I went to Honduras and Guatemala with Sacred Earth Journeys in 2011, with some expectations and preconceptions, hoping to learn more about the Maya beliefs. I understand what someone means when they say "words cannot express it". I found the Guatemalan and Honduran countryside fascinating -- checkerboard farms, fires everywhere, people in the street, a way of life radically different from the U.S. And with the guidance of Vergara and Jelusich, I found the Mayan sites (Copan, Quirigua) more extraordinary and even inexplicable than anything I expected. With ceremonies regularly, I felt that we entered into the heart of the Maya, with many mysteries still to be solved. I experienced a major internal upheaval and challenge in Chichicastenango, where the vendors sit right up to sacred pyramid - it was as if I was transformed into some ancient drama, and in the end, I was left to deal with my own internal issues - what else could one ask for on a sacred journey? Vergara expertly revealed nuances of glyphs and images that continue to challenge my preconceptions. Plus, for me, the journey encapsulated a major turning point in my life as my proposal of marriage to Helen (Wong) was included in a ceremony under the ceiba tree at Quirigua. The journey was packed with learning and experiences (external and internal). And even though we all shared the same journey, I am sure everyone's experience was unique. I have been severely challenged when someone casually asks, "How was it in Guatemala?" and they expect a simple answer!
Christopher Nyerges, Los Angeles, CA (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
This was a great trip for me. I learned so much about the Mayan culture and philosophy and about 2012 as well. It was a wonderful experience to be with Miguel Angel and experience his wisdom and humanity. He obviously knows his subject, but he also loves to share his knowledge. Talking with him was a very affirming experience. I have also noticed that I feel different in a good way since I’ve been back – more compassion and more inner peace and more gratitude. We were told that we might notice differences after the trip, but I didn’t expect to experience the shift that I have felt. I enjoyed the places we stayed and the wonderful Mayan sites we saw. I always felt well taken care of and safe. It was also a privilege to travel with such an exceptional group of people who were so spiritually attuned. I thought everything was very well planned, and the people leading the group were all exceptional. The trip has helped me in my own spiritual evolution, and I am very grateful for that.
D.F., Philadelphia, PA (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
Wow!! A life changing experience to be with like minded individuals exploring the cultures and history of sacred sites. Thank you so much to Sacred Earth Journeys – I will be back again… for more!
Deirdre Leighton, Calgary, Alberta (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
My Maya Sacred Path experience was one I will not soon forget. Miguel Angel and Dr. Jelusich were wonderful teachers! The powerful experiences at the sites were beyond compare and I have found the personal growth that has resulted from this trip to be extensive and still continuing long after returning home. I felt very safe and well taken care of on every level. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity!
Beverly Wein, Okotoks, Alberta (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
This was my third trip with Sacred Earth Journeys. They are always interesting and informative, providing experiences of sheer magic at times. Everyone's needs are well looked after and I always felt safe.
Donalie Caldwell, Kelowna, B.C. (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
Leaving all skepticism at home, working with Sacred Earth Journeys and meeting like-minded people on such a tour, makes for a unique, fascinating and life changing experience. Who can deny the existence of the guardians and protectors of the Temples we journeyed to? Exhumed from dense jungle and returned to the original form by patient, skillful, workers who create a place for the ‘tourist’ to feel safe and to learn about how and why the Mayan people were so connected with the earth and cosmic energy forces. Sacred Earth Journeys show us how Sacred our Earth is, so we return home knowing how and why to honour Mother Earth and share the experience with our friends
Serah Roer, Tappen, B.C. (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
This sacred journey to the Maya lands provided an excellent opportunity to meet the ancient ones that embody the stele of Copan and Quirigua. These time avatars and interdimensional beings are still present and demonstrate to us the personal and planetary ascension technologies available to us at this time of the turning of the ages.
Tyhson Banighen, Tappen, B.C. (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
I so enjoyed the journey. It was especially great to be taken everywhere and looked after in every respect so one could enjoy all the delights of the special places we visited, along with the very special teachings of Miguel. I have never made reservations on a group journey before and found such lovely like minded people were there also...so many thanks for all the organisation that went into this trip.
