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Sacred Journeys -Mexico

 

The Serpent of Light - Kukulkan Descends at Chichen Itza

A Spring Equinox Journey to Discover the Sacred Maya Wisdom & the Mystery of the Crystal Skulls

March 20 – 29, 2009

 

Tour Leaders: Renowned author and researcher, Stephen Mehler, is the co-author of the recently published book, The Crystal Skulls: Astonishing Portals to Man’s Past, as well as other books on ancient Egypt. He has researched the phenomenon of crystal skulls since 1979, especially those known as ancient crystal skulls. Maya Master Teacher, Miguel Angel Vergara Calleros, studied for 17 years with Mayan elder and wisdom keeper, Don Vincente Martin, and teaches seminars in Mexico and abroad on Mayan astronomy, philosophy, calendar, glyphs & symbols, medicine, cosmovision, traditions and prayers, ceremonies and healing. Read more about Stephen and Miguel Angel on our About Your Tour Leaders page.

Click here to listen to a brief interview with Stephen Mehler on Around the World Radio, recorded in August 2008.

 
  Tour Summary       Map
 


Day 1   Arrive in Mérida
Day 2   Aké for Opening Ceremony, Izamal
Day 3   Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote
Day 4   Ek Balam, Rio Lagartos
Day 5   Acancéh, Mayapan
Day 6   Loltún, Labnah
Day 7   Uxmal
Day 8   Oxkintok
Day 9   Dzibilchaltún, Xcambó, Closing Ceremony
Day 10 Depart Mérida

     

Mexico

 
Detailed Itinerary
 
Day 1 Fri, Mar 20: Arrive in Mérida
Arrive in colonial Mérida and transfer to your hotel in the historic town centre. Most travellers will be arriving in the evening so we will save our introductions and briefing for the following morning.
(Overnight in Mérida at the Hotel Los Aluxes)

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Day 2 Sat, Mar 21: Aké for Opening Ceremony, Izamal (B, L, D)

After breakfast we depart for the ancient Maya site of Aké, “The City of the Children of the Turtle”. This rarely visited site houses the Royal Palace where columns rise 4 to 6 metres in height, reminding us of the “Children of Atlantis”, and the Giant Teachers. In Aké, one breathes the “essence of the Atlantis/Maya knowledge” and the wisdom of the ancient Atlantian priests and astronomers who passed on their most valued knowledge to the Maya teachers. Here, amongst the peace and serenity, Miguel Angel will lead us in our Opening Ceremony to ask permission of the guardians and spiritual energies for our journey, and to welcome us to the sacred land of the Maya.

IzamalWe then continue on to the city of Izamal, “The Dew of the Sky”, which is connected to Aké by a 19 mile Sacbe, a raised white road of limestone built by the Maya. Legend states that when Lord Itzamná arrived from Atlantis, he founded this city which still bears his name. It is said that when Lord Itzamná died, they placed his head in the north temple, his heart in the east temple, and his right hand in the west temple. The south temple is said to house his priests and disciples. Here we will visit the Franciscan monastery which was built on the base of the main pyramid, and then cross over to the other side of town to visit the pyramid of Kinich Kaak Moo. We will enjoy a late lunch in the city of Izamal and then head east to Valladolid for the evening.
(Overnight in Valladolid at Mesón del Marqués)

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Day 3 Sun, Mar 22: Chichen Itza, Ik Kil Cenote (B, L, D)

Kukulkan at Chichen ItzaThis morning we explore the famous site of Chichen Itza, “The Maya Cosmic University”, now one of the great Seven Wonders of the World. Here we will visit the eminent Pyramid of Kukulkan, the expansive Ball Court, the Observatory of El Caracol, the Sacred Cenote and more! To escape the peak heat of midday we make our way to Ik Kil Cenote for a refreshing swim followed by lunch and time to relax. In the late afternoon, we return to Chichen Itza for a rare and special opportunity. Standing in awe at the foot of the Pyramid of Kukulkan, we will wonder at the moment we have waited for - the dramatic display and descent of the Serpent of Light. Twice a year at the time of the equinoxes, a shadow is cast on the corner of El Castillo in the shape of a plumed serpent, known as Kukulkan, which slithers down the north side of the Pyramid. As we receive this gift of Cosmic Energy from Kukulkan, we can truly sense the sacred energies of the Maya that surround us and connect with our own inner light. In the evening we return to Ik Kil cenote for a very special candlelight ceremony and blessing with the wise shaman Don Florencio to receive a “limpia” for spiritual cleansing.
(Overnight in Valladolid at Mesón del Marqués)

 
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Day 4 Mon, Mar 23: Ek Balam, Rio Lagartos (B, L)
Ek BalamOur first stop today is Ek Balam, “The City of the Messengers of the Sky and the Star-Jaguar”. The enormous elaborate Acropolis pyramid, located inside the Mayan site of Ek Balam, is a striking sight after driving miles through the surrounding jungle. The site was at the height of its importance as a city during the Late Classic period (600-900 A.D.). When the Maya abandoned the site, it went under cover, literally, as the dense low-lying jungle engulfed it. Here at this impressive Maya site, we will find the Maya Cosmovision expressed in three levels or cosmic dimensions. The Maya Royal Palace is found on the fourth level, along with the Angels, Teachers, and Maya Prophets. Through the presence of the image of the Jaguar, the guardian of the mysteries of the cosmos, we are offered the sacred knowledge to awaken our consciousness and prepare us for the end of the Maya Calendar on December 21, 2012.

