In the Path of the Ancient Olmec Tour

Why Take This Olmec History Tour?

  • Travel with a renowned Mayan specialist
  • View Olmec finds in the Xalapa Museum
  • Explore La Venta, San Lorenzo, Tres Zapotes, and Chalcatzingo
  • Visit Mexico City’s Anthropology Museum
  • Experience the Historic Center of Mexico City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Limited to 14 participants
Mexico
Mexico

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    7008
    • TBA
    • 10 Days
    • TBA
    • Single Supplement: TBA

    Olmec Tour: Visit the Remote Sites of San Lorenzo and Chalcatzingo plus the Xalapa and Mexico City Anthropology Museums

    The Olmec civilization dates to the 2nd century BC when favorable environmental conditions allowed the society to thrive. This high productivity encouraged population growth from which an elite class developed, and accordingly, so did the demand for objects of creative expression. During this trip, we will visit the birthplaces of this art, where the colossal heads and finely carved sculptures emblematic of the Olmec society were found.

    This unusual expedition will take us into truly remote areas of Mexico to explore some of the more elusive Olmec sites. See La Venta, San Lorenzo, and Tres Zapotes, where the first of the Olmec colossal heads were found in 1862. Climb the mighty cleft volcanic mountain to see the beautifully inscribed boulders at Chalcatzingo, way off the beaten tourist trail. Visit museums housing major collections of Olmec art, including the vast open-air museum of Parque-Museo La Venta and the Carlos Pellicer Museum in Villahermosa. Explore the Xalapa Anthropology Museum, whose exquisite works of art are meticulously presented in a stunning building. Finally, you will view the Olmec objects on display at the National Museum of Anthropology, housed in an unrivaled award-winning structure in Mexico City.

    Won’t you join Far Horizons and only 13 others on this unique 10-day journey to the world of the ancient Olmec? Keep reading to learn more, and please get in touch if you have any questions.

    Olmec Archaeology Tour led by:

    Olmec History Tour in Mexico Itinerary

    (B) breakfast, (L) lunch, (D) dinner

    Day 1Fly to Villahermosa

    Fly to Villahermosa, Mexico, and transfer to the Holiday Inn for a light supper. Overnight for two nights. (D)

    Day 2Explore the Parque-Museo La Venta

    This morning, walk the pathways within the Parque-Museo La Venta, a vast open-air museum where many of the stone monuments from the site of La Venta have been relocated.

    As we stroll along the trails, agouti and coatimundi can be seen scurrying through the underbrush, and vibrant tropical birds fly through the jungle setting. This is where we see the first of the massive stone heads characteristic of the Olmec culture.

    The afternoon will be spent in the Carlos Pellicer Museum, Tabasco’s main regional museum for archaeology and anthropology. Housed within a dazzling architectural masterpiece, the displays focus on Olmec and Maya art and artifacts. (B/L/D)

    Day 3The Olmec Heartland

    In a large area cut by the Coatzacoalcos River system, the Olmec heartland is home to many impressive sites, and the excavations at La Venta formed the foundation for the archaeology of this ancient civilization.

    Although none of the signature colossal stone heads are still in situ, the remains of the massive earthen mound that was the focus of the ceremonial complex can still be seen on an island rising above the surrounding swamp. One of the earliest known in Mesoamerica, the Great Pyramid is 110 feet high.

    After our explorations, we will continue to Lake Catemaco and overnight for two nights at the La Finca Hotel, beautifully located on the edge of the lake. (B/L/D)

    Day 4Explore San Lorenzo Tenochtitlán

    By no later than 1200 BC, San Lorenzo Tenochtitlán had emerged as the most prominent Olmec center and largest settlement in Mesoamerica. Without city walls for protection, San Lorenzo may have been largely a ceremonial complex.