Sonia Newhouse, Urubamba, Peru (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
Personally it was a very interesting journey and I had a lot of different experiences. I had the opportunity to meet very lovely souls. I have learned what a ceremony is, and for the first time saw the Stelae and experienced their power. In fact, that was the reason why I participated, for the experience part. I thank you from the heart.
Nurdan Girginkoc, Istanbul, Turkey (Maya Sacred Path - Dec/11)
In December, 2010 I had the opportunity to participate in the Sacred Earth Journeys tour of the Yucatan. I had no expectations, but did anticipate a quality experience. The trip far exceeded my expectations – Under the guidance of Miguel Angel, we entered many of the ancient Mayan sites and were introduced to the inner and esoteric meanings of the sites. We were taught how to reverentially enter each site, and to feel what was and is present.
Miguel Angel led us in simple ceremonies that seemed older than Christianity, and tied to the very land we were in. He taught us to seek the esoteric, and not get caught up in the exoteric. He was the true metaphysician, for me the ultimate teacher and guide to these ancient lands. We thus experienced our introductory slice of the Maya culture in the archaeological sites, in the caves, in the cenotes, and in the Yucatan countryside.
I went expecting to expand beyond my limited knowledge of the Maya culture. I came home looking at my own inner Self in a deeper way, experiencing my world and my relations in a richer way, and realizing that this is indeed a very small world and that we’re all truly part of one family. In this way, my outer journey to the Yucatan became the best possible journey – an inner journey where I am now compelled to seek deeply the secrets not within a pyramid, but within my own soul.
Christopher Nyerges, Altadena, CA (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/10)
The Maya Sacred Path journey was above and beyond what I expected. Thanks for making my lifelong dream to participate in a traditional Mayan ceremony a reality. The insight and the knowledge presented helped me to connect to Mother Earth in ways that I didn't know I ever could. I came on this trip with the expectation of spiritual growth. I was enchanted by the profound energies of the sites we visited, the rites we participated in. The accommodations and the people associated with the tour were all wonderful. This shamanic pilgrimage to Yucatan was a success from all points of view.
Nilgun Arit, Istanbul, Turkey (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/10)
Imagine finishing high school in a couple of weeks – that is how fast I felt I had grown spiritually over the course of the trip! It was an intense 10 days, but extremely rewarding for anyone willing to take the plunge. It was especially enjoyable to travel with a group of like-minded people, a group that bonded together really well almost instantly. Miguel and Richard are among the best teachers I have met; they are extremely knowledgeable and yet very humble and approachable at the same time. The land of the Maya is a magical one, and I am confident that I shall return again soon!
Yee-Fun Lim, Singapore (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/10)
The entire trip was such a joy from start to finish. The camaraderie of like minds combined with the spiritual aspects was outstanding.
Donalie Caldwell, Kelowna, B.C. (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/10)
Another great trip with many Mayan teachings that are totally relevant for us during these troubled times. The tour leaders were always available to share their knowledge and wisdom and they treated everyone with reverence and respect.
Allan Krystie, Ajax, Ontario (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/10)
To have been part of such a respectful and loving man's daily ceremony was a great lesson in the full awareness of the presence of The Mother in and around me at all times.
Serah Roer, Tappen, B.C. (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/10)
When I arrived in Mexico... the earth was just a planet, the moon was just a rock satellite and the sun was just a burning ball of gas. By the time I left, I had a personal connection with “Ixchel” our Mayan mother earth, along with the bright sister moon and our heavenly warm father sun. The teachings of Miguel opened up the window to the 4 directions and the elements like I could never have imagined.
I knew it would be hard to top my experience of the 2008 tour but I had no idea just how much it actually could! Reconnecting with our teachers we shared our energy with the elements and I once again felt the beauty and the power of the land and the universe with my new and old friends!
The tour exceed my expectations in all areas and I felt safe in the company of Erik, Miguel & Richard, our trusty guides and my new found friends as I learned about the ways of the Mayans along our journey to some very special sacred sites. Words cannot describe the feeling of energy and connection to everything I felt as we explored the ruins after Miguel’s ceremonies.
I don’t think I can take a “regular” vacation ever again when one can experience such beauty and have such fun while enjoying the Mayan teachings under a warm welcoming sun. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who wishes more out of their travel experiences as not only a wonderful vacation, but it could be transformational in ones own spiritual growth if they are open to it. I look forward to returning once again next year to reconnect with the energy of the elements along with old and new friends alike.
