Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida

Exploring the ancient Maya sites of Uxmal and Kabah along with a visit to the Chocolate Museum makes for a full, enriching day in Yucatán. Priced at $65.52 per person and lasting approximately 10 hours, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of history, culture, and local flavors. Departing from Mérida, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a certified guide, and lunch at a traditional restaurant, making it a convenient choice for those interested in Maya archaeology and Mayan culinary traditions.

While the tour features multiple stops and a comprehensive itinerary, it is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy walking and exploring archaeological sites. The guided tours are praised for their knowledgeable guides, and the inclusion of the Chocolate Museum adds a sweet, interactive element. A potential limitation is the additional entrance fees for the archaeological zones, which are not included in the base price, and the long day can be tiring for some.

Key Points

• Full-day trip covering Uxmal, Kabah, and the Chocolate Museum, lasting around 10 hours
• Includes round-trip transportation from Mérida and lunch at a local restaurant
• Entry to the Chocolate Museum (Choco Story) is included in the price
• Guided tours at Uxmal and Kabah led by certified guides knowledgeable in Maya history
• Additional archaeological site fees are paid separately—$80 MXN for Kabah and up to $581 MXN for Uxmal for foreigners
• Tour takes place in both Spanish and English, with small group sizes (max 19 travelers)
• The itinerary includes detailed stops at each archaeological site, with plenty of time for sightseeing and photography

Starting the Day: Meeting Point and Departure Time

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am at the Viajes Colibrí Yucatán office in Mérida. It is important to arrive on time, as the pickup is punctual with a maximum tolerance of 10 minutes. The day kicks off with a comfortable transportation vehicle equipped with a cooler for drinks, making it easy to stay refreshed during the long day of sightseeing.

After departure, the route is designed to maximize time at each location, with the first stop at the Uxmal archaeological zone. This early start helps beat the crowds and the heat, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

Exploring Uxmal: The Heart of the Puuc Style

The Uxmal archaeological zone is the first major stop. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its well-preserved Puuc architecture, offering a glimpse into the artistry of the Maya civilization. The guided walk lasts about 2 hours, during which the guide explains the magical significance and architectural details of iconic structures like the Magician’s Temple and the Nunnery Quadrangle.

Visitors can appreciate the intricate stone carvings and the vast scale of the site. It’s important to note that entrance fees for Uxmal are paid separately—$581 MXN for foreigners—so be prepared for that expense. The guide’s expert storytelling is often highlighted as a major plus, enriching the visit with contextual insights.

Discovering Kabah: The Second Largest Puuc Center

Next, the tour moves to Kabah, declared a State Park since 1993. This site earns praise for its religious significance and elaborate decorations, especially the Palace of the Masks, adorned with hundreds of stone mask carvings. The 1.5-hour guided tour here reveals the cultural and spiritual functions of the complex.

Kabah is less crowded than other sites, offering a more intimate experience. Visitors can walk through the temple ruins and enjoy additional insights from the guide. Similar to Uxmal, admission costs are paid separately, with $80 MXN for entry.

Lunch at Halach Huinic: Tasting Local Flavors

Midday, the tour includes a 1-hour stop at the Halach Huinic restaurant, where a three-course meal is served. Guests choose from starter, main dish, and dessert, providing a chance to enjoy authentic Yucatecan cuisine. The setting offers a relaxed atmosphere to recharge after the morning’s visits.

Though the meal is well-received for its flavor and variety, some reviews note that drinks are not included and prices for beverages can be higher. Still, the quality of the food and the opportunity to experience local flavors make this stop worthwhile.

The Chocolate Museum: Learning and Tasting

The highlight for many is the Choco Story museum, a key feature of this tour. Spending about 1.5 hours here, visitors explore the history of cocoa, from its Mayan origins to its international uses today. The museum offers interactive exhibits, and the visit culminates in tasting different chocolates.

The museum’s botanical gardens feature cocoa trees, providing a hands-on connection to the story. The museum entrance fee is included in the tour price, which adds value to the experience. The animal shelter on site showcases endemic wildlife, including monkeys and jaguars, further enriching the visit.

Returning to Mérida: End of the Tour

The tour wraps up with a 2-hour return trip to the original meeting point at Viajes Colibrí in Mérida. The drop-off is at the same location where the tour began, typically around 6:00 pm. This schedule allows for a full day of exploration while still providing a comfortable return time.

Throughout the day, reviews highlight the timeliness of transportation and the friendly guidance as key strengths. The small group size enhances the experience, making conversations with guides more personal and informative.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants are advised to dress comfortably, preferably in light-colored clothing and light shoes suitable for walking. A good breakfast before departure is recommended, and travelers should bring official ID if Mexican.

Since admission fees to the archaeological sites are paid separately—cash is recommended due to poor signal—and some stops involve walking over uneven terrain, those with walking difficulties should consider this before booking.

A cooler with ice onboard allows guests to store personal drinks, but note that soda and additional beverages are not included in the lunch.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This 10-hour guided excursion excels for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to see Uxmal and Kabah with expert commentary. The Interactive Chocolate Museum and lunch add a fun and flavorful touch to the day. It’s ideal for small groups, providing a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.

However, the long duration and moderate physical activity involved might be tiring for some. The additional entrance fees should be considered when planning the budget. For those seeking a comprehensive day trip that combines archaeology, local cuisine, and cocoa culture, this tour offers a satisfying all-in-one experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The round-trip transportation, certified guide, lunch, and entrance to the Chocolate Museum are included. Site entrance fees for Uxmal and Kabah are paid separately.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience lasts about 10 hours, from 8:00 am to around 6:00 pm.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Viajes Colibrí Yucatán in Mérida, with the pickup scheduled at that location.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a three-course meal at Halach Huinic is included in the tour price.

Are the archaeological site fees included?
No, the entrance fees are paid separately—$80 MXN for Kabah and up to $581 MXN for Uxmal for foreigners.

Is this tour suitable for people with walking difficulties?
The tour involves walking over uneven terrain and moderate physical activity, so it is not recommended for those with walking problems or who use a cane.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, the vehicle is equipped with a cooler for storing your drinks, but soda and additional beverages are not included in the lunch.

What languages are available during the tour?
The tour is conducted in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

How do I pay for entrance fees?
Entrance fees to the archaeological sites are cash-only, so ensure to carry Mexican pesos or sufficient cash.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, light-colored clothes, light shoes, and sun protection are recommended due to the outdoor nature of the stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, children with moderate physical fitness and interest in history will likely enjoy the cultural and interactive elements, like the Chocolate Museum.

This tour offers a rich blend of history, culture, and flavor, making it a worthwhile outing for those eager to explore the Maya heritage around Mérida in a single day. With expert guides, delicious lunch, and interactive exhibits, it balances educational value with entertainment, all while respecting the practical needs of the modern traveler.