ShoreTrips says...

It's been our experience that in order to really see and understand a culture, you must leave the cities. This tour will take you to a part of Mexico that most never see and you will have a marvelous adventure with people who will communicate to you their pride in their civilization.

Your journey back in time takes you into an era that began 1500 years ago when the Mayan culture began to grow around Coba ("Ruffled Waters") as it was surrounded by five lakes. Your guide will begin the day by sharing his knowledge of the area's history as you travel for 1.5 hours to these incredible ruins.

Coba is an archeological site hidden deep inside the rain forest on the southeastern side of the Yucatan. It's easy to feel the power of the Mayans as you explore the massive remains of the once-intimidating structures. The Nohoch Mul temple and the Iglesia, a nine-tiered pyramid, are weathered and covered with vegetation, yet they are still imposing. You'll have time to climb up the pyramid, at which point you'll be above tree level, and view the land surrounding the city and feel the cool breezes.

Next, we'll travel to an authentic Mayan village called Chimuch. This small community consists of about 100 people who are indigenous to this area. They'll accompany us as we walk through the forest and they'll impart their everyday knowledge of the land. Here, you'll be able to zip line across one of their beautiful cenotes, or sink holes, then rappel 45 feet down to swim in a magnificent cenote, Balaam Kin. They will also take you canoeing on their lagoon and, as you are now ravenous, you'll partake in a generous lunch prepared by the local women. The menu includes an authentic chicken cooked with rice, beans, potatoes, and handmade tortillas. You'll be invited into their homes in the jungle and you'll be amazed at how "modern" their lives are. This will undoubtedly be a memorable experience.