For many years the Mayan World has been a popular destination for adventure seekers. Early day explorers like John Lloyd Stephens discovered the region to be full of exciting surprises when he first stumbled upon great ancient pyramids in the early 19th century. Only forty years ago a visit to the now well known ruins of Tikal, Guatemala meant a venturing on a two-day jungle hike over rarely trotted paths, after a dubious flight into Guatemala’s jungle capital, Flores. Nowadays the region offers a escapades at any adventure level, from single-day excursions to the Chichen Itza Maya Ruins to one-week jungle hikes to El Mirador, the tallest Mayan ruin. But the Mayan World offers the adventurer much more then just archeology. In an area of roughly 300,000 square kilometers (116,000 square miles) the Mayan World encompasses mountains, lakes, white water and calm water rivers, rainforest, Caribbean beaches, cenotes, caves and waterfalls. This wide range of geological attractions and ancient- as well as modern- Mayan culture provides the traveler with an ideal destination to quench his thirst for adventure.
mexico tours The state of Quintana Roo in Mexico owns the world’s largest system of underwater caves. Called cenotes, these underwater cave systems were once dry and full of marvelous limestone stalactites and stalagmites. Today these aqua caves are a paradise to snorkelers and scuba divers as they are accessible from both land and ocean.
In the Peten region of Guatemala, one can find many unique lakes. Each with a different composition, these lakes vary in color and transparency. Spread throughout the vast rainforest of this region, these lakes provide a refreshing swim breaks as well as beautiful views. The rivers of this region are excellent for bird watching and canoe trips.
In Cayo District of Belize, single-day excursions are numerous. The region is rich with lush jungle, mysterious caves and pristine rivers. And let’s not forget the alternative culture in this natural world. Let your guide take you on a river into the jungle for a visit to a well-known medicine man or ride through water caves on an inner tube.
Southern Guatemala’s mountain range offers white water rafting, kayaking and amazing waterfalls. A visit to this region is not easily planned, but the effort is rewarded with natural wonders still undiscovered by most tourists.
The state of Chiapas in Mexico has waterfalls amongst Mayan ruins and lush jungle. A visit to the ancient Mayan ruins of Bonampac provides the opportunity for a bicycle ride through the rainforest.
These are just a few highlights in the amazing World of the Maya; a “must-see”, “must-feel” destination for any true adventurer.