Mérida, Yucatán: Celebrating Day of the Dead in the Heart of the Mayan World: A Morbid Anatomy Grand Tour with Salvador Olguín
October 30 - November 4, 2025 (Starts on the evening of October 30, ends on the morning of November 4)
$1975 single room / $3800 double occupancy; includes 5 nights hotel, airport-hotel transfers, ground transportation to destinations, museum admissions, guided visits, most meals, and other amenities. Airfare is not included. Please note: Refunds (minus 10% processing and administrative fees) are available until August 15. After this date, only 50% of the ticket price (minus 10% processing and administrative fees) will be refunded. No refunds available after September 1. Itinerary subject to change.
This fall, join Morbid Anatomy and Mexican scholar Salvador Olguín for an unforgettable journey to Merida, Yucatan, and experience the exciting traditions of Día de Muertos in one of Mexico’s most culturally rich regions. Merida, known as the “White City,” is a stunning blend of colonial architecture, Mayan heritage, and modern Mexican life. Our group will explore the city’s historic landmarks, bustling markets, quirky museums, archaeological and natural wonders, and more, while immersing ourselves in various uniquely Yucatecan celebrations during this beloved holiday.
The Yucatan Peninsula is a land of ancient Mayan cities, cenotes, and traditions that have been kept alive for centuries. Founded in 1542, and built over the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of T'ho, Merida is a place where past and present coexist harmoniously. During Dia de Muertos, the city comes alive with colorful altars and marigold flowers; we'll be able to immerse ourselves in the festivities, which feature street performances and candle-lit processions honoring the souls of the departed. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Museo Paranormal de Yucatan, and explore the Festival de las Ánimas, a celebration that blends Mayan and Catholic traditions in a unique and unforgettable way.
This tour will also take us deep into the heart of Yucatecan culture, from the grandeur of Chichen Itza, where we'll visit the ruins and swim in a cenote, to the serene beauty of colonial towns like the magical Valladolid, and the yellow city of Izamal, where we will visit the famous Convento de San Antonio de Padua, founded in 1553. Scroll down for a day-by-day breakdown of this magical journey.
Hotel: Gran Real Yucatán
Located in the historic center of Merida, the Gran Real Yucatan is a luxurious hotel that seamlessly blends colonial elegance with modern amenities. It features spacious, beautifully decorated rooms and suites, each equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private balconies or terraces. Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities, including an outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, and a spa offering a range of treatments inspired by traditional Mayan healing practices. The hotel’s restaurant serves a mix of international and Yucatecan cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail after a day of exploration. The Gran Real Yucatan’s prime location allows easy access to Merida’s main attractions, including the Plaza Grande, Paseo de Montejo, and the city’s vibrant markets.
List of Activities Per Day
October 30
Arrival and Transfer to the Hotel: Upon arrival at Merida International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to the Gran Real Yucatán, where you can settle into your luxurious room and relax after your journey.
Welcome Dinner at Joanna Ebenstein’s Home: In the evening, join Joanna Ebenstein, founder and director of Morbid Anatomy, for a welcome dinner at her home. This intimate gathering will set the tone for the week, offering a chance to meet your fellow travelers and learn about the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos in Yucatan.
October 31
City Tour of Merida: Begin your day with a guided tour of Merida’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Plaza Grande, the city’s main square, surrounded by historic buildings like the Catedral de San Ildefonso, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, completed in 1598. Stroll down Paseo de Montejo, a grand avenue lined with stately mansions built during the henequen boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and explore the Casa de Montejo, a 16th-century colonial house that once belonged to the Montejo family, Conquistadors of Yucatan. Dive into local culture at the Lucas de Galvez Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. The tour also includes visits to museums, including the Museo de la Ciudad, housed in a former post office, the Museo Palacio Canton, a Beaux-Arts mansion showcasing Mayan artifacts, and the Museo Mundo Maya (subject to availability), which showcases the rich heritage of the Mayan civilization, including artifacts dating back over 3,000 years.
