From Mérida: Uxmal, Kabah, and Cenote Guided Tour With Lunch

Explore the ancient wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula with a guided tour that takes you from Mérida to the archaeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah, and the captivating Cenote Peba. This full-day excursion offers an immersive glimpse into Mayan civilization, complete with hotel pickup, transportation, and a delicious traditional Yucatecan lunch. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, providing valuable insights that bring the rich cultural heritage of the region to life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique adventure, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that may leave you wondering what other hidden gems the Yucatan has in store.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Lunch Experiences In Merida.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour exploring the Mayan archaeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah, as well as the Cenote Peba, with pickup from Mérida.
• Guided experience with 2.5 hours at Uxmal, 1.5 hours at Kabah, and 1 hour of swimming at the refreshing Cenote Peba.
• Includes a 40-minute lunch break at a local restaurant to savor traditional Yucatecan dishes.
• Air-conditioned transportation and knowledgeable tour guide provide a comfortable and informative journey through the Yucatan countryside.
• Tour duration of 9 hours and priced at 1,640 MXN per person, making it an excellent value for the comprehensive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Uxmal, Kabah, and Cenote Guided Tour" departs from Mérida, offering visitors a full-day exploration of some of the region’s most captivating archaeological sites and natural wonders.

Priced from $1,640 MXN per person, this 9-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. Pickup is included from hotels, hostels, or coffee shops in Mérida’s city center.

The itinerary covers the ancient Mayan ruins of Uxmal and Kabah, followed by a refreshing dip in the Cenote Peba.

Lunch at a local restaurant is also provided, making this a comprehensive and immersive experience for those seeking to discover the rich cultural and natural heritage of this part of Mexico.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from the traveler’s hotel, hostel, or coffee shop in the city center of Mérida.

After a 75-minute drive, the group arrives at the ancient Mayan ruins of Uxmal, where they’ll spend 2.5 hours exploring the impressive architecture and learning about the site’s history.

Next, they’ll travel 20 minutes to Kabah, another Mayan archaeological site, for 1.5 hours of sightseeing.

Following this, the group will enjoy a 40-minute lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the Cenote Peba, a natural sinkhole, for an hour of swimming.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel/hostel/coffee shop pickup in Mérida’s city center, where an air-conditioned vehicle transports guests for the 75-minute drive to the ancient Mayan ruins of Uxmal.

The comfortable ride allows travelers to relax and admire the passing countryside before arriving at the impressive archaeological site.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable tour guide provides insightful commentary, setting the stage for the day’s exploration.

With pickup and transportation seamlessly handled, guests can focus on seeing the rich cultural heritage that awaits at Uxmal and the subsequent stops on this comprehensive guided tour.

Uxmal Exploration

Arriving at Uxmal, the tour group embarks on an immersive 2.5-hour sightseeing experience through the ancient Mayan ruins.

Wandering among the majestic pyramids, palaces, and ornate stone carvings, they’ll learn about the city’s rich history and cultural significance. The Pyramid of the Magician, with its distinctive rounded sides, stands as the centerpiece, drawing the eye upward.

Nearby, the Governor’s Palace impresses with its intricate lattice designs and impressive scale. Throughout the site, the tour guide shares insights, bringing the Mayan civilization to life.

Visitors are captivated by the well-preserved architecture and the sense of stepping back in time.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Kabah Visit

After exploring the grandeur of Uxmal, the group departs for the nearby site of Kabah.

The 20-minute journey takes them to this lesser-known but equally impressive Mayan ruin. Kabah boasts an array of intricately carved facades and the impressive Codz Poop, a palace with an ornate stone lattice facade.

The guide shares insights into the site’s history and architectural significance as visitors wander through the ancient structures.

With 1.5 hours allocated for the Kabah visit, there’s ample time to appreciate the site’s beauty and learn about its role in the Maya civilization before continuing the day’s adventure to the Cenote Peba.

Lunch Experience

Following the tour of Kabah, the group heads to a local restaurant for a well-deserved lunch.

The meal features a selection of traditional Yucatecan dishes, including:

• Cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish marinated in citrus and achiote
• Sopa de lima, a tangy lime soup with shredded chicken
• Queso relleno, a hollowed-out edam cheese filled with ground pork and raisins
• Papadzules, corn tortillas topped with pumpkin seed sauce and hard-boiled eggs
• Fresh tropical fruit and handmade tortillas to accompany the main courses.

The unhurried lunch provides an opportunity to savor the flavors of the region and refuel before heading to the next destination, the Cenote Peba.

Cenote Adventure

Upon departing from the lunch stop, the tour makes its way to the Cenote Peba, a stunning natural sinkhole just a short drive from Kabah.

Travelers will have an opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the cenote, which is fed by underground springs. The cool, refreshing swim provides a welcome respite from the warm Yucatecan sun.

After an hour of exploring the cenote, the tour group will depart for the return journey to Mérida, being dropped off at the original pickup location or at Santa Lucías Park.

The cenote visit is a highlight of the day, offering a chance to take in the natural beauty of the region.

Important Considerations

When booking this tour, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments, as it involves walking and exploring ancient ruins.

Participants should also bring cash for entry fees, along with biodegradable sunscreen and swimwear for the cenote visit. The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides flexibility.

Plus, the tour is offered in both English and Spanish, catering to a range of language preferences. Finally, the tour provides excellent value, with inclusions such as transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a traditional lunch.

• Not suitable for those with mobility issues
• Bring cash, biodegradable sunscreen, and swimwear
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Available in English and Spanish
• Excellent value with inclusions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Travelers should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs, and the provided lunch can be adjusted to meet those requirements.

What Are the Recommended Tips for the Tour Guide?

The tour guide typically receives a tip of around 100-150 MXN per person, depending on the quality of the service. Many customers express satisfaction with the knowledgeable and engaging guide, Wilbert, and consider the tip well-deserved.

Is There an Option to Explore the Sites Independently?

The tour does not offer an independent exploration option. It’s a guided tour package that includes transportation, a tour guide, and admission fees to the archaeological sites and cenote.

Does the Tour Include Any Additional Stops or Photo Opportunities?

The tour includes opportunities to explore the Mayan ruins of Uxmal and Kabah, as well as a stop at the Cenote Peba for swimming. Along the way, the guide provides commentary and photo stops at scenic locations.

How Physically Demanding Is the Walking During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking at the archaeological sites, with some uneven terrain. Guests can expect to cover around 2 miles total during the day. The tour’s pace allows for breaks and adjusts to each group’s needs.

Recap

This guided tour from Mérida offers an immersive experience into the rich Mayan heritage of the Yucatan Peninsula. Visitors will explore the impressive archaeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah, savor traditional Yucatecan cuisine, and cool off with a refreshing swim in the serene Cenote Peba. Knowledgeable guides provide valuable insights, making this a comprehensive and memorable adventure for anyone interested in Mayan culture and history.

You can check if your dates are available here: