Merida : Uxmal, Chocolate Museum and Cenote with lunch and pick up

Discover Uxmal, the Chocolate Museum, and Cenote with a Convenient Pickup

This full-day tour in Merida offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery, culinary insights, and refreshing nature experiences for just $99.13 per person. Starting at 8:00 am, the tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, making it an ideal choice for those eager to explore the Yucatan’s highlights without rushing.

You’ll be picked up from just outside Merida and transported comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour combines a guided exploration of the spectacular Uxmal ruins, a visit to the Choco-Story Museum to understand cocoa’s significance, and a swim at the Peba cenote. The included lunch and the interactive online game make this experience engaging and convenient, especially with the option to learn in both English and Spanish.

While the tour’s admission fees for the Uxmal site, Chocolate Museum, and cenote are not included, the overall cost remains accessible, and the guided narration ensures you won’t miss the historical or cultural context. The group’s maximum size of 20 travelers helps maintain an intimate and personal atmosphere, even during busy days.

Highlights of the Uxmal Mayan Site

The centerpiece of this tour is the Uxmal archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage location renowned for its impressive architecture and sprawling ruins. The guide takes time to share insights about its history and significance, helping you understand why Uxmal remains a vital piece of Mayan heritage.

You get around 2 hours at Uxmal, enough time to walk through the elaborate pyramids, palaces, and intricate carvings. The tour includes a guided walk, but you also have free time at the end to explore independently, take photographs, and absorb the stunning scenery at your own pace.

The guide’s expertise is praised, with mentions of Alberto’s personal knowledge of Mayan culture, which enriches the experience. The site remains active in excavation, so you’ll see ongoing work that adds a layer of authenticity and discovery to your visit.

Exploring Cocoa at the Choco-Story Museum

After the ruins, the tour visits the Choco-Story Museum in Uxmal, where the focus shifts to Mayan traditions surrounding cocoa. Here you’ll discover the ancient methods used to prepare chocolate, emphasizing its sacred role in Mayan society.

The museum features botanical gardens, rescued fauna, and a replica of the Hacienda Uxmal, providing context about cocoa’s cultural importance. The admission fee of 280 MXN is not included, but the experience offers a hands-on understanding of Mayan cocoa history.

This stop is ideal for those interested in Mayan cuisine and traditions, offering a richer perspective beyond just ruins. The interactive exhibits and visual displays help make the story engaging, especially for visitors eager to connect food with history.

Refreshing Swim at Cenote Peba

A highlight for many is the visit to Cenote Peba, a small, shallow cenote perfect for a quick swim and refreshment. The 1 hour 10 minutes spent here allows time to cool off after a busy morning of sightseeing.

The cenote’s crystal-clear waters and calm environment make it an ideal spot for relaxation. The admission fee of 100 MXN is not included, but the break provides a pleasant contrast to the archaeological and museum visits.

This stop is suitable for all ages, though those with mobility concerns should consider the shallow nature of the cenote. It offers a peaceful moment to enjoy nature and recharge for the afternoon activities.

Authentic Yucatecan Lunch and Local Flavors

Before returning to Merida, the tour features a 10-minute stop for a delicious Yucatecan lunch. The meal highlights local cuisine, providing an opportunity to enjoy traditional flavors in a relaxed setting.

The lunch is included in the tour price, adding value to the overall experience. This break also allows for socializing and recovery from the morning’s activities before heading back to the city.

Returning to Merida with Cultural Insights

The tour concludes with a 45-minute return trip to the meeting point in Merida, giving travelers time to reflect on the day’s sights. The guide shares additional insights or answers any last-minute questions, enhancing the educational aspect of the tour.

The pickup begins at 8:00 am from JUSTO Bread Studio on P.º de Montejo, a central location in Merida. The group size remains small, ensuring you receive personalized attention and a more engaging experience throughout the day.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

This tour is suitable for most travelers given its moderate pace and comfortable transport. The maximum group size of 20 helps keep the experience intimate, with guides providing bilingual narration to accommodate different language preferences.

It’s best to book at least 15 days in advance, as the tour is popular. The price of $99.13 offers good value, considering the transport, guide, lunch, and multiple stops included in the package. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, making it flexible for your plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This comprehensive day trip appeals to history enthusiasts, food lovers, and nature fans alike. Those interested in Mayan ruins and archaeology will appreciate the depth of knowledge shared about Uxmal. Visitors with a curiosity about Mayan cocoa traditions will find the museum engaging and informative.

The cenote swim provides a refreshing break, ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. However, those expecting a fast-paced or physically demanding experience may find the shallow cenote and leisurely pace more suitable.

Final Thoughts on the Merida Uxmal, Chocolate Museum, and Cenote Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of the most significant cultural and natural sights in Yucatan. The combination of archaeological exploration, cultural learning, and outdoor relaxation makes it a compelling choice for a full-day activity.

The expert guides, especially those with personal knowledge of Mayan culture, significantly enhance the experience. The included lunch and small-group atmosphere add to the overall value, making it accessible for most travelers.

While admission fees for the museum and cenote are not included, the overall cost-benefit balance remains favorable. This trip is particularly suitable for those who want a balanced, educational, and enjoyable day out from Merida.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from JUSTO Bread Studio on P.º de Montejo in Mérida.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning by early evening.

Are guided tours available in both English and Spanish?
Yes, the guide provides narration in both languages to accommodate different guests.

How much does the museum and cenote admission cost?
The Choco-Story Museum admission is $280 MXN, and the cenote costs 100 MXN; these are not included in the tour price.

Can I walk freely at Uxmal after the guided tour?
Yes, you receive free time after the guided walk to explore the ruins at your own pace.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Yucatecan lunch is included in the tour.

What should I bring for the cenote swim?
Bring swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen; the cenote is shallow and suitable for a quick refresh.

How many people are in the tour group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the moderate pace and shallow cenote make it appropriate for most ages, but mobility considerations should be taken into account.

What is the booking process?
Booking is best done at least 15 days in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience begins.