Hacienda Mucuyche & Oxkintok ruins & Cenotes: Carlota& Azul Maya

Explore Mayan Ruins and Cenotes on a Full-Day Merida Adventure

This $118.00 per person tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, providing an engaging mix of archaeology, natural beauty, and cultural charm all around Merida, Mexico. Organized by Merida Wonder ¡¡¡¡, it combines a visit to the Oxkintok archaeological site, a stop at Hacienda Mucuyché, and swimming in two stunning cenotes, Carlota and Azul Maya.

The tour starts early with a pickup at 8:00 AM from designated meeting points, with most bookings made 124 days in advance. It offers a well-rounded day for those interested in Mayan history and natural scenery, although it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and water activities. A key highlight is the visit to Oxkintok, a site connected to Chichén Itzá, and the chance to swim in cenotes that showcase the area’s natural allure.

While the tour covers quite a bit in a single day, it includes round-trip transportation, bilingual guides, and entrance fees to all major stops. Keep in mind, lunch and beverages are not included, but the Hacienda has an onsite restaurant and facilities.

Key Points

• Includes a visit to Oxkintok ruins with a guided tour exploring Mayan rituals and cosmic symbolism.
• Visits Hacienda Mucuyché, blending historic architecture with modern amenities, including a swimming pool.
• Swim and snorkel in two cenotes, Carlota (semi-open) and Azul Maya (cavern-style), with life vests provided.
• Transport and entrance fees are covered, but lunch and drinks are additional expenses.
• The tour duration is about 8 to 9 hours, with a flexible itinerary that may change order.
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 20 participants.

Starting the Day with Oxkintok Ruins and a Cultural Introduction

The tour begins promptly at 8:00 AM, departing from Mérida with pickup at a designated meeting point. After a brief stop at a convenience store for water or snacks, the group heads to the Oxkintok archaeological site, arriving around 9:45 AM. The site is notable for its labyrinth-like structures and a pyramid used historically for initiation rituals and testing future priests or healers.

The Oxkintok ruins have three levels representing the Mayan cosmos: celestial, terrestrial, and underworld. Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramids for panoramic views and a sense of the site’s spiritual significance. The 1-hour guided visit provides detailed insights into the site’s history, followed by 30 minutes of free time to explore at your own pace. Entrance is free, and the site is known for its complex labyrinth design, often called “tza tun tzat,” which used to challenge and test Mayan initiates.

Visiting Hacienda Mucuyché and Its Architectural Charm

Around 11:45 AM, the group moves on to Hacienda Mucuyché, a site where history and modern comfort coexist. The hacienda boasts original structures that reveal its past, alongside a modern swimming pool and facilities. The atmosphere offers a glimpse into the colonial era, with architecture that tells stories of the area’s history.

The visit includes admission to the hacienda and its cenotes, and you can enjoy swimming in two different cenotes: Carlota, a semi-open cenote with natural light, and Azul Maya, a cavern-style cenote with impressive rock formations. The crossing between the cenotes is scenic, either by walking along a stone path or taking a refreshing swim.

This segment lasts around 2 hours, giving ample time to swim, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. Afterward, there’s 1 hour and 30 minutes allotted for lunch at the on-site restaurant, where you can purchase food and drinks, or relax by the swimming pool.

Swimming in the Cenotes: Carlota and Azul Maya

The cenotes are among the main attractions of this tour, offering a chance to cool off and connect with nature. Carlota is a semi-open cenote, allowing sunlight to filter through, creating a beautiful setting for swimming or snorkeling. Azul Maya is a cavern-style cenote, featuring striking rock formations and clear waters, perfect for exploring with a life vest.

Both cenotes provide snorkeling opportunities with life vests included, making them accessible even for those less comfortable in deep water. Moving between the cenotes involves crossing a scenic canal, which enhances the sense of adventure and allows guests to appreciate the area’s lush landscape.

Practical Details: Transportation and Facilities

Transportation is included round-trip from Mérida, with a bilingual guide leading the group throughout the day. The vehicle picks up at a designated meeting point, with support provided via contact details in case of questions. The group size is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Facilities at Hacienda Mucuyché include restrooms, showers, and a swimming pool, making it easy to freshen up and relax after the activity. A cooler ice box is available for guests to bring beverages, adding convenience for staying hydrated.

Important Tips and Considerations

Travelers should bring sunscreen, comfortable clothing, swimsuits, a change of clothes, water, and cash for additional purchases. Since lunch is not included, guests can dine at the hacienda’s restaurant or bring snacks. The itinerary may change order, but all stops remain part of the experience.

This tour is suitable for most travelers but requires walking and water activities, so physical mobility should be considered. No alcohol or coffee is permitted on the bus, and no refunds are offered if participants do not show up or decide to cancel on the day.

The Sum Up: An Engaging Mix of Mayan Culture and Natural Beauty in Merida

The Hacienda Mucuyche & Oxkintok ruins & Cenotes tour offers an enriching day exploring the archaeological significance of Oxkintok, combined with the natural allure of cenotes and the historic charm of Hacienda Mucuyché. It balances cultural discovery with relaxing swims, making it appealing for those interested in history, nature, or simply escaping the city.

While the tour pace can be busy, the inclusion of guided insights, scenic crossings, and well-maintained facilities enhances the experience. The cost reflects a comprehensive day out, with transportation, entrance fees, and equipment provided. This tour suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a full picture of Yucatán’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The round transportation from Mérida, bilingual guide, entrance to Oxkintok and Hacienda Mucuyché, and access to the cenotes with life vests are included.

Are meals provided during the tour?
No, lunch and beverages are not included, but the Hacienda has an onsite restaurant where you can purchase food.

Can I swim in the cenotes?
Yes, swimming and snorkeling are allowed in both Carlota and Azul Maya. Life vests are provided for safety.

What should I bring for the tour?
It’s best to carry sunscreen, a swimsuit, a change of clothes, water, cash, and comfortable shoes. Bringing a beach towel might also be helpful.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most of the activities involve walking and water swims, so some mobility limitations may apply. It’s best for active individuals comfortable with outdoor environments.

What happens if I miss the pickup or decide not to join?
Since no refunds are available for no-shows or cancellations on the same day, it’s important to be punctual and committed to the schedule.

This 8 to 9-hour day trip offers a well-rounded look at Yucatán’s archaeological sites and natural cenotes, perfect for anyone seeking an authentic mix of history and nature with comfortable facilities and clear logistics.