    Archaeologists have uncovered numerous monuments here, including no less than ten of the huge basalt heads of rulers, the greatest weighing 28 metric tons and standing almost 10 feet tall. After spending the morning at this site, return to Lake Catemaco with time for a relaxing boat ride on the lagoon. (B/L/D)

    Day 5Tour Tres Zapotes and Santiago Tuxtla

    This morning takes us to Tres Zapotes, where the first of the huge Olmec monuments was found in 1862. When the rest of the Olmec settlements started to decrease in importance about 400 BC, Tres Zapotes continued to thrive and grow in importance, lasting into the Early Postclassic about 1200 AD.

    In the nearby town of Santiago Tuxtla, we will examine several Olmec monuments standing in the central plaza. After lunch, drive on to Veracruz, Mexico’s Gulf Coast port. Veracruz is a very special, laid-back town, and its charm can be felt by simply spending an evening sitting in the sidewalk cafés sipping lechero while listening to the music of the festive danzón and watching the spontaneous dance performances. With its crumbling historic architecture, we may be reminded of old Havana. Overnight in the Hotel Gran Deligencia, near the central plaza in the heart of the city. (B/L/D)

    Day 6Tour Xalapa

    Xalapa, the capital of the state of Veracruz, is today’s destination. Here, we visit the Anthropology Museum, certainly one of the most spectacular in Mexico. The unique building was designed by the architect Edward Durrell Stone, an early proponent of modern architecture in the United States.

    Huge, airy rooms pour down the side of a hill, each room home to artifacts of different ancient Mexican civilizations. Spend a leisurely morning examining the exciting display of art, with a concentration of artifacts from the Olmec civilization, the mother culture of Mesoamerica.

    In the late afternoon, drive to Puebla. Overnight for two nights at the Hotel Palacio San Leonardo, housed in an elegant 19th-century former mansion located in the historic center of Puebla. Dinner is on our own. (B/L)

    Day 7Tour Puebla

    Founded in 1531, Puebla’s stunning historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first city in central Mexico created by the Spanish that was not built upon the ruins of a conquered Native community.

    During our morning walking tour, we will see graceful colonial mansions, the 16th-century Catedral de Puebla on the central square, or Zócalo, and Biblioteca Palafoxiana, a library dating from 1646.

    In the afternoon, we will drive to Cholula, one of the most important ceremonial centers in the area after the fall of Teotihuacan around 600 AD. Begun in the 3rd century BC, the huge temple was built and rebuilt and is now 181 feet high.

    According to the Guinness Book of Records, it is the largest pyramid as well as the largest monument ever constructed anywhere in the world. When the Spanish conquered the area in the 16th century, a church was constructed on the top of the mound. Return to Pueblo for the night. Dinner will be in one of the city’s excellent restaurants. (B/L/D)

    Day 8 Explore Chalcatzingo and Travel to Mexico City

    This morning’s drive takes us to Chalcatzingo. Rising dramatically from the expansive plains of Morelos is the spectacular volcanic mountain upon which the site is situated. In ancient cosmology, the cleft mountain represents the emerging place, and Chalcatzingo was the earliest mountain of creation.

    Its magnificent Olmec bas-reliefs carved on the talus slopes are the iconographic foundations for all later Mesoamerican mythology, and we will hike up a massive outcrop to see them.

    Move on to Mexico City and overnight for two nights at the Hotel Zocalo Central, located in the colonial center of Mexico City, a UNESCO Heritage Site​. Dinner is on our own this evening. (B/L)

    Day 9Mexico’s Museo Nacional de Antropología, Templo Mayor

    The Museo Nacional de Antropología, Mexico’s National Museum of Anthropology, is not just the finest museum in the country but among the greatest internationally. The world-renowned repository of some 600,000 artifacts, the museum is spread out over two immense floors.

    The permanent exhibitions on the ground floor cover all pre-Columbian civilizations. We will spend the morning viewing the museum’s great collections, with emphasis on the Olmec Civilization.

    After time for an early lunch on our own at the museum café, drive back to the Zócalo, the plaza in the center of the historic area, where the afternoon will be spent in the magnificent Templo Mayor, one of the primary temples of the Aztec capital city of Tenochtitlán, now Mexico City.

    At the summit of this immense stone edifice were found twin pyramids of the two important gods of Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc, both frequently nourished by the Aztecs with the blood of human sacrifices.

