Tour Valladolid, Cenote Suytun and Cenote Oxman from Mérida

This full-day tour from Mérida offers a comprehensive experience of some of Yucatán’s most captivating sights, all for $76.67 per person. Spanning approximately 12 hours, it combines visits to the famous Cenote Suytun, the stunning Cenote Oxman, and a guided exploration of Valladolid. The tour includes all tickets, a buffet meal with drinks, and round-trip transportation. It’s popular, with over 30 reviews and a perfect 5.0/5 rating, emphasizing its value, organization, and memorable experiences.

Designed for those who appreciate natural beauty, cultural sights, and hassle-free logistics, this tour suits travelers seeking a well-organized day with plenty of swimming, photography, and cultural discovery. The tour is accessible in both Spanish and English, making it suitable for a broad audience. Keep in mind, it requires a moderate physical fitness level and a good breakfast before starting, as the schedule is tight and active.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with tickets, buffet lunch, and drinks included.
• Two distinct cenotes, Suytun and Oxman, offer different scenery and photo opportunities.
• Guided tour of Valladolid, including landmarks like the Municipal Palace, San Bernardino de Siena, and San Servacio church.
• Pickup and transportation from Mérida with a small group (max 19 travelers).
• Tour duration is about 12 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning around 7:00 pm.
• Highly rated guides, praised for their helpfulness, knowledge, and photography skills.

Discovering Cenote Suytun’s Underground Cave

The tour begins with a pickup from Viajes Colibrí Yucatán, with a punctual departure at 7:00 am. The highlight here is the Cenote Suytun, an underground cave surrounded by stalactites and shallow water, perfect for swimming and capturing photographs. The natural vault features holes through which sunlight enters, creating striking light patterns that make for fantastic photos. The entrance fee is included, and a mandatory life jacket is provided to ensure safety during the 1 hour 30 minutes stay.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling with the snorkel mask, or simply relaxing and taking in the surreal scenery. The shallow waters allow for easy fish viewing, adding an additional touch of life to the cavern’s beauty. The cenote’s unique setting makes it stand out as a must-see in Yucatán.

Exploring Cenote Oxman at Hacienda San Lorenzo

Next, the tour moves to Cenote Oxman, located at the Hacienda San Lorenzo. Known as one of Valladolid’s most recognizable cenotes, Oxman is an open water cenote with crystal-clear waters framed by lush nature. Like Suytun, the entrance fee is included, and a life jacket is provided. Travelers spend approximately 1 hour and a half swimming, relaxing, or exploring the surrounding area.

This cenote offers a spectacular view and a different experience compared to Suytun’s underground setting. The crystal waters invite calm swimming, making it an ideal spot for photos and unwinding after the more enclosed cenote.

Dining at Hacienda Oxman Cenote Restaurant

After the cenote visits, the group heads to the Hacienda Oxman restaurant for a buffet lunch included in the tour price. The meal features delicious local dishes and a refillable flavored water drink. Spending about 1 hour here allows for a relaxed break and a chance to enjoy traditional Yucatán flavors in a scenic hacienda setting.

The buffet ensures travelers are well-fueled for the rest of the day’s activities, with the opportunity to sit back and appreciate the historic hacienda surroundings. It’s a highlight for those who enjoy local cuisine paired with beautiful scenery.

Guided Walk Through Valladolid’s Colonial Streets

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Valladolid, a charming colonial town. The guide leads visitors through notable sites such as the Municipal Palace, San Bernardino de Siena Convent, and the Parish Church of San Servacio. The 1.5-hour visit offers insights into the town’s architectural beauty, history, and local culture.

Along With sightseeing, the walk provides excellent photo opportunities of colorful buildings and lively streets. The guide’s commentary points out interesting facts about Valladolid’s past and present, making this part of the tour both educational and visually appealing.

Timed Schedule and Pacing

Starting early at 7:00 am, the tour maintains a tight schedule to fit all stops comfortably. The first cenote visit lasts 1 hour 30 minutes, followed by the second cenote and swimming activities totaling about 3 hours on water. The lunch break at Hacienda Oxman lasts 1 hour, and the Valladolid exploration takes an additional 1.5 hours.

The return to Mérida begins around 4:30 pm, with the journey back taking approximately 3 hours. This pacing offers a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed, though it requires moderate physical activity and some walking, especially in Valladolid.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Travelers should arrive on time at the meeting point, as the tour departs promptly. Comfortable clothing suitable for swimming, water shoes, and a towel are recommended. The van is equipped with a cooler with ice for personal drinks, which can be stored onboard. It’s advised to eat a good breakfast beforehand, given the early start and active schedule.

The tour is not recommended for individuals with walking problems, due to walking involved during the stops. Each stop offers beautiful views and photo opportunities, but the pace is brisk to cover all locations within the day.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Mérida in a vehicle with a refrigerator onboard. The group size is limited to 19 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier group management. Pickup is offered from Viajes Colibrí Yucatán, with the last stop at the Fiesta Americana hotel before returning to the original meeting point.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour’s all-inclusive package makes it particularly appealing, as tickets, lunch, and transportation are covered, simplifying the planning process. The diversity of stops—from underground and open cenotes to a cultural town—provides a well-rounded experience of Yucatán’s natural and colonial heritage.

Guides are consistently praised for their helpfulness, knowledge, and ability to take great photos, adding a personal touch to the day. The small group size enhances comfort and attention from guides, contributing to a relaxed yet efficient schedule.

Final Thoughts on the Valladolid Cenote and Valladolid Tour

This 12-hour tour from Mérida offers a great combination of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and local cuisine. The cenotes Suytun and Oxman each provide unique visuals and swimming opportunities, while the Valladolid visit adds a cultural dimension. The included tickets and buffet lunch make it a convenient choice for those wanting a worry-free, full-day adventure.

While the schedule is active, the experience remains relaxing and enjoyable, especially thanks to helpful guides and a well-organized itinerary. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that balances nature, history, and local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with swimming, walking, and spending a full day outdoors. Water shoes and towels are recommended.

Can I swim in both cenotes?
Absolutely, swimming is allowed in both Suytun and Oxman cenotes. Life jackets and snorkel masks are provided for safety and fun.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable clothing, swimsuits, towels, water shoes, and a good breakfast. A small bag for personal belongings and sunscreen are also helpful.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, the tour takes place in both Spanish and English, ensuring clarity for all participants.

How long is the transfer back to Mérida?
The ride back to Mérida takes approximately 3 hours, returning around 7:00 pm.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included and are at your discretion.

This all-encompassing day trip offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of Yucatán comfortably and hassle-free.