Located along the Gulf Coast, the Celestún Biosphere Reserve is a protected coastal region known for its rich biodiversity, vibrant flamingo population, and striking pink salt lagoons. Students explore mangrove and wetland ecosystems while learning about conservation efforts, traditional salt production, and the environmental challenges facing coastal communities.
Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park that brings together natural environments, cultural traditions, and contemporary interpretations of Mexican heritage. Students engage with exhibits and performances highlighting Indigenous history, biodiversity, and regional customs, including a large-scale evening show that traces Mexico’s cultural and historical narratives.
Colorful and walkable, Valladolid is a historic colonial city that offers insight into daily life in the Yucatán beyond major tourist centers. Students explore the central plaza, local markets, and surrounding neighborhoods while observing the blending of Maya and Spanish influences in architecture, language, and foodways. The visit provides space to reflect on regional identity.
The Maya Mexico Winter program concludes with a two day visit to beautiful Playa del Carmen. There, students observe and analyze the island’s renowned street-scene, discuss the complicated relationship between tourism and environmental sustainability, and share their final project/oral presentation. Students will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful beach, as well.
Uxmal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides a striking contrast to Chichen Itzá. For some, the intricate and ornate pyramids, temples and other ceremonial structures at Uxmal represent the pinnacle of Maya art, design and architecture. En route to Uxmal, we visit Hacienda Yaxcopoil— a former landed-estate, which speaks to the complex history…
At Chichen Itzá, students encounter the impressive convergence of Maya architecture, mathematics, agriculture, astronomy, commerce, and religion. The Pyramid of Kukulcan, Temple of the Warriors, Observatory, and Ball Court help students appreciate pre-Columbian advances and restraints. Our excursion culminates with an optional swim in a beautiful cenote (natural pool).
Beautiful and charming, Merida is the capital city of the Yucatán. Students actively explore vibrant markets, colonial architecture, local food, and other slices of daily life. Highlights include the Monumento a la Patria— a massive monument depicting centuries of Mexican history— and the Palacio del Gobierno, which houses striking murals depicting the Maya and Spanish…
Playa del Carmen The Maya Mexico Winter program concludes with a two day visit to beautiful Playa del Carmen. There, students observe and analyze the island’s renowned street-scene, discuss the complicated relationship between tourism and environmental sustainability, and share their final project/oral presentation. Students will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful beach, as well.
Uxmal & Hacienda Yaxcopoil Uxmal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides a striking contrast to Chichen Itzá. For some, the intricate and ornate pyramids, temples and other ceremonial structures at Uxmal represent the pinnacle of Maya art, design and architecture. This Puuc city and its surrounding towns also demonstrate the social and economic…
Chichen Itzá & Cenote Ik Kil At Chichen Itzá, students encounter the impressive convergence of Maya architecture, mathematics, agriculture, astronomy, commerce, and religion. The Pyramid of Kukulcan, Temple of the Warriors, Observatory, and Ball Court help students appreciate pre-Columbian advances and restraints. Our excursion culminates with an optional swim in a beautiful cenote (natural pool).…