BICA 2026 Social / Cultural Program



BICA 2026 Social and Cultural Tour

Saturday, September 12, 2026

We are pleased to invite BICA 2026 participants to join us for a full-day cultural tour exploring some of the most remarkable historical, cultural, and natural attractions of Yucatán.

Tour Schedule

7:00–7:30 a.m. — Departure from Mérida

Participants will be picked up from the designated meeting location(s) in Mérida between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. Additional information regarding the exact pick-up point will be provided to confirmed participants.

First Stop — Chichén Itzá

Our first destination will be Chichén Itzá, one of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient Maya civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Participants will have approximately three hours to explore the archaeological site and visit its main attractions.

Second Stop — Ik Kil Cenote

After visiting Chichén Itzá, we will continue to the Ik Kil Cenote, one of the best-known cenotes in Yucatán.

Participants will have approximately one hour to swim, relax, and enjoy this unique natural setting.

Third Stop — Xay Beh Restaurant, Pisté

Following the visit to the cenote, we will stop at Xay Beh Restaurant in Pisté, where participants will enjoy a buffet featuring traditional Yucatecan cuisine.

4:00–5:00 p.m. — Estimated Return to Mérida

We expect to arrive back in Mérida between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m., depending on traffic conditions and the duration of the activities at each location.

Confirmation of Attendance

Participants who wish to join the tour must confirm their attendance by email no later than August 28, 2026, by writing to:

antonio.alvarez@academicos.udg.mx
heiler.duarte@cinvestav.mx

In your confirmation email, please include:

  • Your full name.
  • Whether you will attend alone or accompanied.
  • If you will be accompanied, the full name of your accompanying person(s).
  • The total number of seats required.

Please note that spaces are limited. Participation in the tour is optional and involves an additional cost.

Recommendations

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as the visit to Chichén Itzá involves considerable walking.

If you plan to swim in the cenote, please bring a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes.

We hope you will join us for this opportunity to experience the history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty of Yucatán while sharing an enjoyable day with fellow BICA 2026 participants.

Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World

Attendees interested in exploring the region can create a customized tour through the travel agency Viajes del Mundo. The agency offers customized tour packages tailored to the interests, schedules, and sizes of groups. For more information, contact Viajes del Mundo at +52 999 269 7045 or visit their website: http://www.viajesdelmundo.com.mx/ For more information and travel tips, attendees can also check out the following blog post about Chichén Itzá: https://www.chichenitza.com/blog    Other tourist sites include the following

UXMAL

Explore one of Yucatán’s most impressive Maya cities. Walk through grand plazas and iconic temples with a guided visit—perfect for history lovers and photography.

Cuzamá Cenotes (Ring of Cenotes)

A classic Yucatán experience: cool off in crystal-clear cenotes on a Cuzamá circuit. Great for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a unique natural setting with colleagues.

Progreso Beach Day

Take a quick coastal escape for sea breeze, a stroll along the boardwalk, and great local seafood. Progreso is ideal for unwinding and catching a group sunset.

Izamal

Visit one of Mexico’s most photogenic towns. Izamal blends Maya roots with colonial charm—yellow streets, local crafts, and iconic landmarks for a relaxed cultural outing.

Participants in the BICA 2025 conference