The mountains and lush forests of Chiapas are homeland of the Maya, a people whose ancient past has long fascinated archaeologists and whose culture remains vibrant today. The ancient Maya built expansive urban centers that included magnificent palaces, massive pyramid temples, and intricately carved stone stelae depicting ancient rulers and historic events. The modern Maya, renowned for their colorful textiles, continue to preserve the traditions of their ancestors, even as they have incorporated selected elements of Western civilization.

Guided by archaeologist Christopher Powell and textile expert Walter Morris, we visit ancient Maya cities and modern highland villages to explore how the traditions and symbols of the ancient Maya are preserved in the customs, ceremonies, and textile art of the Maya people today.

Tour archaeological sites at Palenque, Bonampak, Plan de Ayutla, Yaxchilán, and Toniná

Visit Golondrinas and Misol Ha waterfalls, two of Chiapas’s most beautiful natural features

Learn about local Maya customs at the Festival of the Immaculate Conception in Chamula and the Festival of Guadalupe in San Cristobal

Absorb the sights and sounds of the colorful market at Tenejapa, a village renowned for its exquisite textiles

For more information, including a detailed itinerary, e-mail Clay Patton at cpatton@crowcanyon.org, or call Clay at 800.422.8975, ext. 160.

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