant in a vast underground cave. As we tuck in, we can chat with our guides and fellow travelers, discussing the adventures that await us!
Welcome to Mexico
¡Bienvenidos, welcome to Playa Del Carmen! On arrival, take a transfer from the airport to your beachfront hotel. Enjoy a memorable welcome dinner at a unique restaurant in a vast underground cave. As we tuck in, we can chat with our guides and fellow travelers, discussing the adventures that await us!
-
Hotel Petit Lafite or similar, Playa Del Carmen
-
Welcome Dinner
-
Hotel Petit Lafite or similar, Playa Del Carmen
-
Welcome Dinner
Day 2
Mayan Traditions, Cuisine & Ruins
Today is all about immersion into the living heritage of the Maya. First, pay a visit to the Yaxunah community, chatting with locals as you wander the milpas (corn fields) that have sustained life here for centuries, then take a refreshing plunge into the crystalline Cenote Lol-há. Afterward, join the nearby Piste community for a midday feast, indulging in some traditional Yucatecan cuisine prepared by the village's best cooks. This afternoon, visit golden-hued Izamal, a captivating archaeological site, uncovering layers of history at the ancient Kinich Kak Mo pyramid, once a sacred Maya sun temple, later repurposed by Spanish friars. Wander around the 16th-century St. Antony's Monastery, which boasts the second-largest monastic court in the world after the Vatican. As dusk falls, vibrant Merida awakens for an evening of solo exploration.
Mayan Traditions, Cuisine & Ruins
Today is all about immersion into the living heritage of the Maya. First, pay a visit to the Yaxunah community, chatting with locals as you wander the milpas (corn fields) that have sustained life here for centuries, then take a refreshing plunge into the crystalline Cenote Lol-há. Afterward, join the nearby Piste community for a midday feast, indulging in some traditional Yucatecan cuisine prepared by the village's best cooks. This afternoon, visit golden-hued Izamal, a captivating archaeological site, uncovering layers of history at the ancient Kinich Kak Mo pyramid, once a sacred Maya sun temple, later repurposed by Spanish friars. Wander around the 16th-century St. Antony's Monastery, which boasts the second-largest monastic court in the world after the Vatican. As dusk falls, vibrant Merida awakens for an evening of solo exploration.
-
Hotel Caribe or similar, Merida
-
Breakfast, Lunch
-
Hotel Caribe or similar, Merida
-
Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3
From Crater to Cosmos
Enjoy a truly cosmic experience today as you delve into the cataclysmic event that reshaped life on Earth, the Chicxulub Crater. Buried deep beneath the Yucatán's limestone lies evidence of an asteroid impact so colossal, it led to the demise of the dinosaurs and over half of all species 66 million years ago. Though the 93-mile-wide, 12-mile-deep crater itself lies submerged in the Gulf, its presence reverberates through millennia. At the mind-bending meteorite museum, observe millions of years of planetary history. Then take a tour of Chicxulub town’s indelible Maya roots, stopping for lunch and a margarita at the lively market. Head back to Merida for the afternoon to relax or explore on your own. As the sun dips below the horizon, an astral delight awaits: join local astronomers for a stargazing tour (weather permitting) to witness the mysteries of the universe through powerful telescopes.
From Crater to Cosmos
Enjoy a truly cosmic experience today as you delve into the cataclysmic event that reshaped life on Earth, the Chicxulub Crater. Buried deep beneath the Yucatán's limestone lies evidence of an asteroid impact so colossal, it led to the demise of the dinosaurs and over half of all species 66 million years ago. Though the 93-mile-wide, 12-mile-deep crater itself lies submerged in the Gulf, its presence reverberates through millennia. At the mind-bending meteorite museum, observe millions of years of planetary history. Then take a tour of Chicxulub town’s indelible Maya roots, stopping for lunch and a margarita at the lively market. Head back to Merida for the afternoon to relax or explore on your own. As the sun dips below the horizon, an astral delight awaits: join local astronomers for a stargazing tour (weather permitting) to witness the mysteries of the universe through powerful telescopes.
