C OS TA
M AYA
TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS
FUN TREKS : COSTA MAYA
Here are just a few of the many tours you can experience during your visit. See your onboard shore excursions specialist to book today.
PORT VIEW The ancient Mayan civilization is on fascinating view in Costa Maya, which has the most archaeological sites in Mexico and where the greatest numbers of Mayan people still live. Yet the sparkling locale is every bit a modern destination, with a far-ranging choice of attractions: beaches and water sports; ecotourism; fine dining; and exquisite shopping. The ruins at Kohunlich and Dzibanché offer enthralling examples of Mayan architecture. Costa Maya’s verdant rainforests beckon nature-lovers, and
Tr aditi on al na tive dres s
the turquoise waters of the Western Caribbean offer excellent diving or simple relaxation. And what’s not to love about a place that calls itself “the birthplace of the rainbow”? The seven colors of the rainbow can be seen in Lake Bacalar, inspiring the magical sobriquet. This is the place to acquire Mayan
Finding old treasures and new pleasures
KOHUNLICH MAYAN RUINS
MAYAN CULTURE EXPERIENCE
Belize’s jungle holds the Kohunlich Mayan ruins, where temples and manicured lawns reveal ancient Maya culture. Highlights include the Temple of the Large Masks, the Plaza of the Acropolis and the Plaza of the Estelas and many more.
The Mayan people often are torn between their cultural past and the modern world. This tour demonstrates the dichotomy with a tour of an ancient ruin and a visit to a contemporary home where participants learn about and taste authentic Mayan cuisine. The family also discusses ancient medicines in this unforgettable experience.
JUNGLE BEACH BREAK Participants visit Uvero Beach, one of Costa Maya’s newest and most popular beaches. Beach chairs are available for relaxing on the powdersand beach; more-active visitors can try activities such as kayaking. Uvero has a bar serving cocktails, for the finishing touch on the day.
CHACCHOBEN MAYAN RUINS Visitors explore the virtually un-excavated Chacchoben Mayan ruins, a nearly 10-acre site in a secluded part of the jungle near the border of Belize. Guides
describe the history of the ruins and lead participants through Mayan temples, the main pyramid and the site’s manicured gardens.
DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER/ DOLPHIN SWIM ADVENTURE Two dolphin excursions are available: The Dolphin Encounter, for all ages, takes place on a submerged platform where participants may pet and kiss the animal. The Dolphin Swim Adventure is a full-on swim, with the guest holding the dolphin’s pectoral fins for an exhilarating ride through the water. Participants must be 2 or older; children 2-12 must be accompanied by a paying adult in the water.
PHOTOS BY: (KOHUNLICH MAYAN RUINS) JIM LOPES/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (KAYAK) TOMAS DEL AMO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (MAYAN WOMAN) MEXICO TOURISM BOARD; (CHACCHOBEN MAYAN RUINS) UWE BLOSFELD/DREAMSTIME.COM; (WOMAN WITH DOLPHIN) ANNA LISOVSKAYA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM.
120
artifacts and replicas of Mayan art, crafts and jewelry, along with fine silver, beautiful pottery and leather goods. Costa Maya also is home to one of the largest diamond and watch stores in the Western Caribbean. For a simple indulgence, nothing’s better than the treat created from locally grown chicle plants: chewing gum. —K. C.
How to get to town Majahual is about five minutes from the pier. A limited number of taxis are available at the tourist village exit.
CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES FUN ASHORE
1112 POC Costa Maya.indd 123
10/11/11 9:07 AM