After our time spent exploring Ek Balam, we immerse ourselves in the glory of Mother Nature. We head to Rio Lagartos for lunch at the beach and then enjoy a relaxing boat ride down the river to spot flamingos and many other bird species found in this area.
(Overnight in Mérida at the Hotel Los Aluxes)
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Day 5 Tues, Mar 24: Acancéh, Mayapan (B, L)

This morning we begin the day with a stop in the charming village of Acancéh, a town of 3 cultures - the ancient Maya, the colonial Spanish, and the present-day Mexican culture. The town includes prehispanic, colonial and modern construction as well as a Pyramid dedicated to Kinich Ahau, “the Lord with the Face of the Sun”, which lies in the main plaza alongside the market, church and city hall. Here we will climb the pyramid and admire the Sun Masks.

MayapanWe then continue to Mayapan, a major site that is rarely visited, but considered “The Flag City of the Mayas”. The city was founded in the year 950 AD for the Maya Teacher Kukulkan, the revered teacher who instructed the Maya in science, art, philosophy, religion, calendars, mathematics, and architecture. Here Miguel Angel will lead us in a special Maya ceremony before allowing us the opportunity to explore on our own and spend time in private meditation.

This evening we enjoy a lecture with Stephen Mehler: The Crystal Skulls: Astonishing Portals to Man’s Past – Part One. Stephen will share information gathered throughout his years of research and personal experiences with Crystals Skulls with a focus on the Mayan and Amethyst skull. He will summarize his work with Crystal Skull experts Nick Nocerino and Marcel Vogel, and will share their insights on the mystery of the Crystal Skulls as well. He will also impart the knowledge he collected from his work with Mayan Priest, Francisco Reyes, who has shared with him information regarding ways in which the ancient Maya may have used the Crystall Skulls.
(Overnight in Mérida at the Hotel Los Aluxes)

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Day 6 Wed, Mar 25: Loltún Caves, Labnah (B, L, D)

An early start today has us journeying through the Puuc region to admire the panoramic views of hills and valleys of the area. Labná ArchOur first stop is the magical Loltún Caves, the largest caves in the area, encased by cathedral high ceilings, and occupied by mystery and spirits from ancient Maya times. Here we will be led by local Shaman Don Jose as we wind our way through the womb of Mother Earth to the depths of the Maya Underworld, to experience our own rebirth and awakening.

Once we return to the surface we will head out to visit the ceremonial site of Labnah for a ceremony led by Miguel Angel. Here we will walk along the Sacbe and through a beautifully decorated Maya arch, considered a gateway to another dimension, to connect once again with the energies of Mother Earth. Following our visit we will enjoy lunch and make our way to the jungles of Uxmal for the evening.
(Overnight in Uxmal at Villas Arqueológicas Uxmal)

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Day 7 Thurs, Mar 26: Uxmal (B, L, D)
UxmalThis morning we walk over to the spectacular site of Uxmal, known as “The Female Maya Cosmic University”, considered by many to be the most beautiful of the sacred Maya sites. This ceremonial centre was dedicated to the Sacred Feminine, to Mother Ixchel and Grandmother Xmukané. Here we will start with an official ceremony with Miguel Angel to balance our feminine aspect, and then roam among the tranquil grounds to feel cradled by the immensely serene atmosphere. As we will be here the whole day you will have time to explore Uxmal on your own. Visit the magnificent Pyramid of the Magician which has five temples built on top of each other during various periods, and is adorned with Chac masks on each level. You may then want to climb the majestic Great Pyramid for a breathtaking panoramic view of the site and an excellent photographic opportunity. From this platform you can look out over the site of Uxmal as well as the outlying jungle that spans as far as the eye can see. Pass through the arched doorways to move into the Nunnery Quadrangle whose detailed buildings are decorated with masks, serpents, owls and human figures, including a human face exiting from a serpent’s mouth, to meditate in the peaceful open courtyard.

