Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza, the epicenter of the Mayan culture, was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. A day trip to this archeological masterpiece can start with a guided tour where you will see the Temple of Chac Mook, the Kulkulkan pyramid known as El Castillo, the Hall of the Thousand Pillars and the Great Ball Court. The tour is followed by a swim in the same underwater grotto that the Mayans used, as well as a buffet dinner. Once the sun sets, a light show will detail the everyday life of the Mayans.
For visitors in Cancun or Pueto Morelos, the tour lasts approximately 13 hours door-to-door. Most area hotels will be able to arrange your participation. A similar tour is available for those staying in the Riviera Maya with a duration of 10 hours.
Chichen Itza
Calle 70/555
71 Downtown
Merida, Mexico
011 (+52) 999 924 83 91
chichenitza.com
Sian Ka'an Eco Adventure
The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is one of Mexico's largest parks with over one million acres of coastal jungle. There are enough activities here to keep even the most restless traveler occupied. The wetlands offer kayaking activities and underground caves are well-suited for some exciting snorkeling. The reserve offers ample hiking opportunities in the jungles that over 350 species of birds call home. Take a snack break at the visitor center before climbing up to the observation tower to get a panoramic view of the park.
Sian Ka'an is located on the Gulf of Mexico within easy reach of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. Public bus transportation is available. Guided tours can be arranged through your cruise lines or hotel, or you can contact the reserve directly.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Federal Road (307)
Cancun-Tulum, #68 Tulum
Q. Roo, Mexico
011 (+52) 984 871 2499
cesiak.org
The Tequila Express
Mexico is known for its scenic beauty, natural wonders and tequila. Visitors to Guadalajara can board the Tequila Express in the morning and spend the day in the town of Tequila in Jalisco before returning in the evening. Although it is a small town, Tequila offers plenty of things to do and see to fill up the day. Visit some of the local distillers, such as Casa Cuervo or Casa Herradura, to see how tequila is made and perhaps sample just a bit. Watch the farmers chop agave in the fields and learn more about how this plant is transformed into tequila. Talk to the locals and participate in some mariachi dancing.
Tickets for the Tequila Express can be obtained through most local Guadalajara hotels or directly from the express company. This is also an easy and fun day trip from Zapopan if you have access to a rental car.
The Tequila Express
8369 9000 Monterrey
y 5325 9000 D.F.
Guadalajara, Mexico
011 (+52) 800 503 97 20
tequilaexpress.com.mx
About The Author
After attending Fairfield University, Hannah Wickford spent more than 15 years in market research and marketing in the consumer packaged goods industry. In 2003, she decided to shift careers and now maintains three successful food-related blogs and writes online articles, website copy and newsletters for multiple clients including Trails, Travels and Golflink.
