Exploring the rich cultural tapestry of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Uxmal, Kabah, and Chocolate Museum Tour from Merida offers travelers an immersive experience. This engaging 9-hour excursion unveils the architectural marvels of Uxmal and Kabah, where the unique Puuc style takes center stage. Beyond the archaeological wonders, the tour delves into the captivating history of cacao, inviting guests to indulge in the flavors of traditional Mexican chocolate at the Choco Story museum. With a delectable regional lunch and the chance to encounter rescued fauna, this tour promises to leave visitors with a deeper appreciation for the region’s cultural heritage.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Uxmal.
Key Points
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This full-day excursion from Merida explores the Puuc architectural wonders of Uxmal and Kabah, followed by a visit to the Choco Story museum to learn about chocolate’s history.
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The tour includes guided tours at the archaeological sites, a regional Mexican lunch, and a chocolate tasting experience at the Choco Story museum.
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Guests can expect to be transported by van, with pickup available from three locations in Merida, and the total duration of the tour is approximately 9 hours.
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The tour is suitable for individuals aged 80 and below, and certain prohibited items, such as sandals and pets, are not allowed.
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Past customers have praised the tour’s value for money, the impressive Uxmal pyramids, and the unique cultural experiences, including the Mayan traditional ceremony and interaction with rescued fauna.
Tour Overview
The tour includes a visit to the archaeological sites of Uxmal and Kabah, as well as the Choco Story museum.
It’s a 9-hour excursion with pickup from three locations in Merida. The tour is available in English and Spanish.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and there’s a reserve now, pay later option.
The itinerary covers guided tours of Uxmal and Kabah, a regional Mexican lunch, and a visit to the Choco Story museum to learn about cacao’s history and chocolate preparation.
The tour includes entrance fees, transportation, a guide, and refreshments.
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Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup by van (1 hour) to Uxmal. Once there, guests enjoy a guided tour (2 hours) exploring the Puuc architectural style, legends, and mysteries of this ancient site. Next, the group transfers by van (30 minutes) to Kabah, the second-largest Puuc religious center, declared a State Park in 1993. After a guided tour (1 hour) of Kabah, everyone enjoys a regional Mexican lunch (1 hour) at a local restaurant. The final stop is the Choco Story museum, where guests learn about cacao’s history, ancient Maya chocolate preparation, and visit botanical gardens with cacao trees during a guided tour and shopping (1.5 hours) before the van transfer (1 hour) back to the drop-off locations.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Pickup by van to Uxmal | 1 hour |
| Guided tour at Uxmal | 2 hours |
| Van transfer to Kabah | 30 minutes |
| Guided tour at Kabah | 1 hour |
| Lunch at local restaurant | 1 hour |
| Van transfer to Choco Story | 15 minutes |
| Visit, tour, and shopping at Choco Story | 1.5 hours |
| Van transfer back to drop-off | 1 hour |
Site Highlights
Uxmal offers an intriguing exploration of Puuc architectural style, legends, and mysteries. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the second-largest Puuc religious center, Kabah, which was declared a State Park in 1993.
At Kabah, visitors can explore the rich history and significance of this ancient Maya city. The Choco Story museum provides an immersive experience, educating guests on cacao’s history, traditional Maya chocolate preparation, and the botanical gardens with cacao trees.
The tour also features an animal refuge, meliponary, and a Mayan traditional ceremony, offering a well-rounded cultural and educational encounter.
Inclusions and Costs
As part of the tour package, visitors can expect a certified tourist guide, entrance tickets to Uxmal (MXN 252 for Mexicans, MXN 556 for foreigners) and Kabah (MXN 80 for all), as well as admission to the Choco Story museum with a traditional chocolate tasting.
The tour also includes a regional Mexican meal with a starter, main course, and dessert, as well as drinks in the restaurant and a cooler in the van.
Plus, visitors will have the opportunity to interact with rescued fauna.
The tour provides excellent value for money, with a cost-effective package that covers various attractions and activities.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Visitors should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, umbrella, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as well as cash for entrance tickets, as cards aren’t accepted.
Sandals, pets, drones, smoking, and alcohol in the vehicle aren’t allowed.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart or respiratory issues, those over 80 years old, or those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Participants can expect to interact with rescued fauna during the tour.
These guidelines ensure the safety and comfort of all guests throughout the day’s activities.
Customer Feedback
The tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive customer feedback, with an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 22 reviews.
Travelers particularly appreciate the transportation, which received a 4.9/5 rating, and the excellent value for money, with a 4.8/5 rating.
The highlights of the tour include:
- The impressive Uxmal pyramids, which captivate visitors with their Puuc architectural style and ancient legends.
- The opportunity to learn about the history and production of chocolate at the Choco Story museum.
- The chance to interact with rescued fauna and witness a Mayan traditional ceremony.
About the Destinations
The Uxmal archaeological site, nestled in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, captivates visitors with its impressive Puuc architectural style.
Legends and mysteries surround this ancient Maya city, once a thriving religious and administrative center.
Nearby, the Kabah site is the second-largest Puuc religious complex, now a protected State Park.
At the Choco Story museum, travelers explore the rich history of cacao and the ancient Maya’s chocolate preparation techniques.
They’ll also explore botanical gardens featuring cacao trees and interact with rescued fauna, making this a truly immersive cultural experience.
Tour Logistics
The tour begins with pickup services from three convenient locations – Viajes Colibrí Yucatán TOURS, Parque de Santa Ana, and Av Cupules 499F.
The full-day excursion lasts approximately 9 hours and is available in English and Spanish. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Key highlights of the itinerary include:
- Guided tours at the Uxmal and Kabah archaeological sites.
- A regional Mexican lunch at a local restaurant.
- Exploration of the Choco Story museum, including a traditional chocolate tasting.
Participants should bring comfortable attire, sunscreen, and cash for entrance fees, as cards aren’t accepted on-site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Stop for Photos Along the Way?
Yes, the tour allows for photo stops along the way. Visitors can take photos at the archaeological sites and the Choco Story museum, providing opportunities to capture the stunning architecture and natural surroundings throughout the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour is not suitable for individuals over 80 years old or those with pre-existing heart, respiratory, or medical conditions. Children of all ages are welcome on the tour, but parental supervision is required.
Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water and Snacks?
No, water and drinks are provided in the van during the tour. However, you’ll need to bring your own snacks as they are not included. The tour company recommends packing healthy snacks to enjoy throughout the day.
Can We Purchase Additional Souvenirs at the Sites?
Visitors can purchase additional souvenirs at the Choco Story museum’s gift shop. The tour doesn’t include time for shopping at the Uxmal or Kabah archaeological sites, but the museum offers a variety of chocolate-related souvenirs and handicrafts.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour duration. Travelers can work with the tour operator to customize the itinerary and add more time at the sites or include additional stops along the way.
Recap
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Yucatan Peninsula. Visitors can marvel at the stunning Puuc architecture of Uxmal and Kabah, and indulge in the delights of traditional Mexican chocolate at the Choco Story museum. With a delicious regional lunch included, this excursion provides a well-rounded experience of the region’s history, culture, and flavors.
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