Oxkintok Ruins and Hacienda Mucuyche with Cenotes from Merida

Discover the Rich Heritage of Oxkintok and the Beauty of Hacienda Mucuyché

This full-day tour from Merida combines cultural exploration with natural beauty at an accessible price of $121 per person. The journey lasts approximately 13 hours, starting with a pickup from Merida and featuring visits to the Oxkintok Ruins and the Hacienda Mucuyché. The tour is ideal for those interested in Mayan history, impressive cenotes, and enjoying peaceful hacienda surroundings. It’s designed to suit most travelers, with round transportation included and a maximum group size of 30 people for a more personalized experience.

While the tour offers plenty of highlights, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included—guests can purchase local fare at the hacienda restaurant. The pacing allows ample time for exploration, photos, and relaxation, making it a well-balanced day trip for curious visitors eager to see both ancient and natural wonders.

Key Points

• Visits to the Oxkintok Ruins with a certified guide explaining Mayan ceremonies and temples
• Swim in two stunning cenotes, Carlota and Azul Maya, connected by a crystal-clear canal
• Includes transportation, guide services in both English and Spanish, and life vests
• Free time at Hacienda Mucuyché for relaxing, swimming, or dining (food not included)
• Tour departs at 8:00 am and lasts about 13 hours in total

Exploring the Oxkintok Ruins: Mayan Ceremonial Sites and Temples

The tour begins at the Zona Arqueologica de Oxkintok, home to an impressive Mayan pyramid. This site features ceremony halls, gathering spaces, and towering temples that once hosted feasts and rituals. The expert guide walks visitors through the mysteries and legends behind Oxkintok’s history, providing context for its significance in Mayan culture. As the guide shares insights, visitors can explore freely afterward, taking photos and soaking in the powerful energy of the ancient structures.

The admission ticket to Oxkintok is included, giving full access to the archaeological remains. The site’s layout offers a mix of historical intrigue and scenic views, making it a highlight for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike. The 1 hour 30 minutes allocated ensures enough time for a thorough visit without feeling rushed.

Touring Hacienda Mucuyché and the Enchanting Cenotes

After exploring Oxkintok, the tour moves to Hacienda Mucuyché, a colonial estate with a fascinating underground world. The estate’s architecture reflects its historic charm, and its surroundings are quiet and peaceful, perfect for relaxing after a morning of exploring.

Guided visits take you through two breathtaking cenotes, Carlota and Azul Maya. These natural wonders are connected by a crystal-clear canal where visitors can swim through the water, experiencing the cool, refreshing sensation of Yucatán’s famous cenotes. Alternatively, guests can walk the scenic land path if they prefer to stay dry. The admission to both cenotes is included in the tour, and life vests are provided for safety.

The 3 hours and 30 minutes spent at Hacienda Mucuyché allow enough time for the cenote swim, photo opportunities, and enjoying the surroundings. The cenotes’ clarity and natural beauty are genuine highlights, offering a memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Relaxing and Refreshing Time at Hacienda Mucuyché

Following the cenote tour, guests have free time to unwind at the hacienda. The peaceful estate offers a pool for swimming, a restaurant where flavorful local dishes can be purchased (food and drinks are not included), and shaded areas for relaxing under the Yucatán sun. This segment of the day allows visitors to recharge before heading back to Merida, making it a balanced mix of activity and leisure.

The hacienda environment provides a perfect setting for a casual rest, whether that’s enjoying a drink, swimming, or simply soaking up the tranquil ambiance. This optional downtime is especially appreciated by those who want to extend their experience beyond the cenotes and archaeological sites.

Convenient Logistics and Group Experience

The tour’s start time at 8:00 am ensures a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. Transportation from Merida is included, making logistics straightforward. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, creating a more personalized atmosphere, with guides fluent in English and Spanish to accommodate diverse visitors.

The tour’s mobile ticket format and pickup service streamline the day, while the use of life vests at the cenotes enhances safety. Since most of the time is dedicated to exploring, the tour strikes a practical balance between guided insights and free exploration.

Value and Price Considerations

At $121 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that includes transport, guides, admission tickets, and safety equipment. The price is competitive for a full-day cultural and natural adventure, especially considering the inclusion of visits to two cenotes and an archaeological site.

While food and drinks are not included—you’ll need to purchase these at the hacienda—the options are typically available on-site, adding flexibility. The 13-hour duration provides good value for those eager to see key Mayan sites and enjoy cenote swimming without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a relaxing yet active day. The combination of archaeological exploration and cenote adventures appeals to travelers interested in both cultural heritage and natural beauty. The easy logistics, small group size, and expert guides make it suitable for most ages and physical levels, though swimming at the cenotes requires basic comfort in water.

The time at the hacienda allows for unwinding, making it perfect for visitors who want a mix of learning, adventure, and relaxation. It’s less suited for those with strict dietary restrictions, as food is not included, and it’s best for travelers prepared for a full day out.

Oxkintok and Cenotes: A Day of Ancient and Natural Wonders

This comprehensive day trip from Merida offers a balanced blend of Mayan history and natural beauty. Visiting the Oxkintok Ruins provides insight into ancient ceremonial practices, while the cenotes of Hacienda Mucuyché showcase the stunning geological features that define the Yucatán Peninsula.

The guided explanations enrich the experience at Oxkintok, and the swimming opportunities at the cenotes give an immersive touch to the day. The relaxing free time at the hacienda rounds out the adventure, ensuring visitors leave refreshed and inspired.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Cultural and Natural Day

The Oxkintok Ruins and Hacienda Mucuyché tour delivers a satisfying mix of history, natural exploration, and leisurely downtime. The inclusion of transport, expert guides, and cenote access makes it a practical choice for those wanting a full package in a single day.

While food is not part of the package, the opportunity to explore two cenotes and a significant archaeological site at a reasonable price makes this tour stand out. It’s especially suited for visitors wanting to combine active exploration with peaceful relaxation in a scenic setting.

This tour delivers solid value for curious travelers eager to see both the ancient Mayan sites and the stunning cenotes that make the Yucatán so memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round transportation from Merida is included, ensuring a smooth journey between sites.

Are guides available in both English and Spanish?
Absolutely, the guides are fluent in both languages, making the experience accessible for most visitors.

What should I bring for swimming in the cenotes?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and any personal items needed for swimming or relaxing at the hacienda. Life vests are provided for safety.

Can I buy food and drinks during the tour?
Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased at the Hacienda restaurant during free time.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for planning purposes.