-
Hotel Caribe or similar, Merida
-
Breakfast, Dinner
-
Hotel Caribe or similar, Merida
-
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
Chichén Itzá
Today, prepare to experience the magic of Chichén Itzá in a spellbinding double act. By day, wander amid the iconic ruins as your guide unveils the ancient secrets of this sophisticated Maya metropolis. Let your imagination roam as you explore monuments where high priests once made sacred sacrifices. But the true enchantment unfolds after sunset, when the ruins are illuminated for a different perspective on this fascinating archaeological site. From the soaring El Castillo pyramid to the astronomical observatory, be transported through centuries of Maya mythology and history. Over the course of the evening, we'll hear tales of love, war, life, and death originating from one of humanity's most fascinating civilizations.
Chichén Itzá
Today, prepare to experience the magic of Chichén Itzá in a spellbinding double act. By day, wander amid the iconic ruins as your guide unveils the ancient secrets of this sophisticated Maya metropolis. Let your imagination roam as you explore monuments where high priests once made sacred sacrifices. But the true enchantment unfolds after sunset, when the ruins are illuminated for a different perspective on this fascinating archaeological site. From the soaring El Castillo pyramid to the astronomical observatory, be transported through centuries of Maya mythology and history. Over the course of the evening, we'll hear tales of love, war, life, and death originating from one of humanity's most fascinating civilizations.
-
Hotel Caribe or similar, Merida
-
Breakfast
-
Hotel Caribe or similar, Merida
-
Breakfast
Day 5
Uxmal Pyramids & Pomuch Mysteries
Lose yourself amid the well-preserved ruins of Uxmal, marveling at the impressive Pyramid of the Magician and the intricate carvings adorning the Governor's Palace. Climb atop these towering pyramids for views over vast, emerald-green jungle canopies. Then, gain insight into Mayan spiritual beliefs at the extraordinary Pomuch Cemetery, as you learn how death is celebrated through the ritual of rebirth (ka’a put siijil). Reward your curiosity with the town's famous pan de pueblos, freshly baked breads infused with centuries of Maya culinary heritage. As sunset paints Campeche in warm, golden hues, wander its photogenic web of streets lined with colorful colonial-era facades. When night falls, follow your nose to lively Portales de San Martin, where bustling cantinas and low-key family-run restaurants await with sizzling seafood platters and the best fish tacos in the Caribbean.
Uxmal Pyramids & Pomuch Mysteries
Lose yourself amid the well-preserved ruins of Uxmal, marveling at the impressive Pyramid of the Magician and the intricate carvings adorning the Governor's Palace. Climb atop these towering pyramids for views over vast, emerald-green jungle canopies. Then, gain insight into Mayan spiritual beliefs at the extraordinary Pomuch Cemetery, as you learn how death is celebrated through the ritual of rebirth (ka’a put siijil). Reward your curiosity with the town's famous pan de pueblos, freshly baked breads infused with centuries of Maya culinary heritage. As sunset paints Campeche in warm, golden hues, wander its photogenic web of streets lined with colorful colonial-era facades. When night falls, follow your nose to lively Portales de San Martin, where bustling cantinas and low-key family-run restaurants await with sizzling seafood platters and the best fish tacos in the Caribbean.
-
Hotel Lopez Plaza or similar, Campeche
-
Breakfast
-
Hotel Lopez Plaza or similar, Campeche
-
Breakfast
Day 6
Uncovering the Lost City of Calakmul
Venture off the beaten path into the verdant heart of the Yucatán jungle, where an ancient Maya metropolis slumbered undisturbed for centuries. Deep within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve lies the monumental city of Calakmul. Once a major center of power in the Maya lowlands from 250 BC to 700 AD, with a population of 65,000, Calakmul's plazas, palaces, and pyramids lay abandoned to the encroaching jungle after its mysterious demise. It wasn't until 1993 that this "lost city" was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its resurrection unveiled exquisite murals depicting daily life to rival the more famous frescoes of Bonampak. Explore the evocative ruins and let your imagination roam, channeling your inner Indiana Jones amid the crumbling edifices consumed by strangler figs and cheeky spider monkeys. In the evening, enjoy some relaxation time at your hotel on the idyllic Costa Maya.
Uncovering the Lost City of Calakmul
Venture off the beaten path into the verdant heart of the Yucatán jungle, where an ancient Maya metropolis slumbered undisturbed for centuries. Deep within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve lies the monumental city of Calakmul. Once a major center of power in the Maya lowlands from 250 BC to 700 AD, with a population of 65,000, Calakmul's plazas, palaces, and pyramids lay abandoned to the encroaching jungle after its mysterious demise. It wasn't until 1993 that this "lost city" was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its resurrection unveiled exquisite murals depicting daily life to rival the more famous frescoes of Bonampak. Explore the evocative ruins and let your imagination roam, channeling your inner Indiana Jones amid the crumbling edifices consumed by strangler figs and cheeky spider monkeys. In the evening, enjoy some relaxation time at your hotel on the idyllic Costa Maya.
