Private Tour Kabah & Uxmal plus Mayan Workshop Experience

Discover the Charm of the Puuc Route in a Private Tour

This private 9-hour tour takes you through two of the most significant Mayan cities on the Puuc Route, Kabah and Uxmal, both located in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. Priced at $335 per person, this experience is perfect for those interested in Mayan archaeology, art, and culture, with the added bonus of a Mayan pottery workshop. With a certified bilingual guide and private transportation, the day is flexible and intimate, making it ideal for curious travelers seeking quality and depth.

The tour begins with a pickup in Mérida and includes guided visits to Kabah, famed for its Codz Pop temple adorned with masks of the rain god Chaac, and Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its geometric mosaics and sculptures. After exploring these archaeological marvels, visitors enjoy a traditional Yucatecan lunch featuring cochinita pibil, and participate in a hands-on Mayan pottery workshop in the community of Muna. The entire day combines history, art, and local craftsmanship—all in just nine hours.

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Key Points

• Private guided tour of Kabah and Uxmal with flexible scheduling
• Learn Mayan hieroglyphs and decorate pottery in a workshop led by local Mayan artisans
• Visit the impressive Codz Pop temple with Chaac masks at Kabah
• Explore Uxmal’s stunning sculptures and mosaics, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Enjoy authentic Yucatecan cuisine with cochinita pibil in a local restaurant
• Includes transportation, admission tickets, and beverages, with no hidden costs

Starting the Day in Kabah: The Puuc Route’s Architectural Treasure

Kabah marks the beginning of this full-day adventure. This ancient Mayan city was once a rival to Uxmal, connected by an 18-kilometer sacbé, or ceremonial road. The highlight here is the Codz Pop temple, a striking building whose name means “rolled mat” or “royal mat”. Its façade is decorated with hundreds of masks of Chaac, the rain god, each composed of 30 carved pieces, making it a true artistic masterpiece.

The architecture of Kabah reveals sophisticated craftsmanship, with structures that were once vital centers of Mayan life. Exploring the site provides insights into the urban planning and religious practices of the ancient city. The guided tour ensures you understand the significance behind each temple and sculpture, enriching your appreciation of this archaeological site.

Exploring Uxmal: The Crown Jewel of the Puuc Region

Following Kabah, the tour heads to Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unmatched perfection in Mayan architecture. The site’s buildings feature detailed sculptures and geometric mosaics made from thousands of polished stones, demonstrating extraordinary craftsmanship. Uxmal’s most famous structures include the Nunnery Quadrangle and the Governor’s Palace, both showcasing intricate carvings and grand proportions.

As you walk through Uxmal, the guide explains the symbolism and purpose of each structure, revealing the intellectual and artistic achievements of the Mayan civilization. The site offers ample space for photo opportunities and moments of quiet admiration, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the timeless beauty of this ancient city.

Savoring a Traditional Yucatecan Lunch with Cochinita Pibil

Midday, the tour pauses at a local restaurant for a Yucatecan lunch. The highlight is cochinita pibil, a classic dish made with marinated pork slow-cooked in pib, an underground pit. If the timing allows, visitors may witness the unearthing of the cochinita pibil, a traditional process that adds a cultural dimension to the meal.

The restaurant offering this regional cuisine provides an authentic taste of Yucatán’s culinary heritage. The lunch is included in the tour price, giving a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors in a casual setting.

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Learning Mayan Writing and Pottery in Muna

After lunch, the tour continues with a hands-on workshop in the community of Muna. Led by a local Mayan family, this activity focuses on decorating clay vessels, painting Mayan codices, and decoding hieroglyphs. Participants create their own pottery pieces while gaining insights into Mayan symbols and storytelling.

This workshop offers a practical connection to Mayan culture, emphasizing traditional techniques passed down through generations. It provides a personalized experience that deepens understanding of the function and meaning of the ancient codex, making the history tangible and memorable.

Return to Mérida with Lasting Memories

The tour concludes with a return trip to Mérida, approximately 1.5 hours by van. Along the way, the guide may share additional insights about the Yucatán region, enhancing your overall experience. The journey back is relaxed, leaving ample time to reflect on the archaeological sites, cultural insights, and craft skills gained during the day.

This private tour ensures a smooth, personal experience, with no mandatory stops at souvenir shops, respecting your pace and interests.

Logistics and What’s Included

The tour starts with hotel pickup in Mérida, with private transportation throughout the day. All admission tickets to Kabah and Uxmal, as well as for the pottery workshop, are included, along with refreshing beverages and snacks from the minibar. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, camera, and cash for additional souvenirs or purchases.

Wheelchair accessibility is limited; those requiring assistance should request support at the time of booking. The tour is suitable for children over 12, with younger children needing a stroller if under five.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience appeals to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and those keen on hands-on learning. The combination of exploring archaeological sites, participating in a pottery workshop, and sampling regional cuisine makes it ideal for travelers who want an immersive and educational day. The private setting provides flexibility and personalized attention, enhancing the overall value.

Final Thoughts on the Kabah & Uxmal Private Tour

This 9-hour journey offers a well-rounded introduction to the Mayan Puuc region, with expert guided tours, a delicious Yucatecan lunch, and an interactive workshop. The small group size and private transportation create a comfortable, personalized atmosphere, allowing for a deeper connection to the sites and culture.

While the day is physically active, the pace is manageable, and the inclusion of a cultural workshop adds a unique touch that sets this tour apart. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to combine archaeology, art, and hands-on craft in one memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 12 years old are welcome. Children under 5 years old must use a stroller, and younger children should be considered based on their comfort with walking and long outings.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, the Yucatecan lunch, featuring cochinita pibil, is included. Visitors should plan to bring cash for additional drinks or souvenirs.

How accessible is the tour for people with limited mobility?
Limited wheelchair accessibility applies. Those with specific needs should request assistance at the time of booking to discuss possible accommodations.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The private guide, hands-on pottery workshop, and authentic regional cuisine combine to offer an intimate, educational, and culturally enriching experience not typically available on larger group tours.

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