The Yucatan offers so much that it can never fail to delight even the most demanding tourist. It is well known for its Mayan ruins, small towns bearing traces of the colonial Spanish influence, quaint fishing villages, patches of dense jungles full of wildlife, colonial Yucatan hotels and empty beaches. The historic towns of Merida or the White City, Uxmal and Chichen Itza will be perfect for those who pursue history. Beyond the cities are beaches, lagoons, natural wells and grottos.
The Mayan ruins that dot this land will never lose their capacity to astonish even the most jaded tourist. Nature has bestowed so much beauty here that it takes your breath away.
The Maya civilisation flourished in the Yucatan until the 16th century when they were overcome by the Spanish Conquistadors. Most of the population are of Maya blood and traces of their old language can still be heard in the speech of the local people. Business is however conducted in the official language of Spanish.
There is so much to see and do in Yucatan . One of the main highlights is taking a Yucatan tour to the spectacular Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, a well known archaeological site. All over Yucatan there are remarkable buildings built in the colonial style. Churches, haciendas, convents and even government buildings all bear testimony to their past. From their Maya ancestors the people of this land learned arts and crafts which they still practise. Intricately done embroidery, music and dance all show Maya influence. Humorous verses called Bombas Yucatecas pass on the ancient traditions to the new generation.
To cater to its visitors and provide an authentic experience, several old residences and manors are being converted into luxury Yucatan hotels or museums. In the 19th century these large haciendas were farms that cultivated the fibre called henequen. You can use our Yucatan map to choose your hacienda or hotel in Yucatan based on its location.
The State of Yucatan is situated on the Yucatan Peninsula. To the southwest lies the state of Campeche and along the east and south eastern border is Quintana Roo. Beyond its northern and western coast lies the Gulf of Mexico. Yucatan Peninsula is largely a flat plain. Apart from the Puuc hills to the southern part, there are no mountains here.
All over Yucatan you can buy traditional handicrafts made by local artisans. You also get a chance to try the local Yucatan food and cuisine which makes use of the regional produce.
The people and the government of Yucatan have gone a long way to preserve nature and ensure sustainable development. Care has been taken to protect the cenotes which are natural wells. The lagoons and beaches along the coastline are also preserved so that they attract tourists from within the country too. In the cities of Chichen Itza and Uxmal are shrines where the local gods Chac and Kukulkan were worshipped to provide harmony in the world of the Maya. These tiered pyramids have been restored by the government though some of the smaller structures are in a state of decay. Tourists can climb up to the top from where they can have an unhindered view of the land.
Choose from our wide range of recommended haciendas or hotels in Yucatan, join one of our interesting Yucatan tours and then just relax and enjoy your Yucatan holiday! If you would like to speak with one of our team about a hotel in Yucatan or Yucatan tour, please visit our Contact Us page. We will be happy to provide any advice or assistance to you!