World of the Maya: Uxmal to Copan

This journey visits three major Classic Maya sites—Palenque, Tikal, and Copan—majestic centers of three separate dynasties with complex interrelationships, including trade and warfare. We explore the interweaving of these dynasties and visit smaller satellite sites such as Yaxha, near Tikal, and Quirigua, with its historic rivalry with nearby Copan. Dr. Aveni adds his remarkable knowledge of Maya archaeoastronomy to our journey.

Itinerary at a Glance

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December 19-22
World of the Maya: Cycles of Time Symposium

Our symposium takes place at the ethereal Maya city of Uxmal, the finest achievement of the harmonious Puuc architectural style, with its soaring Piramide del Adivino (“Pyramid of the Magician”) and grand Palace of the Governor, precisely aligned with the path of the planet Venus. We make the most of Uxmal’s extraordinary treasury of art and architecture, interweaving presentations by our Guest Speakers with fascinating visits to Uxmal and the nearby Puuc sites of Kabah, Sayil, and Labna. Our Guest Speakers provide us with an insider’s view during in-depth presentations and excursions.

December 23
to Palenque

From Uxmal, we head southwest to the town of Palenque, where we overnight close to the archaeological site at a resort set in 50 acres of tropical forest.

December 24
Palenque

We explore exquisite Palenque, a World Heritage Site, most famous for its Temple of Inscriptions, adorned with fantastically detailed hieroglyphics and holding the spectacular tomb of Lord Pacal. Major breakthroughs in the translation of Maya writing began here in 1973 at the first Palenque Round Table, leading to major insights into the dynastic history of Palenque and other Maya political centers.

December 25
Flores / Yaxha

Crossing the border into Guatemala at El Ceibo, we continue to our peaceful hotel on a lagoon outside Flores. This afternoon we drive to Yaxha, still shrouded by rainforest. We explore its plazas and beautiful North Acropolis, which provide hints of what Tikal may have looked like before restoration, and enjoy sunset at this lovely site.

December 26 and 27
Tikal

One of the grandest archaeological sites in the world, Tikal extends over six square miles. The five steep pyramids rearing out of the jungle here are a staggering sight, and the city’s complex North Acropolis, built and rebuilt starting as early as 100 BC, is one of the most fascinating structures in the Maya world. Tikal’s famed Great Pyramid is the Maya’s earliest existing astronomical observatory With two full days here, we can visit all the major sites as well as some of the lesser-known areas.

December 28
Livingston

We continue south to the peaceful Rio Dulce, a rainforest-lined river that flows to the Caribbean, for a boat journey past thatched-roof villages and jungled river banks to the picturesque port town of Livingston, with its unique Garifuna culture, set along aquamarine Caribbean shores.

December 29
Quirigua / Copan

En route to Copan, we explore Quirigua, where impressive carved stelae and sculpted calendars provided an essential source for the study of Maya civilization.

December 30
Copan

The ancient royal city of Copan was the seat of power for a dynasty of 16 kings, all depicted on the famous Altar Q. Its legacy of artistic achievement includes intricately carved stelae and the famed hieroglyphic stairway, as well as the remarkably well-preserved Rosalila Temple. We enjoy our farewell dinner this evening.

December 31
Depart

Depart via San Pedro Sula.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

This trip is Level 1+, Easy to Moderate. It features vehicle-based sightseeing and day walks, with hotel accommodations throughout. There can be extended walking at the ruin sites, sometimes involving stairs or rough, uneven surfaces. Climbing the steep steps of Maya pyramids is strenuous but optional. We do recommend that everyone make special efforts to get in good physical condition for the trip, as it will greatly increase your enjoyment.

Explanation of Trip Levels