NOVEMBER 1
Day Trip to Chichen Itza: Journey to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. Explore the iconic El Castillo pyramid, built around 800-900 CE, which aligns with the sun during the equinoxes in order to create the illusion of a serpent descending its steps, and discover the Great Ball Court, the largest and best-preserved ballcourt in Mesoamerica, where the Mayans played their ritual ball game.
Cenote Ikkil: After exploring Chichen Itza, cool off with a swim in Cenote Ikkil, a stunning natural sinkhole surrounded by lush vegetation. What sets Cenote Ikkil apart is its dramatic open-air structure, with a circular opening that allows sunlight to filter through, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow on the crystal-clear waters below. This sacred site was once used by the Mayans for rituals and offerings.
Traditional Yucatecan Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties like cochinita pibil, panuchos, and sopa de lima, accompanied by refreshing aguas frescas. Yucatecan cuisine was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010, celebrated for its unique blend of Mayan, European, and Caribbean influences.
NOVEMBER 2
Festival de las Animas: Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of the Festival de las Animas, a unique Yucatecan event that honors the departed with music, dance, and elaborate altars. This year’s festival will feature over 200 performers, including traditional musicians, dancers, and theater groups, bringing the streets of Merida to life with their artistry. Participate in workshops, watch performances, and learn about the traditions that make this festival so special.
Museo Paranormal de Yucatan: Enjoy a customized visit to this fascinating museum that explores the supernatural and paranormal phenomena of the region. From ghost stories to ancient rituals, this museum offers a unique perspective on Yucatan’s contemporary mystical side.
Evening Cemetery Visit: Spend the evening exploring a local cemetery in Merida, where families gather to honor their loved ones with candles, flowers, and offerings. Experience the serene beauty of this tradition as the cemetery comes alive with light and music.
NOVEMBER 3
Day Trip to Valladolid and Izamal: Begin your day with a visit to Valladolid, a charming colonial town founded in 1543 and known for its colorful streets and historic architecture. Explore the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, built in 1560, and the Cenote Zaci, a natural pool located in the heart of the town.
Continue to Izamal, known as the “Yellow City” for its uniformly painted buildings. Visit the Convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop a Mayan pyramid in the 16th century, and explore the town’s cobblestone streets and artisan shops. Enjoy free time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this magical place.
NOVEMBER 4
Departure and Transfer to the Airport: The tour ends with an informal breakfast giving us a chance to share experiences, offer you a small memento to remember our experience, and bid our farewells. After breakfast, a car will transfer you to the airport for your departure.
Salvador Olguín is a writer and scholar who has focused much of his work on the visual culture of death in Mexico. His work has been published in print and online media in Mexico, Spain, Brazil, the UK, and the United States. He holds a master’s degree in Humanities and Social Thought from NYU. His first poetry book, La carabela portuguesa (The Portuguese Man O’War), received the Carmen Alardin National Poetry Award in Mexico. He currently lives in the Mayan Riviera.
October 30 - November 4, 2025 (Starts on the evening of October 30, ends on the morning of November 4)
$1975 single room / $3800 double occupancy; includes 5 nights hotel, airport-hotel transfers, ground transportation to destinations, museum admissions, guided visits, most meals, and other amenities. Airfare is not included. Please note: Refunds (minus 10% processing and administrative fees) are available until August 15. After this date, only 50% of the ticket price (minus 10% processing and administrative fees) will be refunded. No refunds available after September 1. Itinerary subject to change.
This fall, join Morbid Anatomy and Mexican scholar Salvador Olguín for an unforgettable journey to Merida, Yucatan, and experience the exciting traditions of Día de Muertos in one of Mexico’s most culturally rich regions. Merida, known as the “White City,” is a stunning blend of colonial architecture, Mayan heritage, and modern Mexican life. Our group will explore the city’s historic landmarks, bustling markets, quirky museums, archaeological and natural wonders, and more, while immersing ourselves in various uniquely Yucatecan celebrations during this beloved holiday.