This land truly is a special place in our magical universe!
Sal Nocitra, Toronto, Ontario (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/09)
The Maya Sacred Path to 2012 trip this year was, as always, amazing. It strengthened my body mind and spirit. I felt totally taken care of and could focus on being immersed in the experiences on the trip. Once again I was transformed to the point that It has taken me 3 weeks to really be able to even comment on how meaningful it continues to be in the way I live my life. Just thinking about it literally raises my spirit. It felt like home and family being with like minded people who were both fun and serious about their spiritual growth. We respected each other’s need for quiet time and space, but could also laugh and play and be childlike in our enjoyment of the events. As usual Helen paired me with another perfect roommate. Each year I wonder who it will be and move into trust as I remind myself of the wonderful women I have had the opportunity to get to know.
Traveling to Mexico with Sacred Earth Journeys is like an addiction for me. I wait for my spiritual “fix” and relive the trip for the rest of the year. Thanks Helen.
Dianne Harding, Vancouver, B.C. (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/09)
No camera in the world could ever capture what your heart receives on a journey. You must experience it!
Helen Wong, Pasadena, CA (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/09)
Remarkable for their great hearts and wide inclusive vision, our teachers sidestepped glamour for deep energetic insight and human sensitivity. Always open, accepting and humble in the face of these great ancestors, they led us into the mysteries where there are no easy answers, only portals to experience. We never stood in the presence of ancient power without their gentle wisdom to guide us. These were no mere piles of rocks we visited, but places to receive and share teachings, interpreted with loving patience by a true Mayan insider devoted to honouring their living presence.
Sandy Edwards, New York (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/09)
Imagine being in the tropics while the rest of the planet is being blanketed by snow and temperatures are dropping by day below zero. Hammocks hang outside of hotel doors so that one can nap and listen to the birds that never stop singing. The howler monkeys howl all night long with a symphony of crickets to lull you to sleep. Driving into villages tucked 10,000 feet up that rarely see visitors was a treat. The scenery on the roads reminding me of the movie “King Kong” and the TV series “Lost”. Cows in the fields had white birds attending to their every need. The birds cleaned them and ate right along side of them. The churches were awesome with ages of prayer. There was a hint of Catholic practices, however, once inside you were transported to another time. Instead of pews the church floor is lined with grasses. Families come in, move the grass and proceed to light 20 to 30 slender long candles that they stick to the floor. Once the candles were placed on the tile floor and lit, the people rocked back and forth chanting a long and melodious chant that sounded Tibetan. Many of the churches were built over pyramids.
Dr. Richard Jelusich gave talks on the Cosmology of the Maya indicating that they were galactic in nature and not limited to the earth plane. Fascinating documentation of their knowledge of Astronomy was shared with the group. Miguel Angel Vergara performed ceremonies at every site asking permission for us to enter. He taught us how to honor the nature spirits that watch over the Maya lands. It was humbling to experience the respect the Maya had for their land and to pray for their ancestors. We were transported to another time. It was cultural shock when the trip was over and we had to pack and leave the magic of the Maya.
Linda Strom-Medvitz, Lakeside, CA (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/09)
The Maya experience extended far beyond the simple value of visiting a few incredibly beautiful and interesting ruins (as a tourist, camera in hand). A deeply spiritual experience was opened to us, allowing us to see deeper into the sacred Mayan sites. Don Miguel Angel, an open hearted and experienced Shaman, (previously a Director at Chichen Itza) showed his educational abilities as an interpreter of Mayan glyphs and antiquities. Experiencing the sacred sites with rituals of respect and balance for history, nature, and one-ness – each of the sacred historical Mayan sites brought a great energy forward and our group bonded quickly. Each person found their own level of personal connection, and many were almost overwhelmed by the wonder of this year’s journey. I heard people planning with great enthusiasm, to be back again next year. I plan to be part of that group!
Janice Smylie, Ph.D., Calgary, Alberta (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/09)
My first travels with Sacred Earth Journeys and it was an amazing one. Everything was so well organized and we learned so much. I’m really looking forward to the next trip.
Linda Lang, Luxembourg (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/09)
Stellar! I arrived in Merida 2 days early expecting to find my own way to the hotel and there was Trudy's welcoming lovely face waiting with a hug. The feeling of being wrapped in love and light knowing that all was taken care of continued right through to the end of the trip. It allowed me to focus fully on every heart-expanding experience of connecting with the ancient Maya. I loved learning about the cosmos as they knew it, knowing how accurate they were to today's scientific knowledge. The ceremonies opened my intuition and were healing and inspiring, moving me along my sacred path. I am now able to draw from their energy in my daily life. The accommodation was lovely, the time to explore the towns and cities fun and enlightening, and the transpiration very comfortable. The universe also handed me a golden opportunity to attend the Maya Cosmic University when I was there. I learned so much and in fact one piece of information I'd been searching for, to enhance my own healing practice, came up during the classes. I can hardly wait for the trip in 2009. Thank you Helen, Daniela, Erik, Trudy, Richard and Miguel Angel for an indescribable experience!
Dianne Harding, Port Moody, BC (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/08)
My first impression was that here was a company that really cared what they offered and I wanted the journey that I selected to be a very personal experience. From my initial enquiry, through all the various stages of my Sacred Journey, I can only say how much I appreciated the excellent service provided. Money can buy many things, but the gift of true companionship of like souls is one I received freely. The memories of my journey will last. Thank you.
Christine Marsh, England (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/08)
If you are looking for a no-brainer week in the Yucatan this is not the trip for you. It is an experience beyond description that could change your goals, the way you see life and put you on a path to spiritual renewal. You can come away with a sense of healing, knowledge and desire to share what you have learned from such gifted spiritual healers. Miguel Angel has an incredible loving Heart combined with Richard's knowledge of how today's science verifies the Mayan beliefs about astronomy. It is a blissful experience not to be missed.
Cindy Wead, Prescott Valley, Arizona (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/08)
A soul searching and soul nurturing spiritual journey with all material needs cared for so I could just be, without worry. Each step of the journey was well planned and executed. Well done!
Sharonfaith Horton, La Mesa, CA (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Dec/08)
I have traveled from Australia twice to experience two different amazing Mayan, Sacred Earth Journeys. Both were more and less challenging than expected; completely different from each other, but equally inspiring. It has been wonderful to travel with such an enlightened/professional tour company and group of individuals who allow and support each other’s magical adventures to unfold. It wouldn’t have been possible to experience so much, in such a short time, without their support. I am extremely grateful for the ‘true’ Mayan history and wisdom from our much-loved leaders and the sacred sites themselves. As we approach the year 2012 – the end of time, according to the Mayan Calendar, it is imperative we become conscious of who we are and our place in the universe. Thank you for being of service.
Karen Stuart, Australia (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
The Sacred Earth Journey - Flight of the Stellar Serpent - was very real and fully opened my awareness to how much beauty there is in Mayan history, temple glyphs and the jungle landscape. Miguel’s Ceremonies, as we entered every temple ground, were a perfect example of the way to respect the Sacred Earth and feel part of the greater whole. Thank you Helen, Trudy, Erik, Miguel and Richard for leading us so humbly and with such expertise!
Serah Roer, Tappen, BC (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
This is my second Maya Tour with you and I just want you to know that once again you delivered in terms of physical challenge, spiritual experiences and overall fun. It was delightful to explore the ruins in Chiapas and Tabasco, Mexico and in Tikal, Guatemala. Being in the dense rainforest with monkeys, possums, birds of all kinds, butterflies was up-lifting and life affirming. All this created a space for my own personal journey which I appreciate beyond words. Thanks for the wonderful adventure.
Maureen F. Balaam, Monterey, CA (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
This was truly a Sacred Journey and the path traveled with Miguel Angel and Richard opened my mind, heart and soul to the Mayan initiatory process. Now my goal is to walk imbued with this feathered stellar serpent energy through every day life. I look forward to more sacred journeys to the lands of the Mayans.
Tyhson Banighen, Tappen, BC (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
What a privilege to explore and travel through the magical Mayan sites in Mexico and Guatemala. I found the Mayan journey fascinating, and inspiring, leaving much to ponder and digest. The leaders Miguel Angel, Richard, Erik, and Trudy complimented each other so well, letting us feel well cared for, while retaining individual time for our own experiences to emerge. The group energy was very supportive and I made many new friends in the short time we spent together. The beauty and wisdom of the land, rainforest jungles, pyramids and people is something we should have the honour of experiencing. The Mayan Calendar is now a part of my vocabulary and I look forward to a continued understanding of its wisdom.
