Colonial history, ancient temples, mayan pyramids and beach village for purists

Morning is free to explore colonial Valladolid, built by the Spanish conquerors in 1543, the once colonial capital of the eastern Yucatan. The city's wealthy inhabitants were nearly wiped out during the mid-19th century War of the Castes. Today the city is every bit the colonial capital it once was and the most interesting of the many churches in the town are the Cathedral, on the main square, and the church of San Bernardino de Siena next to the fortified Convento de Sisal, constructed in 1552.

In the afternoon, we transfer to Merida for a 5-night stay on an bed and breakfast basis.

Today we drive to Chunkanan where we visit a former natural Sisal fibre production plantation, now a hacienda. Take a horse pulled ride to a Cenote. We continue to Homún to see also cenotes of Tza Ujun Kat and Santa Rosa, where you can have a refreshing jump into its crystal clear and refreshing water! We then visit Hacienda Ednakán, famous for its neogothic church, and Hacienda Tepich, where we stop for lunch (not included). In the afternoon we explore Izamal, with its golden yellow buildings. Discover picturesque lanes flanked by elegant houses and the monastery of San Antonio de Padua with its elegant archways.

Today we explore the Franciscan Convent route, with many important towns during the christianisation of Yucatán peninsula. The Franciscan order established convents, of which the churches still exist. In Tecoh the church was built on a former prehispanic Maya temple. Arrive at Oxcutzcab town, where we visit the local market and a chance to observe Maya life in Yucatán. Our next stop is the Kabah archaeological site, once part of the Puuc region. The décor in façades of the prehispanic temples is outstanding. After lunch, visit Uxmal archaeological site, once a major temple of a Maya city kingdom. Our guide will show you the Pyramid of the Dwarf, the Nun’s Quadrangle and the amazing façades of Governor’s Palace.

Today enjoy a guided tour of Mérida, known as the "White City" and capital of the state of Yucatán. An elegant mixture of colonial and neoclassical architecture characterise the city, particularly in the main square with the cathedral, government palace, town hall and house of Montejo. We will also experience local life and markets, where you will see the influence of modern Maya culture of Mexico's southeast.