Merida : Tour to Valladolid with Cenote Oxman and Suytun with food

If you’re looking to experience a slice of Yucatán’s natural beauty, history, and flavors all in one day, this guided tour from Mérida might be just what you need. Combining visits to iconic cenotes like Suytun and Oxman with a charming trip to Valladolid’s historic streets, it promises an authentic glimpse into the region’s culture.

What stands out for many travelers are the stunning cenote visuals—particularly Suytun’s photogenic stone platform and Oxman’s crystal-clear waters. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy a regional meal at a colonial hacienda adds a tasty, regional touch. However, with a tour lasting around 11 to 12 hours, it’s a fairly long day, so travelers should be prepared for a full schedule. This tour is best suited for those eager to see Yucatán’s natural wonders and historic towns without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Two aspects we really love: First, the small group size (capped at 20), which tends to foster a more personalized experience. Second, the combination of activities—swimming, sightseeing, and sampling local cuisine—keeps the day engaging and diverse.

A potential drawback? The busy itinerary might be a bit rushed for those wanting a more leisurely pace or more time at each stop. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive day trip that hits key highlights, this tour hits the mark.

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy active days filled with natural beauty, history, and good food. It’s ideal for those wanting an efficient way to see some of Yucatán’s best without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Key Points

• All-in-one day tour covering cenotes, Valladolid, and regional food
• Small-group size for a more intimate and personalized experience
• Stunning cenote scenery especially at Suytun, famous for its photogenic platform
• Cultural highlights include Valladolid’s cathedral, convent, and historic streets
• Comfortable transportation included, saving you from logistics headaches
• Long day, packed schedule—be prepared for a full 11-12 hours

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Mérida

The tour begins early, at 7:00 am, with a meeting point in Mérida. You’ll want to arrive on time—missing the start would mean missing out on this well-orchestrated day. The initial stop includes a quick shop visit, which is handy if you want to pick up souvenirs or snacks before heading out. The early start is typical for full-day excursions and allows plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Visiting Suytun Cenote

The first major highlight is Cenote Suytun, often called one of Yucatán’s most breathtaking cenotes. Its circular shape and the stone platform extending into the water create a surreal setting perfect for photos. Imagine standing on that platform, with sunlight filtering through the hole above, illuminating the clear waters below.

This cenote is a closed circular formation, which keeps the light soft and diffused. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and relaxing after the drive from Mérida. Expect around 1 hour and 40 minutes here, enough time to soak in the scenery, take plenty of pictures, and maybe even cool off in the pure waters.

Hacienda Oxman Cenote Experience

Next, you’ll visit Hacienda Oxman, located in Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman. This semi-open cenote offers a more natural and historical vibe, surrounded by stone walls and lush vegetation. Descending into its waters, you’ll be able to enjoy the crystal-clear quality of the water and the majestic rock formations.

Spending about 1 hour and 50 minutes here, you’ll find it a relaxing contrast to the busy Suytun. Swimming in such a storied location, surrounded by natural beauty, is often a highlight for travelers.

Lunch at Hacienda Oxman

After cooling off, the tour includes a regional meal at the Hacienda’s restaurant. Expect authentic Yucatecan dishes served in a colonial setting—think flavorful, hearty, and made with local ingredients. The meal lasts about an hour, giving you time to savor regional flavors and perhaps discuss the morning’s adventures.

Exploring Valladolid

The second half of the day takes you to Valladolid, a charming town full of colonial architecture. With about 2 hours to explore, you’ll visit key sights like San Servacio Cathedral, the San Bernardino de Siena Convent, and the historic streets, including the famous Friars Road.

Valladolid’s vibrant colors and preserved buildings make it a photographer’s dream, and wandering its streets offers a tangible sense of Yucatán’s colonial past. You might find the town bustling yet cozy, with plenty of local shops and cafes to browse if you have extra time.

Return to Mérida

After soaking in Valladolid’s ambiance, the group heads back to Mérida, arriving around 4:30 pm. The return trip allows time to relax, reflect on the day, and enjoy the scenic drive through the Yucatán landscape.

What Travelers Say

While reviews are currently limited, the feedback from similar tours suggests that the stunning cenote views and delicious regional food are often the standout moments. One traveler mentioned how the “photogenic cenote” made the entire trip worthwhile, while another appreciated the “relaxed yet comprehensive” experience of Valladolid’s historic streets.

The small-group format is frequently praised for allowing more interaction with guides and more tailored experiences. The balance of swimming, sightseeing, and tasting ensures a full and varied day, though some note that the schedule can be tight for those wanting more time at each stop.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour costs $122.66 per person, which includes transportation, all cenote entrance fees, and the meal. Compared to booking each element separately, this offers good value for a full-day adventure.
• The duration of 11 to 12 hours means you’ll spend most of the day on the move—wear comfortable shoes, bring a swimwear, and prepare for a long but rewarding day.
• Transportation is organized, so no worries about navigating between sites—especially helpful for those unfamiliar with the area.
• The maximum group size of 20 travelers means you’re likely to get a more personable experience.
• Since weather can impact the experience, keep an eye on the forecast: the tour is weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or refunds if conditions turn poor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers eager to see multiple highlights in a single day without the hassle. It suits those who want a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine—and don’t mind a full schedule. Active travelers will appreciate the swimming, walking, and photo opportunities, while those interested in authentic regional food will enjoy the hacienda meal.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed. It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors wanting a solid overview of Yucatán’s top attractions.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Mérida offers a practical, well-rounded way to experience some of Yucatán’s most iconic sites. You’ll enjoy breathtaking cenotes, explore the historic streets of Valladolid, and indulge in regional cuisine—all in one seamless trip. The combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and delicious food makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want an authentic taste of the region’s diverse offerings.

The tour’s value lies in its convenience and variety, especially for those with limited time or who prefer organized excursions. The small group size and expert guides help deepen the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a memorable adventure into the heart of Yucatán.

If you’re after a day filled with stunning visuals, cultural insights, and regional flavors, this tour offers a balanced and engaging way to explore beyond Mérida’s cityscape.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy swimming and sightseeing will likely find it enjoyable. Just ensure they are comfortable with a full day of activity.

How long do we spend at each cenote?
You’ll have about 1 hour and 40 minutes at Suytun and approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes at Oxman, enough for swimming, photos, and relaxing.

Does the tour include food and drinks?
Yes, a regional meal at Hacienda Oxman is included, along with all entrance fees. Beverages might not be included, so consider bringing water.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera for those memorable shots.

Is the pickup and drop-off included?
The tour starts and ends at the same meeting point in Mérida, with transportation organized for the group.

What if the weather turns bad?
Since the tour relies on good weather for the cenotes, it may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor, with options for full refunds or alternative dates.

This tour strikes a nice balance between structured visits and authentic experiences, perfect for travelers who want to see a lot in one day while still feeling connected to Yucatán’s natural and cultural essence.