Underworld & Sunlight: Oxkintok & Mucuyché from Merida

Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan , Mexico

Underworld & Sunlight: Oxkintok & Mucuyché from Merida

Active

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Oxkintok, a remarkable Maya archaeological site known for its pyramids, palaces, and a unique labyrinth structure believed to have ritual significance. Once connected to Chichén Itzá, Oxkintok played a key role in regional trade and politics, offering insights into Maya urban planning, religion, and astronomy. Then, visit the beautiful Hacienda Mucuyché, where history meets comfort. Explore original 19th-century structures alongside modern amenities. A highlight of your visit is swimming through two stunning cenotes—Carlota, semi-open to the sky, and Azul Maya, a cavern cenote—connected by a breathtaking canal. Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and the harmony of nature and heritage.

Available options

Underworld & Sunlight: Oxkintok & Mucuyché from Merida

What's included

Admission to Oxkintok

Life jacket Mask

Admission to Cenotes Carlota and Azul Maya

Admission to Hacienda Mucuyché

Cooler with ice in the van

Comfortable air-conditioned transportation

Use of hacienda facilities (restrooms, showers, and pool)

Certified guide throughout the tour

Detailed itinerary

Archaeological Site

This archaeological site will amaze you with its Mayan labyrinth, a building known as "tza tun tzat" (a place where it is easy to get lost), which was used for initiation rituals, as tests for those aspiring to become priests, healers, or other professions. This labyrinth has three levels that represent the cosmic levels of the Mayan world: celestial, terrestrial, and underworld. During your visit, from the top of the pyramids, you can admire wonderful natural landscapes, hills that are actually unexcavated structures, as well as enjoy sculptures, chultunes (underground huts for storing water), arches, entrances, esplanades, cobblestone paths or sacbés, and fantastic ornamental structures.

Visit Hacienda Mucuyché and Dive into Its Cenotes – Where History and Nature Blend Perfectly
Spend two hours exploring this stunning hacienda and swimming in its two breathtaking cenotes: Carlota and Azul Maya. To move from one cenote to the other, you’ll cross a scenic canal—either by enjoying a refreshing swim or walking along a picturesque stone path.
The entrance fee to the hacienda and cenotes is already included.
Afterward, you'll have 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy lunch at the on-site restaurant, which also features a swimming pool where you can take a relaxing dip.
(Please note: lunch is not included.)

What's not included

Tips

Lunch and Beverages are not included (you can buy food in the Hacienda)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Bring your swimsuit, towels and extra clothes

Wear comfortable clothes, shoes and sunglasses

Use sunscreen and insect repellent (biodegradable)

In some occasions, hotel pick-ups are not made, to facilitate departure and arrive on time at the different destinations of the tour, so you can be notified without prior notice to arrive at our office on your own.

If for any reason you are a no show or decide not to go the same day, this tour cannot be rescheduled, you would have to buy again.

This tour will operate according to the availability, maximum 4 person to operate

No pets allowed

Meeting point

Paseo Montejo, Av. Colón, C. 56-A 451, Zona Paseo Montejo, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

Important notes

The customer has to get in touch with the supplier to confirm the exact pick up time, it depends on the location of the hotel

In some occasions, hotel pick-ups are not made, to facilitate departure and arrive on time at the different destinations of the tour, so you can be notified without prior notice to arrive at our office on your own.

If for any reason you are a no show or decide not to go the same day, this tour cannot be rescheduled, you would have to buy again.

About Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan

Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan offer a rich blend of ancient Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant colonial cities. This region is a paradise for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation in tropical settings.

Top Attractions

Chichen Itza

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city features the iconic El Castillo pyramid.

Historical Half to full day Moderate (around 500 MXN for entrance)

Uxmal

A stunning example of Puuc architecture, Uxmal is another significant Mayan archaeological site.

Historical Half day Moderate (around 350 MXN for entrance)

Celestún

A beautiful coastal village known for its flamingo-filled lagoons and pristine beaches.

Nature Full day Budget to moderate (boat tours around 500 MXN)

Riviera Maya

A stretch of Caribbean coastline known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Beach Overnight or multi-day trip Variable (budget to luxury options available)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves.

Main Dish Contains pork

Panuchos

Fried tortillas filled with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and avocado.

Appetizer Vegetarian options available

Sopa de Lima

A tangy and comforting soup made with lime, chicken, and tortilla strips.

Soup Contains chicken

Popular Activities

Cenote diving Jungle trekking Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga retreats Visiting archaeological sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring archaeological sites.

22-28°C 72-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Merida and the Yucatan are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates compared to other parts of Mexico. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport • 10 km from Merida city center
Cancún International Airport • 300 km from Merida

By bus

Terminal de Autobuses de Mérida

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and efficient, combís are small vans that follow fixed routes.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico Colonia García Ginerés Altabrisa

Day trips

Valladolid

150 km from Merida • Full day

A charming colonial town with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Izamal

70 km from Merida • Half day

A picturesque town known for its yellow buildings and significant archaeological sites.

Cenotes Route

Varies, typically 30-60 km from Merida • Full day

A series of stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Festivals

Festival de la Ciudad • January Hanal Pixán • November 1-2

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Visit cenotes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures
Explore the region's lesser-known archaeological sites for a more authentic experience
Try local street food for an affordable and delicious culinary adventure
Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (November to April)