The history of the Americas
through archeological sites
From Alaska to Colombia, from prehistory to today, the history of the American continent is fascinating. An epic journey that unfolds in stones, temples and cave paintings. Travel back in time for a deep dive into history: discovering dinosaur fossils in Canada, Mayan cities in Guatemala and Belize, or Cerro Azul in Colombia, frescoes of the first inhabitants of South America.
Drumheller – on the trail of dinosaurs in Canada
In the Badlands region of Alberta, the archaeological site of Drumheller offers a unique landscape reminiscent of Mars.
Nicknamed the « world capital of dinosaurs, » the town is home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, where more than 130,000 fossils reveal the richness of this unique heritage. Nearby, Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes you back 70 million years. Between fossils, geological formations and traces of ancient civilizations, Drumheller is a journey through time.
Our advice:
Plan a full day to explore the region and its must-sees. For a more complete experience, also discover the old coal mines of East Coulee.
Cerro Azul – the ancestors of humanity in Colombia
A guaranteed favorite for this extraordinary adventure in Guaviare, Colombia, where one of South America’s major rock art sites is hidden. The impressive walls of Cerro Azul display numerous frescoes and drawings along 150 meters. These paintings are estimated to be over 12,000 years old.
Cerro Azul is just one archaeological site among many, as the region is full of rock art sites, all hidden in the jungle. While some paintings from these vanished civilizations are recognizable – monkeys, deer,.. – others retain all their mystery.
Our advice:
Guaviare is a completely off-the-beaten-path region for travelers seeking the end of the world. Allow two days in the region to discover the Rio Guayabero Canyon and discover new cave paintings.
The Tikal experience – in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle
One of the most memorable experiences is undoubtedly the sunrise over Tikal, in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle. Leaving before dawn, flashlight in hand, you cross the still-sleeping jungle to climb one of the highest pyramids. Gradually, the sounds of the forest awaken: the cry of howler monkeys, the song of birds, the rustling of leaves… The morning mist dissipates, gradually revealing the temples.
Our advice:
Travel from November to April to maximize the chances of clear skies. Stay in a lodge in the heart of the reserve for total immersion. Experience a sensory discovery…..
The mysteries of Lamanai – Mayan site in Belize
In northern Belize, on the shores of the New River Lagoon lies Lamanai, one of the few Mayan sites in the region to have survived the « classic collapse » in the 11th century. This place steeped in history fascinates as much for its past as for the adventure it offers travelers.
Access is by motorboat through the mangrove and jungle. Along the way, you can see tropical birds and catch glimpses of the discreet presence of iguanas. Then, around a bend, the temples appear in the heart of luxuriant vegetation.
The High Temple, at 33m tall, offers an exceptional panorama of the lagoon and tropical forest. The monumental masks carved in stone, remnants of Mayan art, impress with their detail and size.
Dive into history and contemplate the centuries and stories that make up this continent! These 4 sites illuminate the foundations of American history and cultures. To explore them, our local teams and French-speaking guides passionately share the stories and knowledge that bring these places to life.
Contact us to create a trip dedicated to archaeological sites.