11 Excursions match your criteria

Experience Mexico’s past and present as you explore the ancient Mayan archaeological site of Izapa. Examine artifacts in the Regional Museum and then wander Tapachula’s town square on a sightseeing adventure that will both educate and delight you. Take an approximate 45 minute ride to the ancient ruins of Izapa. From it’s beginnings as a small village around 1500 B.C, Izapa grew into the region’s most influential cultural and commercial center. From here, you’ll travel by bus to the culturally diverse city of Tapachula whose history and heritage has been influenced not only by the Mayans, Mestizo and Spanish but by German, Chinese, Japanese and French immigrants as well. Visit the Archaeological Museum where you’ll be able to inspect Mayan artifacts found in the region. Then, your tour guide will introduce you to some the city’s highlights on a short walking tour around the town square. You’ll have free time for shopping in local artisan shops for leather goods, ceramics and more. You can also explore cafes and colorful streets before returning by bus to your ship. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less

Explore one of the most interesting Mayan sites in the region, a collection of ancient stone carvings dating from roughly 300 BCE to 100 BCE. These carvings were found at the Izapa Ruins and depict the Mayan ideas of the creation of the universe and their religious beliefs. Among the carvings is a particularly interesting and complex one called Stella 5 that depicts the Tree of Life as well as about a dozen human figures, animals and more. This complex carving has led to many different theories about its subject matter. Most theories concern the Mayan religious beliefs; however some involve speculation about visitors from other continents before the arrival of Columbus. The Tree of Life in the Mayan world is depicted as a Ceiba tree. This tall tree is commonly found in Chiapas and the Mayan jungles. It is easily identifiable by its extraordinary height, high crown and large, buttressed roots. For the Mayans, the tree represents a connection between the three realms of the universe- the underworld, earth and the heavens. Afterwards, take a short bus ride to Chocolate Discovery. Here, you’ll learn about the discovery and history of the sacred cacao bean and its importance to the Mayan people. Learn how the cocoa beans are transformed into chocolate right at the main square. Also, see a variety of local handcrafts and exotic flowers of the region. Local dances and marimba players will share their skills with lively performances. After a short stop to see the local church, you will be on your way back to your ship. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less

Discover the world’s finest coffees at Argovia Plantation and Estate. Founded in 1880, Argovia is one the oldest coffee producers in the region and, one-of-a-kind, family-owned agricultural estate. Travel by air-conditioned van for approximately 90 minutes through the lush forests and breathtaking scenery of the Sierra Madre to the Argovia Plantation and Estate. Your guide will provide in-depth information about the history of the area and its people. Take a short tour of the grounds and learn about the Plantation’s history as well as the history of coffee. Then, discover all the flavors that distinguish Chiapas coffee. Practice observing the tastes and aromas of brewed coffee, learn the art of coffee tasting - and why it's ‘ok’ to slurp! Take a tour of the flower plantation and see these extraordinary specimens of nature’s gifts. Get to know all the diversity of foliage, tropical and exotic flowers, in one small and spectacular botanical garden. Afterwards, browse the gift shops where you can purchase Argovia’s famous coffee to take home with you. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less

Take a journey into the Sierra Madre Mountains of Chiapas. Your professional guides will provide in-depth information about the history of the area, the people of Chiapas and the intense work put into creating the perfect cup of coffee. Upon arrival, you’ll be given a complimentary drink along with a safety briefing before your hiking adventure. Follow your guide through a slow paced walk while observing different kinds of exotic flowers, small fauna and the forest that surrounds you. Also, enjoy a scenic view of the Tacana Volcano which marks the border between Mexico and Guatemala. After your hiking journey, enjoy a snack, taste some coffee or shop at the local stores before returning to your ship. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. Guest should wear a hat, light jacket and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. Guest must be able to walk on their own and be in good health. less

Take part in one of Mexico’s most valued traditions as you taste a variety of Mexico’s famous Tequila and Mezcal. From the pier, you’ll be transferred to a historic local house that has been transformed into a boutique hotel. This charming setting boasts a collection of local folk art and exotic plant arrangements from the region. The owner will show you around the grounds before gathering the group in the dining room. Learn about the tequila and mezcal making processes as well as the different properties that make each unique. After a brief history lesson, you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of Mexico’s best tequila and mezcal. Then, enjoy a demonstration on how to mix tequila into the perfect margarita. Afterwards, you will travel by van to the culturally diverse city of Tapachula. Its history and heritage has been influenced not only by the Mayans, Mestizo and Spanish but by German, Chinese, Japanese and French immigrants as well. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the town square where you’ll find a historic church, the city hall building as well as vendors and small stores. You may choose to walk, sit in a café, shop or explore the archeological museum (entrance fee not included). When time’s up, you'll be escorted back to your ship. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. Most areas are not wheelchair accessible. less