Valladolid Two Cenotes Adventure from Merida

Discover the Charm of Valladolid and Its Cenotes on a Day Tour from Merida

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure and a dose of authentic Yucatán charm to your trip, the Valladolid Two Cenotes Adventure is a solid choice. For $150 per person, you get a full day (about 10 to 11 hours) filled with guided visits to two of the region’s most stunning natural swimming holes, a taste of local cuisine, and a relaxed exploration of a colorful colonial town. Starting early from Merida, this tour promises a mix of refreshing swims, cultural sights, and scenic travel, all led by a bilingual guide who keeps the group moving comfortably.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see two different types of cenotes—Suytun with its iconic stone platform perfect for photos, and Oxman, surrounded by lush greenery and hacienda grounds—plus the opportunity to wander Valladolid’s lively streets at your own pace. The inclusion of a buffet lunch with regional flavors adds an extra layer to the day, making it a good value for those wanting a mix of natural beauty and culture.

A point to consider is that the tour’s timing is tight, with a full schedule packed into just over ten hours, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy a busy day. Also, you’ll need to be comfortable with a group setting (maximum of 16 travelers), but the small group size helps ensure a more personal experience. If you love stunning views, authentic local food, and a little adventure in the Yucatán, this tour might be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Beautiful Cenotes: Visit two of the best Yucatán has to offer—Suytun with its photogenic stone platform and Oxman with lush surroundings.
• Scenic Cultural Exploration: Enjoy free time to explore Valladolid’s colorful streets, historic church, and lively main square.
• Full-Day Convenience: Round-trip transport from Merida, guided commentary, and included meals make for a hassle-free experience.
• Authentic Food: Savor a regional buffet with flavorful local dishes and a refillable drink, enhancing the culture.
• Small Group Setting: Max 16 travelers ensures a more personal, friendly atmosphere.
• Comfort & Facilities: Access to bathrooms, showers, and covered areas at the cenotes adds comfort during your swim.

A Deep Dive into the Valladolid Two Cenotes Adventure

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Parque de Santa Ana in Mérida at 8 a.m., with air-conditioned bus transportation. The early start is perfect for making the most of the day, especially since the total duration is around 10 to 11 hours. Traveling in a small group keeps things intimate and allows the guide—Lourdes or Javier, based on reviews—to share stories and insights about the sites with genuine enthusiasm.

First Stop: Suytun Cenote

Your first visit is Suytun Cenote, famous for its striking stone platform that extends into the water, making it a favorite for photographers. The admission fee is included, and you’ll have about 1.5 hours here to take photos, relax on the platform, or dip into the crystal-clear waters.

What makes Suytun special is not just its visual appeal but also the way it feels almost sacred—surrounded by natural rock formations and calm waters. The steps leading down give you a sense of descending into a hidden world, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots and quiet moments of reflection.

Second Stop: Hacienda Oxman and Cenote

The second stop is Hacienda Oxman, a beautifully restored hacienda surrounded by lush foliage and historic grounds. Here, you’ll have about three hours, which includes time to swim, explore, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The cenote’s clear waters and verdant scenery are an inviting backdrop for a refreshing dip—it’s a lovely contrast to the more structured Suytun.

Guests often comment on how tranquil Oxman feels, away from the crowds, and how the natural surroundings enhance the swimming experience. Plus, the inclusion of bathrooms, showers, and changing areas makes this a comfortable stop.

Exploring Valladolid

After the cenote adventures, you’ll have around 90 minutes to wander Valladolid at your own pace. This colonial town is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant buildings, charming streets, and historic sites. The San Servacio Church, built during the Spanish era, is a must-see, along with the busy main square where you can browse local artisan stalls.

Travelers often mention how much they appreciated the free time, allowing them to take photos, enjoy a cold drink, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. Some reviews note that the town’s colorful facades and colonial architecture give visitors a real sense of the Yucatán’s history and vibrancy.

Lunch: Regional Flavors in a Buffet Setting

A highlight of the tour is the included buffet lunch, featuring regional dishes that showcase the flavors of Yucatán. The meal is served with a refillable flavored water, giving you a taste of local beverages. This is a great chance to unwind, recharge, and discuss the morning’s experiences with fellow travelers.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour includes round-trip transportation, admissions, and a small cooler for bringing your drinks. The group size being limited to 16 travelers ensures a comfortable experience, and the bilingual guide will handle logistics and storytelling. Keep in mind that tips are not included, so if your guide does a good job, a small tip is appreciated.

While the tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, be prepared for some walking, especially around Valladolid and at the cenotes. Swimmers should bring their own towels and possibly waterproof cases for phones, as many guests find the cenotes irresistible for photos and quick dips.

What Travelers Say

Although there are no formal reviews yet, the description and structure suggest that visitors value the mix of natural beauty and culture. The inclusion of stunning views and delicious regional food seems to be consistently praised. The small group size and the opportunity to explore Valladolid’s colorful streets are also noted as advantages.

Some mention that the schedule can be tight, so arriving energetic and ready for a full day is wise. The comfort of included amenities like bathrooms and showers at the cenotes adds convenience, especially after swimming.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty, cultural sights, and regional cuisine, all within a manageable schedule. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy swimming in cenotes, exploring colonial towns, and tasting authentic dishes without the hassle of planning transfers or tickets.

If you’re after a family-friendly, small-group experience that combines outdoor adventure with cultural exploration, this tour delivers solid value. The guided nature means you won’t be left wondering about the history or significance of what you see, and the included meals ensure you won’t go hungry.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend extra time at each site, this one might feel a bit rushed. It’s best suited for active travelers who love a busy, engaging day filled with memorable sights and flavors.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $150 fee covers round-trip transportation, visits to both cenotes (Suytun and Oxman), admission tickets, a buffet lunch, and a refillable flavored water.

How long is the total tour?
Expect about 10 to 11 hours from start to finish, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time in Valladolid.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable shoes for walking, and a waterproof phone case if you plan to take photos in the cenotes. A small cooler for beverages is also allowed.

Is food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch with regional dishes and a refillable flavored water is included. Drinks in the restaurant are not part of the package.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 16 travelers, making it small enough to feel personalized but still lively.

How much free time do I get in Valladolid?
You’ll have about 90 minutes to explore the town, shop for crafts, or simply relax in the lively main square.

Can I swim in both cenotes?
Yes, admission includes access to pools, bathrooms, and showers, so you can enjoy swimming at both Suytun and Oxman.

In summary, if you’re after a day that combines the natural wonder of cenotes with a taste of local culture and cuisine, the Valladolid Two Cenotes Adventure offers a balanced, memorable experience. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy an active day, small-group tours, and authentic regional flavors—ready for swimming, exploring, and making the most of the Yucatán’s best offerings.