The schedule, venue details, and ticket prices for the XVI edition of the Sacred Mayan Traverse have been released by the event organizers.

Set against the backdrop of ancient Mayan culture and illuminated by torchlight, this event aims to rekindle the ancestral spirit of the indigenous peoples of the Mayan Riviera. The event will take place on the 17th and 18th of May at the famous Xcaret eco-tourism park. This year's theme is “Water Witches,” inspired by legends from the sacred Mayan book that tells the story of the Itzaes' pilgrimage through the Quintana Roo region.

The event will feature at least 312 canoeists, including 16 courageous female sternmen and two assistant sternmen. They will cover the 62-kilometer maritime route from Playa del Carmen to the island of Cozumel. To ensure participant safety, the Defense Ministry will provide a Defender type boat and an intercept boat. The Port Authority will also offer support in both Playa del Carmen and Cozumel.

Tickets are required for event entry, with special considerations for the local community and relatives of the canoeists. On the first day, free tickets will be available for entry between 4:15 and 5:15 in the morning, right before the canoes set off from the bay of the Beaches. Upon reaching Chankanaab on Cozumel, island residents who have pre-registered will be granted free entry. For the general public, ticket prices range from 236 pesos for Quintana Roo residents to 460 pesos for visitors.

On May 18, the canoeists will arrive at Xcaret. Attendees can enter from 8:30 until 12:30. Ticket prices range from $699 pesos for the basic Xcaret plan to $1,549.99 for the Xcaret Plus plan, with a 50% discount for minors.

This year's Sacred Traverse aims to not only celebrate the epic journey of the ancient Mayans, but also to showcase the culture, art, and spirituality of a people whose wisdom continues to guide us through time.