Helen is so skillful in manifesting her visions, and has created yet another amazing sacred journey that comes from the heart. Helen and her team take care of all the details, so we can sit back and enjoy the ride! In Lak’ech!
Susan Rogers, Vancouver, BC (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Flight of the Stellar Serpent, a multi-levelled journey encompassing a myriad of experiences and expressions unique to each individual. The physical locale of Mexico and Guatemala offering a glimpse of the Mayan existence heightened by teaching brought forward to our present day in which we participate. The spiritual component integrated at each site visited lending to personal growth and development, clearing and renewal. Forever changed. A wonderful group of individual traveling together in harmony, peace, unconditional love, happiness and joy!
Barbary Lynn, Richmond, BC (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
This was my first “Spiritual Journey” but second tour. The camaraderie of the participants on this trip greatly exceeded my “regular” tour. As a solo traveler, I really appreciated that aspect.
Joanne Bryla, China Grove, NC (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
Transformational, joyful, humbling, trip of a lifetime. The efforts of Helen, Trudy, Richard, Miguel & Erik were inspiring. Who would have thought tramping through the jungle where you had to stay on the path or get poisoned, bitten or lost would have been so exciting. Visiting temples long abandoned, seeing treasures beyond the imagination of the Olmec traditions, experiencing meditations out of this world, literally, landing pads, mosquito netting, hammocks in the rough, toning in temple chambers that raised the kundalini, exquisite wall art in the Mayan pyramid chambers, praying to the Maya mother of all time, and holding a crystal skull facing the sun. What can I say? The trip was like no other. Bussing, boating with alligators sunning themselves on the river banks, crystal clear streams and exquisite water falls while the sun sets on tree lined roads, created an atmosphere of remembering, going back to the beginning of time. Being transported to the past cultures of the Maya made us all realize we lived this life before among the lush lands in Palenque, Tikal in Guatemala, with Alantian influences, art, engineering, ceremonies and architecture. Need I say more? Trip of a life time!!!
Linda Strom-Medvitz, Lakeside, CA (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
This could be the experience of a lifetime. It may challenge, transform, nourish, even overwhelm, but it is always worth it!
Yvonne Plankey, Calgary, AB (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 – Dec/07)
Great trip, excellent organization. Beyond expectations. Trudy, Erik, and Miguel Angel worked wonderfully to make this a fabulous trip. Loved it. Highly recommend it. This is my second trip with Sacred Earth Journeys. Both excellent experiences. AAAAA+++++"
Amelia Borge, Sarasota, Florida (Maya Sacred Path to 2012 - Nov/07)
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Journey with us to the vibrant and beautiful countries of Guatemala and Honduras to reconnect to source and unite with the heart of the Maya on our 2011 Maya Sacred Path to 2012 program. This is a tour series which began in 2005 and will be offered each year leading up to and past 2012, the end of the Mayan calendar. Each year we focus on different aspects of Mayan teachings and visit different Mayan sites as part of our journey. These journeys are for serious students who wish to evolve a deeper awareness of the true Mayan teachings and thus, evolve themselves through a spiritual awakening of cosmic consciousness.
mysteries of the Maya for a more full and greater understanding of what the ancients were trying to teach us. We continue our journey to reconnect with our Great Mother and awe at the scenic wonders of Panajachel and Santiago Atitlán and enjoy a delightful boat trip on Lake Atitlán, pausing to participate in a special ceremony on the lake. These towns will allow us to immerse ourselves fully in the thriving indigenous culture of the Maya still alive and well and extremely prominent in these areas.
Accompanying us on our journey will be Miguel Angel Vergara Calleros, our teacher of the Maya Wisdom, who will lead us in sacred ceremonies and share the wisdom of the ancients he has gathered through his in-depth studies and vast experiences. Also joining us is Dr. Richard Jelusich, whose passion for, and connection with the Mayan world, have kept him returning to this wondrous land many times over. He too will share the insights and wisdom he has gathered from his experiences and will also lead us in discussion with informative evening lectures.