The very word conjures up images of ancient pyramids towering over endless jungles and intricately carved monoliths standing as testimony to the intellectual and artistic achievement of an extremely advanced culture. Theories about the sudden and still mysterious collapse of many of the Maya's ancient cities only add to the intrigue and fascination of these people.
For well-over 1700 years, the Mayan Civilization flourished with a vibrant population of nobles, priests, artists, scribes, traders, farmers and warriors. The history of the "Mundo Maya", or Maya World, will be closely examined with visits to numerous museums, archaeological sites and on-going excavations. Many of the artistic and cultural accomplishments of the ancients have been handed down for thousands of years and are still cherished and vital parts of the modern day culture of the Maya.
The contemporary Mayan peoples are at least as remarkable as their ancestors. We will witness communal traditions and customs that have helped Mayan culture survive in this modern world. In their towns, villages and markets we will hear distinctive Maya dialects spoken, see trading and commerce as it has been carried on for millennia. Archaeologist J. Eric Thompson has very aptly described the situation:
"Maya culture...is still very much alive; one sees the present in the past and the past in the present".
Explorations Inc. is proud to offer comprehensive, educational adventures into the world of the Maya, or Mundo Maya. All of our Mundo Maya Explorations are designed with a well-paced schedule to provide a more interactive program, not "a see the highlights through a bus window tour". Professional resident guides and escort scholars accompany to help reconstruct the ancient world of the Maya and inform of today's indigenous cultures and
BELIZE EXPLORATION
October 25 - November 2, 2008
A special invitation to the Florida Native Plant Society
Explorations Inc., 
is proud to once again offer a custom
educational travel experience specifically to the members and friends of
the Florida Native Plant Society! This 2008 nature adventure highlights
some of the very best that Belize has to offer.
Since many in Florida are familiar with mangrove and coral keys environments, we have designed an itinerary that focuses on ecosystems in Belize that offer greater contrast to Florida's. We will explore inland environments such as rainforests, tropical broadleaf forests, savannas and the pine forests of the mountain pine ridge area. We have also purposely minimized travel time by staying in only 3 locations, allowing for a more in-depth look at particular regions, rather than skipping around with a tour that just hits the traditional highlights.
Belize is a small country,
but also one of great ecological diversity. Formerly British Honduras until
1973, its official language if English. It is a tropical blend of Caribbean
and Latin. Slightly larger than Massachusetts, it only has a population
of about 300,000, making it the least populated Central American country
and one of the lowest in the world.
Approximately 60% of Belize remains forested, with 3,408 species of vascular plants in 209 families and new species being discovered nearly every year! Over one-third of its land area falls under some form of official protection. Savannas, scrublands and wetlands constitute extensive parts of the nation's land cover. As a result, the biodiversity is rich with a host of flora and fauna. In this unique country there are more than 500 species of birds. Colorful toucans, fiery scarlet macaws and even the jabiru stork with its five foot wing span inhabit Belize. Although rarely seen, five species of cats- jaguar, puma, ocelots, jaguarundis and margays also live here. In the wild, you will have a better chance of viewing monkeys, kinkajous, colorful tree frogs and a plethora of beautiful butterflies, birds, and strange looking insects.
The friendly people of Belize make the country a true "melting pot" of cultures. Most Belizeans speak English, the official language, but also commonly heard languages include Creole (or English patois), Spanish, Garifuna, three Mayan languages, Mennonite German, Chinese, Lebanese, Hindi, and even traces of southern drawl from descendents of past refugee Confederates!
Imagine... looking into a face carved in stone hundreds of years ago while hearing the daunting calls of nearby howler monkeys! The exploration has a strong focus on learning about the different geographical areas and ecosystems visited. The goal is to explore the country's diversity with an itinerary that is conducive to the discovery of nature's secrets and to achieve a better understanding of the Belizean peoples.
Your three jungle lodges have been chosen for their charm and strategic locations. Belize has some of the most extensive tracts of primeval rainforest in Central America. These forests are inhabited by healthy populations of some of Tropical America's rarest and most beautiful creatures including the jaguar, ocelot, gray fox, black howler monkey, Central American spider monkey, tapir, peccary, red brocket and white-tailed deer, agouti, paca, Mexican porcupine, scarlet macaw, jabiru stork, toucan, ocellated turkey, harpy eagle and many others. We do not guarantee you will see them all, but you will be staying in locations that give you excellent opportunities.
