A Rocky Start, But a Smooth Ride

The day began with a bit of a hiccup. My wife and I, seasoned travelers though we are, found ourselves wandering the bustling port of Costa Maya, trying to locate the meeting spot for our Chacchoben Ruins Adventure. After a few misdirections and some helpful locals, we finally connected with Brian, our guide, who personally came to pick us up. It was a relief to climb into the air-conditioned van, leaving the chaos of the port behind.

As we settled in, Brian’s enthusiasm for the Mayan culture was infectious. He offered us cool drinks and began sharing stories about the Chacchoben ruins and the ancient Mayans. The drive through the quaint fishing village was a scenic delight, with the ocean breeze hinting at the adventures to come. It was a reminder of why I love this nomadic lifestyle, always chasing the next wave or hidden gem.

Discovering the Mysteries of Chacchoben

Arriving at the Chacchoben ruins, I was immediately struck by the towering pyramids peeking through the lush jungle canopy. Brian’s passion for the site was evident as he guided us through the ancient city, pointing out the intricate details of the structures and sharing stories of the original inhabitants. His knowledge was vast, and he had a knack for making history come alive.

As we wandered the pathways, Brian would stop to pick up pottery shards or identify native plants, sharing their significance in Mayan culture. We sampled gum and honey, and even tried some local spices. It was a sensory experience that went beyond just seeing the ruins; it was about feeling connected to the past.

The highlight for me was watching the monkeys playfully scaling the pyramids and the vibrant birds flitting through the trees. It was a reminder of the wild beauty that still thrives in these ancient places, much like the untamed waves I chase along the coastlines of Central America.

A Sweet Farewell

As our adventure came to an end, Brian surprised us with a stop along the road to buy fresh honey pineapple from local vendors. The sweet, juicy fruit was the perfect way to cap off the day, and I couldn’t resist adding a sprinkle of Mexican spice to enhance the flavor.

On the drive back, Brian continued to entertain us with stories and jokes, making sure even the youngest in our group felt engaged and excited. My ten-year-old niece, who had been apprehensive about the tour, left with a newfound love for the Mayans, convinced that the ruins were more magical than haunted.

Half of our group opted to be dropped off at Mahahual Beach, while the rest of us headed back to the port shops. As I watched the sun dip below the horizon, I felt grateful for the day’s adventure and the chance to explore a piece of history. It was a reminder that, much like surfing, travel is about embracing the unexpected and finding joy in the journey.