Unlock the mysteries surrounding ancient Maya civilization while exploring Dzibilchaltun, one of the oldest and most populated Mayan cities in the Yucatán, on a half-day express tour that includes a stop by the Temple of the Seven Dolls and the Cenote Xlakah. Enjoy a scenic 45-minute motor coach drive to Dzibilchaltun, where you will join a guided walk around this former Mayan coastal trading center. Dating back to the classic period, this community was occupied through the 1500s when the Spanish invaded and once had a peak population of some 40,000 people. Among the site?s 8,000 buildings, you?ll be awed by the Temple of the Seven Dolls. In the 1950s, archaeologists found seven small figurines in the buried temple, and as your guide will explain, the temple?s construction exemplifies the Maya?s understanding of the solar system. You can view the uncovered dolls, as well as carved stone tablets, old textile machinery, maps and Spanish weapons in an onsite museum. Then finish off your discovery at the Cenote Xlakah, a deep watering hole beside the main plaza that was once a source of fresh water for residential drinking and irrigation purposes. Its crystalline waters now offer a cool respite on hot days for locals and visitors alike.
Highlights:
• Dzibilchaltun: Discover one of the wealthiest ports and coastal trading centers of the ancient Maya on a three-hour express tour.
• Temple of the Seven Dolls: Hear tales about the archaeological finds and the scientific significance of this central pyramid base.
• Cenote Xlakah: Measuring approximately 144 feet deep, this natural pool?s crystal-clear waters once supplied drinking water to the ancient Maya.
• THIS TOUR IS OPERATED BY A TOUR OPERATOR THAT HAS BEEN THIRD-PARTY VERIFIED TO AN INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNIZED SUSTAINABILITY STANDARD.
What To Bring:
• SeaPass card and photo identification
• Camera
• Cash/credit cards
• Sun protection
• Insect repellent
• Bottled water
What To Wear:
• Walking shoes
• Hat and sunglasses
• Light clothing
Important Notes:
• Guests must be able to walk over uneven limestone surfaces, with inclines and several steps and extended periods of standing.
• A long walk is involved in order to access to an important structure.
• Consider physical fitness and medical history when selecting tour.
• Pregnant women and guests with back/neck problems should not select this tour.
• Guests in wheelchairs and others with limited mobility should not select this tour.
• No flash bulbs, tripods and professional video equipment permitted at ruins.
• Guests taking video in any format (video camera, cell phone, tablet, etc.) within the archaeological site will be charged government fee of approximately $8-$10 USD payable in cash onsite.
• The drive to and from the ruins site is approximately 45 minutes each way.
• Tour sequence may vary.
