Costa Maya's Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Chacchoben, "the place of red corn" in the Mayan language, is a ruin which may date from 200 B.C. The structures found here date from 700 A.D. The site is quickly becoming one of the most popular amongst Costa Mayan excursions.

Due in part to its location away from large cities and cruise destinations, and with the more famous sites such as Tulum getting all the attention, the Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, an excellent example of the most brilliant civilization of the new world, remained in obscurity. As you walk through the jungle filled with evidence of temples, courtyards, and pyramids, you will feel the connection and harmony between nature and history. Along the way, your guide will tell you the journey the city has taken, from the myth of its creation through the collapse of the great Mayan civilization. As you stand in the heart of this abandoned Mayan ceremonial center, your senses will begin to adjust to the sounds of nature. This Costa Maya excursion covers more than two square miles in an area known as the "Region of the Lakes," due to the number of lakes and lagoons in the area.

Most of the walking is over even-packed dirt and grass on a circular path that passes three excavated and restored pyramids, as well as walls and staircases. The site is far from being completely uncovered, and you will see excavation on several mounds that are known to contain additional structures. Some structures still bear traces of the red pigment with which they were originally coated. At the base of the largest pyramid is a large stone slab called a stela with a Mayan hieroglyphic inscription.

Climbing on the temples is restricted out of respect to the deceased and their spirits.

The ruins site has a service area that includes restroom facilities and a cafeteria. Locals from Chacchoben village have a small shopping area at the site, where they offer handmade souvenirs from their village. Keep in mind that in places like Chacchoben, you are expected to negotiate the prices, so be ready to exercise your Espanol and have some fun!

Please Note: There is a fee to use a video camera at the archeological site (not included, approximately $4 US). Credit cards are not accepted at the site for fees or shopping, but US dollars and local currency are.

Rainforest and Banana Exploration

If you want to leave Costa Rica with incredible pictures and video of nature at its finest, you'll want to be a part of this rainforest and banana plantation tour.

After meeting your guide at the cruise pier, you will travel along scenic roads, passing quaint villages on your way to Cahuita National Park.

Stretch your legs on a 45-minute nature walk at Cahuita National Park. Cahuita, whose name comes from the indigenous words "kawe" (mahogany) and "ta" (point), and was created in 1970 to protect the country's largest coral reef. One hundred twenty-three species of fish have been listed here, along with a variety of corals and other invertebrates. The park also protects an example of the tropical moist forest, along with swamps, forest, and marshland. Cahuita is a perfect place for those who want to enjoy a beautiful tropical beach, the rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Walk down a flat and shady trail that runs along the shoreline, and enjoy the rich biodiversity of the area. Monkeys, sloths, iguanas, toucans, colorful frogs, and many other species are very common to see during this tour. This is a very easy walk for all, from kids to seniors.

After your nature walk, you will visit a banana plantation, where you will hear many interesting facts about this amazing fruit and its harvesting, processing, packing, and exportation. Costa Rica is the second-largest banana producer in the world; 80% of the plantations are located in the provine of Limon, making it one of the most important economic activities in the region. All in all, it's a truly interesting cultural experience that you can't miss.

Please Note: The packing house and working areas at the banana plantation are restricted areas, and will not be visited on the tour. This tour takes place in a rainforest. During the rainy season (usually from September to November), please bring a raincoat. This tour operates rain or shine.

Explore Roatan by Land and Sea

The island of Roatan is full of adventure and beauty for people of all ages, and this Roatan excursion will ensure that you experience it in comfort. Take a land tour of the island followed by a trip into the pristine waters of West End Bay for sightseeing and snorkeling, and experience the best that the Caribbean has to offer.

After meeting your guide, take a trip around the island in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, visiting various communities and points of interest along the way. Your knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts and stories about the island's enthralling history and culture, allowing you opportunities to take photographs and meet some of the local people.

There are many overlooks and panoramic views that will take your breath away, and many historical sites and fun attractions to visit. There's plenty to see on the island, including cultural sites such as churches, schools, and an orphanage, as well as ample shopping venues where you can purchase souvenirs.

After the island tour, travel to West End Beach, where you will board a fifteen passenger boat and enjoy a sea excursion of the crystal blue waters surrounding the island. A welcome beverage of rum punch or fruit punch will be provided, and you can sip it as you view magnificent homes, mighty mangrove trees, and other beautiful sights along the coast.

Following your boat tour of Roatan, see the dolphins featured at the Institute of Marine Science and watch them play in their natural ocean habitat. Later, take a swim and snorkel over the second largest barrier reef in the world. Snorkeling equipment will be provided, and a guide will show you the best snorkeling spots while assisting you with anything you need. The waters of Roatan are home to many types of coral, starfish, sea turtles, sea squid, and numerous species of fish and other marine life. You will find this underwater adventure fascinating.

Before you are returned to your ship, you will be provided with free time and a beach pass (included), allowing you to enjoy the beach after the tour is over. The pass will give you approximately 30-45 minutes to relax on the beach and access to freshwater showers, shaded areas, free wifi, and beach chairs (limited availability).

Please Note: The light lunch included in this tour is a signature Honduras snack - baleadas. Baleadas consist of refried beans and cheese folded up in a flour tortilla like a taco. Additional options are available at the restaurant (not included).