The Yucatan Peninsula is a land of ancient Mayan cities, cenotes, and traditions that have been kept alive for centuries. Founded in 1542, and built over the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of T'ho, Merida is a place where past and present coexist harmoniously. During Dia de Muertos, the city comes alive with colorful altars and marigold flowers; we'll be able to immerse ourselves in the festivities, which feature street performances and candle-lit processions honoring the souls of the departed. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Museo Paranormal de Yucatan, and explore the Festival de las Ánimas, a celebration that blends Mayan and Catholic traditions in a unique and unforgettable way.
This tour will also take us deep into the heart of Yucatecan culture, from the grandeur of Chichen Itza, where we'll visit the ruins and swim in a cenote, to the serene beauty of colonial towns like the magical Valladolid, and the yellow city of Izamal, where we will visit the famous Convento de San Antonio de Padua, founded in 1553. Scroll down for a day-by-day breakdown of this magical journey.
Hotel: Gran Real Yucatán
Located in the historic center of Merida, the Gran Real Yucatan is a luxurious hotel that seamlessly blends colonial elegance with modern amenities. It features spacious, beautifully decorated rooms and suites, each equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private balconies or terraces. Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities, including an outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, and a spa offering a range of treatments inspired by traditional Mayan healing practices. The hotel’s restaurant serves a mix of international and Yucatecan cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail after a day of exploration. The Gran Real Yucatan’s prime location allows easy access to Merida’s main attractions, including the Plaza Grande, Paseo de Montejo, and the city’s vibrant markets.
List of Activities Per Day
October 30
Arrival and Transfer to the Hotel: Upon arrival at Merida International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to the Gran Real Yucatán, where you can settle into your luxurious room and relax after your journey.
Welcome Dinner at Joanna Ebenstein’s Home: In the evening, join Joanna Ebenstein, founder and director of Morbid Anatomy, for a welcome dinner at her home. This intimate gathering will set the tone for the week, offering a chance to meet your fellow travelers and learn about the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos in Yucatan.
October 31
City Tour of Merida: Begin your day with a guided tour of Merida’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Plaza Grande, the city’s main square, surrounded by historic buildings like the Catedral de San Ildefonso, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, completed in 1598. Stroll down Paseo de Montejo, a grand avenue lined with stately mansions built during the henequen boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and explore the Casa de Montejo, a 16th-century colonial house that once belonged to the Montejo family, Conquistadors of Yucatan. Dive into local culture at the Lucas de Galvez Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. The tour also includes visits to museums, including the Museo de la Ciudad, housed in a former post office, the Museo Palacio Canton, a Beaux-Arts mansion showcasing Mayan artifacts, and the Museo Mundo Maya (subject to availability), which showcases the rich heritage of the Mayan civilization, including artifacts dating back over 3,000 years.
NOVEMBER 1
Day Trip to Chichen Itza: Journey to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. Explore the iconic El Castillo pyramid, built around 800-900 CE, which aligns with the sun during the equinoxes in order to create the illusion of a serpent descending its steps, and discover the Great Ball Court, the largest and best-preserved ballcourt in Mesoamerica, where the Mayans played their ritual ball game.
Cenote Ikkil: After exploring Chichen Itza, cool off with a swim in Cenote Ikkil, a stunning natural sinkhole surrounded by lush vegetation. What sets Cenote Ikkil apart is its dramatic open-air structure, with a circular opening that allows sunlight to filter through, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow on the crystal-clear waters below. This sacred site was once used by the Mayans for rituals and offerings.
Traditional Yucatecan Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties like cochinita pibil, panuchos, and sopa de lima, accompanied by refreshing aguas frescas. Yucatecan cuisine was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010, celebrated for its unique blend of Mayan, European, and Caribbean influences.
NOVEMBER 2
Festival de las Animas: Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of the Festival de las Animas, a unique Yucatecan event that honors the departed with music, dance, and elaborate altars. This year’s festival will feature over 200 performers, including traditional musicians, dancers, and theater groups, bringing the streets of Merida to life with their artistry. Participate in workshops, watch performances, and learn about the traditions that make this festival so special.
Museo Paranormal de Yucatan: Enjoy a customized visit to this fascinating museum that explores the supernatural and paranormal phenomena of the region. From ghost stories to ancient rituals, this museum offers a unique perspective on Yucatan’s contemporary mystical side.
