Experiential Yucatan

8 Days of Nature and Connection in Southern Mexico

Overview

Go beyond the classroom and experience the Yucatán through hands-on learning. This 8-day experiential itinerary is designed for student groups who want to connect with Mayan culture, explore natural wonders, and participate in meaningful community-based activities.

Travel is one of the most powerful tools for education. In the Yucatán, students will not only visit iconic sites but also engage directly with local communities, traditions, and the environment. This itinerary combines cultural immersion, history, and sustainable tourism practices to inspire curiosity, teamwork, and global awareness.

Itinerary

  • ¡Bienvenidos a Mexico! Welcome to the Yucatan Peninsula! Settle into the hotel and get ready to go explore the streets of Merida in a guided visit! The capital of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, stands out for its well-preserved colonial architecture, fascinating history and bustling plazas, making it a living testament to its rich heritage. Beyond its architectural splendors, Merida boasts a strong sense of safety and hospitality.

  • Head out to Isla Columpios, a rich mangrove ecosystem and group of small islands and sand banks in the coast is a nature sanctuary. The area stands out for being a nesting zone for sea turtles and migratory birds. Enjoy a guided boat trip where you can admire wildlife, go swimming, kayak and relax in a hammock. Visit the Puerto Progreso boardwalk before returning to Merida for the evening.

  • Arrive at this small town next to the Ek Balam archaeological zone. Visit a group of hammock weavers, embroidery artisans and learn how to make tortillas with a local cooperative! Continue at the Ek Balam archaeological zone and a neighboring cenote for a swim. Finish the day in the magical town of Valladolid.

  • Visit a local family for a hands-on local cooking class. You will learn to make tamales, salsas and prepare a whole meal using the Pib, the traditional firewood underground oven used in Yucatecan cuisine.  Enjoy tasting your creation for lunch and sharing with local hosts.

  • Take a guided visit to remarkable Chichen Itza, one of the 7 New World Wonders and Mexico's most emblematic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a prominent city and political center of the Maya civilization, Chichen Itza served as a hub for trade, religion, and governance, with notable structures like the Temple of Kukulcan, the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors showcasing the advanced engineering and astronomical knowledge of the Mayans. Visit a nearby cenote for a refreshing swim in crystal clear waters.

  • Head back to Merida after enjoying one last visit to a cavern type cenote. Free afternoon to do some shopping and explore the area

  • One last day of adventures before returning home! Head to the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve and hop on a boat adventure around this impressive reserve that is home to hundreds of birds, such as flamingos, roseate spoonbill, black hawks and many more. After the tour, you can relax at the heavenly beach of Celestun before returning to Merida for a farewell dinner.

  • Time has come to say goodbye to Mexico for now! We hope you enjoyed this transformational journey and return home recharged, with new connections and memories. 

What’s included

  • Standard accommodation in single / double / triple room depending on group rooming list

  • Airport transfers

  • Private transfers between destinations

  • Mentioned activities

  • All meals after arrival

  • Specialized local guides and trip leader

  • Entrance fees to sites of interest

  • Contribution to social projects visited

  • Local taxes

  • Interactive day-to-day travel program in specialized app with support from our team

What’s not included

  • International flights

  • Additional tours and activities

  • Travel insurance

  • Not specified meals and drinks

  • Tips and gratuities

  • Personal expenses

  • Payment and transaction fees

Details and Booking
  • Group of tourists gathered in front of a historic building with an ornate entrance, under a clear blue sky.
  • A boat with four people on board speeding across calm, clear green water under a blue sky with a few white clouds.
  • Person swinging on a rope over a green lake at a limestone cave with lush green trees in the background
  • A woman and a girl are smiling and high-fiving each other during a craft or baking activity at a wooden table with bread and a glass of water.
  • A man with sunglasses on his head and a crossbody bag is weaving a bright pink mat with a woman and another woman in the background at a traditional outdoor workshop in a tropical area.
  • Tour group at Chichen Itza pyramid in Mexico, standing on a dirt path with green trees and a cloudy sky overhead.