-
Hotel Mahahual or similar, Mahahual
-
Breakfast
-
Hotel Mahahual or similar, Mahahual
-
Breakfast
Day 7
Maya Heritage & Tulum Treasures
Immerse yourself in the living Mayan culture at the enchanting Aldea Xunan Kab today. At this family-owned cultural preservation project, you’ll learn about the melipona bee's revered medicinal honey before sampling botanicals like tongue-numbing pepita peppers on a walk around the grounds. Meet a shaman healer for an intimate blessing ceremony, then explore a museum housing archaeological treasures unearthed on this very land. Later, travel to the striking coastal ruins of Tulum, with its regal monuments overlooking the azure seas of the Caribbean. Tonight, gather one last time in Playa del Carmen for a delicious farewell feast.
Maya Heritage & Tulum Treasures
Immerse yourself in the living Mayan culture at the enchanting Aldea Xunan Kab today. At this family-owned cultural preservation project, you’ll learn about the melipona bee's revered medicinal honey before sampling botanicals like tongue-numbing pepita peppers on a walk around the grounds. Meet a shaman healer for an intimate blessing ceremony, then explore a museum housing archaeological treasures unearthed on this very land. Later, travel to the striking coastal ruins of Tulum, with its regal monuments overlooking the azure seas of the Caribbean. Tonight, gather one last time in Playa del Carmen for a delicious farewell feast.
-
Hotel Petit Lafite or similar, Playa del Carmen
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
-
Hotel Petit Lafite or similar, Playa del Carmen
-
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Farewell
Our journey comes to an end today. Should you wish to spend more time exploring Mexico’s myriad of wonders, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Mexico for itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!
Farewell
Our journey comes to an end today. Should you wish to spend more time exploring Mexico’s myriad of wonders, check out the Atlas Obscura Guide to Mexico for itinerary inspiration. Until our next adventure!
-
Breakfast
-
Breakfast
What is included?
-
Accommodations throughout the trip.
-
Most meals (as described in the itinerary).
-
Transportation (as described in the itinerary), including airport transfers.
-
Admission/entry to activities (as described in the itinerary).
-
AO Trip Leader throughout the trip.
-
Special access to AO places and experiences (as described in the itinerary).
-
All gratuities (not including AO Trip Leader).
What is not included?
-
Flights to and from destination.
-
Pre-/Post-trip accommodations.
-
Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
-
Visas and passport fees.
-
Meals outside of those described (including most alcoholic beverages).
-
AO Trip Leader tip.
Additional info
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Pricing & Trip Deposit
Deposit to book your trip: $250 USD.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
The listed price of the trip is per person based on double occupancy.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $860 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Traveling Solo?
You’re in good company.
Opt for a Private Room to yourself, subject to availability, for a supplemental cost of $860 USD.
Solo travelers typically make up about half of our small groups. With curiosity at the center of our experiences, there’s a natural camaraderie that develops over the course of a trip.
If you don’t opt for a Private Room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
Activity Level
This tour has an easy activity level. Travelers should feel comfortable walking two to three miles over the course of each day in warm weather, and occasionally going up and down stairs.
Activity Level
This tour has an easy activity level. Travelers should feel comfortable walking two to three miles over the course of each day in warm weather, and occasionally going up and down stairs.
Arrival & Departure
Cancun International Airport (CUN) connects to a range of flight hubs. The best flight connections are offered by Aeromexico and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Arrival & Departure
Cancun International Airport (CUN) connects to a range of flight hubs. The best flight connections are offered by Aeromexico and American Airlines.
*Airport transfers are only provided if arriving & departing on the trip dates, or if pre/post arrangements have been made through Atlas Obscura.
Have more questions?
Check out the Essential Trip Information for this trip or our general FAQs.
Any questions about this trip? Don't hesitate to reach out
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Send us a
You might like these
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about NEW - Yucatan: Astronomy, Pyramids & Mayan Legends? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Trip inquiry
Have a question for us about NEW - Yucatan: Astronomy, Pyramids & Mayan Legends? We're here to help!
-
Call us at +1 833-919-9154
-
Check out our FAQ
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.