    Within the spectacular Templo Mayor Museum are artifacts found in the excavations. Here, see the monumental carved disk that portrays the death of Coyolxauhqui, the moon goddess. Gather this evening for our farewell dinner party in one of the city’s exceptional restaurants, where the chef puts a hip spin on traditional Mexican cuisine. (B/D)

    Day 10 Depart Mexico City

    Transfer to the airport for our flights back home. (B)

    Tour Information

    Tour Cost & Inclusions

    Price is based on double occupancy and includes:

    • Internal flights during the trip (if applicable)
    • The accompaniment of your scholar throughout the entire trip
    • Local English-speaking guide
    • Hotel accommodations (3 or 4 stars; or best available based in the area)
    • Ground transportation
    • Airport transfers for arrivals and departures
    • Most meals as noted in the itinerary
    • Entry fees to all included sites and museums
    • Gratuities to guides, drivers, and restaurant and hotel staff
    • Coordination for any private presentations or tours

    Trip prices are based on a minimum number of participants. If this minimum number is not met, trip prices are subject to change. Should the prices need to change, Far Horizons will reach out to registered guests to discuss directly.

    Single Supplement

    Should a roommate be requested and one not be available, the single supplement must be charged.

    Exclusions

    • International round trip airfare
    • A separate donation check of $150.00 per person to a designated donation project
    • Passport or visa fees
    • Required vaccines or tests
    • Airport or departure taxes
    • Alcoholic drinks, beverages or food not included on set menus
    • Excess baggage charges
    • Personal tips and hotel incidental expenses
    • Laundry or other items of a personal nature

    Donation Checks

    As a tour company that benefits from the cultural and natural riches of our destinations, we have a policy of donating to the scientific and cultural sites and projects which we visit. This has created a bond between Far Horizons and the academic and local communities that has helped us establish an extensive list of lecturers and contacts in each of our destinations. We ask that each participant donate to the noteworthy project we designate. The donation amount is $150.00 per person. Note that the donation is required as part of your registration for the trip and that it is non-refundable.

    Exchange Rate Fluctuations

    Prices are based on currency exchange rates keeping below a projected level. While it is unlikely, if the exchange rates should change substantially, Far Horizons reserves the right to charge an additional amount to the trip cost.

    Registration

    A deposit of $1000 per person is required along with your registration & health forms, which will be linked in the email confirmation you receive once you pay your deposit on our booking platform. Final payment is due 120 days before departure. Prior to departure, you will be sent a reading list and a tour bulletin containing travel information.

    Visas

    We will let you know if you need a visa and provide details and instructions on where to obtain your visa. You are responsible for securing your own visa. If you would like to look into specific visa requirements based on where you live and where you would like to travel, we suggest visiting Sherpa to find out more about the latest visa and travel requirements.

    ETIAS

    Starting in 2025, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorization system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. These visitors have been granted visa-free access to the EU and Schengen member countries through virtue of their good track record on security issues and, thus, have not been deemed as a threat to EU security. ETIAS (which stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System) will check the security credentials and charge a fee to travelers visiting EU member countries for business, tourism, medical or transit purposes. Travelers who currently visit Europe visa-free are able to enter EU and Schengen Member countries cost-free and without any digital security screening prior to their arrival to Europe. ETIAS is not a visa, and is more accurately referred to as a visa-waiver. The ETIAS, like the ESTA, is a travel authorization for travelers not requiring a visa to visit Europe. Under the ETIAS, these visitors will undergo additional security checks prior to being permitted to enter the EU. The ETIAS will be mandatory for citizens of such countries as the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. For more information, please visit the ETIAS website.

    Cancellation

    Cancellations received in writing at least 120 days before departure will receive a refund less a $500 per person administrative fee. Cancellations received less than 120 days before the departure date will not receive a refund. If, for any reason, you are unable to complete the trip, Far Horizons will not reimburse any fees. Upon registering for the tour, the purchase of travel protection with both trip cancellation and emergency evacuation is strongly advised. Links to recommended insurance policies will be included in the email you receive confirming receipt of your deposit.

