Yaxcopoil Hacienda, Uxmal & Cenote from Merida

Explore the historic charm of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula with this full-day tour from Merida that combines visits to Hacienda Yaxcopoil, the stunning Uxmal ruins, and a refreshing swim at Cenote Peba. Priced at $129 per person, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours and features pickup and drop-off service, making it a hassle-free way to see some of the region’s most iconic sites without the need to organize transportation.

Guided by knowledgeable guides, this tour emphasizes history, architecture, and natural beauty. The tours receive top ratings, with glowing reviews highlighting well-preserved sites, engaging guides, and a delicious included lunch. The only consideration is that the cenote is a small, artisanal sinkhole, which might not suit those looking for a large open water swimming experience. This tour offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery, relaxation, and convenience for visitors eager to explore outside Merida.

Key Points

• Price: $129 per person for an 8-hour tour, including admission, guide, and lunch
• Highlights: Visit the historic Hacienda Yaxcopoil, explore the archaeological site of Uxmal, and swim at Cenote Peba
• Transportation: Pickup and drop-off from Merida included, with comfortable, modern vehicles
• Guide Expertise: Guides like Rosendo, Israel, and Edgar are praised for their knowledgeable, engaging explanations
• Crowd Levels: Sites like Uxmal and Cenote Peba tend to be less crowded early in the day
• Best For: Those interested in Mayapan history, architecture, natural swimming, and easy logistics

Starting Point: Convenient Pickup from Merida Hotels

The tour begins promptly at 7:40 am with hotel pickup in Merida, simplifying planning for visitors. The vehicles are described as clean and comfortable, leading the group smoothly through the day’s itinerary. This organized start helps maximize time at each location, especially as the tour maintains a good rhythm, according to reviews.

Visiting Hacienda Yaxcopoil: A Historic Henequen Estate

The journey kicks off at Hacienda Yaxcopoil, a Henequen plantation with impressive architecture. The main house features spacious living rooms and green gardens, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural past. The admission is included, and guides lead visitors through the site, sharing stories about its role in the local economy and society.

Reviews highlight the architecture’s beauty and the informative guided tour. The hacienda provides a peaceful, scenic setting that’s perfect for photos and understanding the importance of the Henequen industry in the region’s history.

Exploring the Magnificent Uxmal Ruins for Three Hours

Next, the tour heads to Uxmal, a Mayan archaeological site distinguished by its well-preserved structures and less crowded atmosphere. Visitors explore fifteen groups of buildings, including the Pyramid of the Fortuneteller, Quadrangle of the Nuns, and Governor’s Palace.

The guided visit at Uxmal is carefully timed at around three hours, providing ample opportunity to appreciate the architecture and carvings. The site’s less crowded early in the morning is often praised in reviews, allowing for a more immersive experience without the usual crowds found at other Mayan sites.

Refreshing Swim at Cenote Peba

The final stop is Cenote Peba, a small, artisanal freshwater sinkhole. It’s described as magical and peaceful, perfect for a swim. The crystal-clear water impresses visitors, and the limited crowd means you’ll enjoy a relaxing experience.

The hour-long stop allows for swimming and photos, with the guide offering tips on enjoying the water safely. The cenote’s size and intimate setting make it a unique, quieter alternative to larger swimming spots.

All-Inclusive Experience: Guided Tours, Lunch, and Entrance Fees

This tour covers all entrance fees to Yaxcopoil, Uxmal, and Cenote Peba. It features the expertise of professional guides who lead informative and engaging visits, often praised for their multilingual abilities and knowledge of Mayan culture and local history.

A lunch is included in the tour, offering a delicious meal that complements the day’s activities. The meals are well-received, with reviewers highlighting the quality and variety.

Logistics and Group Size

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere while allowing for social interaction. The pickup and drop-off service ensures a stress-free experience, especially for those unfamiliar with local transportation options.

Most reviews note that the timing is well-managed, with everything running smoothly and on schedule. This efficiency makes the day enjoyable and avoids unnecessary waiting.

Tour Guides: Knowledgeable and Personable

The guides are frequently praised for their expertise, with many reviewers highlighting their ability to answer questions and share stories about Mayan culture, architectural details, and regional history. Guides like Rosendo, Israel, Edgar, and Josué receive particular mention for their friendly manner, fluency in multiple languages, and ability to make complex topics accessible.

Pacing and Crowd Levels

The tour’s early start helps avoid peak crowds, especially at Uxmal and Cenote Peba. Reviewers note that sites are less crowded than other similar attractions, providing a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Value for Money

At $129 per person, the tour offers excellent value, considering the transportation, guided visits, entrance fees, and lunch. Several reviews emphasize the well-organized nature and quality of the sites, making it a cost-effective way to explore multiple highlights in a single day.

Suitable for Different Travelers

This tour suits history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and nature lovers alike. Its easy logistics and group size make it accessible for most physically able visitors, although the walks around Uxmal require moderate mobility. The small cenote is ideal for those wanting a quiet swim rather than a large water park experience.

Final Thoughts on the Yaxcopoil Hacienda, Uxmal & Cenote Tour

This eight-hour exploration from Merida provides a balanced experience of cultural sites, natural beauty, and comfortable logistics. The guides’ expertise and less crowded sites stand out as key strengths, making it a top choice for visitors seeking an enriching day outside the city.

The included lunch, admissions, and pickup service add to its convenience, while the small cenote offers a peaceful end to the day. The only potential limitation is that the cenote may be small for some, but its artisanal charm is often praised.

This tour offers value, comfort, and authentic experiences, ideal for those interested in Mayan archaeology, regional history, and natural swimming. It’s a highly recommended option for travelers wanting a well-organized, insightful day trip from Merida.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with modern, comfortable vehicles used throughout the day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 7:40 am.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all entrance fees for Yaxcopoil, Uxmal, and Cenote Peba.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but moderate walking at Uxmal may pose challenges for those with mobility concerns.

What is the lunch like?
A delicious included lunch is part of the tour, with positive reviews highlighting its quality and variety.

Can I swim at Cenote Peba?
Yes, visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Peba, which is described as peaceful and intimate.

What guides lead the tour?
Guides like Rosendo, Israel, Edgar, and Josué receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and multilingual abilities.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Its less crowded sites, well-organized schedule, and small-group atmosphere make it a standout choice for exploring the Yucatán outside Mérida.