Evening Cemetery Visit: Spend the evening exploring a local cemetery in Merida, where families gather to honor their loved ones with candles, flowers, and offerings. Experience the serene beauty of this tradition as the cemetery comes alive with light and music.
NOVEMBER 3
Day Trip to Valladolid and Izamal: Begin your day with a visit to Valladolid, a charming colonial town founded in 1543 and known for its colorful streets and historic architecture. Explore the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, built in 1560, and the Cenote Zaci, a natural pool located in the heart of the town.
Continue to Izamal, known as the “Yellow City” for its uniformly painted buildings. Visit the Convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop a Mayan pyramid in the 16th century, and explore the town’s cobblestone streets and artisan shops. Enjoy free time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this magical place.
NOVEMBER 4
Departure and Transfer to the Airport: The tour ends with an informal breakfast giving us a chance to share experiences, offer you a small memento to remember our experience, and bid our farewells. After breakfast, a car will transfer you to the airport for your departure.
Salvador Olguín is a writer and scholar who has focused much of his work on the visual culture of death in Mexico. His work has been published in print and online media in Mexico, Spain, Brazil, the UK, and the United States. He holds a master’s degree in Humanities and Social Thought from NYU. His first poetry book, La carabela portuguesa (The Portuguese Man O’War), received the Carmen Alardin National Poetry Award in Mexico. He currently lives in the Mayan Riviera.
October 30 - November 4, 2025 (Starts on the evening of October 30, ends on the morning of November 4)
$1975 single room / $3800 double occupancy; includes 5 nights hotel, airport-hotel transfers, ground transportation to destinations, museum admissions, guided visits, most meals, and other amenities. Airfare is not included. Please note: Refunds (minus 10% processing and administrative fees) are available until August 15. After this date, only 50% of the ticket price (minus 10% processing and administrative fees) will be refunded. No refunds available after September 1. Itinerary subject to change.
This fall, join Morbid Anatomy and Mexican scholar Salvador Olguín for an unforgettable journey to Merida, Yucatan, and experience the exciting traditions of Día de Muertos in one of Mexico’s most culturally rich regions. Merida, known as the “White City,” is a stunning blend of colonial architecture, Mayan heritage, and modern Mexican life. Our group will explore the city’s historic landmarks, bustling markets, quirky museums, archaeological and natural wonders, and more, while immersing ourselves in various uniquely Yucatecan celebrations during this beloved holiday.
The Yucatan Peninsula is a land of ancient Mayan cities, cenotes, and traditions that have been kept alive for centuries. Founded in 1542, and built over the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of T'ho, Merida is a place where past and present coexist harmoniously. During Dia de Muertos, the city comes alive with colorful altars and marigold flowers; we'll be able to immerse ourselves in the festivities, which feature street performances and candle-lit processions honoring the souls of the departed. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Museo Paranormal de Yucatan, and explore the Festival de las Ánimas, a celebration that blends Mayan and Catholic traditions in a unique and unforgettable way.
This tour will also take us deep into the heart of Yucatecan culture, from the grandeur of Chichen Itza, where we'll visit the ruins and swim in a cenote, to the serene beauty of colonial towns like the magical Valladolid, and the yellow city of Izamal, where we will visit the famous Convento de San Antonio de Padua, founded in 1553. Scroll down for a day-by-day breakdown of this magical journey.
Hotel: Gran Real Yucatán
Located in the historic center of Merida, the Gran Real Yucatan is a luxurious hotel that seamlessly blends colonial elegance with modern amenities. It features spacious, beautifully decorated rooms and suites, each equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and private balconies or terraces. Guests can enjoy a variety of on-site amenities, including an outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens, and a spa offering a range of treatments inspired by traditional Mayan healing practices. The hotel’s restaurant serves a mix of international and Yucatecan cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail after a day of exploration. The Gran Real Yucatan’s prime location allows easy access to Merida’s main attractions, including the Plaza Grande, Paseo de Montejo, and the city’s vibrant markets.
List of Activities Per Day
October 30
Arrival and Transfer to the Hotel: Upon arrival at Merida International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to the Gran Real Yucatán, where you can settle into your luxurious room and relax after your journey.