Cohune Palms
River Cabanas (www.cohunepalms.com) for a 3 night
stay, located in western Belize in the mountain pine ridge area. Just two
and a half miles from San Ignacio, adjacent to the small village of Bullet
Tree Falls at the base of the Maya Mountains.
Set apart from the village on a peninsula of the Mopan River, your accommodations are blessed with cool river breezes and a jungle setting.
Cohune Palms features a private restaurant with outdoor
dining and thatched-roofed cabanas, with private bathrooms, electricity,
ceiling fans, hot water, and verandahs. Set amidst lush palms, the comfortable
cabanas overlook the lazy, river below. In addition to resting in a hammock,
swimming, jumping off the rope swing, or watching iguanas; you can even
check your email on their computer. There are plenty of hammocks available
for lounging, and a large deck overlooking the river with lawnchairs and
ropeswing. 
Construction of Cohune Palms began in 2001 on land that
has been in the Waight family for generations. The owners are Mike (a native
Belizean, an accomplished artist, craftsman, and musician) and Bevin (from
Idaho, a MA graduate in Anthropology). The staff includes Alba and Melanie,
who serve up delicious meals utilizing the local Creole and Mayan cuisine
as a base. Curry chicken, tamales with rice and beans, fresh snapper filet,
fajitas with homemade corn tortillas, black bean and chaya casserole and
coconut shrimp are just a few of the dishes served. Breakfasts include large
breakfast burritos, granola with yogurt and fresh fruit, french toast, fry
jacks, omelettes and more. All meals include fresh juices and coffee and
tea with breakfast. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are also available. 
Pook's Hill Lodge (www.pookshilllodge.com) for a 3 night stay, located in the foothills of the Maya Mountains in the Cayo District of Belize. The lodge is situated within a 300 acre Private Reserve, on the site of an ancient Maya Plaza Group. This, coupled with its unparalleled position in the very heart of the country, makes Pook's Hill a perfect base of operations. Its own reserve of primary rainforest borders on the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve, a 6,800 acre sanctuary managed by the Audubon Society of Belize - which is home to colorful toucans, butterflies, hummingbirds, howler monkeys and jaguars. Nature trails in the reserves take you past giant Mahogany, Cedar, Strangling Fig and Ceiba. The forest is the home to the tapir, jaguar, coati mundi, gibnut, and a myriad of birds.
Your thatched cabanas
surround a Maya archaeology site and overlook the forest and creek below.
Each cabana has a private bathroom, electricity and fan. The bar/veranda
is ideal for birding or just relaxing in the tranquil setting. Nearby is
the clear water of the Roaring River cascading down a 1000 feet of fall
in the Maya Mountains. Pook's Hill has two miles of frontage on the Roaring
River, perfect for tubing or cooling off in one of the hidden jungle pools.
Pook's Hill has been
endorsed by ornithologists as being in a league of its own. The birding
from the lodge veranda, the meadows and along the riverside is superb. Birders
can enjoy miles of forest trails, river walks and open landscape. Hummingbirds
give a spectacular display at the veranda and there are good sightings of
trogans, motmots, toucans and most of our forest species. Activities at
the lodge include birding, horseback riding, hiking, river tubing and swimming.
The lodge is walking distance from the cave, Tunichil Mucnal, the most adventurous
caving expedition in Belize.
At the heart of the Pook's Hill property is a Maya residential
complex dating mainly to the Terminal Classic Period (ca.830-950 AD). Exploration
of the cultivated fields and jungle around the resort has also revealed
a whole Maya settlement landscape. Architecture and artifacts from Pook's
show signs of long-distance contact with central Mexico (Teotihuacano ceramic
styles, green obsidian, and a circular shrine) and with the Caribbean coast
of Belize (parrotfish and the incised Hawksbill turtle piece). 
Lamanai Outpost
Lodge (www.lamanai.com) for a 2 night stay, is
situated on the banks of a 28 mile long, spring fed lagoon amid the remnants
of a major Maya city. It is surrounded by an incredible variety of habitats
that facilitate unsurpassed nature activities. It's remote location provides
the Lamanai Outpost a world of its own.
The Lamanai Outpost has twenty Cabanas, with private bathrooms, ceiling fans, even a mini-fridge, and a relaxing verandah to catch the prevailing breeze that comes in from the lagoon. Lamanai Outpost has been repetitively featured on shows such as Wild Things, Discovery, Animal Planet, National Geographic Explorer and World Gone Wild. Voted Belize's Hotel of the Year for 1999/2000, the Outpost is consistently utilized by high-end travelers and is widely recognized as one of Belize's finest jungle lodges. Their meals consistently receive excellent guest comments.
