Cenote Oxman, Suytun & Explore Valladolid

Imagine wandering through colorful streets, tasting authentic Yucatecan cuisine, and swimming in crystal-clear cenotes—all in one day. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Yucatán’s natural beauty and colonial charm, making it an appealing choice for travelers seeking both adventure and culture.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to visit two of the most iconic cenotes—Suytun and Oxman—each with their own unique appeal. The carefully curated itinerary balances scenic drives with immersive stops, and the guide’s insights add depth to your understanding of the region. The only thing to consider is the full day’s length, which might be a bit long for some, especially those with limited stamina or young children.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy cultural explorations combined with outdoor activities. If you like discovering local towns, swimming in natural wonders, and having a taste of regional cuisine, then this trip is a solid choice. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate well-organized day trips with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Valladolid Experience: Explore the picturesque streets of the oldest colonial town in Yucatán.
• Two Stunning Cenotes: Swim in Cenote Suytun and Hacienda Oxman, known for their natural beauty.
• Cultural & Natural Combo: Perfect mix of history, local cuisine, and refreshing outdoor swimming.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is air-conditioned, with a bilingual guide providing insights.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, a buffet meal, and provided drinks make it a hassle-free day.
• Long but Rewarding: The 10-hour day suits those ready for a full adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

This comprehensive day trip kicks off from Parque de Santa Ana in Mérida, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride to Valladolid takes just over two hours, giving you time to relax or soak in some of the Yucatán scenery. Our guide, who was notably knowledgeable and friendly, shared many insights about the region’s history and the significance of the cenotes.

Visiting the Enchanting Valladolid

Arriving in Valladolid, you’re greeted by a lively town renowned for its vibrant colonial architecture and cheerful atmosphere. You’ll have about four hours to wander through its streets, which are filled with colorful buildings, historic sites, and quaint shops. This part of the tour is flexible enough to allow for sightseeing, quick snack stops, or just soaking in the lively street scene. The guide offers contextual stories about the town’s history, making your walk more meaningful.

Cenote Suytun: The Showstopper

The first cenote stop is Cenote Suytun, which is often featured in travel feeds thanks to its striking geological formations and the famous platform that extends into the water. This cenote is known for its perfectly clear turquoise waters and the way sunlight filters through a large opening in the ceiling, creating a natural spotlight. According to reviews, visitors love the photogenic qualities—many mention trying their best to capture the perfect shot beneath the stalactites.

Guests typically spend about an hour here, swimming, relaxing, and snapping photos. The water is cool and refreshing, making it a perfect midday break from the warm Yucatán sun. The guide pointed out notable features like the stalactites and explained how cenotes like Suytun are sacred to the Mayans, which added a layer of cultural appreciation.

Hacienda Oxman: Nature and Cuisine

Next, the journey takes you to Hacienda Oxman, a lush setting with well-maintained grounds and another beautiful cenote. Here, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch featuring regional dishes—think Yucatecan specialties like cochinita pibil or papadzules—paired with flavored water from the included refillable drink. The review highlights that the meal is satisfying and provides a true taste of local cuisine, making it more than just a quick snack.

Post-lunch, there’s time to explore the hacienda’s grounds, take photos of the colonial architecture, and appreciate the tropical surroundings. Several reviews mention how peaceful and scenic the setting is, and some travelers appreciated the opportunity to relax in a more natural environment after the busy town walk.

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Visiting Valladolid

The tour then proceeds into Valladolid itself, where the guide offers a detailed overview of the town’s history, architecture, and cultural importance. You have about four hours to stroll, shop for handmade crafts, or visit notable landmarks like the Convent of San Bernardino. Many travelers find this part of the day enriching; it’s a good chance to experience local life and pick up souvenirs.

Return Journey

The bus ride back to Mérida takes just over two hours, giving you a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The guide’s commentary during the return trip often includes fun facts or recommendations for local restaurants and attractions for later visits.

What’s Included & What to Expect

The tour offers great value for $125 per person. The price covers transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned bus, bilingual guides (Spanish and English), entrance fees to both cenotes, a buffet meal, and a refillable flavored water bottle. Guests can also bring beverages in the provided cooler ice box, which is a nice touch for those who prefer their own drinks.

It’s important to note that drinks in the restaurant are not included, but with the refillable bottle and the cooler, you’ll stay hydrated. All facilities like pools, bathrooms, and showers are available at the cenotes, making it easy to freshen up after swimming.

The tour runs for about 10 hours, starting early from Mérida and ending back around evening time, making it a full but rewarding day. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

Practical Tips

• Bring a change of clothes and beachwear for comfort after swimming.
• Cash is useful for small purchases or tips at the town or cenotes.
• Consider wearing water shoes if you prefer extra grip on the rocky or uneven cenote floors.
• Be prepared for sun exposure—hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended.
• The tour is suitable for most ages, but consider your stamina given the full day length.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and local flavor, all packed into one day. The inclusion of two must-see cenotes, friendly guides, and a taste of regional cuisine makes it a comprehensive experience for those visiting the Yucatán Peninsula.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic day trip that balances adventure with culture, this tour ticks many boxes. The scenic drives and engaging guides make the journey enjoyable, and the chance to swim in cenotes like Suytun and Oxman is a definite highlight.

For travelers seeking a full-day adventure that’s both enriching and fun, this experience provides excellent value and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s especially perfect if you want a taste of both town life and natural wonders without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for this tour? The tour begins at Parque de Santa Ana in Mérida, a central and easily accessible location.

How long is the total tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, visits, and meals.

Is transportation provided? Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus with a bilingual guide.

Are entrance fees included? Entrance to Cenote Suytun and Oxman, as well as access to pools, bathrooms, and showers, are included.

What’s included in the meal? A buffet featuring regional dishes and a refillable flavored water drink are part of the package.

Can I bring my own beverages? Yes, you can bring beverages in the cooler ice box provided.

Is this tour suitable for children? It is generally suitable for most ages, but consider the full day length for young children or those with limited stamina.

What should I bring? Pack a change of clothes, beachwear, cash, and sun protection like sunscreen and hats.

Are there any restrictions? The tour does not permit alcohol and drugs, and it’s not suitable for people over 95 years old.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for curious travelers eager to experience a mix of Yucatán’s natural wonders and colonial charm. It suits those who don’t mind a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activity, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photo-taking, and learning. If you love guided tours with insightful commentary and want to avoid the hassle of organizing your own day trip, this is a dependable choice.

People interested in authentic regional cuisine, historical towns, and stunning cenotes will find this trip combines all those elements seamlessly. It’s a fantastic way to get a snapshot of what makes the Yucatán special, all within a manageable and enjoyable itinerary.

To sum it up, the Cenote Oxman, Suytun & Valladolid tour offers a well-rounded adventure with enough flexibility for personal exploration, making it a standout option for those eager to see the highlights of this beautiful part of Mexico. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun experience, this tour packs a punch in just one full day.

You can check availability for your dates here: