November 29 – December 7, 2021

Please note there has been a program change since the brochure was finalized. The program is moving forward and Prof. Al Montero is looking forward to joining the group in Yucatan, Mexico. Unfortunately, Joel Weisberg is unable to join this departure, but we have found a wonderful replacement with Valerie Fox ’12, who comes highly recommended by Joel. Please contact us for more information on this change.

Yucatan's Ancient Cultures & Night Skies

The Trip

Join fellow Carls and friends on this warm, winter escape that is timed to coincide with minimal moonlight, allowing for some nighttime star gazing sessions in addition to daytime explorations of colonial towns, traditional Maya villages, and splendid archaeological sites.
Travel and learn with Carleton Professor Al Montero, Frank B. Kellogg Chair of Political Science; and Valerie Fox ’12. On clear, dark evenings, join them for star gazing. Each day, explore the sun-drenched Yucatan Peninsula with Profs. Montero and Valerie Fox ’12 as well as an expert local trip manager/guide who will handle all of the details.

Highlights:

  • On this 9-day winter getaway enjoy average daytime temperatures in the 80s (F).
  • Visit the archaeological UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Chichén Itzá and Uxmal, as well as lesser-known Maya sites such as Ek Balam, Dzibilchaltun, Mayapán, and Maní.
  • Admire not only soaring ancient pyramids, distinctive temple complexes, intricate stone carvings, and stucco statues, but also traditional Maya villages and colonial towns.
  • Spend free time bird watching, shopping for crafts, or relaxing on the luxurious hotel grounds.
  • This well-paced program spends three nights in Mérida, three in Chichén Itzá, and two in Uxmal; and all meals and excursions are included.
  • This Carleton-exclusive program is a perfect close-to-home, warm weather escape in winter – a chance to recharge, learn, meet old and new Carleton friends, and do some unique holiday shopping, all amid impressive ancient monuments and charming colonial architecture.

Faculty Leader

Al Montero

Alfred P. Montero is Associate Dean and Director of Advising, and the Frank B. Kellogg Chair of Political Science at Carleton College; and the senior editor of the refereed journal Latin American Politics and Society. His main research areas are the political economy of Latin American countries and the quality of democracy. Al is the author of Brazil: Reversal of Fortune (Polity Press, 2014), Brazilian Politics: Reforming a Democratic State in a Changing World (Polity Press, 2006), Shifting States in Global Markets: Subnational Industrial Policy in Contemporary Brazil and Spain (Penn State University Press, 2002), and he is co-editor with David J. Samuels of Decentralization and Democracy in Latin America (University of Notre Dame Press, 2004). Al has accompanied a number of previous Alumni Adventures, including both land tours and small-ship cruises in Cuba, Peru, Panama, and Costa Rica.

Tour Prices (per person)

22-26 participants double occupancy $3,845
19-21 participants double occupancy $4,045
16-18 participants double occupancy $4,245
13-15 participants double occupancy $4,495
Single Supplement $775

Single room supplement will be charged when requested for required (limited availability). With fewer than 13 participants, a small group surcharge may be added. 

Itinerary

Monday, November 29, 2022: Depart the U.S. on flights to Mérida, Mexico
Tuesday, November 30: Mérida: City tour | Dzibilchaltun | Welcome dinner
Wednesday, December 1: Izamal Convent | Chichén Itzá, part one
Friday, December 3: Ek Balam | Chichén Itzá
Saturday, December 4: Mayapán | Maní | Uxmal
Sunday, December 5: Uxmal
Monday, December 6: Uxmal: AM at leisure | Mérida: The Great Museum of the Maya World | Farewell dinner
Tuesday, December 7: Fly home

Additional Information

To make a reservation or for more information please call 800-811-7244 or email Carleton College Alumni Adventures.

Download Full Brochure & Reservation Form for this Trip