From Mérida: Chichén Itzá, Izamal, Cenote with Local Cuisine

Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan , Mexico

From Mérida: Chichén Itzá, Izamal, Cenote with Local Cuisine

Active

(2 reviews)

10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We’ll begin our adventure in the morning — you can choose the time. We recommend to start early (6:30am) to avoid the crowds and, most importantly, to beat the heat at Chichén Itzá.

After you explore and take in the wonders of this ancient Mayan city, we’ll head to the home of a Mayan family to enjoy traditional regional cuisine. Following this, we’ll drive 40 minutes to the home of a local family fortunate enough to have a cenote on their property. This cenote, though open to the public, is rarely visited and incredibly beautiful. It features stalactites, stalagmites, and underground caves that extend into depths yet to be fully explored.

After the cenote, we’ll visit the magical city of Izamal, also known as the Yellow City, one of the most iconic towns in Yucatán. Here, we’ll explore the Convent of San Antonio de Padua, the grand pyramid of Kinich Kakmó, and some artisan shops.

*This is a private and customizable tour.

Available options

Chichén Itzá Premium

Pickup included

What's included

Guided walking tour in Izamal

Lifevests and swimming goggles

Round transportation in modern VAN or SUV

Bilingual tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will meet early in the morning to be among the first people to arrive at the ruins of Chichén Itzá. Once there, I will explain a bit about the significance of this city for the Maya civilization and highlight the main structures you shouldn’t miss during your visit. While you explore the site, I will wait outside, and once you’re done, we will meet up again to go for lunch together.

There is always the option to hire an official guide at the site, which would come at an additional cost. However, this is not mandatory. I can give you guidance on what to visit, and you can explore on your own.

After exploring Chichén Itzá, we’ll head to the town of Pisté for lunch. The location will be chosen based on the dietary preferences of the travelers that day, ensuring everyone finds something delicious. If you don’t eat meat, don’t worry—there will always be vegan or vegetarian options available.

After lunch, we will drive for 35 minutes to the town of Holca, where we will visit the property of a family fortunate enough to have a cenote in their backyard. This cenote is open to the public; however, since it is in a somewhat remote location, it is not very frequented, and we usually have it all to ourselves. It is a large and impressive cave cenote, featuring stunning mineral formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. It will be a unique experience.

After the cenote we will visit Izamal, also known as the Yellow City. We will explore the San Antonio de Padua Convent, artisan haciendas, its colorful streets, and the main pyramid.

We will end the day at the Izamal archaeological site, where you can climb to the top of the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid if you wish. This is the third tallest pyramid in the country.

What's not included

Chichén Itza entrance ticket. Mexicans and residents: $298 pesos. Foreigners: $671 pesos. Children under 12: free

Lunch costs between $80 and $250 pesos, depending on the place the group chooses to go.

The entrance fee to the cenote ranges from 100 to 200 pesos, depending on the cenote.”

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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)