Oxkintok ancient Puuc + Becal Jipi Japa artisan + Cenote

Exploring the Best of Yucatán: Oxkintok, Becal, and a Cenote Adventure

When you think of Yucatán, images of towering pyramids, lush jungles, and crystal-clear waters likely come to mind. This 8.5-hour tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s cultural, archaeological, and natural riches for just $109 per person. Starting from Mérida, you’ll visit the mystical Mayan city of Oxkintok, learn about traditional Jipi Japa hats in Becal, and end with a refreshing swim in a cenote—all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and a friendly guide.

What we really love about this experience is its blend of history, craftsmanship, and nature. The guided tour of Oxkintok reveals the early Puuc architecture and its intriguing decorations, giving insight into Mayan civilization’s craftsmanship. Plus, the chance to see artisans at work making those iconic palm fiber hats makes Becal stand out. On the downside, if you’re not into walking or outdoor activities, the 1.5-hour archaeological walk might feel a bit strenuous, especially in the heat. This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, varied day out—especially those eager to connect with both ancient and living traditions of Yucatán.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Ancient Archaeology: Discover Oxkintok, a site still revealing its secrets with impressive early Puuc-style architecture.
• Cultural Insight: Watch skilled artisans craft traditional Jipi Japa hats using palm fibers in Becal.
• Natural Refreshment: Enjoy a relaxing swim in a cenote, with facilities to change and refresh.
• Local Expertise: Guided in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear and engaging explanations.
• Valuable Experience: Includes transportation, bottled water, and a guided tour—making it a good value for a full day.
• Flexible Booking: Book now, pay later, and cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This experience is designed to give you a balanced taste of Yucatán’s historical and cultural highlights, combined with the chance to cool off in a cenote—a true retreat from the tropical heat. The round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned van ensures you’re kept cool and relaxed throughout the day, while the small group size (not specified but implied to be intimate) helps the guide give personalized insights.

The tour begins with a pickup in Mérida, roughly 40 minutes in a van to Oxkintok. Here, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour guided walk through what’s considered an early Puuc site. Oxkintok’s architecture features mask-like facades and intricate decorations, hinting at a rich ceremonial past. The guide will point out the details that often go unnoticed but are vital clues to understanding Mayan culture and architecture.

Next, you’ll travel about 35 minutes to Becal, where a local family of artisans will show you how they work with palm fibers to make the famous Jipi Japa hats and fine garments. This 1.5-hour workshop provides a rare chance to see traditional craft methods firsthand, often leaving visitors appreciating the skill and patience required. The artisans’ warmth and willingness to share their craft are frequently praised, and it offers a tangible connection to the region’s living traditions.

After a busy morning of exploring and learning, you’ll head to a cenote for a well-deserved break. The San Ignacio cenote offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and cooling down. The site boasts amenities like lounge chairs, a restaurant (food and drinks paid separately), bathrooms, and showers, making it easy to relax and recharge.

Throughout the day, the guides are highlighted as knowledgeable and engaging—one reviewer even called Vincent “absolutely brilliant.” Their insights help make the visit more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an educational experience that appeals to those curious about local history and culture.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Oxkintok: A Place of Mysteries and Masterpieces

Your day begins with a pickup in Mérida, then a roughly 40-minute drive to Oxkintok. Once there, your guide will lead a 1.5-hour walking tour through the site’s ruins. Oxkintok is relatively less visited than Chichen Itza or Uxmal, but that’s part of its charm—it feels more raw, more authentic, and still holds many secrets yet to be fully uncovered.

This site showcases the Puuc style, recognized by its decorative facades featuring masks and geometric motifs. You’ll notice the architecture’s beginning here, with some structures indicating the early stages of a style that would later dominate Uxmal, Kabah, and other cities. The guide will point out these features, explaining their significance and how Oxkintok played a role in the broader Mayan civilization.

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Becal and Jipi Japa: Living Traditions in Action

After exploring Oxkintok, a 35-minute drive takes you to Becal. This town is famous for its palm fiber artisans. The family-run workshop opens its doors for visitors to witness the craft of Jipi Japa hats—beautiful, functional, and traditional headgear made from palm leaves.

