Merida Shore Excursion- Mexican Cooking Class with Port Transfers

Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan , Mexico

Merida Shore Excursion- Mexican Cooking Class with Port Transfers

Active

(8 reviews)

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Born in Mérida, Sofia delights in preparing local Yucatecan and Mayan dishes that showcase the cultural heritage of the Yucatán Peninsula. An accomplished home-cook, Sofia learned to cook from her mother and grandmother. She loves having guests in her home and gets great pleasure by sharing her Yucatecan culture through food and a pleasant conversation.

- Discover Merida with our excursions from the port to a local home, for a private Yucatecan cooking class
- Roll up your sleeves and help prepare a Mexican meal in a local's home
- Enjoy a home cooked Yucatecan meal served with local beer and dessert
- Experience a taste of true Mexican cuisine and dive into the country's wonderful culture with this welcoming local!
- Vegetarian options available, on request
- Port transfers are included in your Merida Shore Excursion

Available options

MCA Lunch +RTT - Sofia Cruise

Pickup included

What's included

Private Mexican cooking class and homecooked meal in Merida

Pick up and drop off from the Auto Progreso shuttle terminal

Gratuities

All Fees and Taxes

A glass of local beer

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Vegetarian options are available, please advise at time of booking if required

Menu may vary depending on the season. If any travelers in your party have any allergies, dietary restrictions or cooking preferences please advise at time of booking

Private, personalized experience

Your Progreso, Merida Shore Excursion includes a private, hands-on Yucatecan cooking class, a glass of local alcohol and port pick-up and drop off (Sofia will pick you up from the Auto Progreso shuttle terminal and drive you to her home in Chelem, and will drop you off at the shuttle terminal at the end of your culinary experience)

Important notes

Host Name: Sofia Casellas
Host Phone: +52 99915 47756
Host Email: casacasellas@gmail.com

Meeting location and instructions: Sofia will pick you up from this shuttle terminal - Shuttle Terminal Progreso (Auto Progreso Shuttle Station at the door on Calle 82) and drive you to her home in Chelem. Sofia will drop you off at the shuttle terminal at the end of your culinary experience.

In Progreso, there is a long stretch from where your ship docks to the terminal building (approximately 3 miles). Please be advised that all passengers must use the shuttle bus located ship-side in order to exit the port area to meet the local tour representative. There will be two shuttle buses as you debark from the ship. Only the white "AUTOPROGRESO" shuttle buses will take you to where the local tour representative is waiting.

Upon debarkation, please take the shuttle bus that goes straight to the terminal; please verify that you are boarding the white shuttle bus with "AUTOPROGRESO" written on the side. It is important that this is the only shuttle bus you board, as the other shuttle does NOT go to the terminal building. After boarding the "AUTOPROGRESO" shuttle, you will be driven approximately 3 miles before reaching the terminal building.

The shuttle from the cruise port to the mainland makes two stops, one at Mercado (market station) and the other at the Auto Progreso terminal. Do NOT get off at the market station stop. Get off at the Auto Progreso terminal stop. Once you exit the shuttle bus, you will walk through the terminal (about 5 or 6 steps), and exit the terminal building onto the main street/road. You will meet your host, Sofia, at this exit where she will organize you with your transportation and from here she will pick you up and together you will drive approximately 40 minutes to her home. Sofia will drop you off upon return at the shuttle terminal after your excursion.

For any questions or help, please contact your host directly : +52 99915 47756

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)