Tour Valladolid, Cenote Suytun and Cenote Oxman from Mérida

Getting a sense of Yucatán’s natural beauty and colonial charm in one day is a tall order, but this tour from Mérida manages to balance both perfectly. It’s a well-organized trip that takes you beyond the city’s limits into the heart of the peninsula’s most photogenic cenotes and the enchanting town of Valladolid. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just seeking unique photos, this adventure offers a lot for a reasonable price.

What we really love about this tour is the thoughtful inclusion of all tickets and a delicious buffet meal—meaning you won’t be left scrambling for extras or worrying about costs adding up. Plus, the guides are consistently praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the experience both enjoyable and educational. The only potential caveat? The full day (around 12 hours) might be a bit long for those with limited stamina or mobility, especially considering the walking involved in Valladolid and the cenote swims.

This experience suits travelers looking for a full, authentic taste of Yucatán—those who want a blend of natural wonders, cultural sights, and local flavors. It’s especially great for first-timers or visitors who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore some of the region’s most iconic sites.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Tickets, buffet, and drinks included streamline the day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with interesting insights and helpful assistance.
• Photogenic cenotes: Suytun and Oxman offer contrasting but equally stunning swimming and photo opportunities.
• Cultural immersion: Valladolid’s colonial architecture and local history are highlights.
• Efficient logistics: Punctual pickups and organized schedule make the most of your day.
• Good value: For around $77, you get a full day of activities, transportation, and meals.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins early at Viajes Colibrí Yucatán meeting point in Mérida. Punctuality is key—departures are at 7:00 am sharp, so plan to arrive a little earlier to avoid missing the bus. The small group size (max 19 travelers) means you get more attentive service and a friendlier vibe, which many reviews emphasize as a major plus.

Cenote Suytun: A Limestone Wonderland

Our first stop is Cenote Suytun, a star attraction for many travelers. This underground cave is surrounded by stalactites and illuminated by sunlight filtering through natural holes, creating a surreal setting. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, enough time to swim, snap photos, and marvel at the natural beauty. The shallow waters are ideal for relaxed swimming, and the abundance of fish makes for excellent underwater photos.

Many reviewers highlight the spectacular lighting and scenery—one even quoted a memorable description of the site as a “natural vault with holes through which the sunlight enters,” which is exactly what makes this cenote special. The included life jackets and snorkel mask make floating and exploring comfortable, even for less confident swimmers.

Cenote Oxman: Crystal Clear Waters in a Beautiful Setting

Next, we move to Cenote Oxman, located at Hacienda San Lorenzo. This open-air cenote is renowned for its crystal clear waters and lush surroundings. Here, you’ll spend approximately 1.5 hours swimming and sightseeing. The expansive space and vibrant surroundings make it perfect for relaxing, snapping photos, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Reviewers mention how these cenotes are very different—Suytun is a cavernous, mystical experience, while Oxman offers a more open, bright environment. Both are undeniably stunning and unique in their own right.

Lunch Break at Hacienda Oxman

After the swimming, we head to the Hacienda Oxman restaurant for a buffet lunch. The meal includes a variety of delicious local dishes and a refillable flavored water drink, which is a small but appreciated touch. The calm, shaded setting offers a break from the sun and a chance to chat with fellow travelers about the morning’s adventures.

Valladolid: A Colonial Town Full of Charm

The afternoon takes us into Valladolid, one of the region’s most picturesque towns. With about 1.5 hours to explore, you’ll discover its colonial architecture, lively streets, and historic buildings. Key sights include the Municipal Palace, the old Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, and the Parish Church of San Servacio.

The reviews praise the guided tour of Valladolid—it’s a chance to learn about the town’s history and culture while wandering through its colorful streets. Some travelers expressed a desire for a more guided experience rather than free exploration, so if you prefer detailed history, you might want to request that at booking.

Returning to Mérida

The day concludes with a comfortable bus ride back to Mérida, arriving around 7:00 pm. The organized schedule means you can relax without worrying about timing, though be prepared for a full day that tests your energy.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Guides

Multiple reviews emphasize the knowledgeable, friendly guides—notably, Jorge and Pedro—who make the experience more engaging and safe. They’re praised for taking photos, sharing local insights, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable, which can turn a good trip into a memorable one.

The Cenotes

Both Suytun and Oxman are highly photogenic, but they offer contrasting atmospheres—one mystical and enclosed, the other open and vibrant. The inclusion of snorkel gear and life jackets means you’ll get to enjoy the waters comfortably, making it accessible for most swimmers.

The Food

The included buffet at Hacienda Oxman gets high marks. Travelers appreciate the tasty, plentiful food and the refillable flavored water, which helps rehydrate after swimming.

The Length and Convenience

A full 12-hour day may seem long, but most reviews say it’s worth the effort for the variety of sights and the ease—everything’s organized, tickets are included, and transportation is comfortable.

The Price

At around $77, this tour offers excellent value. It bundles transportation, entry fees, guides, meals, and gear—all the essentials for a memorable day in the Yucatán.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see Yucatán’s top cenotes and Valladolid without the hassle of planning individual tickets or transportation. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and cultural discovery. Active travelers comfortable with walking and some swimming will find it suits them best, though water shoes and comfortable clothes are recommended. Those who prefer guided experiences with educational insights and plenty of photo opportunities will leave satisfied.

The Sum Up

This Mérida-based tour offers a well-rounded exploration of some of Yucatán’s most captivating natural and cultural sites. You’ll love the spectacular cenotes, especially for their visual appeal and ease of access, and the charming town of Valladolid provides a perfect blend of history, architecture, and local color. The inclusion of all tickets, meals, and gear makes it feel like a seamless, hassle-free day out.

The guides are a clear highlight—helpful, friendly, and eager to make your experience memorable. The value for the price is evident, especially considering the transportation, entry fees, and meals are all covered. If you’re after an authentic, photo-worthy, and educational look at Yucatán, this tour delivers.

However, keep in mind the length of the day and the physical activity involved. It’s best suited to travelers who are comfortable with moderate walking, swimming, and a full day on the go. If you want a relaxed, less structured experience, you might want to explore other options. But for those who seek a thorough, engaging introduction to this part of Mexico, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, transportation from Mérida is included, with pickups at designated points starting early in the morning.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, from 7:00 am to around 7:00 pm, making it a full-day experience.

Are tickets and meals included?
Yes, all entrance tickets to the cenotes and Valladolid sites are included, along with a buffet lunch and a refillable flavored water drink.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for swimming, including a swimsuit and water shoes, is recommended. Bring a towel and sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with walking problems?
It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Those with walking difficulties or mobility issues might find the walking and stairs challenging.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 19 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, the tour takes place in both Spanish and English, accommodating diverse travelers.

How good are the guides?
Guide reviews are consistently high, praising their knowledge, helpfulness, and friendliness, often going above and beyond, like taking photos.

Is this tour good value?
Absolutely. For about $77, you get transportation, entrance fees, a guide, meals, and gear—all in one package.

This tour combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and the kind of thoughtful organization that makes travel memorable. Perfect for those ready to explore the best of Yucatán in a single, well-curated day.