The 1.5-hour visit offers a chance to observe artisans at work, ask questions, and appreciate the skill involved in weaving and shaping the fibers. Many visitors find this experience eye-opening, witnessing a craft that has been passed down through generations. It’s a reminder that some traditions are still very much alive, contributing to the local economy and cultural identity.

Cenote San Ignacio: Refresh and Relax

The final stop is to Cenote San Ignacio, about 40 minutes from Becal. This natural swimming hole provides crystal-clear waters perfect for cooling off after a day of walking and learning. The facility offers lounging areas, a restaurant, bathrooms, and showers—though food and drinks are paid for separately.

Swimming in a cenote is often described as both invigorating and peaceful. The water is cool, refreshing, and a perfect way to conclude your adventure. The site’s amenities cater to all kinds of visitors, whether you want to relax in a lounge chair or take a dip in the refreshing depths.

What to Expect and What to Bring

This tour involves a fair amount of walking, especially at Oxkintok, so comfortable shoes are a must. The 1.5-hour guided walk can be physically demanding in Yucatán’s heat, so a sun hat, sunglasses, biodegradable sunscreen, and light clothing are recommended. If you plan to swim, bringing a change of clothes, towel, and wetsuit (if desired) can make a big difference.

Since food at the cenote isn’t included, bringing some cash for snacks or drinks at the restaurant is wise. Remember that admission fees for Oxkintok and the cenote are not included in the base price, so budget around $95 pesos for Oxkintok and $350 pesos for the cenote per adult.

Value and Booking Tips

At $109, this tour offers a lot of value—combining archaeological exploration, culture, and natural relaxation in one day. The transportation, guided commentary, and artisan visit are all included, making it convenient for travelers who want to avoid logistical headaches.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand. This flexibility is especially helpful if your plans might change or if you prefer to keep your options open.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see lesser-known archaeological sites, learn about traditional crafts, and enjoy a natural swimming experience. It’s particularly suited for those interested in authentic cultural exchanges and off-the-beaten-path adventures. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed day or have mobility concerns, be aware of the walking involved.

It’s also ideal if you prefer guided experiences in English and Spanish and appreciate knowledgeable guides who can make history come alive. Families with children over 2 years old will find it manageable, but it may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with pre-existing health issues.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Day in Yucatán

This tour manages the tricky balance of history, culture, and nature—giving you a taste of what makes Yucatán special. We loved the way it combined an archaeological site still revealing its secrets with live traditional craft demonstrations, providing a direct connection to both ancient and modern Yucatecan life.

The guided walk at Oxkintok is both educational and visually stunning, highlighting the early Puuc architecture’s intricate beauty. Meanwhile, the artisan workshop in Becal adds a personal touch, showing that some traditions still thrive despite modern pressures. Ending with a swim in the cenote offers a perfect break from the heat, providing a refreshing conclusion to a packed day of discovery.

This tour offers great value for travelers eager to see some of Yucatán’s hidden gems without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for curious minds, craft lovers, and anyone wanting a balanced day out exploring both history and nature.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, starting from Mérida and including transportation, guided visits, and free time at the cenote.

How much walking is involved?
There’s about 1.5 hours of walking in Oxkintok, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The walk is managed with a guide and umbrellas are provided for shade.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals at the cenote are paid separately. Bottled water is provided during the day.

What are the entrance fees?
Oxkintok costs about 95 pesos per adult, and the cenote entrance is approximately 350 pesos per adult. Children under 12 are free or pay reduced fees.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old can participate, but the walking and outdoor activities may be tiring for very young children.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Mérida is part of the package.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a towel, change of clothes, cash, and possibly a wetsuit if you prefer warmer water.

Is the guide bilingual?
Guides are available in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations regardless of your language preference.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, as long as there are spots available, you can reserve close to your preferred date, thanks to the flexible booking policy.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Yucatán’s ancient past, vibrant traditions, and natural beauty—perfect for curious travelers ready for a diverse and rewarding day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: