Optional Tours for Accompanying Persons

Monday, August 23, 2004
08:30 - 13:30 hours

Tulum
Located 1 ½ hours south of Cancun, the Citadel Tulum perched atop limestone cliffs and overlooking the rugged turquoise coastline, was most probably the first Mayan structure sighted by the Spanish during the 16th century. Tulum is Quintana Roo's most famous site with approximately 60 individual structures of the Post-Classic period. Archaeologists believe that the city was a trading post and functioned as one of the important ports along the coast of the Yucatan. Adjacent to the site is a new shopping area, with a great selection of souvenirs and modern facilities.
Rate per person: US$ 50

Tuesday, August 24,2004
09:00 - 13:00 hours

Sub See Explorer
Scorpion is the second largest reef in the world, and part of this is located at Punta Nizuc, Cancun. Enjoy a colourful trek through breathtaking coral formations, while sitting comfortably in an air-conditioned semi-submarine without getting wet. A professional tour guide will be on board to give explanations about the reef.
Optional: 30 minutes snorkeling during the tour is possible. For those who do not wish to snorkel, relax and enjoy the sensational scenery before returning to the Marina.
Attire: Bathing suit, suitable footwear.
Rate per person: US$ 55

Optional Tours on Wednesday, August 25, 2004 (there will be no scientific sessions on this day)

08:00 - 17.30 hours

Chichen Itza
Get ready for the World of The Mayan - inhabited by the Mayans around the year 550 A.C., Chichen Itza represents the most intact and impressive ruins of the Mayan civilization and has restored the spiritual, domestic and agricultural way of life of the Mayan ancestors. This time machine takes one back 2000 years and is easily the most famous site in the Yucatan Peninsula today. The pyramid Kukulcan rises over 90 feet including the Jaguar Shrine. Visit Valladolid - a beautiful colonial city full of vibrant history and enjoy a walk in the main square with it's magnificent cathedral. Lunch will be served at Xay-Beh Hotel, which includes sampling of the regional dishes before returning to Cancun.
Rate per person: US$ 70

08:00 - 17:00 hours

Tulum and Xel-Ha
Combine the pleasure of the exciting walled city of Tulum, with its breathtaking view of the Caribbean and a climb to the pyramids and temples. Tulum is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico and was strategically built on a cliff overviewing the Caribbean sea. A ride in the Tulum Tramcar is included in this tour. Leisure time for swimming and snorkeling at Xel-Ha, one of the largest natural aquariums in the world, hosting mangrove swamps, extensive bird life and a spectacular coral reef..
Rate per person: US$ 75

08:00 - 22:30 hours

Xcaret
Xcaret was for more than ten centuries, one of the most important Mayan ceremonial centers and seaport. Today, it is an incredible archaeological family park in which infinite history and natural wonders are waiting to be discovered. The land was once sacred to the Mayans, and so was the network of river canals beneath the ground. Two of these rivers are opened for tourists to snorkel down and there are plenty of fossils and corals to check out along the way. Enjoy a mystic mayan swim - an unbelievable experience of floating thirty minutes inside the underground river through impressive caverns that flow from deep inside the earth. Swim in the Caribbean Sea, lagoons, natural pools, channels and cenotes and explore the archaeological site fringed by exuberant flora, animals and birds of the region.. Leisure time to stroll through a botanical garden and nursery, and visit the aquarium, turtle and butterfly farm.
Early evening, proceed to the Aroma Valley and walk to the theatre for an enjoyable evening of entertainment including the historic Mayan ball game and folklore dancing from all regions of Mexico. After the show, return to Cancun late evening.
Rate per person: US$ 95