Visit and explore the amazing Mayan Ruins of Dzibilchaltun and then relax at one of the most popular beach clubs in Progreso.
You will start this adventurous day by meeting your guide in the cruise terminal area. Your guide will show comfortable, air-conditioned transportation for the 40-minute scenic drive to the ruin site.
Along the route, your friendly guide will go over the plan for the day. They will provide you with some history and information on the Mayan Culture and about the ruins, you will be exploring. If you have any questions, have them ready and your cameras handy.
Dzibilchaltun, pronounced "d-zeeble-chal-toon", are ruins situated just south of Progreso. The impressive ruins are lesser-known than Chacchoben so there are fewer crowds!
Once you are at the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins, you'll follow your guide through what was once one of the largest cities in ancient Mesoamerica. The first settlers arrived at this spot about 500 B.C. and continued to build and settle until the Spanish Conquest of 1540 AD. This ruin covers about 19 square kilometers and had around 8,400 structures in the round enclave and was once home to over 40,000 inhabitants. There is so much to see at these great ruins!
Your guide will share information about the culture, as well as the meaning and use of the structures you'll see. One of the most impressive is the Temple of the Seven Dolls so named because 7 small effigy dolls were found inside. The structure has steps on all 4 sides built on a pyramid base and a long column that extends upwards with four windows. It is a masterpiece of architecture due to the fact that on both the spring and fall equinoxes the sun shines directly through the east and west windows.
One unique feature of the Temple is the position the Mayans constructed the building. The Temple is situated so that on the day of the Spring Equinox, the sun rises and shines directly through one temple window and out the other.
After your exploration of the ruins comes to an end, it's time to head to Vistamar beach club where the friendly staff will be waiting with a refreshing welcome drink and a complimentary snack. You will have the option to just relax or enjoy the open bar. Have some tasty tequila or Mexican beer, or go for the classic margaritas, piña coladas, sodas, etc. You can just kick back and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Caribbean while you sip a cool drink, take a dip, go for a stroll, or do nothing at all.
Your last stop is the local crafts market in Progreso. Browse the lovely handcraft open-air market where you can shop for that perfect, one-of-a-kind souvenir. After you've enjoyed your time, your guide will take you back to your Progreso cruise ship pier.
