On the beautiful drive between Chichén Itzá and Valladolid, you will find a unique destination in the middle of the road: Pujulá Aldea Maya Viva. This community project, located in the picturesque village of Kaua, is a treasure that will immerse you in Maya culture and allow you to appreciate the richness of its traditions.
A journey to the heart of Mayan culture
Pujulá Aldea Maya Viva is a cooperative dedicated to rescuing and preserving the traditional knowledge of the Maya people. Here, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the authenticity of Yucatecan culture and discover the practices that have been passed down from generation to generation.
An encounter with history
The project is led by Don Sixto and his family, who have dedicated their lives to preserving and revaluing ancestral knowledge. Don Sixto, retired from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), was the custodian of the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá for more than 40 years. Through Pujulá Aldea Maya Viva, they share with visitors their vast knowledge and the biocultural richness of the Maya people.
Activities and services
- Community tour on traditional knowledge: Mayan house, work with vines, making utensils.
- Restaurant with traditional food.
Community tour
Take a tour with a local guide to learn about traditional Mayan knowledge such as the construction of a Mayan house and the utensils of daily use in the region, such as wooden rafts and bejuco handicrafts. You will also visit a traditional irrigation system where local products are grown.
Food Service
Enjoy delicious Yucatecan dishes cooked over firewood with Doña Aracely’s seasoning.
The magic of the Mayan palapas
At Pujulá Aldea Maya Viva, you can admire the traditional architecture of the Mayan houses. The small rustic palapas are built using ancestral techniques and native materials, such as bejuco and sosquil. These structures are a living example of the mastery of the ancient Maya in construction.
Experiences for all senses
Flavors that captivate
At Pujulá, you can delight in the authentic flavors of Yucatecan gastronomy. The cooperative’s restaurant offers traditional dishes such as poc chuc, beans with pork, and lime soup.
Each bite will transport you to a world of unique aromas and flavors that reflect the culinary identity of the region.
Discover the secrets of Mayan craftsmanship
Pujulá’s community tours invite you to learn about the manufacturing process of kitchen utensils and household tools made from bejuco and sosquil.
You will be able to appreciate the skills of local artisans and understand how these natural materials are transformed into beautiful and functional objects.
Dive into the Mayan orchard
The kanché garden is another highlight of the Pujulá experience. Here you can learn about vegetable production following traditional techniques. You will learn the secrets of Maya agriculture and discover how the plants that form a fundamental part of Yucatecan cuisine are grown.
A legacy for future generations
Pujulá Aldea Maya Viva is more than a tourist destination. It is a project that seeks to preserve Mayan traditions and knowledge for future generations. Through community-based tourism, Don Sixto and his family have found a way to share their legacy and generate a positive impact on their community.
An opportunity to support the community
By visiting Pujulá Aldea Maya Viva, you are directly contributing to the development and well-being of the local community. Your support helps to keep the Mayan culture alive and allows traditional practices to endure over time.
Plan your visit to Pujulá Living Mayan Village
If you are planning your trip to Yucatan, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Pujulá Aldea Maya Viva in Kaua. Immerse yourself in Maya history and culture, enjoy the traditional flavors and discover the beauty of the handicrafts and the Maya orchard, get ready for an authentic and enriching experience!
Note: Please check restrictions and hours of operation prior to your visit due to possible changes in the current situation.