Route of the Itzaés

Information

Chichén itza

East of Yucatan, recently declared one of the 7 New Wonders of the World. Among its most outstanding buildings are the Castle of Chichén Itzá, the Templo de los Guerreros (temple of warriors), the group of the Thousand Columns, the Platform of Venus, the Tzompantli, the Ball Game, the Caracol (snail) or Observatory, and the Church..

Balankanché Caves

One of the most important underground sets in the region. This is a cavern that was once used as a ceremonial center by the old Mayas. At the entrance one finds the throne of Balam, a kind of altar that gives name to the caverns. There is also a semi-dry lake where Mayan offerings lay scattered, shells and pieces of jade. In this cavern you can enjoy a light and sound show that tells the story of the place. There is also a museum with photos and explanations of the sacred rituals that were practiced here. Located 6 km away from Chichén Itzá.

Days: Monday to Sunday.
Schedule: 8:00 a 17:00 hrs.
Cost: $67.00 pesos.

Valladolid

Also known as the Pearl of the East, among its attractions we find the Convent of San Bernardino, with its Franciscan style, the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), and the Temple of San Juan de Dios. Nearby there is the Zací cenote, now set up as a restaurant and natural pool. During your tour you will find leather and henequen crafts, hammocks, bejuco weaved crafts, stone carvings, as well as many restaurants where you can taste the delicious local gastronomy. Located 60 km east of Merida.

Ek Balam

It has 45 structures and is surrounded by two concentric stone walls, and a third one linking the central buildings. These walls where there for defense and to control access. There is a ball game court and a beautiful arch where a sacbé (sacred road) used to end, which was a road that in the old days connected the Mayan kingdoms.

San Felipe

Port of fishermen, formed by rustic wood houses of multiple colors. There you will be able to walk by the seafront all along the marsh and admire the beauty of the vegetation, as well as visit the islets to take a deserved rest. It is located 31 km to the north of Tizimin, by a coastal unpaved path. It has: hotels, cabins, restaurants, transportation and thematic motorboat rides.

Río Lagartos

You will be able to visit protected natural reserves, where fresh rain water meets saline sea water, creating the habitat for regional animals and plants, such as the white tail deer, crocodiles, pheasants and hundreds of species of birds, a delight for bird watchers. Located 222 km away from Merida. This is an ideal spot for Eco tourism. It has hotels, restaurants, good sea food, and boat rides.

El Cuyo

Fishermen town, protected natural zone that harbors a fascinating and impressive flora and fauna. This fantastic and hidden site can be considered to be a true one jewel for the lovers of peace and nature. You will find this small and majestic town three hours and a half away from Merida and built over the remains of a Mayan pyramid.

Location