In the evening we return to Uxmal for the Sound and Light Show.
(Overnight in Uxmal at Villas Arqueológicas Uxmal)
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Day 8 Fri, Mar 27: Oxkintok (B, L)
Today we visit the site of Oxkintok, “The Place Where Three Suns Burn”. The three suns are “The Three Suns of Creation” - Sirius, Alcyone in the Pleiades, and our sun. The site is known for its hieroglyphic inscriptions which are among some of the oldest dates found in the Yucatán, as well as the anthropomorphic columns which were sculpted to represent elites, warriors and deities. Here we will explore the most well-known building of the site, the Tzat Tun Tzat, which in Mayan means labyrinth or “place in which one may be lost”. As we make our way through the maze of tunnels, passageways and stairs, we awaken to the “cord of life”. This cord of life connected the ceremonial centres of the Ancient Maya and now shapes the awakening of our consciousness so it will be ready to be reactivated.

We then stop for lunch to relax and enjoy the surroundings and share our experiences with our new friends thus far, before returning to Mérida.

This evening we enjoy our second lecture with Stephen: The Crystal Skulls: Astonishing Portals to Man’s Past – Part Two. Tonight Stephen will share the findings of his work with Crystal Skulls, Max and Sha-Na-Ra. He will discuss the “scenes” viewed in the Crystal Skulls regarding the Maya sites of Palenque, Tikal and Copan and how they were imprinted, or recorded by the skulls. Stephen will also demonstrate the ways in which the Maya were believed to have used Crystal Skulls in their ceremonies and rituals. To end the evening, a summary of his conclusions and findings will be discussed with an opportunity to ask the many questions we will have.
(Overnight in Mérida at the Hotel Los Aluxes)
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Day 9 Sat, Mar 28: Dzibilchaltún, Xcambó, Closing Ceremony (B, L)
DzibilchaltunToday is the final day of our journey through the Maya world. We begin our day of discovery with a visit to Dzibilchaltún, “The Place with the Writing on Flat Stones”, a large and very ancient Maya site. We will walk along the Sacbe to The Temple of the Dolls, known for its seven small sculptures which once resided here, where Miguel Angel will lead us in a meditation. Following our visit to the temple, we will return along the Sacbe to the sacred cenote of Ixlacah before heading to Xcambó.

Amidst salt mines and beautiful vegetation, we encounter the site of Xcambó, a large Maya site that has yet to be fully restored. Dzibilchaltun CenoteThis important city once provided salt and salted fish to the Mayan cities of Izamal, Oxkintok, Uxmal and Chichen, and contains a unique combination of Mayan structures, fully restored pyramids, areas under excavation, mounds that, as of yet, are unexplored, a Catholic chapel, and a small freshwater spring. Here at this very special site with its captivating culmination of eras, we will participate in our Closing Ceremony led by Miguel Angel.

Later we enjoy our celebratory farewell lunch at the beach before returning to Mérida. Upon our return we will have some time to wander through the charming colonial city and do some last minute shopping. Because it is Saturday night, the main street is closed to traffic and there will be an abundance of free street entertainment to experience and enjoy - a wonderful and exciting way to end our journey!
(Overnight in Mérida at the Hotel Los Aluxes)
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Day 10 Sun, Mar 29: Depart Mérida
Transfer to the Mérida airport for your flight home.
 
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NOTE: This itinerary subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
 
(B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner)
Note: This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
 
 
Tour Inclusions & Price
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Tour Includes:
9 nights accommodation at 4 star hotels
Arrival and departure transfers (Mérida Airport / Hotel / Mérida Airport)
Daily breakfast, 8 lunches, 4 dinners
Private Coach Transportation
Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
Baggage Handling at the hotels (1 bag per person)
Tips for Bellboys, Maids, Restaurant Waiters, and Bus Driver
Fees and Gratuities to Tour Leaders
Admission to all sites as per itinerary
All Guide Services as per itinerary
 
Special Features:
Travel with Author and Maya Master Teacher, Miguel Angel Vergara Calleros
Travel with author Stephen Mehler
Descent of the Serpent of Light at Chichen Itza during Spring Equinox
Private Candle-lit Ceremony at Ik Kil Cenote with Shaman Don Florencio
Loltún Caves with Shaman Don Jose
Participate in meditations, rituals and ceremonies at the Mayan sites
2 Lectures by Stephen Mehler and Teachings on Mayan Cosmology with Miguel Angel Vergara Calleros
 
Tour does not include:
Airfare to Mérida
Cancellation & Medical Insurance (ask us for a quote if you are Canadian)
Meals and drinks not included, as indicated in the itinerary
Cost to obtain valid passport
Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks and telephone

Tour Price
 
Tour Price Per Person (Land Only) Single Supplement  
USD $2675.00 USD $500.00  

                                       
Note: The single supplement is ONLY for those who would like to secure a private room throughout the tour, at the indicated additional price. If you are not traveling with anyone you know and would like to share a room, we will be happy to work to find you a suitable roommate. Per our Terms and Conditions, registration for the tour will be held open until two weeks before the departure date in order to try to match everyone with a roommate. If by that date we have not been able to match you with a suitable roommate, you will be responsible to pay for the single supplement. An early registration will facilitate this process.

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