With almost 400 species documented
within a 3 mile radius, the Lodge is definitely one of Belize's premier
birding locations. Habitats range from vast wetlands and broadleaf forest
to pine savannah and all are easily accessible by boat, trails, vehicle
or canoe. The Spotlight Safari provides an amazing opportunity to see roosting
waders, nocturnals and some of the more elusive diurnal species up close
and personal. Regular sightings include the Northern Potoo, Yucatan Nightjar,
Common Pauraque and Nighthawk, Grey-necked Wood Rail, Sungrebe and Agami
Heron. Also around the lodge you may observe (and hear) troops of Howler
monkeys as they start the day foraging high in the jungle canopy.
BELIZE EXPLORATION Day 1, Saturday, October 25, 2008:
All participants are to meet midday at the Miami airport for the flight to Belize City. Upon arrival in Belize, you will be transferred to the Cohune Palms Riverside Cabanas in western Belize for a 3 night stay. A welcome dinner is planned for orientation and more introductions. (D)
Day 2, Sunday, October
26:
Morning tour of the
nearby Masewal Forest Garden Trail to learn about plants important to the
Maya both long ago and in present times. We will learn about the variety
of uses of each plant in addition to about local wildlife and the Maya themselves.
Featured along the trail is an ancient Maya quarry and a series of Maya
mounds, including a large temple which has been looted. Thirty-one years
ago, Don Heriberto Cocom, a Yucatec Maya bushmaster (or herbalist) created
this special place where each plant serves a purpose; used as medicine,
food, thatch, fiber, because it attracts butterflies, birds, and mammals,
or just because of its beauty. The trail was created in 1999 by a collaborative
effort between Don Beto, Amigos de El Pilar, Raleigh International, and
the BRASS/El Pilar Program. It has 318 species of flowering plants, 250
of which are native to Belize, about 15 percent of the indigenous floristic
diversity of the country. Masewal means "the people" in Nahuatl,
and it is a declaration, after years of colonialism and exploitation by
foreigners, that this land once again belongs to the native Maya people.
Don Berto is a guardian of the Yucatec Mayan language that coevolved with
this forest. The fragile relationship between the two-language and biodiversity-is
one of mutual salvation. Afterwards for the return, you can enjoy floating
in a tube down the Mopan River back to the lodge!
In the afternoon is a relaxing canoe outing through the
jungle on the scenic Macal River where you are likely to spot basking Iguanas,
while passing by high-rock-wall formations, as you slowly make your way
downstream. 
Later is a visit to Xunantunich, a Classic period Maya site where the major monuments have been excavated and reconsolidated, offering a good glimpse of what the Mayan temples might have looked like at one time. The largest structure, El Castillo, stands 130 feet high and offers an excellent view of the surrounding area. (B/L/D)
Day 3, Monday, October 27:
For the "early birds",
before breakfast is a optional hike on surrounding area trails to enjoy
sunrise in the forest and for birding, plants, and wildlife viewing.
After breakfast is a visit into the Maya Mountains to El
Pilar Reserve, with its massive ruins of an ancient Maya city. The site
is approximately 5 times the size of Xunantunich. It is believed that at
around 700-1000 AD approximately 18,000 people lived in the area. Excavations
have been ongoing and have left parts of the architecture exposed for visitors.
El Pilar Reserve is the product of a unique management plan that seeks to
keep the buildings largely unexposed in order to preserve both the jungle
canopy and the monuments themselves. El Pilar retains the aura of a lost
ancient city that one might discover as it is intact in its natural surroundings,
replete with howler monkeys, toucans and jaguars. 
The
site has at least three large sections that straddle the Belize-Guatemala
border and are interconnected by causeways, one of which is almost 100 feet
wide with walls along both edges. So far archaeologists have identified
more than 25 plazas covering more than 100 acres and more than 70 major
structures. Currently there are five trail systems, three archaeological
and two primarily nature trails.