    Air Ticketing

    International round-trip flights are not included in the cost of the trip. If Far Horizons must change the trip dates or cancel the trip for any reason, Far Horizons is not responsible for any air ticket you may have purchased. Please send your complete air schedule as soon as you have it. NOTE: Please contact Far Horizons if you would like us to handle your air ticketing. We offer a ticketing service for a small fee.

    Private Tours and Talks

    The private tours of archaeological sites and talks by specialists are scheduled in advance and include a donation to each. Specialists working at these sites are excited about showing their work to interested enthusiasts. However, please be aware that there may be times when the director or a member of the staff may not be on site when our groups arrive due to other commitments.

    Walking and Standing

    Far Horizons expects all participants to be physically active and able to walk and climb independently throughout the full touring days. This includes walking over uneven terrain (uphill and downhill) for 2 miles or more at each site. You should expect to be on your feet for much of each day, averaging as much as 5 miles of walking per day. As such, each participant should be able to walk unaided at a pace of 3 miles per hour for at least an hour at a time, and to stand unsupported for at least 60 minutes. Bearing this in mind, we suggest that, if you have not already done so, you begin walking several miles every day, ideally including stairs and hills. If you have questions about your ability to keep up with the group or the strenuous nature of this trip, please contact the Far Horizons staff.

    Expectations During Travel

    This tour is designed for flexible, energetic people who like to be active, have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. We have designed this trip to be as comfortable as possible while also aiming to visit some remote or unique sites that other companies do not attempt to include in their itineraries. There may be days when we have very long drives, and the conditions of the roads may vary. Hotels and transportation in some remote areas may not be up to Western standards. There may be times when no bellhops are available; please pack with the understanding that you need to be able to handle your own luggage at times. Sometimes, we may be walking over uneven trails for a mile or more; hiking boots are strongly recommended. Not every meal will be haute cuisine, and several lunches may be picnics or box lunches. By maintaining a flexible attitude, we will soon be captivated by the beauty of the natural scenery, the hospitality of the local people, and the fascinating sites we will see. Your flexibility and patience will be appreciated.

    Itinerary Changes

    Changes in our itinerary, accommodations, and transportation schedules may occur. While we are committed to keeping as close to the published details as possible, sometimes it is simply not possible. Weather events, government affairs, or other factors out of our control sometimes come into play. A good book to read, as well as patience, a flexible attitude, and a sense of humor are essential.

    Travel Insurance

    We strongly recommend that you consider purchasing travel insurance. Should illness or an unforeseen event force you to cancel your travel plans after your final payment or during your trip, it would be doubly unfortunate to incur a significant financial loss. Trip cancellation protection will enable you to be reimbursed for the loss of your payment if you are unable to travel for any of the covered reasons in the “Outline of Coverage” section or should you have an accident or suffer from any medical conditions during the trip.  
     
    Far Horizons offers customized protection plans through Travel Insured International (a Crum & Forster Company) with the following benefits:
     
    • Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption for covered reasons
    • Trip Delay
    • Baggage Loss and Baggage Delay
    • Emergency Medical Expenses and Emergency Medical Evacuation
    • 24-Hour Accidental Death & Dismemberment
    • 24-Hour Travel Assistance & Concierge Services
    • Option to upgrade to ‘Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR)’
     
    We recommend reviewing the language in detail so you are aware of specific parameters. Depending on the policy, to waive the Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion or to upgrade to CFAR coverage, the plan must be purchased within 14 to 21 days of the initial trip deposit, the full trip cost must be insured, and the traveler is medically fit at the time of plan purchase. Otherwise, coverage may be purchased at any time before departure. 
     
    To obtain a personalized quote and/or purchase a plan through Far Horizons/Travel Insured International, simply click HERE. For specific questions regarding the Worldwide Protector Plan, please contact Travel Insured International’s Customer Care Center at 1-800-243-3174 or by email at customercare@travelinsured.com, and refer to Far Horizons’ account number: 54070.

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