Did the Mayans Migrate?

After the lowlands city-states collapsed, ending the Classic period, there was increased migration into the Yucatán and Maya culture continued to thrive there until the arrival of the militaristic Toltecs.

Did the Mayans travel?

Coastal Mayan groups used canoes to supply inland groups with salt, dried fish, shells, and pearls. The Mayans had no beasts of burden or wheels to carry their heavy loads. Instead, trade goods were transported on the backs of slaves who traveled along well established routes.

Where did the Mayan people migrate from?

The most likely explanation, Inomata said, is that Mayan culture developed as part of a broader social movement that unfurled across Mesoamerica — a region extending from central Mexico to Central America — between the years 1500 and 800 BC.