Immerse yourself in the culture and atmosphere of a typical small town in southern Mexico while learning how to make chocolate on this tour nicknamed The Chocolate Tour. Starting off from the pier, you'll enjoy a ride through the picturesque countryside to Tuxtla Chico, which lies at the foot of the Tacaná volcano. Upon arrival you'll make your way to Mi Pueblito where you'll be shown how the local artisan women have been making chocolate given a demonstration by the local artisan women on how to make chocolate from cacao, using time honored traditions passed down through the ages.
Afterwards, enjoy a performance by local dancers at the town's central square before re-boarding your coach and heading to Izapa, the most important Olmec and Mayan archaeological site found in Chiapas, as well as the largest.
These stunning pre-classic ruins are located in southern Mexico near the Guatemalan border at the base of the Tacaná volcano. Situated here at the foot of the Sierra Madre mountain range and along the narrow pacific coastal zone, the fertile land of Izapa receives abundant rainfall and is the center of age-old cacao production.
During your brief visit to this fascinating pre-Columbian archaeological site, you'll learn about the legacy of this mystical ancient city and how it is believed to be the place where the long-count calendar originated. Artifacts uncovered here point to a highly developed society of culturally advanced people. Researchers are of the opinion Izapa was first settled around 1500 BC and inhabited until sometime in 1200 AD. Some of the attractions to be found at the site are several large pyramids, thrones, altars and carvings.
During your relaxing drive back to the pier, you'll enjoy more scenic views of the lush tropical landscape.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 1 1/2 hours of moderate walking. The sites visited are not wheelchair accessible and therefore, it is not available for wheelchair guests. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellant and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The order of sights visited may vary and the itinerary may be reversed.