In the afternoon is a botanical tour of the Ix Chel Farm and its Panti Medicine Trail on the shores of the Macal River. The Belizean government officially established this (world's first) medicinal plant reserve in 1993. The 6,000 acre reserve, dedicated to the preservation of potential lifesaving herbs, is called the Terra Nova Medicinal Plant Reserve. Seedling plants "rescued" from rainforest areas in danger of destruction from development are sent to Terra Nova for transplanting. The reserve is run by the Belize Association of Traditional Healers. The trail is named after the late Don Eligio Panti, a master healer and teacher of traditional Mayan medicinal cures who lived until the ripe old age of 103! (B/L/D)
Day 4, Tuesday, October 28:
After breakfast and departure, a drive through a picturesque
Mennonite farm community takes you to Barton Creek for a unique cave and
mile long canoeing excursion. In canoes equipped with powerful spotlights
you will float through a remote underground water cave system, complete
with large and colorful formations, skeletal remains, and other cultural
artifacts left behind by the Maya centuries ago in the cathedral-like caverns.
Later is a visit to Green Hills Butterfly Ranch and Botanical
Collections. Flocks of dazzling butterflies fly freely in 2,700 sq. ft.
of beautifully landscaped flight area, the largest live butterfly display
in Belize. The Botanical Collection maintains living collections of several
groups of plants, important to the butterflies, either as nectar plant or
caterpillar food plant - including Passionflowers, Bromeliads, Cycads, Heliconia's,
Aristolochia's and orchids. 
Later you transfer to Pook's Hill Lodge in the central Belmopan area for a 3 night stay. After orientation and dinner is a night walk in Pook's Hill Nature Reserve for nocturnal wildlife and insect life. (B/L/D)
Day 5, Wednesday, October 29:
Before breakfast is a optional sunrise hike in the surrounding reserve for flora and fauna viewing.
After breakfast is a extraordinary excursion at Cave's Branch. Floating on inner tubes, you will enter an exciting realm where rivers disappear into the underworld. Entrances from above, filter mists of jungle light, as you float through underground river caves that sparkle with mica-studded stalactites and stalagmites filled with 1,000 year old pottery shards, statues of fertility gods and Mayan footprints. Past an underground waterfall leads you into the "Crystal Cathedral", a spiritual place used by the ancient Maya. Some underground hiking and jungle trekking is required.
In the afternoon is time for relaxing
at the jungle lodge, birding, or tubing & swimming on-site at Pook's
Hill Roaring Creek. (B/L/D)
Day 6, Thursday, October 30:
In the morning is a tour into Guanacaste National Park,
a fifty acre parcel of tropical forest. The park is named for the giant
guanacaste (tubroos) tree growing near the southwestern edge of the park.
In addition to the Guanacaste tree, there are numerous other species of
trees labeled throughout the park. Although the mammal population is rather
small, over one hundred species of birds have been identified within the
park. Guanacaste Park offers a relaxing introduction to the tropical forests
of Belize with its well marked and maintained trails. 
Later is a visit to the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center. Set upon 29 acres of tropical savanna, it exhibits over 125 animals native to Belize. The Zoo was founded in 1983 as a retirement home for natural history "movie stars." It keeps animals which were either orphaned, born at the zoo, rehabilitated animals, or sent to The Belize Zoo as gifts from other zoological institutions. Whenever possible, all wildlife that can be rehabilitated are reintroduced to their natural environment. Those animals that cannot be reintroduced are maintained in a natural setting at the zoo, where they become an integral part of an ongoing program to educate people about the natural history of Belize.
The afternoon is free for relaxation, swimming in the river, or more explorations in the lodge's surrounding forest. (B/L/D)
Day 7, Friday, October 31:
After breakfast and departure, we transfer by road to the northern part of the country to the Orange Walk District. There we boat on the New River with nature viewing enroute to the waterfront Lamanai Outpost Lodge for a 2 night stay. In the afternoon we explore the Outpost grounds and surrounding rainforest.
After dinner is a night spotlight safari by boat on the New River Lagoon. This exciting adventure gives you the opportunity to encounter anything from the Morelet's crocodile to the elusive and endangered jaguar. Also an opportunity for close up views of some of Belize's fascinating river birds as they roost on the water's edge, such as Pygmy Kingfishers, Grey-necked Wood-Rails, Purple Gallinules, Herons, and Limpkins. We may also be fortunate to see a Tyra, Mexican Hairy Porcupine, and possibly one of several species of opossums. (B/L/D)
Day 8, Saturday, November 1:
In the morning is a tour of the adjacent Lamanai Archaeological Reserve. The ancient Maya ruins seem to pop out from the treetops as you arrive at the site. After visiting the museum, we walk through the dense jungle, past gigantic guanacaste, ceiba, ramon tress, strangler figs, allspice, epiphytes and maybe Belize's national flower, the black orchid, to explore the massive site. In the overhead canopy, you might hear and see one of the groups of residents howler monkeys. Of the 700 buildings within the complex, less than five percent have been excavated and explored. The grandest rises more than a 111 feet above the jungle canopy. You will see the famous stylized mask on the Mask Temple, the Jaguar Temple, and by climbing the High Temple, you have a panoramic view across the surrounding jungle and lagoon. Lamanai was one of the oldest and longest continuously occupied Maya cities (about 1500 BC to 1675 AD) probably due to its location on a major trade route, the New River. With a population exceeding 35,000 at the height of the city's power, Lamanai's trading influence extended over the borders of present-day Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Belize. During the Spanish conquest of Yucatán, Spanish friars established two Roman Catholic churches here. In 1640, the Maya rebelled against the Spanish influence and burned the churches to the ground. After the Spanish were chased away, a series of epidemics eventually weakened the city and finally put an end to 3000 years of social, political, and cultural dominance within the region.
In the afternoon is a visit
nearby Indian Church Village to learn of their Community Enhancement Project
with its artisan center, library, & more. About 280 people reside in
the village, named for the historic Spanish churches recovered among the
Maya ruins. The residents lived among the ruins until 1991.
Your last night in the jungle to listen for the owls and bats that come out to hunt and gather, and to the troupes of Howler monkeys speaking to each other across the canopy. The sounds come from everywhere as many species such as frogs and tarantulas, some mammals and species of birds thrive in the late hour of the evening and night. A farewell dinner recaps the adventures. (B/L/D)
Day 9, Sunday, November 2:
In the morning, we transfer by boat and road to the Belize City airport for the midday flight out to Miami. (B)
Cost Per Person
The total trip price is $3,300 per person, based on double occupancy and includes the international airfare from Miami on American Airlines. (Estimate $100 to $200 dollars for connecting add-on airfare from various major cites.) A single supplement is an additional $500.
Included in Trip Cost
- The trip is escorted by FNPS Trip Coordinator, who will meet you in Miami and assist the group helping compliment the vast knowledge provided by the professional, resident naturalists!
- Local, experienced guides will also accompany you. The local guides are multilingual and are capable of providing a wealth of information. The local guides and staff help open a window through which to see a different world.
- All group transfers and transportation in Belize.
- All meals in Belize, starting with dinner on Day 1 and ending with breakfast on Day 9. (See B, L, or D on itinerary.)
- All lodging in first class accommodations.
- All side trips, day trips, entrance fees/donations to forest reserves, and activities as described in the itinerary
Not Included
- Belize airport departure taxes (Estimate $35, to paid direct upon leaving Belize in USD or local currency.)
- Personal items and alcoholic drinks.
- Gratuities to local guides and personnel.
- Meals not listed in itinerary.
Who goes
on this adventure?
This trip is a great educational adventure for people of all ages and backgrounds. Single travelers, friends, families and couples can all enjoy this program. Anyone with an interest and appreciation of nature will find this a worthwhile and fascinating experience. You do not have to be a wilderness camper or marathon runner as it is not a designed to be physically difficult trip, but some outings will require hiking on rough terrain. Although this is far from a "Survivor Series", be assured, you are not going to a modern, man-made theme park; there may be rain and mud in a rainforest. You will find that you have a lot in common with your fellow travelers, as you share a spirit of adventure, are active, inquisitive, outdoor oriented, and have a strong interest in the world of nature and other cultures.
This Belize Exploration has been customized specifically for the Florida Native Plant Society. The president of Explorations Inc., is a Florida resident and being like minded, is pleased to make this educational program available to fellow FNPS members and friends. Explorations Inc., will make a donation to the FNPS in behalf of each participant.the region's natural history.
"GUATEMALA EXPLORATION"
December 29, 2006 - January 7, 2007
Escorted by archaeologist Travis Doering.
An Exciting Opportunity to Explore an Ancient
Ruins & Witness the Living History of the Maya!
Explorations, Inc. and Travis Doering invite you to enter a world of color, culture and customs where two thousand years of history can be glimpsed from a series of exotic locales; from ancient shrouded Maya pyramids, a Spanish Colonial capital city, or from the secluded villages of the contemporary Maya as they continue to live in the rhythm of ancient traditions.
Explorations Inc. has customized this educational and cultural adventure to take advantage of some of the best that Guatemala has to offer. This unique journey is 10 days and 9 nights and covers a rich panorama of geographical and cultural beauty. The Highlands of Guatemala have some of our hemisphere's most beautiful landscapes and environments, including cloudforests, lakes, scenic and mountain vistas. You will witness dramatic and diverse landscapes in "The Land of Eternal Spring". As you travel over the Sierra Madres, breathtaking views of the lush tropical and temperate rainforests are around every turn. Few spots on earth so beautifully combine such rich diversity and abundance of flora and fauna as Guatemala
In addition to the impressive ancient Mayan ruins and the colorful present day Maya, the Spanish colonial period of Guatemala is well represented. Early Colonial churches, convents and haciendas are dramatically preserved in the splendid Spanish capital of Antigua. Architecture from the sixteenth century, world renowned artisans and a mixture of Spanish and Mayan culture are all present in this historic town. While strolling among historic buildings, not only can you trace history back in time, but you will also witness the colorful living history of the present day indigenous Maya.
We will not try to see every cultural site in Mesoamerica. Nor will we zip around Guatemala combining a multitude of distant sites with little time to see each. This journey is designed to be a cross-cultural experience, featuring a schedule that is practical yet active with time is allotted for personal exploration of the archaeological sites and their surrounding environs. Many of the sites are located in forested parks or preserves, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the native flora, plus extensive animal and bird life.
This custom itinerary is a blend of education, exotic travel, fun & individual exploration into the land & traditions of the Maya.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
Listed are some of the more well-known highlights of the trip. Not listed are "off-the-path" discoveries and short stops at small villages and lesser known natural wonders. These stopovers and daily encounters with the people of Guatemala sometimes become highlights of a trip themselves!
The living history of the modern day
Maya.
Our focus on education and exploration
gives you an in-depth experience into the ancient world of the Living Maya.
A well-designed itinerary takes you
to some of Guatemala's most
picturesque Highland villages, rich in history and tradition, where you will witness the exquisite beauty, extraordinary colors and excellent workmanship of Maya textiles and handicrafts.
Knowledgeable and personable escorts
will introduce you to the local customs, culture and cuisine of Guatemala,
within an atmosphere that emphasizes safety, cleanliness and comfort.
Small group size (approximately 8 -
14 participants) allows for greater personal attention, pursuit of individual
interests, and intimate access to the indigenous people in their homes,
markets and villages.
Great cuisine and excellent accommodations.
2 nights in the Zona Viva of Guatemala
City, an area full of first-class hotels, restaurants and shops within easy
walking distance.
3 nights in Antigua, the heart of Spanish
colonial Guatemala. Founded in 1542, it is among the oldest and most beautiful
cities in the Americas. Outstanding early-colonial architecture abounds,
including historic churches and monasteries.
2 nights in the internationally famous,
resort village of Panajachel on the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlán.
Surrounded by majestic mountains and volcanoes with breathtaking and everchanging
scenery.
2 nights in Chichicastenango, This traditional
Quiché Maya town, high in the Sierra Madres Mountains, is where we
will enjoy our New Year's Eve festivities. It is also the site of the largest
and most colorful indigenous market in Mesoamerica.
Markets days in traditional villages
such as Sololá, Santiago Atitlán, and Tuxpan, among others
offer produce, textiles and handicrafts while providing a great spectacle
of color, culture and commerce.
While in the cloud forests of the highlands,
you will explore the imposing, mountaintop archaeological sites of Iximché,
Utatlán, and Mixco Viejo. You will learn about how these Kachiquel
Maya were conquered by Pedro de Alvarado in the 1500's, the Spanish Conquest
of the New World, and of Guatemala's colonial history.
Lectures and presentations prepared
specifically for this tour. Topics will include the history of the Ancient
Maya and an examination of the contemporary Maya of Guatemala. Also featured
will be an in-depth look at the textiles and traditions of the Maya from
500 BC to the present day and visits to ancient Maya ruins.
Outstanding opportunities for nature/wildlife/bird/geography
viewing and photography.
New Years in Guatemala, one you will
never forget!
Guatemala Exploration Itinerary
December 29, 2006 - January 7, 2007
DAY 1, Friday, Dec. 29, 2006
Fly from USA to Guatemala City. After arrival and welcome reception in Guatemala City, you are transferred into the Zona Viva (Zone of Life), for your overnight at the Hotel Biltmore Express. (No meals included this day.)
DAY 2, Saturday, Dec. 30:
Morning tours of the Ixchel Textile Museum (named for the Maya goddess of weaving and devoted solely to the display of textiles) and the Popul Vuh Archaeological Museum (with its extensive collection of Pre-Colombian pottery, carvings and artifacts). Afternoon drive through Guatemala's fertile central valley, an area of majestic scenery and verdant landscapes, to the traditional Maya town of Chichicastenango, for two overnights at the beautiful, colonial Hotel Santo Tomás. B/L/D
DAY 3, Sunday, Dec 31:
Witness (and shop) Chichicastenango's market day on the last day of 2006 and see why it is considered Guatemala's most famous native market. Also time to explore this colonial town's architecture, churches, shops and witness age old traditions and rituals. Through the veil of smoke from burning incense, experience the vitality of the vendors, along with the incredible color and variety of the textiles, handicrafts, and local goods. Afternoon drive through the highlands to historic Santa Cruz del Quiché and a visit to the Utatlán archaeological site. This hilltop site was the last capital city of the Quiché Maya. Tecún Umán, the last Quiché king, was killed in battle with Conquistador Pedro de Alvarado and the site was burned. Return to Chichicastenango for a special New Year's Eve dinner amidst the fireworks festivities. B/L/D
DAY 4, Monday, Jan 1, 2007:
A morning drive above Lake Atitlán to witness the historic trade center of Sololá, where various traditional dress identifies the participant's distant village homes. Then tour Santa Catarina and San Antonio Palopó, two villages perched on the hills surrounding Lake Atitlán. Meet master Maya weavers and visit the local markets and art gallery. See demonstrations of both the backstrap and treadle, or foot-loom. Then on to Panajachel on the shores of picturesque Lake Atitlán, nestled amidst towering volcanoes for the next two overnights at the Posada de Don Rodrigo. After checking into the hotel, we visit the San Buenaventura Nature Reserve, which preserves and displays the Lake basin's unique ecology. This private reserve has more than 100 hectares of native forest. Its goal is the conservation of the natural surroundings in the Lake Atitlán Basin. The reserve also serves as bird refuge with a 23 meters (75 ft) high waterfall and three suspension bridges at the end of trails that go past an ancient coffee grove and a beautiful ravine. For bird sustenance and shelter, in 1995 some 600 native fruit trees and more than 5000 flowering and seed plants were planted. B/L/D
DAY 5, Tuesday, Jan 2:
A morning boat ride across the lake to Santiago Atitlán, the largest and most traditional of the lake-side towns, situated at the base of the San Pedro volcano. Santiago Atitlán is also home to the halo-style headdress, where a band 20 feet in length is continuously wrapped around the head, creating a disk effect with fabric. A walking tour takes us to the market, church and shrine dedicated to the modern Maya deity, Maximón. Witness demonstrations by some of the finest embroiderers in Guatemala. After lunch we tour the textile market in Panajachel. Late afternoon and evening free for personal relaxation, exploration and shopping. B/L (No dinner)
Day 6 - Wednesday, Jan 3:
Morning drive to Tecpán, Guatemala for market day and the Post-Classic Maya, archaeological site of Iximché to learn of its incredible history as the capital of the Kachiquel Maya at the time of the Spanish Conquest. Then on to the historic city of Antigua and overnight at the centrally located, colonial Posada de Don Rodrigo for the next three nights. Antigua is the heart of Spanish Colonial Guatemala, with tremendous early architecture including some of the oldest churches and monasteries in the New World. Enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, some of which are over 13,000 feet high. Afternoon introduction to the city. B/L/D
DAY 7, Thursday, Jan 4:
All day to explore Guatemala's ancient capital city of Antigua. A city rich in history with colonial churches and buildings dating back to the 1500's. A morning city tour of the colonial architecture will provide a background for Antigua's long and fascinating history. The afternoon is free for personal exploration, relaxation, shopping, and/or museums. You may stroll around the main plaza and cobblestone streets, visit the cathedrals, museums, markets and various interesting shops, all while enjoying the views of the neighboring volcanoes and splendid architecture. B/L/D
DAY 8, Friday, Jan 5:
A morning visit to La Azotea Cultural Center. Located just a few minutes from Anitgua, this lovely hacienda complex has three educational museums. The Coffee Museum, set in an old coffee mill, illustrates the history, process, brewing and marketing of coffee and includes a nature walk through a working plantation. The Casa K'ojom has a collection of Mayan musical instruments, from the Pre-Colombian to present. The Rincón de Sacatepéquez Museum has life size dioramas showing the customs and costumes from villages around Antigua. The afternoon and evening are free for personal exploration. B/L (No dinner)
DAY 9, Saturday, Jan 6:
Morning drive through the central valley to the villages of San Juan Sacatepéquez and San Pedro Sacatepéquez to experience their market day. Later, explore the important post-classic Maya ruins of Mixco Viejo. Then on to Guatemala City for overnight at the Hotel Biltmore Express. Say good-bye to new friends at the Farewell Dinner. B/L/D
DAY 10, Sunday, Jan. 7, 2007:
Transfer to the airport for return flights to USA. (B)
What does the trip cost and what does it include?
What is not included?
What did past participants have to say about our Mundo Maya Explorations?
"Efficient, friendly and fun... The attention to detail was outstanding."
Phyllis W., Ontario, Canada"The educational element was important to me and it exceeded my expectations."
Virginia G., NH"This trip was perfect."
Consuelo P., Ontario, Canada"The preparation and research for this trip were exceptional and much appreciated....The attention given for our well-being and safety was recognized and valued by all."
Norma W., OKRegarding the best part: "The small group and the very personal contact we had with local people in various villages. Travis is a good host and excellent guide."
Lucille B., MNRegarding the best part: "The guide, Travis, and the people with us, the size of the group, well planned and carried out, both fun and fascinating." Regarding the worst part: "Can't think of any worst part."
Stuart R., CA"Travis Doering was delightful, fun, a perfect gentleman."
Catherine C., WITravis - what can I say- he should lead every trip you offer. He is so kind, informative and he took care of every detail. We lacked for nothing. He was terrific!"
Carolyn G., Mexico"Travis couldn't have done a better job."
Mary M., WI
Archaeologist Travis Doering began his study of the Maya over twenty-five years ago. He has participated in numerous national and international seminars, symposiums, conferences and workshops dealing with the history and traditions of the ancient and contemporary people of Mexico and Guatemala. While pursuing his passion for the Mesoamerica, Travis has visited hundreds of archaeological sites, countless museums, and has conducted excavations and investigations at numerous locales throughout Mexico and Central America. He completed his graduate studies in Anthropology at Florida State University in Tallahassee, and is a Doctoral Candidate at the University of South Florida in Tampa.
He has great admiration for, and interest in the weavings and textiles of Mesoamerica and has publicly exhibited a portion of his expanding collection. His studies and personal relationships with native weavers have enabled him to gain a knowledge of the history and representations contained in these woven artworks. A recent exhibition at the Florida State University Museum of Fine Art he created can be found on the internet at http://www.anthro.fsu.edu/wovenvoices/wv.html. A second and significantly expanded exhibition also centering on his personal textile collection was presented at the prestigious Appleton Art Museum, in Ocala, Florida.
For the past 15 years, Travis has led countless groups through Mesoamerica on archaeological and cultural explorations. In addition, Travis has designed and coordinated ship-based voyages for Elderhostel International, and acted as guide and archaeological lecturer on Pathways of the Conquistadors. This 40-day sail along the coasts of South and Central America traces the history of the Spanish infiltration of the New World and the ancient indigenous cultures that preceded their arrival. With his extensive travel and individual investigation into the World of the Maya, Travis has developed a deep respect and affection for the land, its people and their history. He will bring you face-to-face with an ancient civilization whose customs and traditions continue to flourish today.
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About Explorations Inc.
We believe that our trips help to provide much needed income to the developing countries involved and such tourism also promotes preservation of natural resources and cultural traditions that may otherwise be lost under the pressures of the modern world. Explorations, Inc. is committed to providing quality adventure travel experiences and excellent personal service. By means of informal education and well paced travel, our goal is to facilitate a better understanding of the natural world and of cultures past and present. Explorations of distant places may not only teach us more about different cultures, we may also learn more about ourselves.
Explorations Inc. is licensed and registered with the State of Florida as a Seller of Travel. The phone number for the Florida Department of Commerce is 850-992-2966 and our SOT registration number is 15176. We are also registered in California as Seller of Travel #2021110-40. We are also an TSI Member of IATAN (International Airlines Travel Agent Network). An escrow account for trip payments is available - call for details and account number. Additional professional and client references are available upon request. Our Email address is info@ExplorationsInc.com.
Explorations Inc.
27655 Kent Rd
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Phone: 1-239-992-9660
or toll free 1-(800)-446-9660 (in USA, Canada, P.R.)
Call anytime to receive detailed trip brochures or more information!
Also available are custom itineraries for small groups!
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