Welcome Dinner at Joanna Ebenstein’s Home: In the evening, join Joanna Ebenstein, founder and director of Morbid Anatomy, for a welcome dinner at her home. This intimate gathering will set the tone for the week, offering a chance to meet your fellow travelers and learn about the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos in Yucatan.
October 31
City Tour of Merida: Begin your day with a guided tour of Merida’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Plaza Grande, the city’s main square, surrounded by historic buildings like the Catedral de San Ildefonso, the oldest cathedral in the Americas, completed in 1598. Stroll down Paseo de Montejo, a grand avenue lined with stately mansions built during the henequen boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and explore the Casa de Montejo, a 16th-century colonial house that once belonged to the Montejo family, Conquistadors of Yucatan. Dive into local culture at the Lucas de Galvez Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. The tour also includes visits to museums, including the Museo de la Ciudad, housed in a former post office, the Museo Palacio Canton, a Beaux-Arts mansion showcasing Mayan artifacts, and the Museo Mundo Maya (subject to availability), which showcases the rich heritage of the Mayan civilization, including artifacts dating back over 3,000 years.
NOVEMBER 1
Day Trip to Chichen Itza: Journey to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. Explore the iconic El Castillo pyramid, built around 800-900 CE, which aligns with the sun during the equinoxes in order to create the illusion of a serpent descending its steps, and discover the Great Ball Court, the largest and best-preserved ballcourt in Mesoamerica, where the Mayans played their ritual ball game.
Cenote Ikkil: After exploring Chichen Itza, cool off with a swim in Cenote Ikkil, a stunning natural sinkhole surrounded by lush vegetation. What sets Cenote Ikkil apart is its dramatic open-air structure, with a circular opening that allows sunlight to filter through, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow on the crystal-clear waters below. This sacred site was once used by the Mayans for rituals and offerings.
Traditional Yucatecan Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties like cochinita pibil, panuchos, and sopa de lima, accompanied by refreshing aguas frescas. Yucatecan cuisine was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010, celebrated for its unique blend of Mayan, European, and Caribbean influences.
NOVEMBER 2
Festival de las Animas: Immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of the Festival de las Animas, a unique Yucatecan event that honors the departed with music, dance, and elaborate altars. This year’s festival will feature over 200 performers, including traditional musicians, dancers, and theater groups, bringing the streets of Merida to life with their artistry. Participate in workshops, watch performances, and learn about the traditions that make this festival so special.
Museo Paranormal de Yucatan: Enjoy a customized visit to this fascinating museum that explores the supernatural and paranormal phenomena of the region. From ghost stories to ancient rituals, this museum offers a unique perspective on Yucatan’s contemporary mystical side.
Evening Cemetery Visit: Spend the evening exploring a local cemetery in Merida, where families gather to honor their loved ones with candles, flowers, and offerings. Experience the serene beauty of this tradition as the cemetery comes alive with light and music.
NOVEMBER 3
Day Trip to Valladolid and Izamal: Begin your day with a visit to Valladolid, a charming colonial town founded in 1543 and known for its colorful streets and historic architecture. Explore the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, built in 1560, and the Cenote Zaci, a natural pool located in the heart of the town.
Continue to Izamal, known as the “Yellow City” for its uniformly painted buildings. Visit the Convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop a Mayan pyramid in the 16th century, and explore the town’s cobblestone streets and artisan shops. Enjoy free time to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this magical place.
NOVEMBER 4
Departure and Transfer to the Airport: The tour ends with an informal breakfast giving us a chance to share experiences, offer you a small memento to remember our experience, and bid our farewells. After breakfast, a car will transfer you to the airport for your departure.
Salvador Olguín is a writer and scholar who has focused much of his work on the visual culture of death in Mexico. His work has been published in print and online media in Mexico, Spain, Brazil, the UK, and the United States. He holds a master’s degree in Humanities and Social Thought from NYU. His first poetry book, La carabela portuguesa (The Portuguese Man O’War), received the Carmen Alardin National Poetry Award in Mexico. He currently lives in the Mayan Riviera.